If you think that an intruder can only gain access through a window or back door, think again.
While doors and windows are critical security areas to focus on, homeowners tend to overlook one of the biggest sections of the house: their garage. Without adequate security, burglars could find an opening in your garage door to breach, which leaves your family and your belongings vulnerable to looting and other perils.
Keeping this in mind, we have come up with key intelligent security tips you can use to deter intruders through your garage door.
Upgrade to a Smart Garage Door Opener
Smart garage doors replace old opening mechanisms with smarter versions that interface with your Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and phone apps for greater control. You can schedule them, get notified if you left your garage door open, and even open or close the door remotely — usually for less than $100. These systems also enable you to schedule timers for automatic door shutdown (e.g., after 30 minutes).
Some smart garage openers may also be interconnected with home security or voice assistants. Just always make sure it’s compatible with your current garage door before you select one.
Use a Smart Door Lock
Interior entry doors or garage side doors are a favorite target for burglars because they are not often locked. Above all, these doors don’t have stronger locks and deadbolts, so it’s easy to kick them in, which is one of the most popular burglary options.
Turn this flaw into a security strength by equipping garage doors with a smart lock that you can monitor and lock remotely, and set locking schedules or pass keys.
Invest in Motion-Activated Security Lighting:
Installing motion-activated security lighting is another way to add an extra layer of security to your garage doors.
A well-lit area is less appealing to malicious actors who prefer to work in the dark. When combined with motion sensors, these lights can startle an intruder and draw unwanted attention to their presence. Some smart security systems can even integrate the lights, turning them on and off with the door’s operation or as part of a larger security routine.
Lock Garage Windows (And Maybe Some Shades)
If your garage door is fitted with windows, especially larger side windows, they may be an entry point for intruders to burgle. We suggest you keep them locked. You can open them when using the garage in hot weather, but under other circumstances, keep the window locked. In fact, simple measures like covering the windows with curtains, blinds, or even a translucent film can help.
Block Your Emergency Release
You can use all of these high-tech gizmos, but sometimes even that is not sufficient. This is because a clever intruder will always look for one loophole or another. Maybe they are looking for an emergency release device if nothing works.
All newer garage doors have an emergency release device that can be accessed through the use of a coat hanger or some jury-rigged device. You can thwart this tactic by threading a zip tie or some other type of thread through a hole in the system, which stops someone from being able to completely engage it.
Always Choose Professional Installers
The best equipment isn’t going to protect your home if it’s installed badly.
This is why garage door installation is best left to professionals. Experts in garage door security will guarantee that the system is protected, that the lock fits as it should, and that all electronic features are running smoothly.
A garage door that is poorly installed can have loopholes or weak spots that make it easier for intruders to get in.
Experts can also provide garage door security tips based on your home. For instance, they might recommend strengthening the door frame, improving the opener system, or installing motion-activated lighting around the garage.
Choose Better Materials for a Safer Garage Door
What your garage door is made of makes a big difference in safety.
Wooden or flimsy aluminum doors may be attractive, but they can also be more easily damaged. Steel Garage doors have become increasingly popular as they are strong and tough to penetrate.
To further safeguard against break-ins, using reinforced steel plates and tamper-resistant hinges makes it more difficult for intruders to force the door open.
Embrace Security Practices
Lastly, human error is one of the biggest contributors to security breaches. Enforcing good garage door safety tips is essential. As a rule of thumb, after coming and going, make sure to close your garage door immediately. Always keep your remote out of the car if it’s parked outside, as this is an easy way for a thief to break in. Check your door often for wear and tear, and arrange regular maintenance with a professional garage door security company to keep all parts, both physical and digital, in top operating shape.
Final Thoughts
By installing these security features and practicing proactive habits, you can reinforce the security of your garage doors, which will eventually keep your family and belongings protected. Your garage door is more than just a point of entry for vehicles and people: it’s also a crucial aspect of your home’s defensive system.
When you invest in dependable, high-tech garage door security, it’s not just protection that you receive—it’s peace of mind knowing that one of your home’s vulnerable links is thoroughly protected.
