Category: Garage Door Tips

Top 10 Reasons to Weatherproof Your Garage Door in Alabama’s Climate

Alabama’s hot, humid summers, heavy rain, and occasional winter chills can wreak havoc on your garage door. Without proper weatherproofing, you risk warping, rust, insulation loss, and even costly repairs.

If you want to extend the life of your garage door, improve energy efficiency, and protect your home, here are the top 10 reasons why weatherproofing your garage door should be a priority.

1. Prevent Water Damage & Flooding 💦

Alabama’s heavy rains can send water straight into your garage, leading to mold, rust, and wood rot. A high-quality bottom seal or flood barrier can help keep rainwater and moisture out.

✅ Solution: Install a new rubber weatherstrip at the base of your garage door and replace it every few years to maintain a tight seal.

2. Keep Out Pests & Rodents 🐀

An unsealed garage door is an open invitation for mice, rats, roaches, and spiders. These pests love dark, warm spaces and can damage wiring, insulation, and stored belongings.

✅ Solution: Add side and top weatherstripping to block gaps where pests can enter.

3. Lower Your Energy Bills 💰

An uninsulated garage door allows hot air to flood in during summer and cold drafts to seep in during winter, making your HVAC system work overtime.

✅ Solution: Upgrade to an insulated garage door to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency.

🔎 Fun Fact: An insulated garage door can cut energy loss by up to 70%!

4. Prevent Rust & Corrosion 🛠

Alabama’s high humidity speeds up rust formation on metal garage doors, rollers, and springs, leading to stiff movement and noisy operation.

✅ Solution: Regularly lubricate moving parts with a silicone-based spray to prevent rust buildup.

5. Protect Your Garage Door Opener from Storms ⚡

Severe weather can cause power surges that damage your garage door opener. Electrical issues can lead to malfunctions or a complete system failure.

✅ Solution: Install a surge protector and check your opener’s safety features regularly.

📞 If your opener stops working, call Platinum Garage Door Services at (205) 365-2468 for fast repairs!

6. Increase the Lifespan of Your Garage Door ⏳

Garage doors that are exposed to extreme weather without protection tend to warp, crack, and break down faster.

✅ Solution: Keep your garage door clean, apply a protective sealant, and touch up peeling paint to prevent sun and moisture damage.

🚪 Wood garage doors should be stained or sealed every 1–2 years!

7. Reduce Noise & Improve Comfort 🔇

Tired of your garage door rattling and shaking every time you use it? A weatherproofed, insulated door significantly reduces noise from outside and inside.

✅ Solution: Install garage door insulation and tighten loose parts to enjoy quieter operation.

8. Reinforce Your Garage Door Against High Winds 🌪

Alabama is no stranger to hurricanes and tornadoes, and a weak garage door can easily collapse under strong winds, exposing your home to major storm damage.

✅ Solution: Install hurricane-rated braces or upgrade to a wind-resistant garage door with reinforced steel panels.

9. Protect Your Vehicles & Stored Belongings 🚗

Extreme heat and cold can damage your car, tools, furniture, and appliances stored in your garage.

✅ Solution: An insulated, weatherproof garage door helps regulate temperature and protects valuables from heat and moisture damage.

10. Boost Curb Appeal & Home Value 🏡

A garage door that is faded, dented, or weather-damaged can lower your home’s curb appeal and resale value.

✅ Solution: Keep your garage door clean, well-maintained, and weatherproofed to make a great first impression on potential buyers.

Get Professional Garage Door Weatherproofing in Helena, AL

Want to protect your garage door from Alabama’s harsh weather? Let the experts at Platinum Garage Door Services help!

📞 Call us today at (205) 365-2468 for a FREE inspection!

Final Thoughts

Weatherproofing your garage door is one of the best ways to protect your home, improve energy efficiency, and extend its lifespan.

Whether you need new weatherstripping, insulation, or storm reinforcements, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your garage door in top condition year-round.

🚪 Need expert help? Contact Platinum Garage Door Services today at (205) 365-2468! 🚀

Steel vs. Wood Garage Doors

Steel vs. Wood Garage Doors – Which is Best for Your Home?

When choosing a new garage door, one of the biggest decisions homeowners face is selecting the right material. Steel and wood garage doors are two of the most popular options, each offering unique benefits, aesthetics, and maintenance requirements.

So, which one is right for your Helena, AL home? In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of steel vs. wood garage doors, helping you make an informed decision based on durability, cost, maintenance, and curb appeal.

1. Durability & Longevity

Steel Garage Doors: Strong & Long-Lasting

✔ Highly durable – Steel doors are resistant to dents, cracks, and warping.
✔ Weather-resistant – Unlike wood, steel does not expand or contract with temperature changes.
✔ Rust-resistant coatings – Galvanized steel doors are treated to prevent rust and corrosion.

