Things to Consider When Buying a New Garage Door

Residential garage doors are vital for security, functionality, convenience and curb appeal. An old or broken garage door can slow down your daily routine, making it more frustrating and stressful.

Though replacing your garage door involves some research, it doesn’t need to be overwhelming. We’ve designed this garage door buying guide to help you make the best decision for your home, so you can quickly find what you need.

5 Garage Door Buying Tips to Consider

You’ll quickly see how many outstanding options are available when you start comparing garage door features. However, that can make it challenging to narrow down your preferences!

Here are five garage door considerations to help you become a more informed customer.

Appearance: Variables include your chosen materials, preferred color and the style that best matches your home.
Sizing: Your garage door’s size will impact your overall cost and could be a factor in your material choice.
Environment: If you have an insulated garage, you’ll likely want insulation on your garage door, too. The best option will depend on what you intend to use your garage for.
Budget: It’s wise to decide your price range beforehand so you don’t overspend. Don’t forget to add the hardware and installation costs.
Technology: How high-tech would you like your garage door to be? Many homeowners enjoy having remote openers, safety features and smart home integration. These technologies make your garage door more comfortable and convenient to use.

Now that you have a foundation to get started, let’s go deeper. Keep reading to learn more about prioritizing your preferences and finding the ideal garage door for your home.

How to Buy a New Garage Door

Choosing a garage door requires many personal decisions, based on your goals, budget and style. To simplify the process, divide all the variables into two lists — needs and wants. You can quickly narrow down your best garage door choices by starting with needs.

Garage Door Needs

Here are some categories to consider for your needs list:

Your budget
The size of your garage door
Insulation for your garage door

These items fit best in the needs list because they’re make-or-break decisions. When setting your budget, aim for a range that feels comfortable for you. You may need to research what costs are reasonable for a high-quality product.

Garage door size is also essential because it can impact affordability. A trailer-sized garage door will be much larger than a residential garage door for a one-car garage. Before you go shopping, measure your current garage door to get the correct dimensions.

An insulated door is only a must-have if the rest of your garage has insulation and an HVAC system. Pairing an insulated garage with an uninsulated door isn’t energy-efficient. However, an uninsulated door makes more sense if your garage isn’t insulated.

Garage Door Wants

Buying a garage door also involves gauging your preferences and looking for a model that meets as many needs and wants as possible. Multiple garage door customizations are available, so you can find the perfect fit for your home.

Here are some items to put on your wants list:

The material you like
The technology you’d prefer
What style and color you’re interested in

Your chosen material will affect your home’s appearance, so you could consider it a need. However, we’ve put it on the wants list because everyone has different stylistic preferences. Many beautiful options at various prices can blend well with your home, including steel, wood and faux wood.

If you’re interested in additional security features, you can invest in technology to make your garage door safer and more convenient. Talk to your local dealer about remote openers and security systems.

Other garage door wants include your style and color preferences. Popular styles include farmhouse, contemporary, carriage house and traditional. Each blends well with a range of homes, so you can choose what best reflects your taste.

Maintenance Tips When Buying a Garage Door

Maintenance is another essential feature to consider when buying a new garage door. While many homeowners prefer the DIY route, leaving some tasks to a professional is better for safety reasons.

You must understand your purchase’s maintenance needs when shopping for a new garage door. For example, a wood garage door will need refinishing several times during its life span. That’s straightforward enough to do yourself if you’re handy around the home, or you can hire a professional.

Other upkeep includes replacing functional garage door components like torsion springs. If you purchase heavy-duty parts, they will last longer and require less maintenance. However, when it’s time to replace them, you must hire an experienced technician to do the job safely.

How to Choose the Best Garage Door Material

There are several considerations when choosing your garage door material, including your stylistic preferences and budget.

Different garage door styles lend themselves well to various materials. For example, carriage house and farmhouse garage doors are traditionally wood. In contrast, modern and contemporary garage doors are typically steel. This material’s sleek, minimalist appearance creates the perfect backdrop for modern homes. Steel comes in many colors, and you can add texture with different panels.

Another option is to purchase faux wood — a steel door with a wood texture or overlay. This material bridges the gap for homeowners who prefer the wood aesthetic but are working with a lower budget. Regardless of your material preference, you can find the perfect color choice and style option for your home.

Request an Estimate From American Overhead Doors

American Overhead Doors is a family-owned business in Connecticut. We serve families and businesses across the Constitution State, helping them get the ideal garage doors for their needs. We’re the state’s only Clopay^® Master Authorized Dealer^®, and we’re proud to offer such high-quality products to our customers.

When you work with us, you can always count on stellar customer service, personalized support and professional communication. We offer an industry-leading two-year labor warranty on every garage door installation and can also advise you on garage door selection and repair.

How to Measure for a New Garage Door

If you need to choose a new entryway, it’s vital to understand how to measure a garage door for replacement. Accurate measurements ensure your doors will fit as expected and help contractors give you a more precise estimate for your new residential or commercial garage door.

Garage Door Measuring Guide

Follow these steps when it’s time to replace or upgrade your doors.

1. Capture the Entry’s Width

Measure the widest point of your door’s opening. You should also check your door jambs to ensure they’re in good condition, squared and defect-free.

