Garage Door and Driveway Gate Tips and News | The Door Company

How to Choose the Best Garage Door for Your Business

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

commercial garage door

When it comes to running a successful business, the right garage door is more than just a functional feature, it’s an investment in security, efficiency, customer trust, and brand image. Whether you’re looking for a new garage door for your restaurant, warehouse, auto shop, retail space or industrial facility, the garage door you choose plays a major role in the efficiency of your daily operations.

Here are the top features to consider when choosing the perfect garage door for your business.

Prioritize Security
Your garage door is often the largest entry point to your business. A strong, durable door with secure locking systems helps protect valuable equipment, inventory, and staff. Consider steel or aluminum doors for maximum protection, and don’t forget to explore advanced access control options for added security.

Consider Daily Usage
Different businesses use garage doors in different ways. If your door opens and closes multiple times a day, look for high-cycle doors designed to handle heavy use. For occasional access, a standard commercial overhead door may be more than enough.

Energy Efficiency Matters
Insulated garage doors can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs. For businesses like warehouses or workshops, an insulated garage door is a smart investment that pays off in energy savings.

Choose the Right Style & Material
Your garage door contributes to curb appeal and can reflect your company’s professionalism. Aluminum and glass doors work well for showrooms, while steel is popular for industrial spaces. Consider materials that balance durability, aesthetics, and budget.

Safety First
Employee safety should always be a top priority. Modern commercial garage doors can be equipped with safety sensors, motion detectors, and auto-reverse functions to reduce the risk of accidents.

Work with a Trusted Professional
A high-quality garage door is only as good as its installation. Partner with experienced garage door specialists like The Door Company, California’s trusted experts for over 30 years, to ensure your business gets the best fit, function, and ongoing support.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find the perfect garage door solution for your business!

Guide to Troubleshooting the Most Common Garage Door Problems

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

If you own a home or business with a garage, you’ve likely experienced at least one of the most common garage door problems. From a door that won’t open to one that makes loud, grinding noises, to broken springs or cables, we’ve seen it all. These issues can be frustrating, inconvenient, and sometimes even unsafe. Understanding the causes of common garage door problems and knowing a few quick troubleshooting tips can save you time and money, and help you determine when it’s time to call a professional like The Door Company for expert assistance.

 

  1. Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close

Possible Causes: Unbalanced power source disruption, misaligned or blocked safety sensors, broken springs or cables.

Quick Fixes: Check if the opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, clean and align the safety sensors to ensure they’re unobstructed. If you suspect broken springs or cables, stop using the door and call a professional immediately as these parts can be dangerous to handle on your own.

 

  1. Noisy Garage Door Operation

Possible Causes: Loose hardware, worn rollers, or insufficient lubrication.

Quick Fixes: Tighten bolts and screws on tracks and hinges, apply a silicone-based lubricant to rollers, springs, and hinges. If the noise persists, it may be time for roller replacement or track adjustments. Don’t forget to schedule garage door maintenance at least annually, or more for older models.

 

  1. Garage Door Opens Unevenly

Possible Causes: Track misalignment, damaged springs, or obstructions in the tracks.

Quick Fixes: Inspect tracks for bends, debris, or gaps, remove any obstructions and gently straighten small bends with pliers. Major misalignments or broken springs should be handled by a professional.

 

  1. Remote or Keypad Isn’t Working

Possible Causes: Dead batteries, signal interference, or other programming issues.

Quick Fixes: Replace the batteries in your garage remote or keypad. Check for objects that might block the signal. If none of these fix the issue, reprogram your opener according to the manufacturer’s instructions or call an expert for help.

 

  1. Garage Door Closes Too Quickly

Possible Causes: Broken springs or worn cables, faulty opener settings.

Quick Fixes: If you notice frayed cables or damaged springs, stop using the door and call an expert immediately, as these are serious safety hazards. Otherwise, check your opener’s force and limit settings to ensure they’re properly adjusted to your garage door.

 

The Door Company is Here for All Your Garage Door Emergencies

Dealing with common garage door problems doesn’t have to be stressful. By identifying the cause early and trying a few simple troubleshooting steps, you can often get your door working smoothly again. However, some issues like broken springs, severe track misalignment, or a door that’s come off its rails require the expertise and tools of a trained technician. At The Door Company, we’ve specialized in repairing and maintaining all types of garage doors for over 30 years. We are here to help you ensure your home or business stays secure and functional. If you’re facing any of these common garage door problems, contact us today for fast, professional service you can trust in California.

