Garage Door Safety Features You Didn’t Know You Needed

Most of us use our garage doors more than our front doors, if we’re being honest. Despite that, we barely think about them until something goes haywire. And when it does, it’s usually a mix of frustration, panic, and “how much is this going to cost?” 

But here’s the deal: a lot of those headaches (and actual safety hazards) can be avoided with the right Garage Door Safety Features–many of which you probably didn’t even know existed.

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’ve seen it all from doors that won’t budge to ones that come crashing down like a scene out of a movie. That’s exactly why we’re big believers in being proactive when it comes to garage door safety. 

Rolling Code Technology

If your garage opener is more than a few years old, this is something you’ll want. Every time you hit that remote button, the access code changes. That means hackers and tech-savvy crooks can’t just grab your signal and then sneak in later. 

Lockable Manual Release Handle

This one’s sneaky important. You want to be able to open your garage if the power goes out, but you also don’t want just anyone being able to pull that handle from the outside. Newer models let you lock that feature down (literally).

Smart Alerts on Your Phone

Garage left open? Kids messing with the remote? With smart garage door systems, you get real-time alerts and control right from your phone. It’s automatic peace of mind, wherever you are.

Motion-Activated Lighting

Ever walk into your garage with an armful of groceries and no free hand for the light switch? Motion-activated lights fix that and will also give you a heads-up if someone’s moving around in there who shouldn’t be.

Pinch-Resistant Panels

Yep, it’s exactly what it sounds like. These panels are designed so fingers (especially little ones) don’t get caught when the door closes. It’s one of those small details that make a big difference.

Upgrade Your Garage Door Safety Features

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we don’t just install doors. We want to help homeowners feel safer and more in control. If your garage door is stuck in the past, now’s the time to check out some of these modern garage door safety features before you have a problem.

Smart Garage Doors: What You Need to Know About the Latest Technology in 2025

The typical garage door has come quite a long way from being just a big and heavy panel that you lift up manually while trying not to throw your back out. 

In 2025, smart garage doors are officially a thing, and they’re not just “nice to have”. They’re actually changing the game when it comes to convenience and peace of mind.

So what exactly makes a garage door “smart”? We’re glad you asked. 

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’ve been installing the latest garage door updates for years, and trust us when we say that this new tech is worth getting excited about!

Control It From Anywhere

One of the biggest perks of smart garage doors is remote access. You’re at work and can’t remember if you shut the garage? Open an app, check the status, and tap to close it. Boom! Just like that, your problem is solved. Hosting a house sitter while you’re on vacation? There’s no need to hand over a spare remote when they can get in with a tap of a button (or you can open it for them).

Real-Time Alerts

These doors don’t just open and close. They talk to you. You’ll get notified if the door is left open too long, if it’s opened at a strange hour, or if there’s an error in the system. It’s like having a little garage security guard living on your phone!

Integration with Smart Home Systems

Your garage door upgrades now play nice with Alexa, Google Home, and smart home hubs. So yes, you can say, “Hey Google, close the garage,” and watch it happen while you sip your coffee.

Enhanced Security

Smart doesn’t just mean convenient. It also means secure. With features like rolling codes, biometric authentication, and automatic locking, smart garage doors leave you with much better protection than traditional garage doors.

Maintenance Reminders & Diagnostics

Some systems even monitor performance and let you know when your door needs a tune-up. There’s no guessing required. 

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’re proud to offer the latest in garage door upgrades that bring homes into the future. If you’re curious about upgrading your setup, feel free to visit us at gielgaragedoors.com.

The garage might be the biggest door in your house, but now, it’s also the smartest!

Why Pennsylvania Homeowners Are Choosing Custom Garage Doors Over Standard Models

Take a moment to observe your home’s exterior from the street. What immediately catches your eye? Often, it’s the garage door–a significant feature that influences your property’s overall curb appeal. Many Pennsylvania homeowners are now looking beyond basic, standard models and choosing custom garage doors to enhance their homes. 

The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors understands the impact and shares three benefits of garage door upgrades below.