2. Measure the Opening’s Height

Find the highest point between the opening and the floor and note its distance. Inspect the floor for any damage or areas that aren’t level.

3. Get the Sideroom Measurements

Measure to the left and right of the door’s opening from the mouth to the nearest wall or obstacle. You’ll need about 4 to 5 inches on each side for mounting the vertical tracks. The center post should offer a minimum of 10 inches of width for two-door installations.

4. Find the Headroom Clearance

Record the distance from the top of the door’s opening to either the nearest obstruction or the ceiling. For most doors, you’ll want at least 15 inches.

5. Capture the Backroom Clearance

Measure the distance between the door’s opening and the back wall or nearest obstacle, such as a lighting fixture. For a sectional-style residential door, you’ll need a minimum of the door’s height plus 18 inches for a manually operated door. When using an overhead opener instead, add 50 inches to the door’s height to find the minimum clearance requirement.

Special Considerations for Commercial Doors

Clearance requirements for commercial models vary significantly based on the door’s style and height. Generally speaking, you’ll need:

Backroom width equal to headroom space for coiling doors.
Backroom equal to the door’s height plus 23 inches for a 2-inch track or 25 inches for a 3-inch track — and more if you install an overhead operator.
Clearance of 4 to 6 inches per side for a manually operated door.
Clearance of 5.25 to 9.5 inches per side for doors operated by a chain hoist.
Clearance of 14 to 18 inches on at least one side for motor-operated models.

Request an Estimate From American Overhead Doors, Inc.

American Overhead Doors, Inc. is a family-owned company with over 30 years of industry experience, five-star reviews and customer praise. Our well-qualified team can help you with professional garage door replacement, residential door repair services and commercial repairs.

Take the next step and request a custom estimate today, or call us at 860-347-1507 for personal assistance.

How to Detect a Garage Door Repair Scam

If you see a deal for a garage door repair that seems too good to be true, it probably is. While many professional garage door companies offer safe repairs, illegitimate businesses attempt to scam well-intentioned home and business owners with low prices and poor-quality work. Learn about the different types of garage door scams and how to avoid them.

Signs of a Garage Door Scam

You can detect a garage door scam by these signs:

The company’s name differs across its website, phone greetings and advertisements.
The business explains the various names by claiming it has recently acquired another company.
The business hesitates to share information about itself or its services.
The business is located far from your area.
The technician’s van and uniform do not have the company logo.
The prices are significantly lower or higher than the average for your area.
The company will give you the total cost of the repair without having seen your garage door.
The company requests upfront payment.
The company asks you to pay in cash.

Three Types of Garage Door Repair Scams

Many illegitimate garage door businesses rely on these scams to get homeowners to pay more for repairs.

1. The Lifetime Guarantee Scam

The lifetime guarantee scam involves a technician installing a part with a lifetime guarantee. This part is actually low-quality, so it will break down sooner than expected. When you reach out for a replacement, they will install another shoddy part for free but charge labor costs. Homeowners get caught in a continuous loop of replacing overhead door parts and paying for labor every time.

Though a lifetime guarantee sounds like a great deal, it doesn’t mean future replacements and repairs are free. What does “lifetime” mean, and what services are “guaranteed?” Scammers take advantage of assumptions to get more money from homeowners.

2. The Rebuild Package Scam

With the rebuild package — or hardware overhaul — scam, the technician will inspect your garage door and inform you nearly every part needs to be replaced. In reality, the garage door needs one simple repair, like realigning the photo eye sensor. The scammer will often mark up the cost of the parts in the installation fee, so you’ll pay much more than you need to.

Even if you have a broken garage door hinge, you likely don’t need to replace all your hardware. Garage door components have different life spans, so some will fail sooner than others.

3. The Unidentified Technician Scam

The unidentified technician scam occurs when the business claims to send their in-house team to make the repair. In reality, they subcontract the repair to an independent contractor without a license, insurance or experience. Even worse, you can’t contact the technician if your garage door has a problem.

It is common for professional garage door companies to subcontract jobs based on their expertise. Scammers take advantage of this fact so they can get paid for poor-quality work.

How to Avoid a Garage Door Scam

Find a reputable garage door company and avoid scam services by taking these steps:

Research the garage door repair company. You can read reviews, browse its social media, confirm its address and phone number, and look for associations and accreditations.
Call the company and ask about its business and services.
Educate yourself about garage door parts and functions so you can tell if the technician is being honest about what’s wrong with your door.
Get your repair estimate in writing.

Why Choose American Overhead Doors, Inc. for Your Garage Door Service?

American Overhead Doors, Inc. is a family-owned and -operated garage door installation and service company with more than 30 years of experience. We serve Connecticut home and business owners with professional and trustworthy services. We are prepared to help with any garage door needs, from replacing broken springs to repairing garage door panels and more.

Schedule your garage door repair with our experienced technicians today. Request service online or call 860-347-1507.

I Backed Into My Garage Door — How Do I Fix It?

Accidents happen, and sometimes they involve your garage door. If you’ve just crashed into the garage door with your car and aren’t sure what you need to do to fix it, this guide will get you started.