 

Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close (And What to Do About It)

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

Few things are more frustrating than hitting the garage door remote— and nothing happens. Or worse, the door starts to close, then reverses for no clear reason. When garage doors are often the main entry point for the home, this kind of issue can throw off your whole day.

Before you panic (or call for service), let’s walk through some of the most common reasons your garage door won’t close and what you can do to fix them.

 

Check the Safety Sensors

Modern garage doors are equipped with photo-eye sensors on either side of the door, a few inches off the ground. If something is blocking the beam, or the sensors are dirty or misaligned, your door won’t close.

 

Quick fix:

Make sure nothing is in the way. Wipe the sensors clean with a soft cloth and check that they’re facing each other directly.

 

Your Remote Needs a Battery (or Reprogramming)

Sometimes, the problem is as simple as a dead battery in your remote. If the wall button works but the remote doesn’t, this is likely your issue. If the remote and wall control don’t work, it may be a programming or wiring problem.

 

Quick fix:

Try replacing the battery first. If that doesn’t help, you may need to reprogram the remote or call a technician to inspect the wall unit wiring.

 

The Door Tracks Are Blocked or Damaged

Even a small object in the track — or a bent section — can stop the door from moving properly. California’s dry climate can cause dust, small debris, or even a loose bolt to cause problems over time.

 

Quick fix:

Look along the tracks for anything out of place. Clear any obstructions, and don’t try to bend or force anything yourself, as damaged tracks require professional repair.

 

Broken Garage Door Springs or Cables

If you hear a loud snap or the door feels incredibly heavy when trying to close it manually, a spring or cable might be broken. These are essential parts of your system and can be dangerous to fix on your own.

 

What to do:

Call a garage door technician immediately. Do not attempt to repair or replace springs or cables without the proper tools and experience, serious injuries may occur.

 

The Door Limit Settings Are Off

Garage door openers have settings that tell the door how far to open or close. If these settings shift (especially after a power outage or installation), the opener may think the floor is an obstruction and reverse.

 

Quick fix:

Check your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the limit settings. It’s a small adjustment, but it can make a big difference.

 

Still Stuck? Let the Pros Handle It.

If your garage door still won’t close after checking these issues, it might be time to call in the experts. Our technicians are trained to diagnose and repair all makes and models. We serve homeowners throughout California with fast, reliable service. Contact The Door Company today for emergency garage door repair and get your door (and your day) back on track!

Getting Smarter: Upgrading Your Garage Door System with the Latest Tech Innovations

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

Technology is revolutionizing every corner of the home—and the garage is no exception. If you’re still manually opening and closing your garage door or relying on outdated remotes, it might be time for a smart upgrade. From improved security to seamless automation, the newest garage door technologies offer homeowners convenience, control, and peace of mind like never before.

 

Why Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door System?

Smart garage door upgrades bring more than just cool features—they make your home safer and smarter:

  • Remote Access Control: Open or close your garage door from anywhere using a smartphone app.
  • Real-Time Alerts: Receive notifications if your door is left open or opened unexpectedly.
  • Integration with Smart Home Systems: Connect your garage to Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.
  • Secure Package Delivery: Let delivery drivers place packages safely inside your garage with authorized access.
  • Activity Monitoring: Track when family members come and go—ideal for busy households.

 

Top Garage Door Tech Innovations in 2025

As smart home trends evolve, garage door systems are getting major upgrades. Here are some standout innovations worth considering:

 

  1. Wi-Fi Enabled Garage Door Openers

Modern openers connect directly to your home’s Wi-Fi, allowing app-based control and eliminating the need for keypads or remotes.

  1. Battery Backup Systems

Ensure your garage door functions even during power outages—essential for safety and access.

  1. Smart Cameras and Motion Sensors

Built-in cameras and sensors allow real-time video monitoring and enhanced motion detection, helping prevent break-ins.

  1. Automatic Lighting

Smart openers can trigger garage lighting when motion is detected or the door opens, making your space safer and more energy-efficient.

  1. Geofencing Features

Some systems use your smartphone’s location to automatically open or close the garage door as you approach or leave.

