Garage Doors 101

Just as the barn was the storage area of choice on the farm, so is the garage for the city man. These areas allow users to stow away anything from various junk and tools to vehicles. Some areas are even converted into home additions and offices. Whatever the use, there is no debate that without the garage doors to bar them from the outside world, that these areas would hold little more use than simply a parking area.

Function

Perhaps the most popular type of unit is a sheet composed of a number of steel panels that have been hinged together, set up with rollers, and placed on a track. While some are manually operated, these days the majority of units are controlled with a small remote or code panel, which allows automatic access to people and automobiles.

Features

Overhead units roll on wheels which are set on tracks on either side of the area. They are lifted by a torsion spring lift machine which provides the door with just enough tension to lower and raise the sheet of panels when in use.

Size

Though most units are generally rectangular in shape, they do come in many different sizes. Typically, size is determined by the number of vehicles your area is able to hold. 1 car, 2 car, and 3 car spaces are common. Additionally, some larger homes have multiple areas.

Maintenance

While it is not something that is necessarily thought about on a regular basis, these units require regular maintenance and upkeep to continue working properly. Just as with any motorized mechanism, a garage door will need to be balanced, lubricated, and inspected. Rollers should move up and down the tracks without any resistance or odd noises. When problems do arise, it is generally advised that the home owner get in contact with a professionally trained garage door technician to help address the issue.

Safety

When it comes down to it, these units are very large moving objects under high tension. If they happen to malfunction, they can easily cause damage to items in addition to injury and even death. Small animals and children should be watched very closely when exposed to these devices. Many newer units tend to come with infrared sensors which cast means of light across the opening of the area. If the beam is broken by an object or living being when in motion, the door will stop and reverse upward.