Aesthetic Appeal

Custom garage doors offer homeowners a distinct advantage that standard options cannot match. These personalized solutions provide opportunities for stylistic expression, allowing you to complement your home’s unique architecture. You can select from a variety of materials like wood, steel, or versatile composite, specifying the finishes and colors you envision. Additionally, you have control over the design elements. Consider installing windows to allow natural light into the garage or decorative hardware that adds charm.

Higher Quality Construction

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, custom garage doors frequently boast superior quality. The materials often have greater durability than those found in standard models. Customization also allows for enhanced insulation options, which can lead to savings on energy bills. This makes garage door upgrades a smart and practical choice. These thoughtful enhancements not only improve daily comfort but also contribute real, tangible value to your property.

Increased Climate Protection

Pennsylvania’s climate presents challenging weather conditions throughout the year. This means a garage door must withstand harsh winter cold and humid summer heat. Investing in a quality, custom-designed door built to handle these extremes proves highly beneficial. Garage door upgrades can result in fewer maintenance issues and repairs and provide greater peace of mind for homeowners. Choosing custom is an investment in your home’s long-term resilience and appearance.

The Custom Garage Door Experts

Navigating the process of selecting and installing the ideal custom garage door requires expertise. Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is dedicated to assisting Pennsylvania homeowners through every step, offering an extensive selection of high-quality options. Our experienced team provides expert guidance and ensures the installation is performed flawlessly. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today, and discover how a custom garage door can beautifully enhance your home!

Lubrication 101: The Importance of Keeping Your Garage Door Moving Smoothly

Is your garage door producing excessive noise during operation? Those sounds aren’t just giving your neighbors something to complain about–they’re your door’s desperate cry for help.

When was the last time you gave all those moving parts some TLC? Most homeowners completely forget this simple maintenance task until things get noisy or sticky.

Proper garage door lubrication doesn’t just quiet things down. It’s absolutely essential for smooth operation and adds years to your door’s working life. This quick guide from your friends at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors breaks down everything you need to know to keep things running smoothly and silently.

Why Lubrication is Non-Negotiable for Smooth Movement

The massive panel on your garage doors goes up and down several times daily, which is a lot of movement. Without good lubrication, all those metal parts (think hinge pins and roller bearings) rub directly against each other. Metal-on-metal contact creates serious friction. That friction could be the cause of the unpleasant noise you hear when you hit the opener button.

Preventing Wear and Problems

But noise is just the first warning sign. The real trouble starts when that friction makes your door move in jerky, stop-start motions. Components wear down way faster than they should. Your opener motor strains harder than necessary, shortening its life. 

Before you know it, one worn part puts stress on another, and another, creating a domino effect of garage door problems.

A Protective Barrier

Good lubrication creates a protective barrier between moving parts. It lets everything glide together smoothly, the way the manufacturer intended. Keeping those parts slippery dramatically reduces strain across the entire system and is vital garage door maintenance.

Wouldn’t you rather spend five minutes with a spray can twice a year than deal with a completely broken door at the worst possible moment?

Choosing the Right Lubricant (and Avoiding the Wrong One!)

First, let’s talk about what NOT to use. Toss that can of regular WD-40 back in the drawer. Most folks reach for it automatically, but here’s the truth: standard WD-40 isn’t actually a true lubricant for this job. 

It’s more of a cleaner and water displacer (that’s what the “WD” stands for!). Sure, it might quiet things down for a few days, but it’ll actually wash away the good grease your door needs. Even worse, it turns into a dust magnet over time, creating a gritty mess that makes your original problem worse.

Your Best Lubricant Choices

So what should you use instead? You’ve got two solid options:

• White Lithium Grease: Ideal for metal-on-metal contact points (hinges, opener chain/screw) because it clings well, offering durable protection.
  
• Silicone Spray (Garage-Door Specific): Excellent for roller bearings and locks, as it penetrates tight spaces and attracts less dust – a real advantage in most garage environments.

