Contemporary Home + Modern Garage Door

Contemporary and stylish, yet minimally designed homes are gaining a new prominence. At the same time, modern garage doors in Pittsburg, PA are also on the rise. More and more people are noticing how nicely modern garage doors complement the contemporary home exterior. Homeowners can easily capitalize on this trend and upgrade their garage doors to a modern, sophisticated design. 

Fortunately, modern garage doors in Pittsburgh, PA comes in different magnificent designs. To help you decide which is the best modern garage door for your contemporary house, here are our top picks:

1. Steel Garage Doors

These modern doors are sleek and stylish and are built for performance. Steel garage doors also come in a variety of styles and are cost-effective. These doors feature a combination of steel and sprayed-in foam insulation, providing with better insulation than glass or wood doors.

The thermal efficiency of steel doors not only helps to ensure your garage is properly insulated, but it also reduces noise. Steel garage doors also have tamper-resistant bottom brackets, pinch-resistant panels for safety, and reinforced steel and struts to strengthen the framework.

2. Wood Garage Doors

The elegance of a wooden garage door is perfect for balancing the structured, geometric look of a contemporary home. Wood garage doors create warmth, exude luxury and rustic beauty, and add a natural touch. This garage door model creates a natural appeal, equipped with modern technology. Wood garage doors have shiplap style connections between sections, steel-pinned wood lock mechanisms and zinc-coated steel for unparalleled strength that will help lengthen the lifespan of your garage door.

3. Glass Garage Doors 

Enhance the classy look of your contemporary home with a dramatic, stylish and unique glass garage door. Glass garage doors look sophisticated and stand out. These garage doors are exceptionally luxurious and come with flexible bottom seals to protect your garage from dirt and debris. Glass garage doors have a lower insulation value than steel doors, but they feature frames and panels filled with foam-in-place insulation to provide thermal efficiency.

Modern garage doors in Pittsburgh are the new trend to enhance your contemporary home. Steel, wooden and glass garage doors are the most prominent. All of these emanate a unique style and provide, a picturesque appeal but, most importantly, they offer the safety and efficiency necessary.

How to Secure Your Home and Garage

In matters of home security, the saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” rings true. Homeowners often assume surveillance cameras are the best way to secure their homes. But burglars who have perfected their craft do not care for surveillance and will easily prey on weak entrance and garage doors. Thus, sturdy door installation in Pittsburgh is of utmost importance. Professional door installation is the first step to securing your home and garage. Let’s look at how professional door installation in Pittsburgh will help secure your home:

The Front Doors

Most intruders will try to enter a home through the front door first. Therefore, it is important to make front doors as secure as possible. Professional door installation is the first step to securing your Pittsburgh home. Additionally, upgrading from conventional locks to smart locks is also a smart idea worth considering. However, keep in mind that all these safety upgrades mean nothing if your door installation in Pittsburgh wasn’t completed by a professional.

 The Garage

The garage is becoming the most sought after entry point for criminals. Therefore, garage door installation must also be completed professionally to offer the utmost security. People usually don’t lock garage doors when they’re connected to a garage door opener. Also, the door from the garage to the house is usually not as secure as the front door to the house and often even left unlocked. To prevent burglars from entering your home through your garage door, make sure your garage door is installed properly and the connecting door installation was also done with security in mind. 

Also, it is best to keep the garage door opener in the house rather than keeping it in the garage. For extra security, keep the garage door window adequately covered and consider securing garage doors with the help of extra locks and zip ties if possible.

Professional door installation in Pittsburgh is the first step to keep your home safe and secure. Today, a proficient surveillance system is no longer sufficient. Remember, your front door and garage door are usually the first entry points intruders will try. It is, therefore, best to make these doors as secure as possible, which starts with proper installation.

Halloween Garage Door Decorating Ideas

Halloween – the spooky time of the year – is almost upon us and it is time to think of creative ways to make your home look frightening and fabulous. Most people focus on decorating the home and yard and completely forget the garage doors. Decorating your garage doors can be a great way to put a big smile on the face of those trick-or-treaters or scare them half to death, depending on what you’re going for. The best thing about this is that creative decorations for garage doors can be easily made. Most often, paper or cloth, tape, and paint are all you need. Below are five ideas to decorate your garage doors and help you increase the fear factor of your curb appeal.

1. A Giant Spider Web

Spiders are scary no matter what, but when they’re giant?! They become spooktacular! Garage doors can easily be turned into a spider web with giant spiders for easy scares! This is sure to scare the soul out of everyone who simply gazes upon these garage doors. This look is easily created with some streamers and construction paper. 