Common Problems Caused by a Car Crash Into the Garage Door

After you run into your garage with a car, the damage will depend on how fast your car collided with the door. Some typical problems include:

Dented or broken panels: The bottom panels on the door may be damaged, as these sections are the most likely to be hit by a car. You can replace the broken panels or all of them, depending on the severity of the damage.
Off-track rollers: More serious garage door damage can bend the vertical track and misalign the rollers. You may need to replace the garage door hinges and rollers and get the door back on the track.
Damaged track: Misaligned and broken garage doors are dangerous to operate. It’s best to call a professional to replace the track or bend it back into place.

How to Fix a Garage Door After Backing Into It

Follow these steps if you’ve backed into your garage door.

1. Keep the Garage Door Shut for Now

Damaged garage doors may be too dangerous to operate. It’s best to inspect the door first before trying to open it.

2. Review the Extent of the Damage

Check over your garage door to see the damage. Look at the impact site and the damage on both sides of the door’s surfaces. Your car most likely hit the bottom panels, so pay attention to these areas.

Next, look at the rails, garage opener, rollers, hinges, lifting cables, springs, bottom bracket and other components to see if any hardware got hit. Take note of any damage you see to communicate to your repair technician.

3. Try to Open the Door Manually

If the garage door components are operable, try to open the door without power. Opening it automatically can cause more damage. See if you can open the door on your own without forcing it.

4. Call Your Local Garage Door Repair Company

Start your repair with a professional garage door company. Garage door maintenance can be dangerous to complete on your own, so it’s best left to the experts.

Tell your technician about the damages, dent location and size, and garage door material. They will assess the damage and determine the necessary repairs to get your overhead door working again.

FAQs About Fixing Garage Doors Damaged by a Car

Here are our answers to a few commonly asked questions about garage door repairs.

Does Insurance Cover Hitting the Garage Door?

Your home insurance may cover the costs of your garage door damage. If your car was damaged severely, your car insurance might cover those repairs. Consider your policies’ deductibles to decide if you should open a claim or cover the costs yourself.

How Much Does a Garage Door Repair Cost?

Your garage door repair expenses will depend on the age and condition of your door. Older garage doors with severe damage will cost more to fix than newer overhead doors with minor dents, for example. The type of repair needed will also affect your cost. For instance, replacing a few rollers will likely cost less than replacing all the door panels.

Will I Need to Replace the Entire Overhead Door?

You may need to replace your entire overhead door depending on the repairs and labor costs. It might be more cost-effective to get a new garage door than to repair your current door.

American Overhead Doors, Inc. Will Repair Your Damaged Garage Door

After you’ve backed into your garage door and looked everything over, schedule a repair with American Overhead Doors, Inc. Our technicians can repair damage from a car collision, including panel repair, track realignment and door hinge replacement.

Request service from your local garage door expert by reaching out online or calling 860-347-1507.

COVID-19 Message

Updated on 8/8/2022

As of August 8th, 2022 we have resumed normal operations regarding COVID-19. Please contact us if you have any questions!

– The American Overhead Doors, Inc. team

How to Open a Garage Door Without Power

Losing power to your garage can leave your home vulnerable or make it difficult to move your car. Knowing how to safely open and close your garage door when you don’t have power and what to do when your power comes back on is essential.

Opening the Door Manually

Take the following steps to manually open your garage door when your unit loses power due to wiring issues or a power outage.

1. Unlock Your Door

The first step you should take is ensuring your garage door is unlocked. If the door is down, locate the latches or lock on the outside. You will be unable to manually open the garage door without power if it is locked.

2. Start With the Door Down

It’s best for your garage door system if you start moving the door from a closed position. It’s dangerous to disengage your garage door opener when the door is still halfway or fully up. If the door’s spring is bent or broken when you release the opener, the garage door could slam down on anyone or anything underneath it.

If the door is open, you can move it manually by carefully pushing on it until it begins to slide down. Try to get the door to touch the ground. If it’s being stubborn, lower it as close to the ground as possible.

If you can’t move the door low enough, hiring a technician is best. Pulling on a stuck garage door could damage the unit and the door might be stuck because its sensitive components require repairs.

3. Unplug the Automatic Opener

Disconnect the power to your automatic door opener before you continue to avoid damaging the electric component. Unplugging the opener allows you to work on the door without any surprises. If the power comes back on suddenly, the door could start moving on its own.

4. Pull the Emergency Release Cord

Once you have closed the door and found the release, you’ll want to pull on the emergency release cord. The cord is designed for this type of situation, allowing you to manually move your garage door.

The release cord is attached to the center rail of the door’s track and has a red handle to make it easier to identify. It will hang down from the door trolley at the front of the door.

If you are having trouble finding the emergency release cord, start by locating the trolley, the power device that opens and closes the garage door. The trolley connects to the carriage of your garage door power opener, which automatically moves the door when you have power. Pulling the release cord will disconnect the door’s trolley from its carriage.

5. Manually Move the Door

Once you free the garage door, you can manually move it to an open position and return it to the down position. Move the garage door using these techniques:

Opening the door: Pull from the bottom of the door instead of the middle or any other position. Lift the door until it stops moving. Make sure the door stays in place before you let go completely.
Closing the door: You can pull on the door from the outside until it closes. If your garage door has a lock, remember to lock the door manually before you leave.

If you feel significant resistance when you try to open the garage door manually, you might have a broken spring. The spring is the component that allows the opener to lift the door — if the spring is broken, it will be difficult or impossible to push the door up.

