## **Should My Garage Door Be Insulated?**

Is your garage door insulated? If not, it may be time to make the switch. As your premiere Minnesota garage door company, we recommend an insulated garage door for homes in [climates like ours](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/metro-garage-door-in-winter). Investing in an insulated door saves heat, energy, and money, and keeps you comfortable during cold winters and hot summers alike. 

Let’s look closer at the advantages of insulated vs non-insulated garage doors and what options you have to better insulate your garage.

## **Do Insulated Garage Doors Really Make a Difference?**

Consider your garage an extension of your home. Attached garages often have insulated walls to keep in heat, so your garage serves as a buffer between you and the cold.

_But having an insulated garage without an insulated door is like leaving the door open._

The cold (or heat) that can pass through an uninsulated garage door acts like a temperature draw. It steals energy and comfort away from not just your garage but your entire home.

## **5 Reasons to Install an Insulated Garage Door**

### 1\. Energy Conservation

A garage door with insulation reduces heat loss through the garage, easing the workload on your furnace and lowering your utility bills.

### 2\. Increased Comfort

Keeping a warmer garage is more hospitable for the homeowner, whether you’re just climbing into the car or working in your garage workshop.

### 3\. Enhanced Durability

Insulated doors are structurally stronger, less prone to flexing, and more likely to stay in alignment.

### 4\. Noise

Garage door insulation muffles sounds to make operation significantly quieter and to minimize the sounds associated with home workshops or gyms.

### 5\. Extended Longevity

The working parts of the garage door and the garage door opener function better when they are kept in moderate temperatures. Extreme cold and heat puts added stress on these components, making them more prone to problems. You will see less ice on the outside of your door as well.

## **Best Garage Door Insulation for Cold Climates**

When it comes to insulation, whether it's for homes or garage doors, the key metric is the [R-value](https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/insulation). The R-value refers to the thermal resistance of a material, specifically its capacity to resist heat flow. A material with a high R-value is better equipped to prevent heat from escaping in the winter or entering in the summer. This makes spaces with high R-value more energy-efficient and comfortable.

Pros evaluate the quality of insulated garage doors with an “R rating.” The rating scales from 0 to 19 to denote the door’s resistance to heat transfer (whether in or out), with 0 being no insulation at all (i.e. uninsulated steel door). Here are the breakdowns to help you understand your garage insulation R value and choose the best garage door for your home. 

## **Garage Door R-Values Based on Insulation Material**

### 0-5: Zero to Minimal Insulation

Fiberglass, usually in batts or rolls, is the most basic material for insulating a garage door. It provides an R-value ranging from R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch, depending on the specific product and its density.

### 5-8: Nominally Insulated 

Polystyrene is a popular, cost-effective insulation material that comes in rigid panels that fit into the door sections. Depending on the thickness of the panels, doors with polystyrene insulation typically have R-values between R-4 to R-10. This is best-suited to temperate climates without very high or very low temperature shifts.

### 9-13: Good Insulation 

Many doors we sell here in the Twin Cities fall in this range. Garage doors with an insulation rating in this range will likely be multilayered polystyrene panels or a version of polyurethane foam described below. 

### 13-19:Excellent Insulation 

Polyurethane Foam is one of the most common insulating materials used in garage doors. This insulation type is sprayed into the door panels, where it expands and adheres to the panel's interior, creating a strong bond. It's known for its excellent insulating properties and contributes to the door's rigidity and soundproofing. Garage doors insulated with polyurethane foam often have R-values ranging from R-12 to R-18. It is perfect for those who heat their garages and use them all year round for multiple functions. 

## Types of Insulated Garage Doors

Choosing the right insulated garage door involves considering the material that best suits your needs and aesthetic preferences. Here are the most common insulation types of insulated garage doors and their benefits:

### 1\. Steel Insulated Garage Doors

*   **Durability and Strength:** Steel doors are known for their strength and longevity, making them a popular choice for many homeowners.
    
*   **Low Maintenance:** These doors require minimal maintenance compared to other materials, saving you time and effort.
    
*   **Excellent Insulation:** Steel doors often come with built-in insulation, such as polystyrene or polyurethane, providing superior thermal efficiency and energy savings.
    