Lifespan: 20–30+ years with proper maintenance.

Wood Garage Doors: Classic But Vulnerable

✔ Heavy and sturdy, making them more impact-resistant than thin steel doors.
✔ Natural material can crack, warp, or rot if not properly maintained.
✔ Prone to termites and moisture damage in humid climates.

Lifespan: 15–25 years with frequent refinishing.

🏆 Winner: Steel – More durable with minimal upkeep.

2. Aesthetic Appeal & Home Value

Wood Garage Doors: Timeless Elegance

✔ Rich, natural beauty that enhances curb appeal.
✔ Available in custom styles, stains, and finishes to match any home.
✔ Increases home value due to its luxurious look.

Steel Garage Doors: Modern & Versatile

✔ Available in many colors, textures, and faux wood finishes.
✔ Can be designed to mimic the look of wood with less maintenance.
✔ Works well with modern, contemporary, and industrial home styles.

🏆 Winner: Wood – If aesthetics are your top priority, wood wins for its natural beauty.

3. Cost & Affordability

Steel Garage Doors: Budget-Friendly

✔ Typically cheaper than wood – Entry-level models start around $600–$1,500.
✔ High-end steel doors with insulation or faux wood finishes cost $1,500–$3,500.
✔ Lower installation and maintenance costs over time.

Wood Garage Doors: Expensive but Upscale

✔ Higher initial cost – Starting at $2,000–$6,000+ for real wood.
✔ Requires staining, painting, and refinishing, adding long-term expenses.
✔ Custom wood designs can exceed $10,000.

🏆 Winner: Steel – More affordable upfront and long-term.

4. Insulation & Energy Efficiency

Steel Garage Doors: Well-Insulated Options

✔ Available in insulated models with polyurethane or polystyrene cores.
✔ Helps reduce energy costs and keeps your garage comfortable.
✔ Ideal for hot summers and cold winters in Alabama.

Wood Garage Doors: Naturally Insulating

✔ Wood has natural insulation properties but lacks an internal insulation layer.
✔ Can be warmer than non-insulated steel doors but not as efficient as modern insulated steel doors.

🏆 Winner: Steel – Insulated steel doors provide better energy efficiency.

5. Maintenance Requirements

Steel Garage Doors: Low Maintenance

✔ Requires only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
✔ No need for painting or refinishing.
✔ If dented, small repairs can be difficult.

Wood Garage Doors: High Maintenance

✔ Needs regular staining, sealing, or painting to prevent moisture damage.
✔ More prone to cracking, warping, or rotting.
✔ May require more frequent repairs and refinishing.

🏆 Winner: Steel – Easier to maintain and lasts longer without refinishing.

6. Security & Safety

Steel Garage Doors: Strong & Secure

✔ Difficult to break into – Especially with reinforced steel options.
✔ Can be equipped with smart garage door openers for added security.
✔ Fire-resistant and won’t burn in extreme heat.

Wood Garage Doors: Sturdy but Flammable

✔ Solid wood construction provides a strong barrier.
✔ Can be more easily pried open if not reinforced.
✔ Flammable and may not withstand fires as well as steel.

🏆 Winner: Steel – Provides better home security.

7. Which Garage Door is Best for Your Home?

✅ Choose Steel if:
✔ You want a budget-friendly, durable, and low-maintenance option.
✔ You prefer modern styles with insulated features.
✔ You live in an area with high humidity and extreme weather.

✅ Choose Wood if:
✔ You want luxury, classic beauty, and a natural look.
✔ You don’t mind frequent maintenance and refinishing.
✔ Your home has a traditional or craftsman-style exterior.

Need Help Choosing the Right Garage Door? Call Platinum Garage Door Services!

Whether you choose steel or wood, the right garage door should fit your style, budget, and long-term needs. If you’re ready for a new garage door installation in Helena, AL, trust Platinum Garage Door Services for expert installation and repairs.

📞 Call us today at (205) 365-2468 for a free consultation!
💻 Visit https://platinumgaragedoorpros.com/ to schedule an appointment.

Final Thoughts

Both steel and wood garage doors have their advantages. If you value affordability, durability, and security, steel is the way to go. If you want classic elegance and premium curb appeal, a wood garage door might be the best investment.

🚪 Need professional advice? Contact Platinum Garage Door Services at (205) 365-2468 today!

Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close

7 Reasons Why Your Garage Door Won’t Close – Common Issues & Fixes

A garage door that won’t close isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a major security risk. Whether it’s stuck halfway, reverses before closing, or won’t budge at all, the issue needs immediate attention.

For homeowners in Helena, AL, understanding the common reasons why a garage door won’t close can help you troubleshoot the problem before calling a professional. Below, we outline the most common garage door issues and their fixes to get your door back in working order.

