7 Facts You Need To Know About Roller Garage Doors

Roller garage doors, depending on which installation company you select, can vary widely in quality, design, and use of components. Being aware of the differences is key to making the right choice. To help you we have compiled a list of the top things to look out for:

Green credentials

If you are looking for top-notch insulation, then other garage door types, for instance, sectional are better. None the less, roller garage doors with double-skinned foam filled slats can provide good draught exclusion. The very best manufacturers apply robust ‘green credentials’ to the development of parts, using environmentally friendly materials to produce sustainable products. The use of 100% CFC-Free polyurethane insulation foam is an example of this.

As a ‘door type’ comparison, take ‘U’ values – a measure of how effective a material is as an insulator. According to performance data from Teckentrup, one of the largest door producers in Europe, their own sectional insulated doors around 2500mm x 2125mm in size will offer a ‘U’ value of 1.4 W/m²k, whereas insulated roller garage doors are circa 4.0 W/m²k – the higher the number, the poorer the performance.

Looking into the future, increasing demand for energy-efficient doors will be driven by the global trend for energy conservation. Governments are promoting innovation to aid high energy consumption and reduce carbon footprint. Therefore, the integration of energy-efficient products due to changes in policy and the need to construct green buildings will surge demand for garage doors with effective thermal properties. The best manufacturers are responding positively to these new edicts.

Beware of the cheapest quote

Cheap isn’t always best – It may be a ‘fly by night company’ selling a product with inferior components. This can equate to false economy in the long-term, as moving parts may need replacing sooner than you would expect. The materials used can also vary in quality and thickness. The use of aluminium is the go-to option for the slats that make-up the curtain, for its corrosion free qualities, however, be cautious if it is wafer-thin as this can dent easily. As a measure of reliability, the typical lifespan of a good roller door is 15 to 20 years.

Create a weather shield

Keeping the weather at bay is a key reason for replacing a leaking garage door if your old one is in a state of disrepair. Roller doors can be 80% sealed, with the best designs providing brush seals to almost completely close around the lintel area. Also, check for brush seals in the side guides to protect against driving rain. Likewise, with better quality you can feel reassured over how secure the curtain will be in high wind. Small details like ‘wind locks’ within the running guides keep the door stable but also increase burglar protection. Flexible rubber seals at the bottom of the curtain provide a rigid barrier to water ingress even where garage thresholds are uneven. These can also be reinforced with an internal steel strip to create a barrier to unwanted vermin. However, to get a complete seal which provides optimum protection against the elements, it is desirable to talk to a specialist about the most effective options.

Surface protection

Regular opening and closing leaves marks due to the intrinsic operation of a roller garage door. However, better models minimise these through innovative design of the rollers, belts, and side guides. Garage door surfaces are also protected from small scratches caused by soiling in that there is reduced contact between the individual layers of the door curtain, and less chance of dirt touching the surface of the door. The very best premium roller doors have straps that run in between the two surfaces to stop wear and grit accumulating, keeping the surface looking pristine for longer. When rolling up, several belts are placed between the individual layers of the door curtain, thus significantly reducing scratch marks caused by soiling.

Look for the best guarantees

As a minimum requirement, look for a 5 year+ guarantee on the motor drive. It will offer the highest quality, last longer, run quietly, and open and close in good time. Up to 10-year product warranties are available from high quality manufacturers. Yet, while most people in the garage door industry are honest, some of them are not. Inferior motors and lifting gear historically do give premature failures. So, be wary of guarantees which are not bonified. As previously mentioned, this can lead to ‘false economy.’ Cheap parts may have been installed causing hardware to fail, lead to another call out to get it fixed with exorbitant labour fees, and the installation of further low-quality products…and so the cycle goes on. Good practice would be to qualify what is covered in the guarantee and which brands are being sourced right from the start.

Accessories galore

The basic function of a roller garage door is to open vertically and provide maximum space inside and in front of the garage. The garage ceiling also remains free and can be used for lamps or as an additional storage space.

More of a surprise to people is the extra lifestyle functionality they can provide, especially with the high value brands. For example, you can stream daylight into you garage with synthetic glazing or improve the room climate with ventilation grilles made of long-lasting plastic to help prevent mould. What is more, with high-end manufactured doors, security is certified. When controlling your door with radio systems for example, interference free encryption is available akin to what you would experience from your online banking security. Better quality also equates to more convenience, with hand -held transmitters, or smart Apps on your phone enabling you to open, close and lock from your car or inside your home.