*   **Versatility:** Available in a variety of styles and finishes, steel doors can mimic the look of wood or have a sleek, modern appearance.
    

### 2\. Wood and Faux Wood Insulated Garage Doors

*   **Natural Beauty:** Wood doors offer a classic, timeless look that adds warmth and elegance to your home’s exterior.
    
*   **Good Insulation Properties:** While wood naturally insulates better than metal, many wood doors also feature additional insulation to enhance thermal performance.
    
*   **Customization:** Wood doors can be customized with different stains, finishes, and designs to match your home’s architecture.
    
*   **Maintenance:** Wood doors require regular maintenance, including staining or painting, to protect against weather and maintain their appearance.
    

### 3\. Aluminum Insulated Garage Doors

*   **Lightweight and Rust-Resistant:** Aluminum doors are lightweight, making them easier to operate and less stressful on the garage door opener. They are also resistant to rust, making them a good choice for humid or coastal areas.
    
*   **Modern Aesthetic:** These doors often have a sleek, contemporary look that complements modern home designs.
    
*   **Insulation Options:** Aluminum doors can be fitted with insulation, typically polystyrene or polyurethane, to improve energy efficiency.
    
*   **Variety of Finishes:** Available in various colors and finishes, aluminum doors can be customized to suit your style preferences.
    

### 4\. Fiberglass Insulated Garage Doors

*   **Durability and Resistance:** Fiberglass is resistant to denting and cracking, making it a durable option for your garage door.
    
*   **Low Maintenance:** These doors are easy to maintain and do not require frequent upkeep.
    
*   **Insulation Efficiency:** Fiberglass doors can be equipped with insulation to enhance their thermal properties.
    
*   **Aesthetic Flexibility:** Fiberglass can mimic the appearance of wood without the high maintenance, offering a versatile and attractive option.
    

## We Install Energy-Efficient Garage Doors

If you’re weighing the pros and cons of an insulated vs uninsulated garage door, we’d be happy to discuss the options with you. To chat with our team about garage door insulation and other options in new garage doors, [schedule a consultation](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/get-started) or call us now: South Metro : (925) 960-9411 | East Metro : (651) 427-1158 | North Metro : (763) 634-6380 | West Metro : (612) 425-1988.

Should My Garage Door Be Insulated?

Is it time for new doors for your warehouse? Some of the most common signs it’s time to replace your warehouse doors include worn out or rusted panels, poor appearance and poor performance. In many cases, warehouse owners are looking for lighter doors and better efficiency.

In this blog, we'll explore the key factors to consider when investing in new garage doors for your warehouse. These include the best materials, aesthetic features, security concerns, insulation, durability, functionality, and multiple door installation. Read on to see what our experienced pros have to say. 

## The Best Materials for Warehouse Garage Doors

Your choice of materials will significantly impact the durability, maintenance, and overall functionality of your garage door. Here are the most common materials used for durable warehouse garage doors:

### Steel

Known for its strength and durability, steel is a popular choice for warehouse doors. Its ability to withstand heavy usage and harsh weather conditions, makes it ideal for commercial settings and industrial warehouses. Insulated steel doors provide added energy efficiency.

### Aluminum

Lightweight and resistant to corrosion, aluminum doors are an excellent option for warehouses that experience high humidity and constant use. While not as strong as steel, aluminum doors are still durable and require less maintenance.

## Aesthetic Features

While functionality should be your first priority, don’t overlook the aesthetic appeal of your warehouse. Modern commercial garage doors come in various styles and finishes that can enhance your building's appearance and value. Here are some features to consider:

### Color

Choose a color that complements your warehouse’s exterior. Many materials come in a variety of color options. Our team can work with you to customize the color of your door to match your vision.

### Windows

Adding windows can enhance the appearance of your garage door while allowing natural light into the warehouse. This makes for a healthier and more productive workplace for your employees. Ensure the windows are shatterproof for added security.

### Design

From contemporary to traditional styles, selecting a design that aligns with your brand image can make a positive impression on clients and visitors. Choose from traditional sectional overhead warehouse rollup doors or stylish [bi-fold doors](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/bifold-garage-doors-chic-and-simple) for areas where vehicles enter and exit. 