1. Garage Door Sensors are Misaligned or Blocked

🚨 Issue: Your garage door sensors are designed to prevent accidents, but if they’re misaligned or obstructed, your door won’t close properly.

🔎 Signs of a Sensor Issue:
✔️ Garage door starts closing but reverses.
✔️ Blinking or flashing lights on the sensor.
✔️ Door stops closing and remains open.

🛠 Fix:
✅ Ensure nothing is blocking the sensors, such as dirt, debris, or spiderwebs.
✅ Check that the sensors are aligned properly—both should have a steady light.
✅ Clean the sensors with a soft cloth and ensure they are securely mounted.

If the problem persists, you may need a garage door sensor replacement from a professional.

2. Garage Door Tracks are Bent or Obstructed

🚨 Issue: If your garage door tracks are bent, dented, or dirty, the rollers can’t glide smoothly, preventing the door from closing.

🔎 Signs of Track Issues:
✔️ The garage door moves unevenly.
✔️ Grinding or scraping noises during operation.
✔️ Visible dents or obstructions in the tracks.

🛠 Fix:
✅ Remove any dirt, debris, or small objects stuck in the tracks.
✅ Use a rubber mallet to gently tap minor dents back into shape.
✅ If tracks are severely bent, it’s time to call a garage door repair expert in Helena, AL.

3. Broken or Worn-Out Garage Door Springs

🚨 Issue: Torsion springs help lift and lower your garage door. If they’re broken or weakened, the door may refuse to close properly.

🔎 Signs of a Broken Spring:
✔️ The garage door feels heavy when closing manually.
✔️ Loud bang or snapping sound before the issue started.
✔️ The door closes unevenly or only halfway.

🛠 Fix:
🚨 Never attempt to replace garage door springs yourself! They are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. Call Platinum Garage Door Services at (205) 365-2468 for a professional spring replacement.

4. Garage Door Opener Settings Need Adjustment

🚨 Issue: Your garage door opener’s force or limit settings may be off, causing the door to reverse or not close completely.

🔎 Signs of Opener Setting Problems:
✔️ The door stops before touching the ground.
✔️ The door reverses as soon as it touches the floor.
✔️ The motor continues running even after the door is closed.

🛠 Fix:
✅ Adjust the down limit screw on your garage door opener (refer to your opener manual).
✅ Reset the force settings to ensure the door moves smoothly.
✅ If the issue persists, a garage door opener repair specialist can recalibrate it for you.

5. Garage Door Cables are Loose or Broken

🚨 Issue: Garage door cables work alongside springs to lift and lower the door. If they become frayed, loose, or snapped, the door may refuse to close properly.

🔎 Signs of Cable Damage:
✔️ Garage door hangs unevenly.
✔️ Loud slapping noise when opening or closing.
✔️ Cables appear frayed, loose, or completely detached.

🛠 Fix:
🚨 Do NOT attempt to fix garage door cables yourself—they are under extreme tension and require professional repair. Call Platinum Garage Door Services at (205) 365-2468 for fast, safe cable replacement.

6. The Remote or Keypad Isn’t Responding

🚨 Issue: Sometimes, the problem isn’t mechanical—it’s your garage door remote or keypad.

🔎 Signs of Remote Issues:
✔️ Pressing the remote button does nothing.
✔️ The keypad doesn’t light up or respond.
✔️ The wall switch works, but the remote does not.

🛠 Fix:
✅ Replace the batteries in your remote.
✅ Reprogram your remote or keypad following the opener’s manual.
✅ Check for signal interference from nearby devices.

If your remote is still unresponsive, you may need a garage door opener repair.

7. The Weatherstripping or Bottom Seal is Blocking the Door

🚨 Issue: The rubber seal at the bottom of your garage door may have worn out, causing the door to stick instead of closing fully.

🔎 Signs of a Weatherstripping Problem:
✔️ The door stops just before closing.
✔️ Visible gaps or cracking on the bottom seal.
✔️ Drafts, pests, or moisture entering the garage.

🛠 Fix:
✅ Inspect the rubber seal for cracks or peeling.
✅ Replace the weatherstripping if it’s worn out.
✅ If the seal is misaligned, gently adjust it so the door closes properly.

When to Call a Garage Door Repair Expert

If you’ve tried these fixes and your garage door still won’t close, it’s time to call in the professionals. Platinum Garage Door Services offers:

✔️ Same-day garage door repairs in Helena, AL
✔️ Same Day Appointments When Available
✔️ Affordable repairs for broken springs, cables, and openers

📞 Call us now at (205) 365-2468 for fast, reliable service!
💻 Click here to schedule an appointment.

Final Thoughts

A garage door that won’t close is more than an inconvenience—it’s a security risk. By troubleshooting these common garage door issues, you can determine whether a simple fix will solve the problem or if you need professional garage door repair.