2. A Witchy Landscape

Garage doors with witches, a burning fire, and a bubbling cauldron is always a delightful scene for trick-or-treaters and passersby. This creepy cut-out silhouette is made even scarier by backlighting. Creating this scene is simple, all you need is black craft foam and some scissors. 

3. Jack Skellington

This naughty character is often seen on many garage doors and is willing to scare anyone who cares to look at it. This one is also quite easy to make, all you need are a few magnets, some trash bags, black vinyl or construction paper, and a little bit of tape.

4. Bats & Cats

Black cats and bats are the perfect tools for scares and giggles! This Halloween, adorn your garage door with eerie silhouettes of these spooky creatures. The best part is that these silhouettes are easy to create, all you need is some cloth tape and cut-out foam. 

5. Monster Mouth

Spook the kids with a huge, house-size monster with a mouth the size of a garage door! Give this monster mouth its sharp scary teeth by using a painted tarp. 

Halloween is right around the corner! This year garage doors must not be left out of all the holiday fun. Transform your home from friendly to downright spooky with these easy to create Halloween ideas.

How Often Should My Garage Door Be Serviced?

Most people in Pittsburgh will only service their garage door when it shows signs of weakness or when something breaks. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous approach that can end up costing more money in the long run. Garage doors just like other mechanical devices can experience wear and tear, therefore it is pertinent to regularly check and/or service your garage door. 

How often does my garage door require professional service?

The Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors, Inc. professional Pittsburgh garage door technicians say it is best to service your garage door at least twice a year. However, you can also incorporate your own simple preventive maintenance routine that includes lubricating areas of the door, and tightening bolts and screws. Still, it is imperative to have a Pittsburgh garage professional check your garage door semi-annually. When servicing your garage door, consider the following:

 When to Service

For complete assurance, service your garage door system at least twice a year. Ensure that one of those services occur in the fall season to prepare for the cold winter temperatures and snow. Check the door again in early spring when temperatures and moisture levels have changed. 

Rollers & Hinges

Rollers and hinges must always be in perfect condition. These parts are prone to splitting and cracking, therefore they should be checked, and repaired regularly to ensure they are secure. 

Balance the Door

If your garage door is halfway open and you notice it moving up and down, it is a clear sign that the torsion needs to be adjusted. Springs tend to break when they are old or in the winter during cold temperatures. Request the help of a professional repair technician to fix this as soon as possible. 

Lubricate

Hearing an unusual squeaking sound when you open or close your garage door? This means that it needs to be lubricated. Lubricate all metallic moving parts with a non-greasy, non-silicone-based garage door lubricant. Don’t forget to open up the motor and lubricate all of the nylon parts with grease – especially the drive gear. Pay special attention to hinges, rollers, and springs, especially during the wintertime as these objects require more lubrication during cold months. 

Bottom Seal & Weatherseal

Depending on the condition of the weather seal and bottom seal, it might need to be replaced. The garage door should not have gaps that allow air and light to enter. If you notice these occurrences, it might mean the bottom seal is experiencing wear from animals or shrinkage from moisture, or both. 

It is of utmost importance to have your garage door serviced by a professional twice a year. Yet it is also great if you routinely do your own check-up. By doing this, you’ll immediately become aware of the problems your garage door may have and if the help of one of Thomas V. Giel Garage Door’s Pittsburgh garage repair professionals is needed immediately.

How Can a New Entry Door Save You Money?

The front doors in Pittsburgh are quite often the first element of a home that people notice. This means that your front door shapes the first impression of neighbors and visitors to your home. It can add or detract from your home’s overall curb appeal. Front doors that are ugly and old are often not attractive, but they can also end up costing you. Most old front doors will show signs of wear, small warping, chirping, and may even be damaged. And because the damage may be so small, it is easy to pay little to no attention to it since the door is still functional. However, this can cause financial problems in the long run. In contrast, a good front door can be financially beneficial. Here are some ways a good front door can save you money. 

A new front door improves your home’s energy efficiency.

Front doors in Pittsburgh are exposed to the elements all day, everyday. Unfortunately, many old worn out front doors aren’t airtight, thus allowing your heating or cooling system to become less effective. Also, the rain that enters your home through the bottom of an old door can cause the growth of mold and/or mildew. To avoid this, it is crucial to replace your old front door with a new and efficient one that keeps your home comfortable and reduces your utility bills. A new fully sealed and energy-efficient front door will keep the warm air in during the winter, and the cool comfort of your home stable in the summer. A custom sweep at the bottom of your new door creates a thermal barrier that protects your home against the outside temperatures and weather in Pittsburgh. 