Don’t accept an unsafe roller garage door

Well-constructed roller garage doors are also some of the safest and most secure. What is more, you do not have to break the bank to have one installed. Affordable options come with sensors to reliably stop the door in the event of an unexpected obstacle. They can also include emergency release pullies or crank handles operated from inside a garage, and for those garages without a second entrance, provide a secure release in a locked safety box on the outside. In addition, keyless designs make it difficult to break in with no discernible entry points or handles. Furthermore, anti-lift curtains and robustly made vertical roller guides prevent the door from being prised open. For slightly higher price brackets, emergency electricity supplies are also an option and can bridge network power failures.

To summarise, not all roller garage doors are made equal. Some of the very cheapest single-skin designs are flimsy with questionable structural integrity. They are much less secure than those you can buy from an established supplier of good repute. For every homeowner, it should be easy to make unimpaired, well-informed decisions. This is as true of garage doors as it is of any other high-value home-based purchase. But when it is a once in a lifetime event, the stakes can sometimes seem higher. Therefore, it is vital to trust the approval ratings of customer-endorsed suppliers. They can help you make choices that are right for you.

To learn more about the specific standards we expect from roller garage doors, simply call us today or use this useful contact form to book your free survey and quote.

7 Facts You Need To Know About Roller Garage Doors

Give your home the wow factor with an eye-catching colour choice. Just like landscaping and hardscaping your driveway, colour coordinating your garage door colours to your home can make a big first impression and set the right tone for creating curb appeal.

Along with design, reliability, and durability, colours are among the most important choices homeowners care about when updating their homes, and usually comes down to personal taste. Yet there are other practicalities to consider.

Here are five key factors:

Blend In With Local Architecture

Use your style of house and current colourways, e.g., of bricks, stone, window frames, front door, cladding, etc. as the starting point.

Choose one that complements your style of home and others close by. In doing so you can add aesthetic value, reinforce the quality of the property, and give a great first impression of your locality to visitors, and buyers.

Different house styles are defined by their architecture. And, increasingly, the wide mix of colours available are being associated with different property types, e.g., heritage colours which are designed to appeal to owners of period properties, often in soft shades of grey, green, blue, etc. None the less a more modern contrast can also work well say against a painted white or ivory stone wall or red brick, often seen with traditional, older properties. Conversely, heritage colours can also look good with contemporary properties.

So, whether a property is labelled old or modern, you can choose from conventional colours, neutrals or add a pop of colour to suit the theme of your home and the surrounding area.

The effect can still be bold, blend in, and yet still feel cohesive.

Co-ordinate Colour And Finish

Adding the right finish to the surface can provide further interest. Why not have fun blending style, colour, and finish. These can include a high-quality powder or foil coated look, textured finishes and timber, or woodgrain effects even down to the type of wood colouring such as Golden Oak, Rosewood or Nutwood, depending on door type. Natural timber doors are also available, with stain options.

Balance Colour With Exterior Features

Another great tip is to consider the landscaping.

Gardens and the surrounding area can offer a convenient vista which can blend beautifully against the backdrop of your home with your garage door an essential ingredient in this.

Natural colours, like Dark Brown and Chartwell Green, for example, would combine seamlessly with a home surrounded by trees or a cottage garden. Standard colours such as black and white are also often used in contemporary settings. Whilst the vivid colours of plants look stunning against light neutral or pastel tones.

Should I Colour Match With My Front Door?

Though its often the case that surveyors and fitters are asked to match them up. As a general guideline, it all depends on the frontage, size of the property and colourways already in place. If your front door, has a strong, vibrant colour, opting for a subtle colour, such as white or light grey might be the best way to go.

Garage Door Colours v Structure

When matching colours to features such as frame, cladding, or trim, there are no hard and fast rules to follow. Sometimes, it’s a good idea to use a colour palette rather than colour matching to create a consistent overall look to your home. This is a useful tip as there can be tonal inconsistencies between house paint colours, metal based colours, and powder coating. However, to stand out from the crowd contrasting colours can also make essential building features jump out.

Making the right decision can have a transformative effect on your home. Should you be thinking about selling your property or are simply inspired to increase your garage door impact as a decorative element (on its own or as part of a larger improvement project), at Eastern Garage Doors, we have 30+ colours to choose from, together with additional tonal possibilities, all supported by the RAL colour system.