Be cautious if you’re trying to open the garage door manually from inside. A broken garage door is a safety hazard that should be handled by a professional, and you will want to avoid an accident or mishap. If you can’t move the door manually and suspect that the issue is a broken spring, you should call a professional garage door technician to look at the unit.

Reconnecting the Automatic Opener

Once your power returns, you’ll want to reconnect your automatic garage door opener. Follow these steps to do so safely.

1. Pull the Emergency Release Cord

To re-engage the door’s carriage, slowly pull the cord toward the door. As you pull the cord, the spring will compress so the door mechanisms can connect. You will be able to use your garage door’s electronic components after this.

2. Reconnect the Trolley

Next, you’ll need to connect your trolley to the carriage so you can use the garage door’s automatic operations again. Run your garage door opener through a complete cycle to ensure the trolley connects.

Have the door move up and down to complete the entire cycle. You should hear a click when the carriage and trolley connect. You should be able to start using the automatic functions after this.

What if the Garage Door Fails to Raise or Lower?

If you can’t raise or lower the door manually, it might have other issues than the loss of power. The problem could be related to:

The age of the door: If your older door has wear and tear that keeps it from opening, it may be time to replace it with a new one.
The size or weight of the door: A heavier or wider door is more challenging to work with. Try to find someone who can help you move it.
The spring mechanism: If the spring is damaged, the door will be difficult to lift. You should seek repairs if any component of your garage door is failing.

Safety Concerns for Garage Doors Without Power

Suddenly losing power can damage your garage door. If the springs are worn or damaged, the door becomes a hazard to anyone attempting to use it manually. Here are some safety tips for engaging a door that has lost power:

Only use the garage door if you have to: Keep it closed until you regain power if possible.
Be careful with raising the door: When your door loses its automatic function, the mechanisms that ordinarily hold it up can’t turn on. Without those mechanisms, it may be prone to falling unexpectedly.
If the door has a locking mechanism, remember to use it: When the door loses power, so does its electronic lock. The door will lack security until you regain power, so be sure to lock it manually.

Get Your Garage Door Repaired With American Overhead Doors

Do you need a reliable, knowledgeable technician to repair a garage door? We provide services for commercial and residential owners. Please request an estimate if you have questions about our services and contact us if you would like assistance with your garage door!

Reasons to Buy an Insulated Garage Door in Connecticut

An important part of many residences that homeowners often overlook or put off tending to is their garage. As garage doors cover the home’s largest doorway, it is important for you to make any necessary repairs or upgrades to keep your garage functional, economical and comfortable. One of the many ways to do this is to invest in an insulated garage door.

Insulated garage doors are especially important if you live in an area like Connecticut, where the weather is often fickle and unpredictable. Having an insulating garage door is beneficial for many reasons, as it can increase the overall efficiency and temperature control of your home. If you have been putting off making garage door upgrades, whether it be for financial or aesthetic reasons, you should consider making these changes now before the weather turns cold and you feel the effects of a non-insulated garage door in your home.

What You Need to Know About Garage Door Insulation

If you live in a home with a non-insulated garage door, you may not yet have upgraded because you do not know the extent of an insulated garage door’s benefits. Or maybe you do not know what information you need to understand when deciding which garage door is best for you home. Two important factors to consider when getting an insulated garage door are its R-value and U-factor.

R-Value

The first thing you should look at when deciding on an insulated garage door is the insulation’s R-value, or the measure of the insulation’s thermal resistance per unit area. More effective insulation has a higher R-value, as the material is more resistant to conductive heat flow. The R-value of insulation depends on many factors, including the type of insulation, its density, its thickness and the number of individual layers of insulation.

More simply, the R-value represents the insulation’s ability to slow the transmission of heat. Better insulation has a higher R-value because it has a slower transfer of heat. This means that if you choose an insulated garage door with a higher R-value, it will slow the heat that leaves your house in the winter and allow the summer heat in at a slower rate.

You can determine your insulation needs by looking at the energy efficiency codes directed by the International Code Council (ICC). The entire state of Connecticut falls into Climate Zone Five A, meaning that it has a minimum average temperature between -15° and -20°F. Based on the attributes of the fifth zone, the ICC recommends a ceiling R-value of at least 37 and a wall R-value of 13-20, depending on the wall’s material makeup. Based on this information, in Connecticut, your garage door should have an R-value of at least 14 and 16 for garage spaces commonly used or sharing walls with primary living spaces.

Different garage doors have a wide range of R-values, so knowing what you need for your home will help narrow down the decision on what garage door will benefit you and your home the most.

R-Value

U-Factor

Another factor to consider when choosing a garage door is its overall ability to transfer heat. Called the U-factor, this measures how much heat transfer occurs through the entire door, whereas the R-value only defines the heat flow capabilities of the insulation. Materials with lower U-factors insulate better, making them more energy-efficient than ones with higher U-factors.

U-factor measurements can be more accurate than R-values because while R-values look at the heat loss of insulation, U-factors account for the door as a whole, including frames, panels and other hardware. When selecting a new garage door with more energy efficiency, look for a garage door that advertises a lower U-factor to find a door that can help keep the heat in your home in the winter and the sun out in the summer.