## Safety and Security Concerns

Safely and securely storing items is a top priority for any warehouse. Here are some tips to ensure your garage door provides the necessary protection.

*   **Material Strength:** Opt for robust materials like steel to prevent break-ins.
    
*   **Locking Mechanisms:** Invest in advanced locking systems, such as electronic keypads or smart locks, to enhance security.
    
*   **Alarm Systems:** Integrate your garage door with your warehouse's security system to detect any unauthorized access.
    
*   **Fireproofing:** Consider doors that prevent the spread of flames where hazardous materials are at risk.
    

## Functionality 

At Metro Garage Door, our goal is to install the optimal garage door for your needs. Here are some further factors to consider:

### Insulation

[Insulated garage doors](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/commercial-insulated-garage-doors) are essential for maintaining a stable internal temperature. Protect sensitive goods and reduce energy costs by installing doors with [high R-values](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/insulated-garage-door). Insulated doors also help reduce noise, which can be beneficial in a busy warehouse environment.

### Speed

[High-speed doors](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/high-speed-garage-doors-the-ups-and-downs) can improve workflow by minimizing the time spent waiting for the door to open and close. During winter days, they can minimize the amount of warm air that escapes your facility. 

### Openers

Warehouse garage door openers work harder. Make sure you pair your doors with openers that can handle the door's weight and frequency of use. We install side-mounted jackshaft openers or traditional ceiling-mounted trolley openers depending on the height and angle of your door and track.

### Durability

Warehouse garage doors must withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. Choose a [heavy-duty garage door](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/heavy-duty-garage-door) that keeps your inventory secure with features such as reinforced panels and heavy-duty hardware. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your door, so consider a company such as Metro Garage Door that offers comprehensive warehouse garage door repair.

### Multiple Doors

If your warehouse handles a high volume of shipments, multiple garage doors can streamline operations. Having separate doors for entry and exit, or designated doors for different types of goods, can increase efficiency and reduce congestion. The Metro Garage Door team can efficiently handle multi-door installations to minimize disruption to your business.

## Find the Perfect Warehouse Doors

Investing in a high-quality commercial garage door is not just about the initial purchase – it's about long-term value, efficiency, and peace of mind. Since 1978, Metro Garage Door has been repairing and installing commercial doors for warehouses and other businesses. We’ve built our track record of five-star service across the Minneapolis area and we’d love to earn your business.

Let our team help you make the best choice for your warehouse needs. [Contact us today](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) to discuss your options and get a free quote. We’ll secure and beautify your warehouse with the perfect doors.

Choosing the Right Warehouse Garage Door

**Preventive Maintenance for Commercial Garage Doors to Save Time and Money** 

Ensuring that your business looks good, operates efficiently, and runs in an organized manner is essential when it comes down to making sure that you feel successful.

 When it comes to our business’ garage doors, the best thing that we can do is make sure that we prevent any issues from happening before they start. We want to share some tidbits and tips to help empower you when it comes to your garage door management!  

Here are 5 things that you can do as a business owner to ensure that you are doing preventative maintenance and making sure your garage door is set up for success.

**Take a peek! Use visual inspection**:

One of the simplest things that we can do as a preventative measure is regularly inspect the garage door and its components for any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment. Look for rust, loose bolts, frayed cables, or any other issues. Is there anything that’s making a strange sound or doesn’t quite feel right? Give it a look and see if there’s anything amiss.

**Smooth it up! Lubrication is key to success**:

As with all mechanical items, moisture is key when it comes to things moving along and staying in tip-top shape. Keep all moving parts well-lubricated to prevent friction and wear. Use a silicone-based lubricant on rollers, tracks, hinges, and springs.

**Tighten it up! Keep hardware both tightened and balanced**

 Parts becoming loose and getting more wear and tear is a big reason why garage doors can start to fall apart faster than they need to. Periodically check and tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws on the garage door and its components. Vibrations from regular use can loosen hardware over time.

This is also a wonderful time to check the balance of your garage door by manually lifting the garage door after disconnecting the garage door opener to see if it stays in place. Is it falling? A little wonky? It may be time to get your garage door balanced if that’s the case!