Bespoke options that increase the likelihood of an exact match to the shade you want, are also available depending on the manufacturer. 

One last tip! When you book a visit always ask a surveyor to bring some samples.  You’ll be amazed at the colour options open to you.

Here is just a small selection:

Depicted colours are white, grey, yellow, quartz grey, anthracite grey, steel blue, fir green, flame red, oak and golden oak.

A Guide To Choosing Garage Door Colours

Although a straightforward question, knowing how much a garage door costs depends on size, finish, style, level of security and insulation, to name just some factors. Eastern Garage Doors looks at a variety of considerations and the impact they have on what you might pay. 

Size 

Whether a single car width or a double, i.e., can 2 cars fit in side by side, different weights and types of material contribute widely to cost. Double doors especially with heavier mechanisms to counterbalance the load when opening and closing illustrate this. An average single garage door size is 7’ x 7’, whilst double garage door sizes average 14’ x 7’.

Aesthetics 

In terms of the finish, you might have a particular colour and texture in mind. Perhaps, you want it to match your front door or windows. Panel designs vary enormously from Georgian styles to traditional and modern. An abundance of colour choices is also available usually manufactured in RAL palette colours and wood effect finishes that match most needs. If you want a colour other than white, you may have to pay a bit more, though this isn’t always the case with some manufacturers.

What level of security do you need?

Is your garage integral to your house? Do you keep valuable equipment or belongings inside? There are many security features that can help deter thieves, from doors that close and lock automatically, to the durability of panel structure and design, to different grades of locking mechanisms.

Does it need to be insulated?

These days heat loss is a major consideration especially with increasing heating bills and the care of the environment. If the garage space is used as a multi-functional room, such as a gym, home office, studio, utility room, storeroom it would be well worth considering an insulated sealed garage door. Materials, manufactured design, and door thickness all impact insulation levels. For the best protection you need to be asking:

• What is it made of?
• Is it double skinned?
• Does it have thermal breaks?
• And, how good are the seals?

Will you want it rodent proof?

Especially if you keep foodstuffs in the garage you may want to restrict unwanted pests! You may consider a seal to seamlessly fill the gap between the bottom of the door and the ground.

Manual or automatic?

With the modern age of automation, most garage owners choose to go automatic. When looking to replace, it is important to select a renowned electronic system for reliability and hassle-free daily usage. This is because, the highest quality operators provide more safety features and less-stress on high-traffic garage entrances, lasting up to 30 years or more. While, on manual doors, spring balance mechanisms can vary in quality with the best value doors providing multiple anti-drop devices for added protection to stop the door crashing down.

Moreover, let’s delve a little deeper in to electric garage doors. Simply stated, an electric operator, a key component of automation, affects what you might pay? Quality is paramount, as it will affect your user experience. The style of garage door, type, size, weight, and purpose influences what model you might need. Various factors can be impacted such as:

• The pull and push force on the door
• Opening speed
• Low power consumption
• Outage support
• Connectivity
• Type of operation and programming

Any installer worth their salt will advise on the best option to deliver optimum, trouble-free performance. Bear in mind also that existing garage doors can be retrofitted with operating mechanisms.

Renovation 

Does anything else need doing? If the structural integrity in and around your garage door is affected, additional work may be required to the surrounding frame, broken floor, fascias, or soffit boards?

Space

Do you need additional space? Are you struggling to get your car inside your garage? It’s interesting how many cars just keep getting bigger every time a new model is launched. Some options for creating space include fitting the garage door behind the pillars or closer towards the front of the exterior building facade, fitting a roller door to the exterior, extending framework outwards from the brickwork, or converting two smaller garage entrances into one.

Installation

Do you want a company to fit the door for you and take away your old door? Or do you want to install it yourself? There could be delivery charges if you choose to fit it and there is an onus on you to get the sizes correct. Additionally, some manufactures recommend that their doors are installed by trained technicians.

Reliability

Tried and tested quality products do what they are supposed to do every day of the year, and whatever the weather, providing they are maintained. Always check out review sites such as Checkatrade and Trust Pilot to separate the unfailing from the unreliable.

The Design

Designs vary in the complexity of manufacture, meaning some are simpler to fit than others. Bespoke options which are made-to-measure to specific sizes, design, finish, colour, and functionality, can also impact cost. Take the operating motor unit, for example, on an automatic garage door. If energy saving is important to you, then greener options are synonymous with high-end operators which feature extremely low power consumption with fast opening. Some can also be powered via an optional solar module.