Reasons to Buy an Insulated Garage Door in CT

Connecticut is a beautiful place to live, but the constantly changing and and often severe weather can sometimes make it difficult to keep your home as effective and comfortable as it should be. One way to avoid being unprepared for the weather is to get your house ready with an insulated garage door. Some reasons to consider this option include:

1. Temperature Control

If your home has an attached garage, this means that the garage is part of your home and shares at least one wall with your living space. As the garage door is most likely the largest entryway into your home, it is important to ensure that this is a well-insulated point to lessen heat transfer.

When you have your house’s heating system on in the wintertime, it works to heat your home to your desired temperature. If your attached garage does not have proper insulation, you lose some of the warmth that your heating system provides. The same is true for air conditioning in the summer. As your air conditioning works to produce cooler air in your home, a garage without proper insulation will allow some of the cold air to escape.

While you may think that a little heat transfer from your garage may not make too big of a difference, it might surprise you how much your garage can affect the heating and cooling of your home. In fact, data from the Clopay engineering department reveals that in the situation where it is 20 degrees outside, if you have a non-insulated garage door, the temperature of your garage will be around 30 degrees. Contrarily, if you have an insulated garage door, the temperature of your garage stays closer to 42 degrees. An insulated garage door makes a big difference in keeping your home comfortable and your energy use efficient.

2. Energy Efficiency

Relating to the idea of temperature control is the energy efficiency of your garage door. If you have your heat or air conditioning on but the hot or cold air escapes through the garage, your heating or cooling system has to work harder to compensate for the lost air. This makes it harder for your heating and cooling system to regulate temperature, thus making it do more work. Since your heating and cooling system has to work harder to maintain your home’s desired temperatures, this increases the cost of your energy bill, not to mention the wear and tear on the HVAC system. Therefore, investing in a garage door with proper insulation now can help your home be more energy-efficient, saving you money in the future.

3. Improved Durability

From the daily use of raising and lowering your garage door to the occasional storm damage or weather wear, your garage door will probably get some marks and dents over time. Although the everyday wear and tear of your garage door is a common and expected thing, there are still ways to help improve the durability of your garage door.

One of the best ways to ensure that you have a stronger and more durable garage door is by getting a door with insulation. Insulation adds an extra layer to your door, giving it more rigidity and enhanced durability. Whether you choose a garage door insulated by a solid panel of insulation between two layers of steel or aluminum, or a garage door with foam that expands and hardens to fill the gaps between the two metal panels, both insulation techniques work to strengthen your garage door.

Another aspect of your garage door that insulation works to protect is the internal hardware. Extreme temperatures can affect important parts of your garage door’s internal system, such as the springs, wires, cables, brackets and rollers. It is important to have a garage door with high-quality insulation to prevent any breakage or erosion of these parts, as they are what keep the garage door functional and safe.

4. Reduced Noise Levels

If you live in a home with people on different work and sleep schedules, you may worry about waking everyone up with the sound of your garage door opening and closing. While you can expect any mechanical system to make some noise because of its moving parts, your garage door should not make excessive noise. If you check the internal hardware of the door and do not find any specific problem causing the noise, the culprit may just be the door itself.

Lightweight, non-insulated garage doors tend to shake and rattle more than their heavier, insulated counterparts. If you have a non-insulated garage door, its panels may shake as it moves along the track, whereas an insulated garage door that is thicker with a tight construction may have less hollow space or loose materials, which can limit the noise your garage door makes when in motion. Also, insulation can act as a buffer that absorbs vibrations and noises, muffling some of the sounds the garage door may cause.

For similar reasons, insulated garage doors can also help lessen the noise getting through the door from the outside. An insulated garage door can help dampen the noise of anything from a loud storm outside to your neighbor’s lawnmower. While insulation will not dissolve all the noise pollution that gets into your home, it definitely can muffle outside sounds, making them more muted than without insulation.

5. Convenience

Another reason to get an insulated garage door is that it can help boost your overall convenience and comfort within your home. One of the many perks of an insulated garage door is that because it keeps the warm air from your home in the garage, leaving your home in the winter can be more comfortable. If you keep your car in the garage, an insulated garage door makes it so you do not have to step outside in the cold weather, increasing the convenience of your garage, especially when bringing in groceries or buckling kids into their car seats.

Similarly, with the air in your garage staying warmer than it would without an insulated garage door, you avoid letting the cold outdoor temperatures blow into your home. Your garage acts as a vestibule or buffer zone between the temperature-regulated space of the home and the outdoor elements. This lessens the effect the outdoor air has on your living space.

Also, if you and your family use the garage as an extension of your living space or if someone in your home likes to work in the garage, having an insulated garage door makes temperature control of the garage much more convenient. If you decide to go to your garage and work on a project, doing so with a non-insulated door will have much more extreme temperatures in the garage. For example, some insulated garage doors can keep a garage between 10 and 20 degrees cooler or warmer than the outside temperature.

Find an Insulated Garage Door with American Overhead Doors

When facing change, it is reasonable to be hesitant, researching all possible options before deciding on what may be best for you. Regarding choosing a new garage door, there are a lot of things to consider, such as budget, style, brand and installation. The good news is that you do not have to explore your options and make these decisions alone.

If you want to replace your garage door and upgrade to an energy-efficient and stylish one that meets the needs of your home, come to American Overhead Doors, Inc. We have a wide variety of Clopay garage doors that will give your home eye-catching curb appeal while also helping increase your home’s energy efficiency.