**Clean it up! Clean your tracks and take a  look at your weatherstrips**

One of the most basic things that we can do to keep our garage doors moving right along without issue is to of course clean the tracks regularly to remove any dirt, debris, or obstructions that could affect the door's movement. This is a great time to go back to step 1 and visually just make sure that nothing is in the way of your garage door tracks that would prevent it from opening or closing properly.

While cleaning, take a quick look at your weatherstripping and give it a good cleaning as well. Does it seem secure and strong? Damaged weatherstripping can let in drafts, moisture, bugs and pests and allow other damage inside your garage, so it’s always good to make sure that it doesn’t need replacing.

**Test it out! Make sure that your sensors and opener are in proper working order**

The most sensitive parts of our garage door can be the most technical – the sensors as well as the garage door opener itself. Test the safety sensors regularly to ensure they are properly aligned and functioning correctly. These sensors prevent the door from closing if there is an obstruction in its path. A great way to test your sensors is by locating the connecting beams that respond to one another and putting an object in the way to “break” the bond between them. If your garage door doesn’t close/open with something obstructing the connection, then it’s in great working order.

Your garage door opener is also a sensitive piece of technology that can get work down over time. Take a look at the electrical connections and wiring of these on a regular basis to see what condition they’re in. Seeing any wear and tear on this ahead of time is a great way to save worrying about having it replaced in the future.

**Ask about it! Get a professional opinion If needed** 

While taking preventative measures for your business’ garage door has many aspects that can be taken care of by yourself, if there’s anything that you’re unsure of or aren’t quite familiar with, always feel confident that you can get a professional opinion just to make sure that you know the ins and outs of how any particular piece of your garage door works out. Knowledge is empowering, and the more you know means the more signs you’ll have on when to take proactive action before your garage door needs any additional maintenance.

Preventative Maintenance for your Business' Garage Door 

## **Prep for Cold Weather Garage Door Problems**

Cold winds and dropping temperatures in Minnesota can take a toll on your garage door. Here at Metro Garage Door, we’re here for you when it comes to preparing your garage door until that spring thaw comes.

Whether you're having a hard time with your garage door closing in freezing temperatures or having more technical difficulties like your keypad for your business’ garage door not responding when the temperatures are too cold, here are some tips and tricks to make sure that you don’t get left in the cold.

## **Lubricate Your Garage Parts**

While double checking and maintaining the lubrication for your garage door parts is always important, the winter months are an especially crucial time. Your garage door parts and gears are fragile and the harsh, cold and dry winter can cause a lot of wear and tear on them, even if they appear to be in pristine condition.

Go through your garage door at its joints and gears to ensure that there’s no corrosion or dryness. Add lubrication as you go to ensure that your garage door will open and close smoothly. If your garage door does not have proper lubrication during the winter months, it may have a hard time closing during the coldest days. Let’s make sure that’s not the case!

## **Insulate Your Garage Door**

[Insulating your garage door](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/insulated-garage-door) is important to not only protect any vehicles that may be inside, but also to maintain the integrity of any and all items and devices within your garage. This can include power tools, electronics, sporting gear and more.

Insulating your garage door involves installing insulation panels and adding insulating materials to the seams and edges where necessary so that cold air doesn’t seep in and warm air doesn’t seep out. A [pro from Metro Garage Door](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/about-us/our-team) can help you choose the best approach for your door.  
  
Cold air could have a adverse effect on everything from your garage door opener to anything mechanical within your garage, including keypads and other devices. At Metro Garage Door we have experienced technicians that help business and home owners add insulation or maintain previously installed insulation. Reach out to us, we’d love to make sure that your garage door is ready for the cold season.  

## **Clean Your Garage Door Perimeter**

While we’re no strangers to cold weather in Minnesota, it’s always great to remind ourselves the importance of maintaining our garage door area, especially during the winter months. Sometimes, ice and snow can buildup in quiet, hidden spots so that we miss it completely. Unfortunately, this ice and snow could lead to several problems – such as tripping your garage door sensor to read that an item is in the way. This is a common reason a garage door won't close in cold weather.

Cleaning the perimeter of your garage door ensures that there’s no build up or obstruction that gets in the way of your garage door operating properly. It also makes it safer for your customers or loved ones to enter your garage door area. 