Here are the main designs commonly used in the UK and the main reasons for purchasing them:

• Sectional garage doors open vertically upwards and are suspended under the ceiling, they provide maximum space inside and in front of the garage. They can be fitted in most garage door openings, insulated and sealed, and offer more passage width and height than up-and-over doors
• Roller garage doors open vertically and require minimum space inside the garage. They provide maximum space inside and in front of the garage. The garage ceiling also remains free and can be used for lighting or as an additional storage space
• The side hinged garage door is often chosen when renovating older, smaller garages. The entire garage interior can be used as the door opens outwards. The division of the door leaves and the position of the fixed and traffic leaf can be designed individually according to individual requirements.
• Made from one solid piece of material, usually steel, wood, or GRP, up and over garage doors have been the default design for many years and the lowest cost option.

Some Approximate Figures

The information below looks at these common types of garage doors and the price range you would expect to have to pay – depending on sizes, design, colour/finish, insulation/single skin and operation. Costs are supplied and fitted based on Eastern Garage Doors’ experience over four decades of researching, supplying, and installing the most reliable makes on the market:

So, as you can see there is no one size fits all! There is a lot more to investigating what you might need to pay for a garage door and the lifetime value it offers particularly when quality aspects are taken into account. The choices are not always that simple, which is why experts in the field normally like to discuss your requirement first before committing to a price.

In addition, there is a difference between price and value, i.e., value for money – Cheaper products don’t always have the same warranties and are more prone to failure, so cheap isn’t always the best and the best isn’t always cheap! Its fair to say that the lifespan difference of a high-quality well-maintained garage door over a low-cost budget option can be as much as thirty-five years.

Starting out you may search for the cheapest garage door, find a few prices then be unsure, may have a few questions and feel the need for some guidance.

See some examples of guideline prices here.

If you would like some advice, contact one of our experts. They have the technical and product knowledge to help you make the right choices. You can rest assured we can give the best value for your investment with a reliable solution from a wealth of experience backed by very good customer feedback seen in our many reviews.

How much is a garage door?

It may seem simplistic to ask, ‘What kind of garage door do I have?’ But delve into the detail and the differences become much more definite. With 20 plus styles, different sizes, and 50 plus materials, across generally 5 types, understanding the choices you need to make before you buy is essential. Ask yourself: Is cost or quality your most important consideration? Or is quality the best way to reduce cost?  In other words, will a cheaper garage door provide false economy, or will paying more deliver greater peace of mind? The decisions you make about the type and style of door can affect this. We can advise!

Save money but at what price?

It’s important to consider both function and form when choosing a garage door. Not only what the purpose of the garage is but also how secure and safe it needs to be. Product lifespan is also important along with structural integrity post installation. And yes, there are bargains to be had, but this won’t necessarily be your lowest quote.

Here are some pointers:

Consider what you are going to use your garage for. If it is to store high value items, then a design tested garage door with a specified security certificate may be more important than one which is untested or lacking intruder alarms.

Also, material choices can have a considerable effect on longevity. For example, a heavy-duty galvanised steel door barrel will last longer than a lightweight steel or plastic door barrel and will come with a 10-year warranty instead of 1 year and won’t need replacing earlier than expected. Take our roller doors for instance, there are a lot of options on the market with some designed to last up to 30 years.

Furthermore, look for a supplier who guarantees maintenance and includes yearly checks and repairs, along with multi-year manufacturer’s warranties. We at Eastern Garage Doors provide these because we believe in delivering the best value for money as a measure of quality, without which assurances of reliability and product lifespan can fall apart.

Beware the cheap quote – Take for example, a single skin roller garage door, the most affordable of its kind, it can cost on average between £850 and £2000 depending on size and whether it’s remote control or hand operated. For a double skinned, foam insulated, aluminium option you’d need to pay more, between £1150 and £2300. This is reasonably what you’d expect, so avoid cheaper options as the chances are you won’t receive the highest standard of fitting and future issues often arise.

Faulty garage doors and the miss-selling of warranties have previously been highlighted on the BBCs Rogue Trader programme.

Our advice would also be to use Checkatrade and other review sites to highlight top performers when researching suppliers. You will see many where consistent professional engineering and technical know-how wins over low skilled labour and questionable quality.