From Coachman style doors to classic steel, custom wood to limited-edition styles, we offer a wide selection of doors of different styles, colors and materials. We can help you find the perfect door that will meet your garage door wants and needs. Because Clopay doors have a great balance of looks and functionality, whatever you need in a new garage door, American Overhead Doors will help you find the perfect fit for you.

Contact Us Today

At American Overhead Doors, we are a family-owned company that has served Connecticut customers since 1987. Holding the privileged status of being the only Clopay-Master Authorized Dealer in the state, we pride ourselves on our level of expertise and responsiveness in sales, installation and service, on top of our dedication to our customers.

If you are ready to start shopping for your next garage door, contact us at American Overhead Doors today by giving us a call at 860-347-1507 or filling out our online contact form. Also, do not hesitate to stop in our showroom, where we have 16 doors and 6 automatic openers on display, a wide variety of material samples and brochures sure to give you some creative inspiration!

Benefits of MyQ Technology

An automatic garage door opener makes it easy to operate your garage door without keys or even getting out of your car. If you haven’t changed your garage door opener in a while, you may be in the market for a new one. In the past, these devices simply opened and closed your garage door. Modern garage door openers have some exciting new features, such as Wi-Fi access and connectivity to LiftMaster’s MyQ technology.

Having a smart garage door opener provides many benefits to your house by making it more safe, secure and convenient. MyQ technology allows you to operate your garage door opener from anywhere in the world. All you need is a smartphone or another mobile device to connect to your garage door opener and the LiftMaster MyQ app. Explore some of the benefits of a Wi-Fi garage door opener to know how myQ technology can add value to your home.

What Is MyQ Technology?

LiftMaster MyQ is the technology created by the Chamberlain Group that connects your garage door opener to your smartphone through cloud-based software. You can monitor or operate your garage door from anywhere you have a Wi-Fi connection, whether you’re at home or on vacation. Even though a new garage door opener typically has Wi-Fi capabilities, you can also configure your existing opener with the Chamberlain® Smart Garage™ Control. Consult your local garage door technician about the best option for your property.

With the myQ app, you can:

Connect your Wi-Fi garage door opener with smart devices and platforms, such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Receive real-time notifications from your garage door opener.
Operate your garage door from your smartphone or another mobile device.
Create recurring schedules to have your garage door and lights operate at certain times of the day.

This program works by connecting to your garage door opener and the photo-eye sensors through your home’s Wi-Fi connection. You can have the myQ system installed by a professional garage door technician. After you have your wireless garage door opener installed, you can use the cloud-based app to monitor your garage door and operate it accordingly.

What Are the Benefits of Liftmaster MyQ?

When you invest in a brand-new garage door opener with LiftMaster myQ Wi-Fi technology, you can add value, security, convenience and safety to your property. Explore the ways that having myQ technology in your home can make your daily life easier.

1. Monitor Your Garage Door From Anywhere in the World

MyQ technology gives you access to up to two garage doors and 16 myQ-enabled accessories from wherever you are, whether you’re on vacation in another country or down the block from your property. Instead of waiting until you’re at home, you can open or close your garage door while you’re in the car coming or going from your errands. The myQ app also allows you to monitor your garage door’s activity and operate it as necessary to give you peace of mind throughout the day.

If you spend all day wondering about whether you closed your garage door, you’ll be distracted from work or errands. Your myQ-enabled garage door opener helps you stay focused in the following ways:

Receive real-time notifications about your garage door’s activity: The myQ app alerts you through your smartphone when your garage door opens and closes, or when your garage door opener’s lights turn on or off. That way, you know when your kids arrive at home or when someone tries to enter your property without your permission. You can even customize the notifications you receive.
Check on your garage door anywhere, anytime: With the myQ app on your smartphone connected to your Wi-Fi-enabled garage door, you can always make sure that your garage door is closed and secure. As you leave your house in the morning, you may have the nagging feeling that you left your garage door open. You can check your garage door wherever you are, so you can have peace of mind and be present at work or on vacation.
Close your open garage door from where you are: If you happen to leave it open, you can close it with the tap of your phone screen. Then you can go back to whatever you were doing, whether you were working on an important project at work or cheering your child on during a soccer game. You also don’t have to rush home if you’re stuck in traffic, so you can drive safely and be attentive to the road.

2. Have an Additional Layer of Security for Your Home

You may have a security system in your house that protects your loved ones and valuables from theft. MyQ technology is another way for you to make your property even safer. You may have property in another part of the world during the cold months, and you’d need to keep your primary residence safe while you’re traveling. Some of the ways myQ technology can keep your living space safe include:

Connection to your security system: Smart myQ-enabled garage door openers are compatible with your security system, whether you have Vivint, Alarm.com, Ring, Apple® HomeKit™, Resideo, Clare or IFTTT. If your older children are home alone, you can keep them safe by monitoring your garage door activity at all times. Your security system can also alert the authorities if your garage door is opened without your permission.
Real-time notifications: Since you can get alerts to let you know when your garage door opens, you can take the appropriate actions to deal with intruders who you didn’t want in your house. It can also make sure your home is safe while you’re on vacation, which usually attracts intruders.
Recurring schedules: If you’re ever on vacation or out of the house at night, it’s helpful to have the lights on in front so your neighbors think that someone’s home. Intruders may try to break into people’s properties when it’s dark because they know that no one will see them. You can prevent theft by setting up a schedule for your garage door or lights. When the lights turn on at a reasonable time at night, people might still think you’re home.
Protect your packages from theft and bad weather: When your packages are on the doorstep, they’re vulnerable to damage and theft. Amazon Key works exclusively with myQ technology to allow Amazon delivery personnel to take your packages safely into your garage instead of leaving them in front of your house. You can open the door for the delivery person and close it after they leave. If you have a myQ-connected garage door camera, you can also make sure they get into your garage safely.