## Help with Cold Weather Garage Door Problems

If you have a garage door that won't close when it's cold or a garage door opener that won't work during a cold snap, call the helpful pros at Metro Garage Door Co. If you're wondering how to implement any of our tips, or just want a second pair of eyes to help you out, please reach out to us. While the Minnesota winters can take a toll, a little snow and ice won’t get us down. Please contact us [HERE](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) for more information!

How to Keep Your Garage Door Working During Cold Weather

Car wash garage doors are an essential component of a car wash facility. They provide access to the washing bays and keep a variety of vehicles moving in and out. In the process, they endure significant amounts of daily wear and tear.

To be reliable, car wash garage doors need to be expansive, durable and versatile. This includes holding up over extended use and changing seasonal weather. Let's look at the specifics of car wash doors and how Metro Garage Door can outfit your business with the best options.

## Car Wash Door Components

### Materials

Since car wash garage doors have a unique and specific usage, you want to make sure that your garage door company uses polycarbonate doors. Doors made from these tough thermoplastics are heat-resistant and flame-retardant. They can endure significant deformations without cracking but remain relatively light weight. A polycarbonate door on your car wash is attractive and will let plenty of light in.

Characteristics of polycarbonate doors for car washes include:

·         Fire resistance

·         Impact resistant

·         Insulation

·         Weather resistance

·         Can endure up to 900 pounds of impact

Because of the smooth texture of polycarbonate, this is an absolutely fantastic material to use for car wash garage doors for both strength as well as ease of cleaning.

### Operating System

Car washes benefit from pneumatic operating systems. This is a system that uses compressed air or gas to control the movement of mechanical parts.

Pneumatic components can be used for a used for an array of applications, including controlling water and chemical dispensers, activating brushes and other cleaning elements and managing the movement of different parts of the car wash equipment.

Because these components are incredibly unique, they require a knowledgeable engineer to install and repair them. The technicians at Metro Garage Door are experienced with carwash door repair and installation. When we install your new door, you can be confident that these systems are set up properly and that your door will serve your customers for years to come.

## Trust Your Local Car Wash Garage Door Experts

At Metro Garage Door we pride ourselves on having the right parts on hand for emergency car wash repairs day or night. Our technicians are equipped with the know how and experience to keep your pneumatic systems working and your car wash safe and operational.

Whether considering aesthetics, ease of access or safety considerations, trust your garage door to seasoned experts who can carefully walk you through all the options. At Metro Garage Door our hard working team can help you with everything from installation to overall maintenance of your car wash’s garage door.

## Contact Us for Fast Car Wash Door Service

Contact Metro Garage Door for a consultation or additional answers to your questions on car wash garage doors. For fast and reliable garage door repair and installation for your car wash, our team is always ready to help. [Contact us today!](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact)

Optimize Your Car Wash Garage Doors

Happy holidays! Here at Metro Garage Door we know how cold the Minnesota winters get and we want to make sure that your commercial garage door is set up to withstand the severe weather. Let's look at a few key steps you can take to ensure that your commercial garage door has both the functionality and durability to last through cold and challenging weather conditions.

## **1\. Double check all weather stripping and insulation.**

*   Before the holidays end, check the weather stripping around all of your commercial garage doors for wear, damage, gaps, or any abrasions that requires repair. Make sure that the stripping is up to par and keeps heat in during the cold winter.
    
*   If your commercial garage door is chilly, make sure to add or upgrade the insulation to your garage door itself. Sturdy and formidable insulation will ensure both the integrity of the garage door as well as everything within your business.
    

## **2\. Make sure that your garage door is lubricated and has proper maintenance.**

*   Now is the perfect time to make sure that your garage door is lubricated and that all the moving parts from hinges to tracks have proper lubrication. This will help it to avoid the hardening that winter weather can bring. Need to double check if they’re all set up for success? Metro Garage Door will gladly come over to inspect and assist with lubricating.
    
*   Winter weather is one of the most crucial times to make sure that all of your garage door’s working parts are tightened. [Schedule a time](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) for Metro Garage Door to inspect your doors and determine if cold weather has caused your garage door’s parts to loosen and lose integrity. We'll make sure that everything is tightened properly for the season.
    