Every garage door is safe. Isn’t it?    

Safety is a key concern for many garage door buyers. The mantra needs to be one of lowest risk. Cheap garage doors are often not CE marked, not safety tested and don’t meet the standards required by law. Moreover, look for built-in safety systems as standard and ask about what additional safety features are available to help mitigate risk, such as manual overrides on motorised units, anti-drop safety brakes, precision tracking and spring safety systems.

How many different types of garage door are there?

There are commonly five different types of garage door to consider. Although each one can be tailor-made to individualise the design and function according to lifestyle tastes.

Up and Over

Common amongst homeowners there are two types of up and over garage door:

• Canopy gear – Made of one solid panel, with a pivoting mechanism that tilts the door to sit parallel and above the garage when open and forming a canopy of about ½ of the door when open
• Retractable gear – Similarly, the up and over retractable gear lifts the garage door up to comfortably sit inside the garage roof fully retracting all of the door on tracks

Roller

Roller garage doors fit perfectly in garages that have plenty of ceiling space and provide a smooth vertical opening to maximise space. They can be operated manually or automatically and provide reasonable security. Safety features such as manual override can be added to motorised options.

Slide to the Side

Commonly used as a space saver where there is very little headroom, or in larger garages, ‘Slide to the side’ or ‘Round the corner’ garage doors open, as the name suggests, by sliding along a side wall, either partially or to its full opening capacity.

Side-Hinged

Also known as barn doors, side-hinged garage doors are designed with conventional hinges in the same style as a front door.  Available non insulated and insulated with draft sealing. They are useful for garage conversions into storage space or multipurpose rooms and can be configured with a central or asymmetric split. Manual and automatic options are available and polycarbonate or laminated safety glass windows can be added.

Sectional

Sectional garage doors are made from insulated panels which are sealed to stop heat escaping, useful for garage conversions into an additional room such as a gym or small office. Like roller garage doors they use a rolling mechanism to open and close, vertically at the click of a button – beneficial for short driveways where cars are parked close-up to the garage opening. Automatic remote control also means there is no external handle. These doors are very reliable and provide excellent security, with certified security features to make them extremely burglar-resistant.

Sizes

Knowing the sizes of single and double garage doors along with the size of the floor area will help you make a measured choice. For some UK average sizes look at our handy guide. To ensure you have the right garage door for the size of garage we can talk you through your measurements.

What is my garage door made of?

Material choices for garage doors play a big role in the aesthetic appeal of your home along with the colour, pattern, framing and furniture. We provide all our garage doors made from low maintenance materials, including steel, aluminium, timber, uPVC, and GRP.

Our experienced team will work with you to select everything from the brand to the right gear options, colour, size and special features. We will then fit your garage doors for you, as approved technicians, and we offer annual servicing and maintenance to keep them operating at their best as well.

What kind of garage door do I have?

One of the best ways to keep your home secure is through the use of high quality garage door security. Securing your garage door involves several factors: from choosing the right kind of door to installing motion sensors and alarms. Therefore, here are five ways you can upgrade your security in order to keep thieves from gaining access.

Choose a Secure Garage Door

The first factor you should consider when improving your garage door security is the garage door itself. Is it made from a material that is strong and resilient, like steel or insulated aluminium? You should also check the quality of your locks. If feasible, a remote-controlled locking system may give you a higher level of security than before. By securing your garage door you are removing one of the most obvious points of entry for any would-be thieves.

Add Motion Sensor Lighting

To further increase your garage door security you should consider setting up motion sensor lights outside your home. Once the motion sensor detects movement the system will flood the area with light. This should deter potential thieves by removing their cover of darkness. Infrared sensors are the most common form of motion detector, but there are others such as photoelectric and microwave. Explore your options and choose the one that best suits your home.

Install An Alarm

Should motion sensor lighting fail to deter thieves, then having an effective alarm system in place is the next step in garage door security. Your alarm system should cover every entry point in the home, including the garage door. The most viable alarm systems are those that allow you to monitor your property and send alerts to your mobile devices should an incident arise.

Use Garage Shield

To further strengthen your garage door security installing a garage shield is highly recommended. Many thieves can enter through your garage door by simply wedging the top panel open and using a tool such as a coat hanger to pull the emergency release cord within. A garage shield is a small device made from recycled plastic that encloses the garage’s opening mechanism, preventing thieves from reaching the release cord.