 

Upgrade Benefits for Homeowners

Investing in a smart garage door system isn’t just about technology—it adds real value to your daily life and your property:

  • Increased Home Security: Prevent unauthorized access and monitor entry activity.
  • Convenience: No more turning the car around to check if you closed the garage door.
  • Property Value Boost: Smart features are a top selling point for modern homebuyers.
  • Energy Efficiency: Schedule operations and lighting to reduce unnecessary power use.

 

Need Help Upgrading? Trust The Door Company

At The Door Company, we specialize in garage door installations, upgrades, and maintenance services. Whether you want to retrofit your current system or install a brand-new smart opener, our experienced team can help you choose the best solution for your home and budget.

 

Ready to Make Your Garage Smarter?

Contact us today to explore the latest smart garage door upgrades and schedule a free estimate with one of our expert technicians.

Upgrade Your Home: How Smart Garage Tech Improves Security & Convenience

Posted on by Garage Door Specialist

When most people think about home security and automation, they picture smart door locks, security cameras, or app-controlled lights. But there’s one critical area of your home that’s often overlooked: the garage. And considering it’s often the largest entry point to your home—and a common target for break-ins—that oversight can be a costly one.

At The Door Company, we’ve been installing and upgrading garage doors for decades, and in recent years, we’ve seen a major shift toward smart garage technology. This isn’t just about cool gadgets—it’s about real security, real convenience, and real peace of mind.

If you’re wondering whether upgrading your garage with smart features is worth it, here’s what you need to know.

 

  1. Remote Access Control at Your Fingertips

Let’s say you’re halfway to work and that nagging feeling kicks in: Did I close the garage door? With a smart garage door opener, you no longer have to turn the car around or call a neighbor. A quick glance at your smartphone app gives you the answer—and if the door is open, you can close it remotely with a single tap.

  • But remote access goes beyond just fixing mistakes. It gives you the ability to:
  • Let in a delivery driver or technician while you’re out of town.
  • Grant one-time or recurring access to house guests, dog walkers, or cleaning services.
  • Open the garage for your kids when they get home from school—even if you’re still at the office.

This level of access control adds convenience, flexibility, and security to your everyday life.

 

  1. Real-Time Alerts: Stay in the Know, Wherever You Are

Smart garage systems don’t just let you control the door—they keep you in the loop. With real-time notifications sent directly to your phone, you’ll know instantly if someone opens or closes your garage door, if the door is left open longer than a set time, or if an unauthorized attempt is made to open the door. Many systems also include a full activity log so you can review exactly who accessed the garage and when. This can be especially helpful for busy households or vacation homes where multiple people may be coming and going.

 

  1. Smart Cameras & Security Features: Eyes on What Matters

Modern smart garage systems often pair with HD security cameras and motion sensors. With a live video feed and two-way audio, you can monitor your garage space in real time—and even speak to someone who’s there.

This is especially useful if:

  • You want to confirm a package delivery.
  • You notice suspicious activity near your driveway.
  • You need to verify that your kids made it home safely.

Some systems also include AI-powered motion detection that can distinguish between people, animals, and vehicles—cutting down on unnecessary alerts while keeping you informed.

 

  1. Smart Home Integration: Seamless Convenience

The best part about today’s smart garage systems is how well they integrate with the rest of your smart home. Whether you’re using Google Assistant, Alexa, or Apple HomeKit, you can integrate your garage into your home’s smart ecosystem.

For example:

  • Program morning or nighttime routines that automatically close the garage, lock doors, and turn off lights.
  • Set geo-fenced automations that open the garage as you pull into the driveway.
  • Use voice commands to check the door status or operate it hands-free.

This kind of connectivity takes the guesswork—and manual work—out of daily tasks.

 

Why It’s Worth the Upgrade

In a world where security threats are real and our schedules are more hectic than ever, having one less thing to worry about is a game-changer. Your garage door is a key part of your home’s entryway and security—and upgrading it to a smart system is a simple but powerful way to enhance both protection and convenience.

 

Let The Door Company Help You Get Smarter

At The Door Company, we specialize in smart garage door installations that not only protect your home but fit seamlessly into your life. Whether you’re looking to retrofit your current opener or install a brand-new smart system, our team can guide you through the best options based on your needs, home setup, and budget.

Ready to make your garage smarter? Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate. Let’s bring next-level convenience and security to your home—starting with your garage.