A new door is a long-term investment.

A new door can be expensive, hence some homeowners don’t see the value of investing in one. The truth is, a new front door is one of the most affordable investments you can make — one that will pay for itself many times over the life of the door. Besides, a front door with glass in the middle allows for light to enter your home which, in turn, reduces your electricity bill and also increases your home’s property value.

Investing in a new front door for your Pittsburgh home is not only a wise investment, but it is also one that will save you money. Make sure that your front door is not only appealing but that it can withstand Pittsburgh’s weather.

Safety Tips for Your Garage Door

Garages are great for a plethora of reasons. Not only do they protect our vehicles, but they are also suitable as a storage space, a room for home projects, and space for kids to play. But they can also pose safety and security challenges. Even with the automatic reverse function installed on most garage doors, injury can still occur.

 Every year, garage doors cause injuries and that is because garage doors are still the largest, heaviest moving object in most homes. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), hospital emergency departments treat more than 15,000 injuries from garage doors nationwide. The only way to decrease these numbers is to get your garage door inspected by a garage door repair service in Pittsburg, periodically. 

Additionally, following the tips below will help decrease the possibility of injury and keep your family safe.

 1. Routinely test the safety sensors

All garage doors made after 1991 have built-in safety sensors. This feature reverses the direction of the closing door immediately as it touches something so the door cannot cause injury to a person or animal walking under it. Make sure to frequently inspect to ensure this feature is working properly. It is important to know if the safety sensors or working or not so you can take proper action. If you notice the sensors are no longer working, get help from a professional garage door repair service in Pittsburgh immediately. Until the door is fixed, make sure to keep your family away from the door. 

2. Teach your kids garage safety

It is pertinent to teach your children how to use the garage door properly and safely. Let them know that the garage door is not a toy so they should use it only when necessary.   

3. Watch your fingers

Whenever you are touching or inspecting your garage door, refrain from excessive touching and fiddling with the mechanisms of the door as your fingers can get pinched. It is best to leave any type of repair work to a professional.

Garage door safety should never be underestimated. Garage doors cause many accidents annually, therefore always treat your garage door with caution. If you notice that your garage door needs fixing, call a professional repair service immediately. 

Which Type of Storm Door is Right For Your Home?

Modern storm doors are more advanced and visually appealing than the screen doors of generations past. Made from a durable aluminum frame and glass panels, often with retractable or interchangeable screens. Start by choosing the type of door you want, then decide what level of ventilation you will require. Here are your top choices when shopping for storm doors in Pittsburgh.

Full View Storm Doors

Just as the name sounds these doors have a thick aluminum frame and a full view, top to bottom glass panel. This is the door to select if you still want to enjoy the beauty of your front door when your storm door is closed. These are a high-security door that comes in a variety of frame colors, glass designs, and handle options. For increased ventilation choose your full view door with retractable screens that improve airflow when needed. This is a durable door that can hold up to Pennsylvania winters.

Mid View Storm Doors

Mid view doors are the best option for families with a lot of foot traffic. They have two glass panels instead of one, and the aluminum frame is wider on the tops and sides, with a thick aluminum panel on the bottom. A more durable option than a full view door, perfect in homes where the door is constantly being opened and closed, or for those who have pets who like to push up against your door to get a better look outside. With two glass panels, you can opt for glass in both panels, a screen in one or both, or retractable ventilation.

High View Storm Doors

For maximum durability a high view storm door is your top pick, making this option ideal for your back and side doors. The top third of the door has one or two glass panels and exterior viewing and ventilation, but the bottom portion is aluminum. Choose from glass and screens and feel free to add a pet door in the bottom section.

 This is just a basic description of your storm door options but each is available with a variety of features and in a variety of designs. Still not sure what type of storm doors in Pittsburgh you need? Reach out to the team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors today to discuss your options!

How To Measure For A Commercial Garage Door

Most homes have a standard-size one or two-car garage door. But your warehouse, factory,  loading dock, or garage is likely to need a custom-sized door. Here is how to measure to install or replace your Pittsburgh commercial garage doors.

Measurement 1: Width And Height

Grab a ladder and an extra-long tape measure. Measure the width and height of the door opening, down to the exact feet and inches.

