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Category Archives: Garage Door Miscellaneous

Categories Garage Door Miscellaneous, Garage Door Security

Are Garage Doors Secure? How To Keep Your Home Safe

Are Garage Doors Secure?

Are Garage Doors Secure?

When most people think of home security, they think of locks on the front door or alarm systems. But your garage door is one of the biggest entry points to your homeโ€”and often the most overlooked. A weak or outdated garage door system can make it easy for burglars to get in.

At Local Garage Doors, weโ€™re often asked: Are garage doors secure? The short answer is yes – if you take the right steps.

We have a 5-star reputation on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack because we help homeowners feel safe by providing secure garage doors and professional maintenance. You can reach us at 866-337-1631, email us at info@localgaragedoors.com, or schedule your appointment today.


Why Garage Door Security Matters

Your garage door is more than just a place to park your car. Itโ€™s often connected directly to your home. Criminals know that if they can get into your garage, they may gain access to the rest of your house.

Common Garage Door Security Risks:

What many homeowners donโ€™t realize is that a standard garage door can be bypassed shockingly fast. With nothing more than a simple wedge and a coat hanger, criminals can pop the emergency release and gain access to your garage in as little as six seconds. This is why relying on outdated security features leaves your home vulnerable. We recommend you add a pro theft protector to your garage door set up which keeps the bad guys away!

https://youtu.be/0_rdLZDD3LE

How Modern Garage Doors Stay Secure

Todayโ€™s garage doors use advanced technology that makes it much harder for thieves to break in.

Key Security Features:

    • Rolling Code Technology โ€“ Creates a new security code every time you press your remote, making it almost impossible to copy.
    • Keyless Entry Systems โ€“ Add a keypad with PIN code access.
    • Smart Garage Door Openers โ€“ Control and monitor your door from your phone.
    • Upgraded Locks & Defenders โ€“ Provide an extra layer of protection.

Garage Door Security Checklist

Hereโ€™s a simple checklist to see if your garage door is secure:

โœ… Check your opener โ€“ Is it more than 15 years old? Upgrade if needed.
โœ… Verify remote settings โ€“ Never leave them at factory defaults.
โœ… Inspect locks โ€“ Add manual locks or slide bolts for extra security.
โœ… Add lighting โ€“ Motion sensor lights deter unwanted visitors.
โœ… Regular maintenance โ€“ Schedule a safety inspection with Local Garage Doors.
โœ… Pro Theft Protector โ€“ Schedule installation of your pro theft protector today.


Visual Aids

Chart: Garage Door Opener Security Over Time

Generation Technology Security Level Risk of Break-In
1st Gen Fixed Code Low Very High
2nd Gen Dip Switch Medium Moderate
Modern Rolling Code + Smart Features High Low

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are old garage doors safe?
A: Older doors with fixed codes are easy targets for burglars. If your opener is more than 15 years old, itโ€™s time to upgrade.

Q: How do I make my garage door more secure?
A: Upgrade to a rolling code opener, install a keypad, add manual locks, and keep your remotes updated.

Q: Can burglars hack garage door remotes?
A: They can if you use outdated fixed-code systems. Modern openers with rolling codes stop this.

Q: Should I get a smart garage door opener?
A: Yes. Smart openers let you monitor and control your garage from anywhere, giving you peace of mind.


Final Thoughts

So, are garage doors secure? The answer depends on the system you have in place. With todayโ€™s technology, a modern garage door is one of the safest and most secure entryways to your homeโ€”as long as itโ€™s installed and maintained by professionals.

At Local Garage Doors, our expert technicians can help you upgrade your opener, install locks, or perform a full security inspection.

๐Ÿ“ž Call us today at 866-337-1631
๐Ÿ“ง Email: info@localgaragedoors.com
๐Ÿ’ป Or Book an appointment online

Stay secure with a company trusted by thousands of homeowners across California and Nevada.

We offer the following garage door services:

We also provideย garage storage solutions & garage screen solutionsย to home owners who have garage doors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your garage door, contact us today toย request an estimateย orย schedule service. For immediate assistance, you canย call or text our office at 866-337-1631

Related Articles:

    1. 5 Tips For Improving The Security Of Your Garage Door
    2. Reliable Garage Door Off Track Repair
    3. Why Is My Garage Door Randomly Opening?

 

Categories Garage Door Material, Garage Door Miscellaneous, Repair Services

What Garage Door Hinge Do I Need?

What garage door hinge do I need?

Why Hinges Matter

Garage door hinges connect your door panels. They let each section bend as the door moves along the track. The right hinge keeps your door safe, quiet, and aligned. The wrong hinge can cause cracks, loud squeaks, and early wear. If your door binds, sags, or rattles, check the hinges and brackets first.

Local Garage Doors can inspect, match, and install the correct parts for you.
Email: info@localgaragedoors.com
Call: 866-337-1631
Book an appointment online
We hold a 5 star rating on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack.