The How-To: Lubricating Key Components Effectively

Got your lubricant ready? Great! Now let’s get down to the actual job. But before you start spraying everything in sight, there are a few tricks to doing this right. 

Remember, safety first. Unplug your garage door opener or disconnect it using the emergency release cord. The last thing you want is the door suddenly deciding to move while your fingers are near the hinges. 

Next, grab some rags and wipe down all the parts you plan to lubricate. Why bother with this step? Because adding fresh lube on top of old dirt just creates a gunky, abrasive paste that actually makes things worse. A few minutes with a rag now saves headaches later.

Targeting the Right Spots

Apply your chosen lubricant sparingly to key areas: 

• Hinge pivot points and steel roller bearings (use the spray straw for precision)
  
• Torsion springs (a light mist helps quiet them and resist corrosion)
  
• Your opener’s chain or screw drive (check your manual first)
  
• The moving parts of the lock assembly.
  
• Immediately wipe away any excess lubricant to prevent drips and keep it from attracting dirt.

What to Avoid Lubricating

Crucially, never lubricate the garage door tracks. This attracts performance-hindering grit. Also, avoid lubing nylon rollers or belt drive opener belts; simply keep tracks clean and dry.

Once done, operate the door manually a few times to distribute the lubricant. Listen closely–you should notice a pleasing difference in the sound almost immediately.

Conclusion

So there you have it, lubricating your garage door isn’t too difficult, and it’s a maintenance task that pays off big time. Have you ever thought about how much a full garage door replacement costs these days? Regular lubrication helps you avoid that expense for years longer than you’d expect.

If you’re not feeling handy with this stuff, the pros at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors are just a phone call away. We’re happy to handle this maintenance as part of a complete door tune-up that keeps everything running like clockwork. 

Spring Garage Door Cleaning: How to Get Rid of Dirt

Spring’s arrival means it’s time to wash that layer of winter grime off your garage door. Beyond just boosting your home’s curb appeal (which research shows significantly impacts home value), proper garage door cleaning is vital–it removes corrosive road salt residue left behind, preventing potential damage. Here at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we want to walk you through how to safely and effectively get your door sparkling.

Why Spring Cleaning Your Garage Door is Crucial (Beyond Just Looks)

Think winter film on your garage door is just harmless dirt? Think again. The residue left by road treatments often contains chloride ions that actively promote rust and eat away at your door’s paint finish, particularly on steel doors.

Along with gritty particulate matter, this isn’t just unsightly–it’s a slow chemical attack.

Prevent Problems, Save Money

Consider this cleaning session your first step in essential garage door upkeep. Catching minor finish issues or wear now saves you from much larger headaches and expenses later. Always remember that putting off maintenance usually means paying more down the road. 

It’s also the perfect moment for a quick visual inspection.

The Right Tools & Prep for a Safe Clean

Before you start, gathering the right gear makes all the difference. You’ll want a proper pH-neutral car wash soap. Unlike harsh dish soaps, it cleans effectively without stripping any existing wax or sealant.

Pair this with a soft microfiber wash mitt;  its tiny fibers trap dirt safely, reducing the chance of causing fine scratches. Grab two buckets, one soap and one rinse (a Grit Guard in the rinse bucket helps), and your standard garden hose.

Skip the Pressure Washer

Now, one critical point: resist the temptation to use a pressure washer. The intense blast can easily damage paint, force water past seals, and even dent garage door panels. Gentle handwashing is truly the best approach here.

Step-by-Step – Washing Away Winter Grime 

1. Start with a Good Rinse

First, give the entire door a gentle but thorough pre-rinse with your garden hose, working from top to bottom. This washes away the loosest, most abrasive bits of grit before you even touch the surface with your mitt.

2. Wash Smart with Two Buckets

Now, dip your microfiber mitt into the soapy water bucket and gently wash a section of the door, again starting from the top and working down. Before getting more soap, rinse the dirty mitt thoroughly in your plain water bucket. 

This Two-Bucket Method is the secret to keeping grit off your mitt and preventing fine scratches.