*   Garage door opener’s can be sensitive to the cold, especially for the larger garage doors that are often used for businesses. Double check your garage door opener to ensure that all parts are working seamlessly, especially the emergency garage door opener.
    

## **3\. Be prepared for snow and ice.**

*   As Minnesota winters can be harsh, it’s always important to remain aware of the snow and ice that builds up just around the outside of your garage door. This is especially for important commercial businesses who want to maintain operations. Plan with your team to determine how the snow should be handled, when it should be cleaned and how frequently this needs to be monitored.
    
*   If snow and ice are something that your business faces quite frequently, it may be time to invest in snow guards or even a heating system to prevent crippling build up. [Please contact our experts](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) at Metro Garage Door. We'll be happy to go over options with you to find the best solution for your commercial garage door.
    

## Winterize Your Commercial Garage Door

While the winters can be harsh, an active focus on weather stripping and insulation, lubrication and maintenance, and snow and ice management, will significantly enhance the performance and longevity of your commercial garage door during the winter months.

 At Metro Garage Door we want to make sure that this season you’re able to properly focus on your business. Don’t hesitate to contact us [HERE](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) to ensure that you’re set up for success. Once again, we’re wishing you the absolute best holiday season from everyone here at Metro Garage Door!

How to Winterize Your Garage Door

Is your garage door on the fritz and not closing all the way? Or, maybe it’s taking too long to close, and doesn’t seem to respond? As home and business owners we know how frustrating it can be to run into these types of issues.

If your garage door isn't closing properly, there could be several reasons behind it. At Metro Garage Door, we're here to empower you and work together with you to find the answers! Here are five troubleshooting steps you can take to identify and potentially fix the issue when your garage door won't close.

## **1) Check the Power Source and Remote Control**

These are easy steps o overlook, so let’s start with the simple solutions. Make sure that the garage door opener is plugged in and receiving power. Ensure that the circuit is on and the power source for the garage is clear of debris. Look for any physical indicators such as a frayed cord or tripped circuit breaker that would explain the problem.

Sometimes, fixing a garage door that won't open is as simple as double checking the remote control's battery and functionality. If it's not working, try reprogramming it or replacing the batteries. These should be double-checked every 6 months to ensure that they’re kept up to date and have enough power. A great way to keep up with this reminder is just inputting it in your calendar at the moment that you checked the batteries and power source the pervious time.

## **2) Inspect the Sensors and Examine the Tracks**

If everything is plugged in and you've checked the batteries, let’s move on to the door. Make sure nothing is obstructing the sensors located near the bottom of the door. Check for any dirt, debris or misalignment that could be interfering with the sensors' communication. Clean the sensors and adjust their alignment if needed.

Garage door tracks may have obstructions hiding in them that prevent your garage door from closing all the way. To ensure that these aren’t an issue, clean the tracks thoroughly and ensure they are properly aligned.

## **3) Lubricate Moving Parts and Check the Settings**

To ensure smooth operation, apply lubricant to the moving parts including

*   Hinges
    
*   Rollers
    
*   Tracks
    

Proper lubrication often resolve issues related to friction or squeaking noises. In some instances, there may be moving parts of your garage door may not be working properly in an underlying way. If you have questions or concerns about the gears, hinges or any other parts on your garage door, please remember to give us at Metro Garage Door a call and we'll be happy to help you.

Another important aspect that gets overlooked is making sure to verify the settings on the garage door opener. These settings may need some adjusting, or the opener may need to be force closed and reset to get things moving more smoothly.

## **4) Test the Manual Operation**

Try operating the door manually to determine if the issue lies with the automatic system. If it closes manually but not automatically, there is likely an issue with the motor or the opener.

If things are still not running smoothly, the manufacturer’s manual may have tips for troubleshooting that provide more detailed instructions for your particular situation.

## **5) Seek Professional Garage Door Help**

As always, here at Metro Garage Door we want you to know that we’re in your corner and that you’re absolutely never alone. If the above steps don't get your garage door to close properly, please reach out to us and we’ll be happy to identify and repair the issue. Contact us [HERE](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) for fast answers to your questions or to schedule immediate help.