If you want to know if your garage doors are secure, get in touch with us at City Garage Door. We guide you to the right options with personalized consultation.
Although a garage door is considered one of the most accessed areas in a home, it’s also perhaps the most overlooked part when it comes to maintenance.
Routine lubrication is one of the easiest and most cost-effective steps to maintain your garage door. It keeps it in top shape and increases its life and overall security. And whether you have steel doors, roller garage doors, or even sectional garage doors, knowing how to lubricate them properly can make all the difference.
Why Lubrication is an Important Part of Your Garage Door Functionality and Safety
Your garage door is composed of several moving parts. They work in sync every time you use your garage door. Parts like pins, springs, and tracks take a lot of beating. When they’re not properly lubricated, these parts can wear out and need replacement.
It also impacts the functioning of the opener, leads to loud noises, and ultimately breaks down. In addition to inconveniences, poorly kept doors can be dangerous by causing accidents due to mechanical failures.
Lubrication is important for a garage door for many reasons. Firstly, it lowers the friction between all the moving parts, such as the springs, hinges, and rollers. This prevents premature wear and tear. It is a simple maintenance step that can help increase the life of your garage door.
Choosing the Right Lubricant
One of the most common mistakes made by homeowners is using household oil or grease to lubricate their garage door. This is because they typically gather dust and dirt that create a sticky residue. You may see petroleum-based lubricants such as motor oil or WD-40 at the store. But they are not the ideal choice for garage doors. They can collect dust and dirt, which, in time, can gum up the tracks. And they don’t stay in place as much, so you might need to reapply them more frequently.
If you’re interested in keeping your garage door operating quietly and safely long term, choose the right lubricant.
Reach out for a dedicated product available as a silicone or lithium-based lubricant. They are made for the lubrication of garage doors.
They can reduce friction. Best part? These lubricants do not leave residue that interferes with performance.
Lubrication for Various Kinds of Garage Doors
Steel Garage Doors
These doors can be rust-prone and can become stiff if not lubricated. Focus most on the hinges, springs, and where the door panels join while lubricating them. This allows the door to move up and down with a degree of ease while ensuring that the material remains strong enough to support.
Roller Garage Doors
Over time, rollers can make noise from rubbing against the tracks and generate wear. Lubricate them so they can remain quiet, and it keeps your garage door safe.
Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional garage doors have hinges between each panel. Their sleeves require regular lubrication to prevent them from being too stiff to move.
How to Lubricate Your Garage Door
There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent damage and loud noises from your garage door.
First, for safety, close the door and unplug the power to your smart garage door opener.
Next, use a dry cloth to wipe away dirt and old grease from the tracks.
Once the tracks are wiped clean, apply a small amount of lubricant spray to the hinges, rollers, and springs.
Open and close the door a couple of times to ensure that the lubricant has been evenly distributed.
It’s a simple thing to make your garage doors safer and perform better. By minimizing friction, you reduce wear and tear, prolonging your door’s life and saving money on costly repairs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Although lubricating your garage door is easy, some common mistakes may eliminate its benefits.
Do not lubricate the tracks, as this may cause the door to slip or slide unevenly. Instead, concentrate on the rollers which move along the tracks.
Another error is using excessive lubricant. Lubricant that is not needed will eventually get on the floor and cause a mess, and bring dirt with it. A thin, even coat is enough to safeguard your garage door safety.
Skipping maintenance altogether is another common issue. Homeowners often wait until their door starts squeaking or sticking before reaching for a lubricant. By then, some damage may already be done. Preventive care is always more effective and cost-efficient.
How Often Should You Lubricate?
It is enough to lubricate your garage door twice a year— at the onset of spring and fall. Still, if you hear squeaky hinges or the door sticking and not moving as smoothly, lube it a little more often. Steel garage doors may need more frequent maintenance in cold or wet climates.
Routine lubrication is just one part of regular garage door care.
When to Call a Professional
Sure. Lubrication is a simple task to be done by any homeowner. However, there are situations when it makes sense to approach a garage door expert.
