Mechanical Garage Doors – Are they All the Same?

More people these days are opting for mechanical garage doors, and they have good reasons to do so. If you’ve decided that you want to switch to a mechanical remote unit, shopping around is a good idea, because there are different kinds from which to choose. There are certain things that you want to look for, and one kind may be more preferable to you than another. 

Why Mechanical?

Mechanical garage doors can be opened or closed from inside your home or inside your car, making it more convenient and even safer for you. Today’s mechanical units also have safety sensors built in that make them stop descending when they detect something underneath, which makes them safer for small children–or even older children and adults–as well. The convenience of these units can’t be argued, although they do take more maintenance. 

Shopping Around

The first thing that you want to do is look for dealer in your area who sell mechanical units for garage doors, or the entire door and unit if that’s what you prefer. Check each dealer that interests you with the Better Business Bureau, and look for such things as how long they’ve been in business and if they offer guarantees. Your next step is to evaluate the different kinds of units that are available. Some work using chain drive and rollers, while others slide along a metal bar. The quietest kind use a rubber belt for sliding up and down. Obviously there’s a difference in price for each of these kinds, with the rubber belt unit almost always being the most expensive. It all depends on your preferences and, of course, your budget.

Maintenance

All mechanical garage doors need maintenance in order to keep functioning optimally, and though sometimes you’ll need help from a professional, there are a lot of things that you can do yourself to keep it well maintained. When you purchase your unit from the dealer, be sure to ask about maintenance, and don’t be afraid to pester for details. Also, contact the manufacturer to get even more tips. You can get suggestions on lubrication maintenance, how to inspect parts, and when to replace parts. All of this can help you enjoy your door for the longest possible time.

Mechanical garage doors can be great for your home. They’re convenient, safe if maintained properly, and they can even add to your home’s value. Choose wisely from the start, and you should be able to enjoy it for many years.