3. Tackle the Toughest Spots

Pay extra attention to the lower garage door panels where road salt and heavy grime tend to accumulate most. If needed, you can use a soft brush very gently on stubborn spots or around panel seams, but be careful not to scrub hard.

4. Rinse Like You Mean It

This step is crucial for preventing residue damage. Rinse the entire door meticulously from top to bottom until no soap bubbles or film remain. Lingering soap or salt residue can still cause harm. Ensure you flush water well along the bottom weatherstripping and edges.

5. Dry for a Spotless Finish

While optional, drying the door with clean, soft microfiber towels is highly recommended. It prevents hard water spots from forming as the door air-dries and gives you a final chance to inspect the finish up close as you wipe.

Keeping Your Garage Door Clean With Expert Help

There you have it, a sparkling clean garage door! This simple act of garage door upkeep improves curb appeal while protecting your investment. Considering a garage door replacement often yields over 100% return on investment at resale, taking care of your current one makes perfect sense.

If your cleaning revealed any damage, rust, or issues with how the door operates, don’t hesitate to contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for a professional inspection and expert service.

The Art of Matching Your Garage Door to Your Home’s Exterior Palette

Why do some homes look so “put together” while others seem slightly off? Your garage door takes up a huge chunk of your home’s front view – sometimes up to 30% of what people see! 

Pick the wrong color, and it sticks out like a sore thumb. Choose the right one, and suddenly your whole house looks better. Done right, it can even bump up your property value. 

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry. This guide, brought to you by Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, walks you through matching your garage door to the colors already working on your house.

Know Your Home’s Palette First

Before you start browsing color swatches for your garage door, take a good, hard look at what you’ve already got. Your house has a built-in color scheme, whether you planned it or not. Walk across the street and really see what others see.

Identify the Main Players

What color is your siding or brick? That’s your main player. Now, check out your trim around windows and doors. Don’t forget about your roof – most folks overlook it, but that huge expanse of shingles or metal makes a color statement. These fixed elements create the palette you’ll need to work with.

Look for Hidden Color Clues (Undertones)

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Colors aren’t just what they seem at first glance. The beige siding might lean yellowish (warm) or grayish (cool).

See those gray roof shingles? Look closer–do they have blue hints or brown ones? These hidden color leanings are what pros call “undertones,” and they make all the difference.

Why Undertones Matter

Ever wonder why some color combinations just feel “off” even though you can’t explain why? It’s usually clashing undertones. When your garage door color clashes with these subtle undertones, the whole house looks awkward. Match them right, and suddenly everything clicks into place.

Choosing Your Garage Door Color Strategy

Now that you’ve got a handle on your home’s built-in colors, it’s time to pick a game plan. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here–the right approach depends on what you want to accomplish with your garage door.

Strategy 1: Blend It In

Want your garage to blend in instead of stealing the show? Try matching your door color closely to your main house color. This works like magic for homes where the garage takes up too much of the front view. The door simply disappears into the background, letting other features shine.

Strategy 2: Match the Trim

Not sure what’s completely safe? Go with your trim color. This tried-and-true approach is like the little black dress of garage door colors; it rarely fails. Using the same color as your window frames and fascia creates a nice, clean outline around the door and ties everything together visually.

Strategy 3: Play it Safe with Neutrals

Neutral colors give you room to breathe. Whites, grays, beiges, blacks, and wood tones work with almost any house style. But here’s the catch–not all neutrals play well together. Remember those pesky undertones we talked about? They matter here, too. That gorgeous gray that looked perfect in the showroom might clash with your house if it’s too blue-toned and your siding leans warm.

Pulling It All Together

The right garage door color ties your whole house together. It’s one of those details that most folks don’t consciously notice, but they definitely feel the difference when it’s done right. 

A thoughtfully chosen door boosts curb appeal and can even bump up your home’s value when it comes time to sell.

If you’re unsure of which direction to go, the experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can show you options that work specifically with your home’s style and colors. Sometimes a professional eye spots possibilities you might miss on your own.