Secure Your Front Door

While focusing on garage door security is important, do not forget to check the security of your front door as well. Just as with the garage door, check the strength and resilience of your front door as well as how effective the locking mechanism is. You may be able to upgrade both front and garage doors at the same time, with designs that complement each other in both looks and overall security.

How Eastern Garage Doors Can Help

At Eastern Garage Doors we offer a wide selection of secure and bespoke garage doors to clients throughout the local area. Whether you are looking for a new garage door that will upgrade the security of your home or a selection of external front doors we can provide exactly what you need for your home. To find out more or ask for a free no-obligation quote contact us online or via phone today.

5 Tips to Keep Your Garage Door Secure and Thieves Out

With spring fast approaching, now is the perfect time to embark on some routine maintenance of your wooden garage doors. Garage door maintenance is often neglected but spending some time in early spring inspecting and repairing where necessary will keep your door functioning well for years to come. Here are some tips on proper garage door maintenance for the coming season.

Observe Your Door in Motion

Take some time to observe your wooden garage doors opening and closing. Do they open smoothly or is there a jerkiness to their motion? Are they quiet or do you hear scraping noises as they move? If your doors are not opening smoothly and quietly then check the system, including springs, cables and pulleys, to make sure that they are all clean and symmetrical.

Clean and Clear the Tracks

In order to easily open your garage door, the tracks need to be clean and free of any blockages such as debris. Use a level to determine if the tracks are perfectly even. Any bends or damage can put stress on your doors, so either call in a professional to fix it or consider purchasing a replacement.

Check For Loose Hardware

There are many moving parts that make up the opening mechanism for your wooden garage doors. Over time these parts can loosen, which poses a risk to how well your doors operate. Using screwdrivers and an adjustable wrench, make sure to tighten any loose screws and bolts holding your brackets and fasteners in place.

Inspect the Rollers

Over time your garage door rollers will become chipped or loose, making your doors harder to open. Replace any damaged rollers you find by removing them from the brackets and inserting a new one. Keep in mind that you should not remove the bottom rollers as these are attached to the garage lift cables. If you need to replace these, always call a professional.

Check Pulleys and Cables

Your lift cables and pulleys help lift the wooden garage doors, and if these become damaged the doors will be harder to open. Inspect the cables attached to the bottom roller brackets as well as any cables or springs in the pulley system overhead. If any loose parts or fraying is detected, do not try to fix it yourself, but call in a professional instead.

Clean and Lubricate Moving Parts

Use a lubricant spray such as lithium grease on rollers, brackets and tracks and other moving parts. This will help reduce stress and improve their lifespan. If any parts become stiff and hard to move, apply a penetrating solution like WD-40 to loosen them.

Test Garage Door Balance

If your wooden garage doors are off-balance then they will force your opener to work harder, leading to possible early failure. To test the balance, disconnect the door from the opener via the safety cord and manually lift it to halfway. If you let go and the door remains in place then it is well balanced. If it slides up or down you will need to contact a professional to rebalance it.

Test Auto Reverse Features

All modern garage doors have a safety feature that stops them from closing when an object is detected. Test the pressure sensor by placing an object such as a board under the door as it closes. If the door does not reverse when it touches the board then consult a professional. Afterwards, test the door’s photoelectric sensors by waving a broom handle in front of them. If this movement does not trigger a reversal, check there is nothing blocking the cameras. If the problem persists, call a professional.

Check the Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is necessary for keeping your garage doors insulated throughout the year. Check the bottom and sides of the doors to see if the stripping is clean and in good condition. If it has become worn down, replace it by removing any nails to disconnect the old weatherstripping and put in a new one. You can purchase weatherstripping from any hardware store.

Repaint Your Wooden Garage Doors

Once you have checked that your door is functioning perfectly, check the condition of the door itself. Check for any warping or water damage as well as chipped or peeling paint. If you find any remove the paint, sand the door and repaint it.

Eastern Garage Doors

At Eastern Garage Doors we have a range of products and services that will provide you with the perfect garage door for your home. To find out more about our bespoke wooden garage doors visit us online or contact our friendly team via phone today.