If your door is still acting up or you discover damaged springs, it is better to have it handled by a professional. When it comes to the security of your garage door, professional services will not only make repairs but will also be aware of issues that you may not see at first glance.
Final Thoughts
So you must have understood the importance of lubricating your garage door as well as how to do it yourself. Whether you have steel garage doors, roller garage doors, or sectional garage doors, lubrication helps to run everything quietly and safely.
All you need to choose the right lubricant and know which parts are to be treated. However, it is also important to keep in mind when to call a professional.
If you find that there is no improvement in your door or it is impacted by any problem, make sure to call a garage door expert like us at City Garage Door. We are dedicated to ensuring the garage door is reliable and safe. Count on us for complete garage door services.
While installing or upgrading to a new garage door, one of the key things to consider is the size. Garage doors are available in various sizes. There is a range of standard sizes to fit different vehicles, storage requirements, and home designs.
Therefore, it is important to know the standard garage door sizes so that you can choose the right one without facing issues during installation.
In this post, we will understand the most common garage door dimensions, walking through the differences between single and double garage door sizes, and learn how to measure properly.
Why Garage Door Sizes Matter
A garage door is not just for your car. Rather, it is an entry point to your home. It enhances your curb appeal. A door should match your garage door opening size. Otherwise, you can encounter problems with installation, insulation, and routine use.
Choosing the right size ensures:
Enough clearance for vehicles
Smooth operation of the door
Proper sealing against weather and pests
Long-lasting performance with minimal repairs
Typical Garage Door Measurements
Although custom sizes are available, the manufacturers tend to make typical garage door measurements that will fit ‘most’ homes. These sizes are based on decades of construction standards and vehicle sizes.
Here are ranges for some of the most common sizes for residential garage doors:
Width: 8 feet to 18 feet
Height: 7 feet to 8 feet
Custom options are usually anything larger or smaller.
Single Garage Door Dimensions
This type is suitable for a single vehicle. It’s the most popular option for older houses and compact garages.
A standard single garage door has the following sizes:
Width: 8 feet to 10 feet
Height: 7 feet to 8 feet
8 feet x 7 feet – Found in older homes or for small cars
9 feet x 7 feet – Common size for today’s standard automobile and SUV
10feet x 7feet — Provides extra space for larger vehicles such as trucks.
If you have a big SUV or pickup, opt for a 9- or 10-foot wide door for more comfortable parking.
Double Garage Door Dimensions
The two-car garage has a double garage door. It accommodates two cars through a single large opening instead of the twin smaller ones.
Here is the standard double garage door size:
Width: 16 feet to 18 feet
Height: 7 feet to 8 feet
16 feet x 7 feet – The most common choice for two-car garages
18 feet x 8 feet – Offers extra width and height for oversized vehicles or storage space
Other homeowners may choose not to have a single double door but two total single doors. This allows a little more freedom of design and means that one side of the garage is usable even if the other side experiences a problem and needs repairing.
Garage Door Height and Width
Garage doors are typically 7 feet or 8 feet tall. Garage door heights and widths depend on the size of the garage, measurements for the overhead door, as well as your vehicle size and clearance availability.
7 feet tall: The most typical height, fits well for all cars except very large SUVs
8 Foot High: Typically for the taller vehicles, including trucks, or if you use roof racks.
For width, 8-10 feet works for single doors and 16-18 feet for double doors — wide enough to fit any SUV.
Average Garage Door Size
Generally speaking, in terms of average garage door size, what they mean is:
Door 1: 9 feet 0 x 7 feet 0 Single Door
Double Door: 16feet W X 7 feet H
This encompasses the majority of more contemporary homes (those built in the last 20 years).
Oversized and Custom Garage Doors
Home — not every home or vehicle is a standard size. Not all garages need large doors.
Garage doors for RVs: typically 10–12 feet wide as well as 12–14 feet tall
Commercial Garages: Over 20 feet wide, and over 14 feet high
Custom designs: Could be created for specific architectural styles or unusual cars
Check out a garage door size chart to find the right fit for you if you are uncertain.