🚗 Need fast garage door service in Helena, AL? Contact Platinum Garage Door Services today at (205) 365-2468 or visit https://platinumgaragedoorpros.com/!

Top Signs Your Garage Door Needs Repair

Top Signs Your Garage Door Needs Repair (Before It’s Too Late)

Your garage door is one of the most frequently used parts of your home, but it’s often taken for granted—until something goes wrong. Ignoring small issues can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and even complete garage door failure.

If you’re a homeowner in Helena, AL, recognizing early warning signs can save you time, money, and frustration. Below, we’ll cover the top signs your garage door needs repair and what you should do before the problem escalates.

1. Your Garage Door is Noisy & Making Unusual Sounds

A garage door should operate smoothly and quietly. If you start hearing:
✅ Grinding or scraping sounds – This could mean misaligned tracks or a damaged opener.
✅ Squeaking or screeching – Worn-out rollers or lack of lubrication.
✅ Banging or rattling – Loose bolts, springs, or rollers.

🔧 Solution: Apply garage door lubricant to the moving parts. If the noise persists, schedule a garage door inspection with a professional in Helena, AL.

2. Your Garage Door is Slow to Open or Close

If your garage door takes longer than usual to open or close, the problem could be:
✅ A failing garage door opener.
✅ Weak or worn-out garage door springs.
✅ Dirty or obstructed tracks.

🔧 Solution: First, check if the garage door opener’s settings need adjustment. If the issue continues, you may need a spring replacement or opener repair.

3. Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close Completely

Is your garage door getting stuck mid-way or refusing to open or close all the way? This can indicate:
✅ A misaligned garage door track.
✅ A faulty garage door sensor.
✅ Damaged or worn-out torsion springs.

🔧 Solution: Clear any obstructions near the sensor and ensure the tracks are aligned. If the issue persists, a garage door repair expert in Helena can fix it.

4. Your Garage Door is Off Track

A garage door that looks crooked or off its tracks is a major issue that shouldn’t be ignored. Causes include:
✅ Worn-out or broken rollers.
✅ A forceful impact (e.g., hitting it with your car).
✅ Loose cables or hardware.

🔧 Solution: Stop using the door immediately and call a garage door repair specialist in Helena, AL, before the damage worsens.

5. The Garage Door Springs Look Worn or Broken

Torsion springs and extension springs help lift and lower your garage door. Signs of failing springs include:
✅ A loud “bang” or snapping sound.
✅ The door feels heavier than usual when opening manually.
✅ A noticeable gap or stretch in the spring.

🔧 Solution: Never attempt to fix garage door springs yourself—they are under extreme tension and can cause injury. Contact a garage door repair company in Helena, AL for spring replacement.

6. Your Garage Door is Sagging or Uneven

A garage door should be balanced. If it appears uneven or sags when halfway open, the culprit could be:
✅ Uneven spring tension.
✅ Worn-out cables or pulleys.
✅ Structural warping in the door itself.

🔧 Solution: Test the balance by manually lifting the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, schedule a garage door adjustment with a professional.

7. High Energy Bills Due to Poor Insulation

A garage door with damaged insulation or weatherstripping can let in cold air, moisture, and pests, making your HVAC system work harder.

🔧 Solution: Check for gaps in the weatherstripping and replace worn-out garage door seals. Consider upgrading to an insulated garage door for better energy efficiency.

8. Your Remote or Keypad Isn’t Working Properly

If your garage door remote or keypad isn’t responding:
✅ The batteries may be dead.
✅ The signal between the remote and opener could be weak.
✅ The garage door opener logic board might be failing.

🔧 Solution: Replace the batteries, check for signal interference, and if needed, call a garage door technician in Helena, AL for a thorough opener inspection.

Why Timely Garage Door Repairs Matter

🚨 Ignoring these warning signs can lead to:
❌ Complete garage door failure.
❌ Costly emergency repairs.
❌ Safety hazards for your family.

Whether it’s a broken spring, a malfunctioning opener, or a misaligned track, taking action early can prevent expensive repairs later.

Need Garage Door Repair in Helena, AL? Call the Experts!

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t wait until it’s too late! Platinum Garage Door Services provides fast, reliable, and affordable garage door repairs in Helena, AL, and surrounding areas.

📞 Call us today at (205) 365-2468 for a free inspection!
📍 Serving Helena, Pelham, Hoover, and Birmingham, AL.
💻 Visit https://platinumgaragedoorpros.com/ to schedule your repair online.

Final Thoughts

Your garage door is a vital part of your home’s security and functionality. By addressing small issues early, you can avoid expensive repairs, improve safety, and extend the life of your garage door.

🚗 Have you noticed any signs of wear? Contact Platinum Garage Door Services today at (205) 365-2468 or contact us online!