Measurement 2: Sideroom

Now it’s time to calculate the sideroom measurements. You will need at least 3.75 inches for standard vertical tracts, and 5.5 inches for specialty spring systems. If you have multiple garage doors side to side, you need at least 10 inches between each door 

Measurement 3: Headroom

Next up, you need to measure the headroom between the top of the garage door opening and the ceiling. Standard spring systems need at least 10 feet and specialty spring systems will need at least 5.5 inches.

Measurement 4: Backroom

Last but not least, you need to measure the distance between the garage door opening and the back of the garage wall. You will need at least the door height plus 18 inches if you want an automatic garage door. 

Additional Tips For Measuring Commercial Garage Doors

In addition to the measurements above, be mindful of anything that might hinder your new garage door. In some cases, you may need to have a bit of work done before you can install the new garage door you’d like. Things to consider include:

•     Electrical outlets
•     Lighting
•     Damaged jambs
•     Uneven flooring
•     Pipes
•     Ductwork
•     And more!

Not to worry if you aren’t confident in measuring your Pittsburgh commercial garage doors yourself. The team at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors is happy to come out and do the measurements for you!

4 Tips For A Quieter Garage Door

As much as you love having a garage, you may not love the disruptive sound of your door opening and closing. Even with a quiet garage door design, overtime your door may get louder. Here are a few tips for quieter garage doors Pittsburgh, PA.

Lubricate

Most homeowners forget to lubricate the moving metal parts on their garage door, which should be done every 6 months. Check the manufacturer’s guide for directions on where to lubricate. A standard lubricant spray found in any home store, such as WD-40, will get the job done.

Tighten And Replace Parts

Everything from rollers to hinges and the bottom rubber seal needs to be periodically replaced, while nuts, screws, hinges, and the opener chain need to be tightened. Not to worry as this isn’t something you have to go alone. Simply reach out to the garage door experts at Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for your routine garage door maintenance and repairs.

Add Soundproofing

There is often a room or two in the home where the opening and closing of the garage door is more disruptive. This is often a bedroom or room above or adjacent to your garage. Adding a bit of soundproofing to the garage can work wonders in minimizing noise and vibrations. Consider vibration isolators for the motor and wall and ceiling acoustic sheets or blankets for the garage walls or ceilings.

Upgrade Your Garage Door

Last but not least, it may simply be time to upgrade your garage door to a quieter model. Newer models may also have higher security features as well as improved energy efficiency.

 If the sound of opening and closing your garage door is too much to bear, reach out to Thomas V. Giel today and we will come out and take a look.

5 Garage Door Design Trends You’ll Want to Steal

If you’re looking to take your home’s curb appeal up a notch this summer, you may want to consider replacing your Pittsburgh garage door. Looking for the perfect door will help to increase your home’s curb appeal. Not sure where to start? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Here are five different styles of garage door design trends you want to steal. 

Custom-Made Designs

2019 has proven to be quite the year for custom-designed garage doors. This is particularly good for those who aren’t fond of the “one size fits all” method. It gives you the freedom to have a say in how your garage door is designed from beginning to end. You’ll be in charge of choosing the material and selecting the final touches such as decorative hardware and windows. This is the ultimate way to tailor your door to fit your personality and personal taste.

 Old-Fashioned Accents

This year we’ve also seen the comeback of the classic-style garage door. The wooden doors used to be costly, but now they’ve become more durable and affordable. The great thing is that for those who want the looking but are worried about the upkeep, there are designer fiberglass doors available which are lower maintenance. The only person who will notice the difference is you!

Cutting-Edge Technology

In the last decade we’ve seen the rise of smart technology incorporated into virtually everything in our lives. One example is the newer Wi-Fi connected garage door openers and the fact that people can now operate their garage doors from an app on their smartphones. These spiffy little apps allow you to close and open your garage door from surprising distances, making it helpful for opening it when you’re just down the street and want to just slip your vehicle inside. It also allows you to have control over it while you’re out of town. You can give people like the babysitter or house sitter access at certain times. 

Choosing Bold Colors

Nowadays, white garage doors aren’t as sought out as they once were. Many families prefer to go for darker, bolder colors. Adding a colorful garage door to your home makes a statement. We suggest choosing a color that blends well with the exterior colors of your home. In 2019, it seems one of the most popular colors is black. 

Now it’s time to go and check out a door installation company near you. If you’re in the area, consider Thomas V. Giel Garage Doors for your Pittsburgh garage door installation needs.