Quick Hinge Size Chart

Most residential garage doors use numbered hinges between sections. The number often appears stamped on the hinge leaf.

Panel Location Typical Hinge Number What It Does
Center between bottom and second panel #1 Lowest offset for early sections
Next panel joint up #2 Slightly more offset
Mid to upper joints #3 More lift as door curves
Upper joints on taller doors #4 Extra offset for smooth travel
Very tall doors or special curves #5+ Highest offset, less common

Tip: Matching the doorโ€™s original numbers is best. If numbers are unreadable, use our sizing steps below.


Hinge vs Bracket

People mix these up. Here is the simple difference.

    • Garage door hinge: Flat, numbered plates that connect one panel to the next.
    • Garage door bracket: Hardware that mounts rollers or cables to the door. Two common types:
        • Bottom bracket: Attaches the lift cable to the bottom corner of the door. High tension lives here.
        • Top bracket: Holds the top roller and adjusts how the panel meets the jamb.

How To Identify Your Hinge In 4 Steps

    1. Door height and panel count: 7 ft doors often have 4 panels. 8 ft doors often have 5.
    2. Find stamped numbers: Look for #1, #2, #3 on the hinge leaf near the knuckle.
    3. Match position: Lower joints use lower numbers. Numbers rise as you go up the door.
    4. Check gauge and style: Most homes use standard 14 or 16 gauge steel. Heavy doors may need heavy duty hinges.

Placement Guide

Use this simple map for many residential steel doors:

    • Bottom joint between Panel 1 and 2: #1 hinges
    • Next joint between Panel 2 and 3: #2 hinges
    • Next joint between Panel 3 and 4: #3 hinges
    • Taller doors with more panels: move up to #4 or #5 as the joints rise

Note: Some brands and custom doors have unique specs. When in doubt, text us a clear photo of each joint and we will confirm the exact fit.


Bracket Basics You Should Know

Bottom Brackets

    • Hold the cable loop.
    • Under spring tension even when the door is open.
    • Do not remove without releasing spring tension. This is a serious safety risk.

Top Brackets

    • Hold the top roller.
    • Have a slot or screw for fine adjustment against the top seal.
    • If you see a gap at the top of the door, a small top-bracket adjustment may help.

Warning: High Tension Parts

Torsion springs and bottom brackets store energy. Do not loosen set screws or remove cables without the right tools and training. If you are unsure, stop and call Local Garage Doors at 866-337-1631.

Visual: Hinge Number Ladder

Panel Joint from Bottom Offset Needed Typical Hinge
1st joint (low) Low #1
2nd joint Medium-Low #2
3rd joint Medium #3
4th+ joint (taller doors) Medium-High #4 or #5

Maintenance Checklist

Use this quick list once every 3 months or after 3,000 cycles.

Simple Wear Graph

Relative Wear vs. Monthly Cycles

Approx. Door Cycles / Month Relative Wear Level
100 Low โ–“โ–“
300 Medium-Low โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“
600 Medium โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“
900+ High โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“โ–“

When To Upgrade To Heavy Duty

    • You hear sharp pops at panel joints
    • The door is full view aluminum or has extra weight
    • You see oval screw holes or bent leaves
    • You have a high-cycle setup and want longer life

Heavy duty hinges use thicker steel and stronger knuckles. They resist flex and can reduce noise on heavy doors.


DIY Or Pro

You can replace standard hinges at mid-panel joints with care. Bottom brackets and anything tied to cables or springs should be handled by a trained tech. Safety first, always.

Need fast help. Local Garage Doors has same day service in many areas.
Book an appointment online


Cost Snapshot

    • Standard residential hinge: usually low cost per piece
    • Heavy duty hinge: a bit more, but lasts longer
    • Pro tune up: often the best value, since it covers rollers, lube, tighten, and safety checks in one visit

Call 866-337-1631 for current pricing. We will match the right part to your door and your budget.


Why Choose Local Garage Doors

    • 5 star rating on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack
    • Friendly techs who explain each step
    • Stocked trucks for same visit fixes in most cases
    • Clear estimates, no surprises
    • Real parts that fit your brand and model

Email: info@localgaragedoors.com
Call: 866-337-1631
Book an appointment online


FAQs

What garage door hinge number do I need
Match the number to the joint position. Lower joints often take #1. The next joints move up to #2 and #3. Tall doors may use #4 or #5. If numbers are missing, use our chart or send photos and we will confirm.

Can I mix brands
Many residential steel doors accept standard replacement hinges. Some brands and custom doors use unique hardware. When unsure, contact us with the door brand and clear photos.

When should I replace hinges
Replace when you see metal cracks, bending, or elongated screw holes. Also replace if the door makes sharp popping sounds at joints.