Remember that at Metro Garage Door, your safety is our priority. Please make sure that when inspecting or troubleshooting your garage door, you take the proper precautions and use the proper equipment. We're always ready to help!

What to Do When Your Garage Door Won't Shut: 5 Steps

High-speed garage doors are an amazing style of garage door that are well-suited to businesses and warehouses. When it comes to commercial use, they offer security, functionality and a simple array of features. Here at Metro Garage Door we want you to have the best of the best. So, let’s look at some of the key components of what a high-speed garage door offers to help you determine if a high-speed door is right for you!

## **How High-Speed Garage Doors Operate**

High speed garage doors can be seen as an evolution of the roller shutter door. They use a strong but light PVC material to rapidly seal your garage door shut.

Doors can be constructed with either vertical or horizontal shutters depending on the business and intended use. They are durable enough to withstand significant damage and provide an incredible sense of safety and security.

High speed garage doors operate similarly to other roller doors using a combination of gears, springs and pulleys to rapidly open, shut and seal. These garage doors have built in settings that allow you to personalize how rapidly you want your garage door to operate.

High-speed garage doors open and close at approximately three times the speed of your average commercial garage door. This option is wonderful for businesses that want ease of access for both their clients as well as their business associates. Adding high-speed doors can be key to providing fast and dependable service.

As always, make sure that a professional conducts an inspection to make sure a high-speed garage door is the correct option for your business. At Metro Garage Door we have your best interests in mind. We always evaluate our customers' needs and suggest the optimal garage door option for you.

## **Sealing the Deal**

High-speed garage doors seal incredibly well making them valuable where temperature control is important. The reduced time opening and closing also limits exposure to the elements.

Some benefits of high-speed garage doors include:

·        **Refrigeration** – keeping temperature regulated is much easier with the strong seal high-speed garage doors offer.

·        **Environmental Safety** – With the incredible level of sealing that high-speed garage doors provide, elements are less likely to affect your goods.

·        **Security** – The speed and strength that high-speed garage doors are known for helps minimize and deter theft.

## **Is a High-Speed Garage Door Right for You?**

High-speed garage doors are exceptional when it comes to safety and security. If you have goods that need temperature control or high priced goods that can benefit from the added security high-speed doors offer, call us. If you own a business with large vehicles that need quick ins and outs or any other business need that requires rapid access, a high-speed garage door may be just the option for you. Let Metro Garage Door recommend the best door for you.

[Please reach out to us](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) at Metro Garage Door and we’d be happy to give you a consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

High-Speed Garage Doors & Their Benefits

From two-bedroom homes in the suburbs to industrial buildings in a rural community, the material your garage door is built with is crucial in ensuring that you feel safe and secure and that your door lasts for years to come.

The best materials for your garage door can depend on multiple factors including:

*   The terrain you live on
    
*   The aesthetic that you’re looking for
    
*   The intended use of the building
    

Garage doors are built from many different types of materials. Each has its benefits depending on your needs. Steel, aluminum, fiberglass and glass are the most common options and all are potentially great choices for your garage door. Let's take a closer look at what each of these different materials has to offer.

## **Steel and Aluminum: Reliable and Trustworthy**

### **Steel**

Steel is an immensely popular material for garage doors. It's used for a wide range of homes and businesses due to its overall affordability and the sense of safety that it brings. Steel is lightweight, low-maintenance, and steel garage doors provide a great amount of insulation across seasons. An added benefit of steel may be lower electricity costs.

Steel is incredibly versatile and can be fashioned into different colors, styles, and designs. It gives you a great number of options to further personalize your home's aesthetic.

### Aluminum

Aluminum is another popular material that garage doors utilize. Like steel, it is a lightweight and malleable material that can be customized to fit a number of aesthetic choices. Aluminum tends to be less expensive and weighs less than steel garage doors while still providing great insulation. It's a low-maintenance product and a wonderful option to consider if you’re on a budget.

## **Fiberglass: Low Maintenance and Fashionable**

Fiberglass is a excellent material when it comes to providing lightweight protection along with unique aesthetic options. While fiberglass is not a great insulator in and of itself, fiberglass doors are steel doors that have a fiberglass coating – which augments the benefits of both materials.