Measuring a Garage Door
Make sure to have accurate garage door measurements in place before ordering. Here’s how you can take the measurement.
Width: Measure from side to side across the opening.
Height: Measure from the bottom of the opening to the top of the opening.
Headroom: From the ceiling above the opening.
Backroom: Take depth of garage (needed for tracks)
Sideroom: The measurement space for both sides of the opening
Tip: Consider multiple spots for measurements, as walls and floors are not exactly a perfect square.
Factors That Influence Garage Door Size
When choosing a door, consider:
What kind of vehicle do you have? Do you have a truck, SUV, or small car?
Are you looking to buy a larger car or RV?
Garage Layout–Attached vs detached, ceiling height, storage.
Aesthetics is also important. Do you like two single doors or one double door?
Climate is also a major factor, as bigger doors might require more insulation.
Final Thoughts
By this point, you must be clear about your choices. Garage doors are a big investment. Therefore, it is important to ponder over all the factors before choosing them. Most homes use standard single garage door sizes or standard double garage door sizes for a simple process.
It all boils down to these key points.
Normally, the single doors come in 8–10 feet in width and 7–8 feet in height.
Double doors would typically be 16–18 feet wide and 7–8 feet tall.
RVs, trucks, or custom garages will have a taller or wider door.
Make sure you choose the right size garage door by checking this garage door size guide and garage door size chart. A properly measured and planned garage door will serve you just as it should—functional, aesthetic, and sustainable.
We have tried our best to guide you over the standard garage door sizes in a simple way. However, if you are still not sure, reach out to our garage door experts at City Garage Door. We will consult with you over what garage door size can work for you. Contact us now!
There is no one-size-fits-all for residential garage doors. From price to longevity and aesthetics to upkeep, the material you select plays an important role in all aspects. Determining which garage door suits your home best may seem like a daunting task. After all, it is quite overwhelming to research every option.
That’s why we have come up with this garage door buying guide focusing on the benefits and drawbacks of the most popular types of garage door material. We hope that you will be able to make an informed decision by the end of this blog. Let’s get started.
Wood Garage Doors: Classic Beauty
Garage doors made from wood have been a popular choice. Wood is known for its rustic and natural appeal. However, it is important to see both sides of the coin.
Pros:
Aesthetic value: You can give your house a warm, classic look with wood that is hard to reproduce.
Customization: A wide range of finishes (paint or stain) can be applied to wood to enhance your home.
Versatility: Available in different varieties, from cedar to mahogany
Cons:
Requires maintenance: Wood needs to be sealed or painted on a frequent basis to avoid warping, rotting, and other weather damage.
Price: A good-quality wood door is more costly than many of the inexpensive garage doors.
Durability – Can crack, swell, or shrink in extreme weather conditions
If you are looking for elegance and can keep up with maintenance on your garage door, wood is an excellent option.
Steel Garage Doors: Solid and Durable
Steel is still a favorite among the material choices as it adds strength to the door.
Durability: Steel is resistant to dings, cracks, and warping.
Minimal Upkeep: Steel does not need a high-maintenance regimen; homeowners should merely clean the frames from time to time; no stripping, sanding, sealing, or staining is required.
Versatility: Comes in a wide range of styles, finishes, and even finishes that mimic wood-grain.
Costs: Price: An explanation for being one of the most affordable garage doors on the market.
Cons:
Rust risk: Unless properly coated, steel can rust in a moist or coastal environment.
Insulation: Unless multiple layers of insulation are added, basic steel doors may be terrible insulators.
Dents: Steel is relatively hard but can be dented when subjected to greater impact forces.
Steel is an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking to save money and get reliability without high maintenance.
Aluminum Garage Doors: A Modern and Lightweight Solution.
You could also consider aluminum, which works great in homes with a modern aesthetic.
Pros:
Low Weight — Simple to operate and does not put as much of a burden on garage door openers.
Contemporary Appearance: Commonly used with glass panels to create sleek designs.