A Guide to Garage Door Maintenance in The Spring

It is common for many places to have a garage that houses cars, tools or otherwise acts as a storage area. But your garage can be used for much more than just storing away unused items. You could convert your garage into an office space for working from home. Or use the space to create a garage gym for working out at home. There are many different options for garage space utilisation to consider if you want to make the most of your space. Therefore, here are some lockdown garage conversion ideas to turn your garage into an office, gym, garden room or anything you like.

Turning Your Garage Into An Office

The first thing to consider when turning your garage into an office is how suitable it is as a living space. If your garage is bare concrete then the right flooring, walls and insulation should be checked out as well as windows for ventilation. Consider the style and aesthetics you want for your office and furnish it accordingly with suitable furniture and décor. Remember to supplement natural light from the windows with adequate artificial light. Consider investing in an insulated garage door to make sure you save on heating costs, protect the content and also have the opportunity to convert back into a garage if and when the time is right.

Making A Garage Gym At Home

Having a garage gym will allow you to work out at home at any time without costly gym memberships. Once you have cleaned out your garage space you can start the process by putting in flooring such as gym cushions. Next, bring in the workout equipment you need: dumbbells, benches, rowing machines and so on. Make sure the gym and entrance provide both good ventilation, privacy and security access. Side hinged or sectional garage doors are some recommended varieties. Finally, bring in any entertainment equipment such as TV or music players to complete your home gym experience.

Other Garage Space Utilisation Ideas

Here are some other lockdown garage conversion ideas for your home:

• Turn it into a well-lit and spacious study area.
• Create a calm and well-stocked working studio for creative projects.
• Make a playroom for children with plenty of space for toys.
• Turn it into an entertainment and media room with TV and sofa setup.
• Convert it into an annex for any visitors or guests.
• Create an extra living room for other members of your family.
• Transform it into a spacious modern kitchen area.
• Create a utility room or laundry area.
• Create a garden room for your plants, or perhaps combine it into a garden bar area.

Using Eastern Garage Doors For Lockdown Garage Conversions

At Eastern Garage Doors we provide top quality service on alterations and conversions of garages and doors so you can make the most use of your space. We also provide insulation, flooring and furniture supplies to create the space you need. To find out more visit our garage conversion page. At Eastern Garage Doors we provide a wide range of services for garages, carports, front doors and more. To speak with our friendly and professional team contact us online for a free online survey and no obligation quote today.

Ideas For Converting Your Garage Into an Office or Gym

Unfortunately, Christmas is a time of increased break-ins as thieves go looking for presents to steal. Although most people take the correct precautions to protect their front and back doors, garages are sometimes overlooked and present an easy way in. We’ve put together some of the steps you can take to keep your garage – and by extension, your home – safe and secure over Christmas.

Keep the remote hidden

If you have an electric door, keep the remote in a safe place. These doors are becoming more and more common in the UK, and it’s tempting to keep the remote in your car for convenience. However, this makes it easier for thieves steal it and gain access to your garage. It’s best to get into the habit of bringing your garage door opener into the house with you, then keeping it somewhere safe inside. If you absolutely have to leave it in your car, keep it in the glove box so it’s harder for thieves to access.

Cover up any windows

If there are windows that look into your garage, cover them up to avoid any potential thieves from getting a look at what’s stored inside. Garages with uncovered windows are more likely to be broken in to, and the risk is even greater if you have tools and other valuables kept in there.

Keep it shut

This might sound like the most obvious advice, but it’s pretty normal for people to leave their garage door open for long periods of time while they’re at home. Although you might be okay leaving it open and going back and forth from the garden while working on a DIY project, you never know who could be taking notice of the expensive tools and equipment that you keep in the garage. Keeping the door shut if you’re going to be round in the garden for a while is your best bet for extra security.

Keep the entry door locked

If your garage is attached to your house, the door between the two should be just as secure as your front and back doors. If any intruders do somehow make their way into your garage, you want to stop them from getting any further into your home with a securely locked door.

Use a secure door from Eastern Garage Doors

One of the most important factors in keeping your garage safe is a sturdy, secure garage door. You can find plenty of different doors in our range that includes options such as sectional, roller, remote-controlled and many more.

Every single one of these doors is secure as standard, but they can be tailored to your needs for further security, for example with the addition of automation.

Why not improve your home security as part of your garage winter maintenance? Get in touch with us today for a free garage door quote.