Besides your myQ-enabled garage door opener, you can also get myQ security cameras and locks installed on your garage door. Consult your local garage door technician to find out what security options are available for your property.

3. Make Your Home Safer for You and Your Loved Ones

Since your garage door is the largest opening into your home, you need to make sure it can safely guard your family and valuables. MyQ technology can help reduce the risk of injury or damage in the following ways:

Alerts and notifications: Smart garage door openers will have a beep alert and flash the lights to let you know the garage door is operating, so anyone who’s home can be aware that someone else is entering the house. You and your loved ones will also know if someone is trying to get into your home without your permission. With real-time notifications, you can know about any activity in your house and get the necessary help immediately.
Automatic closure: An open garage door can let intruders, harsh weather conditions and pests into your living space. You can set up a time when your garage door will automatically close, in case you or the kids forget to close it, to keep the inside of your home safe.
Lighting control: Instead of fishing for your keys or navigating your front lawn without lighting, you can see your way around your property with lighting control. Besides controlling your lights to prevent people from breaking in, you can also set up your smartphone to connect to your garage door opener lighting so you can safely enter the garage after being out late after dark.

4. Get Started Right Away With the Simple Setup

MyQ-enabled garage door openers feature simple-to-use and advanced operating systems to monitor and control your garage door from your computer, smartphone or tablet. To take advantage of this convenient operating system, you only need to download the free myQ app after installing a Wi-Fi-enabled garage door opener. Once you first install the myQ operating system, there are no subscription fees or service charges.

Chamberlain® Smart Garage™ Control allows you to use myQ technology with your existing garage door opener, making setup even more convenient. Keep in mind that it’s best to invest in a new garage door opener, especially if yours is old or damaged. If you’re getting a new garage door, you should consider upgrading your garage door opener to handle your door’s weight and style. The myQ app works best with Wi-Fi garage door openers.

5. Conveniently Access Your Home Through a Mobile Device

Connecting your garage door to your smartphone allows you to open and close it anywhere, anytime. In the past, homeowners would have to be home for deliveries or services to let people inside. Accessing your garage door from a mobile device comes in handy when you have to:

Let expected guests into your home: With the myQ app, you can let people inside while you’re on vacation or at work. All you have to do is open and close the door with a tap on the screen. If you don’t want to have your door automatically open during a scheduled time, have them call you when they arrive, and you can “buzz them in” by opening the door for them.
Bring your kids home inside safely: Maybe your kids forgot their keys and they need to get into your house after school. Instead of leaving a spare key outside your house or leaving work early, you can schedule a time for the garage door to open so you can conveniently let them inside. You may also want to open it for them through your smartphone.
Access your garage door from your vehicle: Besides connecting to your garage door from your phone or mobile device, you can also operate it from your vehicle. When your myQ garage door opener connects to your vehicle, you can safely access your door without using your hands. It also uses geofence technology to alert your garage door opener of when you’re close to home, so it can open and close automatically when you arrive or depart. You can also get in-car notifications like you would on your phone.
Share entry codes with others: Instead of copying keys and handing them out to people who need to get into your house, you can set up access codes for them. The myQ app allows you to share limited control over your garage door opener with up to five users. Send them a user invite and set up their guest profiles on the myQ app. You can manage how and when they can get inside, allowing you to remain in full control of your property.

6. Connect Your Garage Door Opener to Other Smart Devices in Your Home

The makers of myQ have partnered with many of the smart home brands and platforms that you’re probably already using in your living space. Whether you want hands-free control or voice activation with your garage door opener, you can easily make your house “smarter” with myQ technology. You can also get notifications about your garage door from your other smart devices, so you don’t have to have your phone nearby.

The myQ app is compatible with Google Assistant and other artificial-intelligence-powered virtual assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Apple® HomeKit™. With this exciting feature, you can open and close your garage door with your voice. Instead of being limited to your smartphone, you can also access your garage door through your smart speakers, such as Google Home or the Amazon Echo. As long as your smart device can hear you, you can open, close or check on your garage door.

Get a Smart Garage Door Opener With American Overhead Doors, Inc.

If you want to take advantage of all the benefits of a Wi-Fi garage door opener with LiftMaster MyQ technology, reach out to our team at American Overhead Doors, Inc. We supply, install and maintain residential garage door openers and can help you set up the myQ app. You may also decide that it’s time for you to get a new garage door for your home to change up its look or make the entrance even more convenient.

Besides installing your garage door opener, we’ll also help you maintain and repair your garage door opener so it continues to work for many years. You can request an estimate online or contact us for more information about our garage door products and services. You can also visit our showroom in Middletown, Connecticut to see our garage doors and openers in person.