Corrosion-resistant: Great for coastal places since aluminum does not rust.
Cons:
Dents easily: Aluminum is prone to denting because of its lightweight construction.
Thermal insulation: Provides a little natural insulation, though insulated versions are available.
Cost disparity: Some of the top-end aluminium designs with the glass panels can be pricey.
Go for an aluminum garage door if you are looking for a stylish, modern door and are not bothered about durability.
Fibreglass Garage Doors: Versatile with Low-Maintenance
Fiberglass is increasingly becoming a popular option as homeowners look for durable alternatives that require little maintenance.
Pros:
Durability: Resistant to rust, warping, and rotting.
Low maintenance — No painting or sealing required
Variety: Resembles wood and does not require the same level of maintenance.
Cons:
Fragile: Fiberglass can break in extreme cold or heavy impact.
Fading: Color may fade after extended sun exposure
Insulation: Reasonable insulation, but not as good as insulated steel
Fiberglass is aesthetically pleasing yet very durable and practical in many climates.
Vinyl garage doors: Practical and Durable on a Budget
The reason vinyl is sometimes described as the kid-proof garage door material is its ability to resist dents and damage.
Pros:
Durability: Resistant to dents, rust, and cracking
Low maintenance; No painting or no need to seal
Affordable: When it comes to the cost of the garage door, vinyl is one of the least expensive options available.
Cons:
Not as many styles: There are fewer design and color options to choose from, versus wood or steel.
Fading: Regular exposure to harsh sunlight can make the colors fade over time.
Insulation: Insulation is possible, but not as robust as multi-layered steel.
Vinyl is a great option when you need an inexpensive, low-maintenance flooring product that can withstand an active household.
Choosing the Right Garage Door Materials
For garage door choices out of materials, here are some factors to consider when it comes to choosing garage door materials.
Climate: If you live in a humid or coastal area, you might be better off with coated steel, fiberglass, or aluminum than with wood.
Cost: Vinyl and steel are the least expensive garage doors, whereas wood and steel doors with glass are more expensive.
Style: The style of garage door you pick needs to complement the design of your house. Wood goes with traditional houses, and aluminum and glass go with modern homes.
Maintenance: Get realistic about how much garage door maintenance you are really prepared to do. Wood requires intensive maintenance, while vinyl needs a lighter upkeep.
Insulation: For better energy conservation, opt for insulated metal or insulated fiberglass.
The Verdict: Which is the Best Garage Door Material?
Well, there is no right or wrong door. The best garage door material can be the one that meets your needs. Maybe a wooden garage door fits your requirements, while an aluminum one can be the right choice for your neighbor.
Keep in mind that
Wood provides a classic, effortless beauty.
Choose steel when you want strength and need it without breaking the bank.
Go for aluminum for lightweight and modern design.
Choose fiberglass — a wood-style replacement built to last.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive, low-maintenance door, then choose vinyl.
With this garage door buying guide in hand, you will be ready to make the best decision for your home. Consider the pros and cons of wood garage doors against those of steel garage doors and other materials. This way, you will find it easy to choose a garage door that will complement your style—and function—for many years to come.
Your garage door has a more important role to play than just acting as an entry point. It adds to curb appeal, security, and convenience.
Although many homes are well-equipped to function with standard doors, more homeowners today are exploring the option of a custom garage door for a design that meets their style and specific design requirements.
You can choose any element of your garage door, from the material, type, design, and even features. If you are looking to get your garage door customized, here is a guide to follow.
Why Should You Go For A Custom Garage Door?
A custom garage door lets you go beyond the pre-made options. Rather than attempting to make a cookie-cutter size or design fit into your home, you could have one that perfectly complements your architecture.
Whether your garage opening is non-standard or you want a unique look to enhance your property value, custom garage doors give you that flexibility.
Other benefits include:
Better fit for odd openings in garage doors
Increased variety of materials, colours, and finishes
Improved durability with higher-quality craftsmanship
Chance to curb between home styles
Opportunity to match your home’s architectural style
Exploring Garage Door Design Options
The most fun part is the design process. This is the part where you choose how it is going to look and work.