How to keep your garage safe and secure this Christmas

How do you know when it’s a good time to purchase a new garage door? Not only are garage doors meant to protect your vehicle and other valuables from the elements, but they represent a very real asset in terms of security. While most doors are built to last, the fact of the matter is that garage door servicing will be required from time to time. So, how can you tell if a garage door repair will be sufficient as opposed to when an entirely new unit is the most logical option. Let us take a quick look at a handful of variables to address so that you can make the right decision.

When Garage Door Repairs are Sufficient

Minor issues can normally be addressed through a targeted DIY garage door repair. Some of these include:

• Issues with caulking
• Chipping or peeling paint
• Small patches of rotting wood
• Machinery that needs to be oiled

All of these situations can be tackled within a relatively short period of time and little to no prior experience is required. However, there are other times when a simple face-lift is hardly sufficient.

Signs that a Garage Door Needs to be Replaced

What might signal that you require a professional garage door repair? One of the most common issues involves wood that has rotted through all of the panels. As this cannot normally be treated with superficial techniques, a garage door replacement may be the best option.

Another situation to keep an eye out for involves profound mechanical problems. For example, the motors designed to lift and close the door can burn out or otherwise become too weak to supply the appropriate level of power. It is often much more economical to purchase a new garage door as opposed to replacing the entire motor as well as the armature.

You might also be looking to increase the levels of security associated with your existing garage door. In this case, it is often wise to upgrade to a sturdier model. The same holds true if you garage becomes extremely cold during the winter months. Insulated variants will provide you with a host of thermal benefits and as a result, you are likely to save a significant amount of money in terms of heating costs.

To Repair or Replace…That is the Question

We should finally note that obtaining a garage door repair from a professional represents an excellent return on investment. Not only will this newer model last for years at a time, but it can also increase the value of your property. Let’s also not fail to mention that you may also be able to upcycle garage doors; ideal when re-purposing their materials to create objects such as tables and outdoor chairs.

It can still be rather tricky to know whether or not a replacement is warranted. This is why customers choose to speak with an expert at Eastern Garage Doors. We will be pleased to give you an honest evaluation and to point you in the right direction.

Replace or Repair?

To some, a car is one of the most valuable and important assets that you will ever own. Thanks to modern technology, we can expect the average vehicle to last a decade or longer if it is cared for properly. While car maintenance tips, such as being sure to change the oil on a regular basis and replacing spark plugs are known by the majority of drivers, not all pay attention to the threats posed by rust.

In order to better appreciate the options at your disposal, it is first a good idea to look at some serious issues related to this type of oxidation. We will then examine some valuable car enthusiast tips that will help to keep your vehicle in top working order.

What are the Dangers of Rust?

One of the main issues with rust involves its rather insidious nature. In other words, its presence is normally only discovered once the damage has already been done. Rust is commonly seen around wheel rims, door handles and where two side panels meet. However, it is also found on the undercarriage of a vehicle. If not addressed, rust can cause certain parts (such as the exhaust) to become detached and in severe cases, it may even eat directly through the floor itself. This is why an ounce of prevention will go a long way. What are a handful of classic car maintenance methods that can help to stop rust in its tracks?

Car Enthusiast Tips to Properly Deal with Rust

Proactive maintenance is arguably one of the most important points. It is much easier to deal with small areas of rust before they evolve into more profound and costly issues, this is why it is best to keep your vehicle inside of a secure garage to avoid the outdoor elements. Still, be sure to check the undercarriage on a monthly basis; even more frequently during the winter, as road salt can increase the rate of corrosion.

Frequent cleaning – Another professional suggestion involves how frequently the car should be washed. Most experts agree that it should be fully scrubbed down every few weeks with soap and water in order to remove any chemicals that might lead to corrosion over time. You can even choose to mix a bit of baking soda into the detergent, as this can help to neutralise any acids that may be present.

An insulated garage door – One measure that doesn’t always get adequate recognition is ensuring your garage door is insulated and draught sealed. Taking this extra step to secure your garage will make all the difference to the preservation of your prized-possession.

Engine care – Car enthusiast tips will likewise involve steps to take in regards to the engine. Let’s never forget that rust around belts and hoses can easily cause a mechanical failure and subsequent repairs. Check to ensure that no oxidation is present. Should some be found, use the appropriate cleaning solution or employ a wire brush to remove it from the surface. Be sure to check in and around the engine on a regular basis.

While there is no doubt that keeping your car within a secure garage will help to prevent rust, we need to recognise the one of the most powerful car enthusiast tips involves adopting a proactive approach.