Unexpected Ways Your Garage Door Affects Home Energy Efficiency

When we think about improving our home’s energy efficiency, we usually focus on things like insulation, windows, or upgrading the HVAC system. 

Did you know that your garage door can also play a huge role in keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient? Your garage door might be one of the unsung heroes in your home’s energy efficiency.

Insulated Garage Doors

First off, let’s talk about how a poorly insulated garage door can impact your energy bills. If your garage is attached to your home, any air leakage or heat loss from the garage can quickly find its way into the rest of your house.

A cold (and drafty) garage in the winter or a stiflingly hot one in the summer can force your heating or cooling systems to work overtime to compensate. This can lead to higher energy consumption and, you guessed it, higher bills. That’s why investing in a well-insulated and energy-efficient garage door alone can make a significant difference.

If you are thinking about upgrading your garage door, Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors has you covered. We currently offer a range of energy-efficient garage door solutions, from insulated doors that help maintain the temperature of your garage to models that feature advanced sealing technology to reduce drafts. With the right door in your garage, you can prevent the transfer of heat and cold, which will help keep your garage (as well as your home) more comfortable year-round.

Keep the Outdoors Outside, Even in Your Garage

Another unexpected way a garage door affects energy efficiency is through the role it plays in protecting your home from outside elements. A quality door helps to keep out moisture, dirt, and even pests, which can also compromise the efficiency of your home’s insulation. Additionally, modern energy-efficient homes are designed with materials that not only keep your garage space comfortable but that will also complement your home’s overall insulation and energy-saving goals.

Upgrade Your Garage Doors with Thomas V. Giel

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’re passionate about helping you create the most energy-efficient homes possible. Our garage doors are designed to be durable, secure, and, most importantly, energy-efficient.

As a result, you can save money and reduce your environmental impact. Are you ready to make your garage a part of your energy-saving strategy? Visit our website to learn more about our garage door options or give us a call. We’re here to help!

The Hidden Costs of a Cheap Garage Door: Why Quality Matters

Quality garage doors are one of the most important investments a homeowner can make in their property. While it’s easy to get caught up in the allure of cheaper garage doors, the hard truth is that this option ends up costing more in the long run. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we don’t want to see you make this costly mistake. Let’s explore the hidden costs of cheap garage doors, and why investing in quality is important. 

The Initial Cost Savings of Cheap Garage Doors

According to an estimate from Consumer Affairs, the average new garage door can cost between $748 – $1,644. This is the price range for your typical, run-of-the-mill garage door that’s nothing extraordinary, but will hold up pretty well in most circumstances. 

Many homeowners will compare these prices to the cheapest options, which can start as low as $200 – $300. Obviously, these are the most affordable solutions up front, but they don’t hold their value in the long term. 

Hidden Costs and Why Cheap Garage Doors Aren’t a Good Deal

According to an article in Forbes, minor garage door repairs will cost in the range of $150 – $300. A high-quality garage door will require little in terms of maintenance in its lifetime, while cheap doors can require professional garage door maintenance yearly.

Cheap, low-quality doors are typically poorly insulated, leading to heat loss and increased energy bills. No homeowner should be worrying about losing heat, or nicely cooled air, through their garage door. Quality, insulated doors are as much as 70% more energy efficient. Choosing a poor-quality option can cost homeowners money month after month. 

Cheap doors can compromise the safety and security of a home. At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, this is something we point out to our customers because it is so important. Cheap doors are more likely to cause accidents and are easier for home invaders to manipulate. There’s no way to put a cost on your family’s and home’s safety. 

Benefits of High-Quality Garage Doors 

Here are a few ways that investing in quality garage doors benefits your home and your wallet. 

• Increased durability and longevity: Quality doors are built to last, with some manufacturers offering doors that last twenty to thirty years, or more. 
• Less maintenance: Garage doors that are built with quality materials and strong construction require less professional garage door maintenance over their lifetime. 
• Increased property value: A high-quality garage door adds instant curb appeal and can boost a home’s property value. 