Materials
The material you select will impact the look, care, and lifespan. Common options include:
Wood: For a timeless appearance, wood is classic and ideal. It has a warm, natural finish that needs upkeep, but it’s worth it!
Steel: An extremely durable and strong material choice for professional installation of custom garage doors since it can endure wear and tear.
Aluminum: Light and rust-resistant, aluminum is great for contemporary garage door styles.
Fiberglass or Composite: They mimic wood but tend to be more maintenance-free.
Style
Depending on your taste and what fits into your home, a custom garage door lets you explore various styles. Popular choices include:
Classic styled Raised-Panel: Simple in design, fits most types of homes.
Carriage House: Mimics vintage carriage doors, ideal for that rustic or classic style house.
Modern/Contemporary: Defined by clean lines, glass features, streamlined architecture
Windows and Hardware
Windows help to transform your custom garage door into a more welcoming entrance and bring natural light into your garage. Handles, hinges, and other types of decorative hardware also add some charm to the door.
Choosing Custom Garage Door Sizes
There are different standard sizes for garage doors; however, not every garage opening is the same.
Unique sizing is commonly needed in older homes, larger garages, or specialty vehicles. With custom garage door sizes, you can rest assured that it will fit without those awkward gaps or having to make necessary modifications.
If you have an oversized truck, RV, or several vehicles, having a door that suits your space is essential, not just convenient. Choosing the right size helps in insulation as well as securing by getting rid of gaps.
Important Tips for Customizing Garage Door
Keep these tips in mind when planning for a customized garage door.
Match Your Home’s Architecture
Your garage door should complement your home, not clash with it. Consider things like rooflines and window shapes — even overarching design themes.
Consider Insulation Needs
If your garage also functions as a workshop or semi-living area, insulated garages are important. Energy-efficient custom garage doors act to control the temperature of the inside and reduce the energy bill.
Consider Maintenance
Other materials, wood, for example, look great but need to be sealed or painted regularly. For lower maintenance, you could go with steel or fiberglass.
Plan for Security Features
With powerful locks combined with smart openers, you get more layers of security.
Set a Realistic Budget
The cost of custom garage doors can vary dramatically based on the material, style, and other options. It goes without saying that you need to set a realistic budget.
Expectations from a Custom Garage Door Installation
Once you choose your garage door design and size, get ready for installation. With a professional installation, your garage door can operate smoothly, last longer, and protect your warranty.
The Process Typically Includes:
Measurements: The installer will also take exact measurements to make sure that the custom garage door sizes fit as intended.
Preparation: Old doors are taken out, and the opening is examined for level.
Installation: The new door panels, tracks, springs, and opener system are set in place.
Testing: Installer will test balance, safety sensors, and opener functions.
Polishing: Small tweaks are made to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Garage doors are heavy and have springs and tracks. Therefore, make sure to get them installed professionally.
Personalizing with Technology
You can get your custom garage door customized with smart door openers. Smart garage door openers provide phone access, activity monitoring, and alerts. More examples include motion-sensor lighting, keypad entrance, and battery backups to be added to your custom garage door.
Long-Term Caring for Your Custom Garage Door
A custom garage door is a major investment. To keep it in top shape, make sure to pay attention to its maintenance as well as repairs and tune-ups.
Inspect springs, cables, and rollers for wear frequently. Maintain clean tracks, lubricate moving parts, and contact a professional for an annual inspection.
As long as you take care of it, your garage door will serve you for many decades to come, adding style and function to your home.
Final Thoughts
Custom garage doors allow homeowner to create something that can align with their aesthetics and fit their unique requirements. It also eliminates the hassles associated with a pre-made garage door. A custom garage door enhances curb appeal and adds security, energy efficiency, and function to your home.
Since the door is made to order, make sure to choose the material wisely and design wisely. Or you can have a word with your garage door installer to find out what can serve your property best. At City Garage Door, we offer custom garage doors backed by installation, repair, and maintenance. Let us know how we can help you with custom garage door installation.