American Overhead Doors Installs 3 Doors for FHB House

We recently 3 garage doors for a Connecticut Fine Homebuilding House. Learn more here – https://www.finehomebuilding.com/2021/06/17/strong-energy-efficient-garage-doors

Dangers of DIY Garage Door Repairs

Many homeowners or business owners use their garage doors several times per day, resulting in a lot of wear and tear. Eventually, your garage door will need some repairs. When you notice your garage door is working incorrectly, you may try to do the repairs yourself. This can be costly, difficult and even dangerous. Your best course of action is to hire a professional to get the job done, keeping you and your loved ones safe from garage door repair dangers.

Garage Door DIY Dangers

If you’re wondering if you should fix your garage door yourself, we recommend thinking about the possibilities first. Let’s face it — a broken garage door is a huge inconvenience. You may want to grab your toolbox and start tinkering with your garage door to get it up and running, but this could have poor results. Consider the dangers of repairing your garage door yourself to help make a safe and affordable decision:

1. DIY Repairs Can Get Costly

One of the main reasons people try to repair their garage doors themselves is to save some money. Many assume getting a professional to repair their garage door will be costly. You may feel like it’s simply not in the budget, but think again.

When you repair your garage door yourself, you run the risk of making things worse than they already are. Garage doors are complex pieces of equipment containing motors, electronics, hinges, springs, cables and many other components. A simple mistake can lead to more damage, repairs and money spent trying to solve the problem. Over time, this could cost much more money than the cost of hiring a professional.

2. Repairing Your Garage Door Yourself Is Time-Consuming

Time is one of your most valuable resources, and you’re always spending it. Chores and maintenance are a normal part of life for business owners and homeowners, but sometimes, it’s better to leave certain tasks to the people who do them for a living.

Your garage door repair may seem simple at first, but it could easily turn into a whole afternoon of work. An afternoon repair could turn into a whole-day project, then a weekend project. Soon, you may find yourself spending several weekends trying to fix an issue that a professional could solve in a couple of hours. Take control of your schedule and let the garage door professionals do the fixing.

3. You Could Damage Your Belongings

If you’re one of the countless homeowners or business owners who use their garage for storage, you should think twice before trying to do your own repairs. You may store valuable items in your garage, including the vehicle you use for daily transportation. A mistake in your repair work puts these items at risk.

Improper repairs and installation could result in your garage door falling down, crashing into your car or valuable items. Although this event would be the worst-case scenario, it’s a possibility you should be aware of. You could be out of a garage door and a car, causing you to spend far more money than you planned.

4. Falling From a Ladder Is a Serious Danger

If you try to repair your garage door yourself, you’re going to need a ladder. Whether you need a small boost or you have to climb several feet high, using a ladder could be dangerous. Ladder use puts you at risk of falling and sustaining serious injuries and even death.

Each year, ladders account for 500,000 injuries and 300 deaths. While you can use safe ladder practices to reduce the risk of an unfortunate situation, you may be better off staying on the ground and letting a trained professional go up to repair your garage door. A simple misstep can have disastrous results. You can remove this possibility by hiring a professional instead.

5. Garage Door Springs Are Complicated and Dangerous to Repair

Garage door torsion springs allow your garage door to open and close with ease. Without these springs, garage doors would feel heavier, and your garage door opener would have to work harder to function. These springs have a limited life span, and they’ll eventually need replacement if you want to keep using your garage door.

Is it dangerous to replace garage door springs? Ask any garage door professional, and they’ll tell you to always leave spring work to people who know what they’re doing. These springs are under a lot of tension, and a simple mistake can unleash this potential energy on you. You could suffer serious injuries or even death. If you think something is wrong with your garage door springs, keep a safe distance and call a professional right away.

Safe Garage Door Repair Solutions

Though many fixes should be left the pros, you can still troubleshoot some garage door repair solutions. As a homeowner or business owner, you can improve your garage door’s functioning by doing the following:

Test your garage door’s safety features to make sure they’re working.
Keep the photo eye sensors at the base of your garage door aligned and cleaned.
Lubricate the moving components of your garage door on a regular basis.
Inspect your garage door and listen for unusual sounds during operation.

These activities can go a long way in preserving the life of your garage door. As you become more familiar with your garage door, you’ll have an easier time detecting any malfunctions. Then, you can call a professional for repairs before the problems get worse.

Should I Hire a Garage Door Repair Professional?

When you hire a garage door repair professional, you can enjoy the following benefits:

Faster repairs: Professionals know what they’re doing, reducing the length of time needed to make the repairs.
Lower costs: When you hire a professional, you’ll get the repair you need the first time and avoid mistakes that could lead to extra costs.
Increased security: Keep your car and possessions safe with a functioning garage door. You’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing your garage door will keep you safe and protected.
Safety: It’s dangerous to perform garage door repairs yourself. Let the trained professionals handle your repairs so you can stay safe and healthy.

Contact American Overhead Doors, Inc. for Professional Garage Door Repair Services

Invest in your safety and well-being by letting the professionals at American Overhead Doors handle your garage door repair needs. Whether you need residential garage door work or a commercial garage door fix, our repair and maintenance services will get the job done. We’ve been in business since 1987, so you can trust our expertise and years of experience for your garage door needs.