Learn More About the Value of Quality Garage Doors Today

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’re here to help you find the perfect garage door for your home. We’re happy to discuss the options and help you compare and find the option that fits your needs and your budget, without compromising quality. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

From Manual to Modern: The Evolution of Garage Door Technology

If you have ever had to fight with a manual garage door, you know the struggle. You’re parked in the driveway (maybe in the pouring rain) and you’re trying to yank up a heavy door that clearly has a mind of its own. It’s not pretty, it’s not fun.

But here’s the good news: garage door technology has come a long way since those days.

Modern Luxuries

Back in the day, manual garage doors were pretty much the only option. You’d either get out of your car and crank it open or struggle with a stiff and clunky mechanism.

But as technology continued to evolve, so did the way we deal with our garages. Enter the era of modern garage doors, and suddenly, life became a lot easier.

Modern garage doors have completely transformed the experience. You can forget the days of having to leave your car just to open the garage. Now, thanks to advancements in garage door technology, you can control your door from your phone, from your car, or even from your couch. 

There’s no more wrestling with that old and squeaky contraption because now it’s all about convenience and smart design.

Leave the Past in the Past

At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’re all about embracing the latest in garage door technology. It doesn’t matter whether you’re upgrading from an old manual garage door or installing a brand-new and high-tech system because we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With decades of experience, we’ll make absolutely sure that you get exactly what you need.

Upgrade for a Safer Garage Door

The best part? Modern garage doors aren’t just about making your life easier. They’re also about keeping your home safe and secure. With sensors that prevent accidents and insulation that helps keep your garage comfortable all year long, today’s doors are smarter, safer, and more energy-efficient than they ever have been before. 

Step into the Modern Era with Giel Garage Doors

Are you ready to make the upgrade? At Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, we’ve got the best in modern garage doors to fit your style and your budget. Visit us at gielgaragedoors.com so you can explore our top garage door options! We’d love to help you bring your garage into the 21st century.

Preparing Your Garage Door for Seasonal Changes

Seasonal changes can take a toll on your garage door, affecting its functionality and longevity. From fluctuating temperatures to increased humidity or snow accumulation, each season presents unique challenges. Given that a well-maintained garage door can last 15 to 20 years and could yield an ROI of about 102%, proactive garage door maintenance is not optional.

Garage door maintenance can help maintain your garage door’s performance, prevent costly repairs, and extend its lifespan. Here are some of the best garage door upkeep tips.

Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is vital for keeping out drafts, moisture, and debris. Over time, it can crack or wear out, compromising its ability to seal your garage effectively. Inspect the weather stripping along the bottom and sides of the door for signs of damage. Replacing worn seals enhances energy efficiency and keeps pests out.

Lubricate Key Components

Temperature fluctuations can cause metal parts like springs, rollers, and hinges to stiffen or corrode. Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep these components operating smoothly. Avoid grease or oil-based products that attract dirt and thicken in cold weather. 

Clean Tracks and Panels

Debris in the tracks can disrupt the smooth operation of your garage door. Use a vacuum or soft cloth to remove dirt and leaves from the tracks. Simultaneously, clean the panels with mild soap and water to prevent rust or discoloration caused by seasonal elements. Keeping your garage door clean is a straightforward yet effective aspect of garage door maintenance.

Inspect Safety Features

Modern garage doors include safety mechanisms like auto-reverse systems designed to prevent accidents. Test these features by placing an object under the door while closing it; if it doesn’t reverse upon contact, consult a technician immediately. 

Schedule Professional Inspections

While DIY steps address minor issues, professional inspections are invaluable for identifying hidden problems. Professional technicians from reputable companies like Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors can assess critical components like cables and springs for wear and tear. They can make sure your garage door remains reliable year-round. 

Why Choose Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors?

Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors offers tailored solutions for all your seasonal garage door upkeep needs. With expert technicians and comprehensive services, we ensure your garage door operates at peak performance year-round. 

Preparing your garage door for seasonal changes is more than just a routine task—it’s an investment in safety, convenience, and home value. Contact Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today for expert guidance and services that keep your garage door in optimal condition through every season.