When it comes to choosing a garage door opener, the different features and options can seem endless. Which is why it is important to distinguish which features matter the most when it comes to choosing a safe and reliable garage door opener. In this article we will review what you should look for in a garage door opener and how those features will benefit both you and your home.

Safety Features

The first, and most important feature to consider when looking for a garage door opener is safety. Making sure your garage door opener has the standard Automatic Reversing feature will help decrease the chance of any accidents; this feature will automatically switch the direction of the garage door any time it encounters an unexpected obstacle. Sensors placed at the bottom of the door are also a great option for preventing injuries or damage.

Manual Release

Garage door openers are a wonderful modern convenience! But you may still need to manually open your garage door from time to time, especially in the event of a power loss. This is why having a garage door opener with the Manual Release feature is critical. Manually opening your garage door is also a wonderful way to check for sagging.

Horsepower Needs

It’s important to know which level or horsepower you will need so you are not wasting energy or overworking your garage door opener. The newer and standard garage door openers use 1/2 horsepower. Older doors, which were constructed of solid wood, are heavier and would require a higher level of horsepower.

Type of Opener

You will need to decide whether you would like a chain-driven, belt-driven, or screw drive garage door opener. 

• Chain-driven garage door openers are more affordable and stronger than their belt-driven counterparts. Their durability will extend the life of your opener, and their strength guarantees your garage door will open consistently.
• Belt-driven garage door openers are ideal if you are looking for an opener that makes less noise and movement. The convenience of a quieter mechanism, however, comes with a cost and they tend to be pricier than a chain-driven opener.
• Screw-Drive garage door openers use a different approach to lifting the garage door, and are faster and more reliable than chain and belt-driven openers. However, screw drive garage door openers require more maintenance and are not suitable for heavy doors found in older homes.

Don’t forget to consider some of the more enjoyable features, too – like an opener that can be controlled from your smartphone! No matter which garage door opener you decide to purchase, ensuring the functionality and safety of your opener relies on a quality installation job. If you are looking to install or replace your garage door opener, contact our trusted professional team at 1-888-602-6550.

Your garage door is an extremely valuable part of your home. Not only does it provide curb appeal and increase the value of your property, but it also serves several utility purposes. And while garage doors tend to last for years, there may come a time when you must decide to replace it. Perhaps it looks outdated, has begun to break down, or your personal needs have changed. We’ve put together some tips to help you decide if it’s time to replace your garage door.

Too Much Work, Too Much Noise

If you consistently find yourself grumbling about frequent maintenance or annoying garage noise, it’s definitely a sign to replace your garage door. Over time, all that money and time spent on repairs and dissatisfaction can become quite costly. Not to mention the safety risks! Spend your money and time wisely by investing in a new garage door.

Outdated Design

Your garage door is a pretty noticeable feature. If you find yourself looking at your garage and feeling as if it may look a bit…archaic…invest in a new one! Enhance your home’s appeal and property value, while simultaneously improving the reliability and security of your garage door. And remember, replacing an outdated door isn’t just for those of us selling our homes. It’s also important for personal satisfaction. Modern, state-of-the-art garage doors come in beautiful contemporary designs – picture stylish tinted glass windows with anodized aluminum frames.

Lack of Modern Features

Today’s garage doors are known for providing great insulation to keep the cold out and heat inside. Not to mention all the new built-in safety features – like automatic reversing and object sensors. If your garage door is lacking in what has now become the standard, it’s definitely a sign to replace your garage door.

Have you seen the signs? Beautify your home and increase its worth by installing a new garage door. If you’re ready to invest in replacing your garage door, feel free to contact us today. We can be reached at info@adamsdoorsystems.com or 905-602-6550 (Mississauga) or 416-502-2212 (Toronto).

“Alexa, open the garage.” From voice activated door openers to smart locks to climate control apps. There are a plethora of practical gadgets to make entering and controlling your garage easier. Whether you’re interested in learning about the options or considering an upgrade, here are our top awesome new garage door gadgets for your home.

Tailwind iQ3 Smart Automatic Garage Controller Pro

When it comes to features, the Tailwind iQ3 Smart Automatic Garage Controller Pro is unparalleled by other garage door openers. It works with most garage door openers right out of the box and is easily compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Homekit, SmartThings, and If This Then That (IFTTT). It even has a night mode for extra security! And if you forgot to close the door? It will automatically shut it after five minutes.

Alcidae Garager 2

Smart Camera meets Garage Door Opener in the Alcidae Garager 2. Not only does this gadget allow owners to easily open and close their garage door, but it also allows them to survey their garage with sound and motion detectors. As if that wasn’t cool enough, the Garager 2 also features a built-in mic and speaker, allowing users to speak directly to intruders, be they robbers or raccoons.

Why Should You Consider Upgrading Your Garage Gadgets?

We live in a device driven world. These devices are currently allowing us to control our lights, windows, HVAC systems, and security systems from an app on our phone. And it’s no secret that the up and coming younger generation enjoys the ease that comes with smart technology. As the housing market continues to shift and make room for them, now is the perfect year to make upgrades to your home’s exterior – including the garage!

But you don’t have to be invested in home automation for a smart garage-door gadget to be of use to you. Most of these are simply items that can make your life easier! Wondering which gadget might be right for you? Our team of qualified professionals is here to help. Contact us today at info@adamsdoorsystems.com.

The warm and sunny season of Summer has come again! Meaning it’s time to get outside and take care of those exterior maintenance projects. One project not to be missed from that list is taking care of your home’s garage door. Routine maintenance is not only essential for ensuring the door continues to function properly and safely. It is also paramount for enhancing the door’s curb appeal, and can even contribute to a more comfortable environment inside the garage. Here are our top Summer Garage Maintenance Tips!

Inspect Your Garage Door’s Hardware

Before cleaning or any other type of maintenance activities, you should first inspect your garage door and all of its hardware for any signs of excessive wear and tear. Take a good look around the tracks, springs and mounting hardware. Remember – the more you do this, the more likely you are to notice when something doesn’t look right. If anything appears broken, contact a professional so that it can be repaired safely.

Clean and Lubricate Your Garage Door

Dirt and debris can easily accumulate on your garage door over the Winter. Use a mild mixture of detergent and water to remove any build-up on both sides of the door. This is also an excellent time to lubricate your garage door’s springs, rollers, and hinges to keep your door running smoothly and quietly. If your garage door is made of metal, this is also the time to remove rust.

Pro Tip: To really keep your garage door looking its best, Summer is also an excellent time to apply a fresh coat of paint! This will do more than improve the door’s appearance, it can also protect it from the winter elements to come! White or another light color are the best options, as these will reflect rather than absorb the summertime heat.

How To Keep Your Garage Cool During Summertime

Now that you’ve taken care of the essentials, it’s time to look at other maintenance tasks that can be accomplished for a cozier summer. You may wish to install a ceiling fan or install a mini-split A/C unit. If you didn’t already, you could even declutter your garage as a way to improve airflow.

In the midst of your summer fun, don’t forget to give your garage a little TLC. And if you require additional help with your summer garage door maintenance, turn to Adam’s Door Systems. Whether you’re looking for a whole new garage door or in need of a repair, we have your back. Contact us at info@adamsdoorsystems.com or 905-602-6550 (Mississauga) or 416-502-2212 (Toronto).