The biggest advantage of a fiberglass garage door is its longevity. Fiberglass is a material that can stand the tests of time with little to moderate amounts of maintenance. It's also versatile and can resemble natural wood or a smooth surface. Consider this option when you want to add unique customization to your garage.

Being a wonderfully lightweight material, fiberglass garage doors are much less likely to cause wear and tear on your garage door's gears, and is a great material when you need to manually open and close your garage door.

While being slightly more expensive than steel garage doors, fiberglass is still an affordable option that's especially well-suited to humid areas where it can be difficult to maintain the integrity of your garage door.

## **Glass: Modern and Chic**

Glass garage doors offer a variety of benefits, especially for business buildings. First off, the natural light that these garage doors let in is an absolute game changer. Glass allows businesses - large or small - to showcase their space in a natural and stylish manner.

Secondly, glass garage doors are made out of tempered glass, so they hold up extremely well in terms of stability.

Third, without needing to be painted or remodeled, these garage doors are an amazing low-maintenance option for those that are looking for a more modern and cultured look.

It should be noted that glass garage doors do not have the benefit of extra insulation like other garage doors such as steel and fiberglass have. Keep this factor in mind when thinking of your business or home.

## **What Material is Best for Your Garage Door?** 

With so many great and diverse options, what’s the best garage door for you? Ultimately, you’ll want to pick a material that best fits your lifestyle and compliments your home's or building’s aesthetic. Here at Metro Garage Door, we’re passionate about finding the garage door for your home. Please [reach out to us](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) with any questions or to set up a consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!

Best Garage Door Materials

## **Understanding Your Garage Door Sensor**

While garage doors have had an incredibly evolutionary history since they came into existence, garage door sensors are a unique and often overlooked aspect that is an integral part of our households and businesses. This incredibly essential safety feature is a part of every present-day garage door. It's functionalities serve as an ingenious example of our growing level of both technology and safety awareness. Since they’re a hard-working part of our homes, let’s take a look into how they work!

## **How Do Garage Door Sensors Work?**

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/metro-garage-door/image/upload/v1693417356/metro-garage-door/otjrfdbjirwccfsva3hj.jpg)

As safety becomes more centralized, garage doors have required sensors since the early 90s. Sensors consists of both a sender and a receiver – one on each side of your garage door. You may recognize these by the green light that resonates from the sender as well as another light that resonates from the receiver. The colors of these lights can vary depending on the brand of your garage door opener.

The sender and receiver are placed near the bottom of the garage door just slightly above the floor and aligned directly in front of one another. If the sender and receiver are not able to “see” one another for even a moment, your garage door automatically will retract and go back up to avoid potential hazards.

## **What If Your Garage Door Sensor Is Not Working Properly?** 

Garage door sensors are a vital part of your safety. When it comes to garage door maintenance, your sensors require proper care to ensure that they’re doing their job properly.

If your sensors are engaged and working properly, any interruption between the sender and receiver “seeing” each other should cause your garage door to immediately retract. To achieve this, the alignment between the two sensors needs to be fairly exact.

Dust, dirt and cobwebs can prevent your sensors from working. You want to be sure that [obstructions](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/blog/leaves-garage-door-sensors) aren't interfering with the sender and receiver's ability to see each other. Cleaning each sensor gently on a regular basis will help ensure that things will continue to run smoothly. Take this cleaning time to double check that each sensor is positioned exactly across from the other as well. As always, if you have any question in regard to the optimization of your sensors, Metro Garage Door is always here to help.

One visible way to tell if your garage door sensors are working is by double checking the lights on both the sender and receiver. If either of the lights are blinking or aren’t lit up, it’s time to reach out to Metro Garage Door and have your opener serviced.

## **When is It Time to Replace Your Garage Door Sensors?**               

Garage door sensors typically last a few years with proper care and maintenance. Make sure that they stay clean and are securely in place in your garage door to optimize their longevity.

If you start seeing recurring issues regarding your garage door, such as the garage door closing when an obstruction interrupts the line of sight of the two sensors, please contact Metro Garage Door immediately. We’re here to help and answer any additional questions you may have regarding your garage door sensors.

Please contact us [HERE](https://www.metrogaragedoor.com/contact) with any and all questions. We can't wait to hear from you!

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