Do I need to replace brackets too
If a bracket is bent, rusted, or loose, yes. Never remove a bottom bracket or cable while under tension. Call a pro for bottom bracket work.

How often should I lube hinges
Every 3 months or about every 3,000 cycles. Use garage door lube on hinge knuckles and rollers.

My top panel has a gap at the header. What now
A small top-bracket adjustment can help. If the gap is large or the door rubs, schedule a pro tune up.

Are heavy duty hinges worth it
Yes for heavy or high-cycle doors. They reduce flex and last longer.

Can I change a bottom bracket myself
No. It is tied to the cable under spring tension. Call Local Garage Doors for safe service.


Ready To Get The Right Hinge And Bracket

Local Garage Doors will size, supply, and install the correct garage door hinge and garage door bracket.
Email: info@localgaragedoors.com
Call: 866-337-1631
Book an appointment online
Proud to hold 5 star ratings on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack.

We offer the following garage door services:

We also provideย garage storage solutions & garage screen solutionsย to home owners who have garage doors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your garage door, contact us today toย request an estimateย orย schedule service. For immediate assistance, you canย call or text our office at 866-337-1631

Related Articles:

    1. Expert Garage Door Repair Service
    2. Reliable Garage Door Off Track Repair
    3. Expert Garage Door Torsion Spring Repair

 

Categories Garage Door Miscellaneous, Garage Door Openers, Garage Door Repair

Why Your Garage Door Opens by Itself

Garage Door Opening On It's Own

Why Your Garage Door Opens by Itself

Have you ever noticed your garage door opening on its own without anyone touching the remote or wall button? Itโ€™s frustrating, confusing, and can even feel unsafe. The good news is that this problem is more common than you think, and there are clear reasons why it happens.

At Local Garage Doors, weโ€™ve helped thousands of homeowners across California, Arizona, Colorado, Texas and Nevada with garage door opener issues. With our 5-star ratings on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack, you can trust us to find the problem fast and fix it right the first time.

๐Ÿ“ž Call 866-337-1631, email info@localgaragedoors.com, or Book an appointment online today.


Common Reasons Your Garage Door Opens by Itself

Here are the most frequent causes:

Cause Explanation Quick Fix
Dirty or Blocked Sensors Sensors act like the โ€œeyesโ€ of your garage door. If blocked, they think somethingโ€™s in the way. Clean and remove clutter near the sensors.
Misaligned Sensors If the sensor beam is off, the opener thinks thereโ€™s an obstruction. Adjust or tighten brackets until aligned.
Remote Interference A neighborโ€™s remote or a stuck button could send false signals. Replace remote batteries or reset codes.
Wiring Issues Loose wires inside the opener may trigger false signals. Call a professional for inspection.
Control Board Malfunction If the openerโ€™s brain goes bad, it may act unpredictably. Replace or repair the opener.

Quick Checklist Before Calling a Pro

โœ”๏ธ Check and clean your photo-eye sensors
โœ”๏ธ Remove clutter around the garage door area
โœ”๏ธ Test your remote and wall button for stuck contacts
โœ”๏ธ Replace old remote batteries
โœ”๏ธ Reset your garage door opener system

If your garage door still opens on its own after trying these steps, itโ€™s time to call a professional.


Why Professional Help Matters

Your garage door is a heavy, complex system with moving parts, electrical wiring, and safety mechanisms. A door that opens by itself isnโ€™t just inconvenient โ€” itโ€™s a security risk.

Local Garage Doors provides:

Donโ€™t leave your garage (and your home) vulnerable.

๐Ÿ“… Book an appointment online or call 866-337-1631 today.


FAQ: Why Your Garage Door Opens by Itself

Q: Can a neighborโ€™s remote open my garage door?
Yes, older openers without rolling-code technology can accidentally sync with nearby remotes. Updating your garage door opener can solve this.

Q: How do I know if my sensors are the problem?
If the garage door closes halfway and reopens, or the garage door wonโ€™t close at all, misaligned or dirty sensors are often the cause.

Q: Should I try to fix wiring issues myself?
No, garage door opener wiring should always be handled by a professional to avoid safety hazards.

Q: How do I prevent this problem in the future?
Schedule regular garage door maintenance and safety inspections with Local Garage Doors. Preventative care keeps your system running smoothly.

We offer the following garage door services:

We also provideย garage storage solutions & garage screen solutionsย to home owners who have garage doors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your garage door, contact us today toย request an estimateย orย schedule service. For immediate assistance, you canย call or text our office at 866-337-1631

Related Articles:

    1. Why Is My Garage Door Randomly Opening?
    2. Why Your Garage Door Opener Wonโ€™t Work?
    3. When to Replace Your Garage Door Opener?

 

Categories Garage Door DIY, Garage Door Miscellaneous, Garage Door Repair, Garage Door Won't Close, Repair Services

Why My Garage Door Will Not Close?

Why Garage Door Will Not Close

Garage Door Wonโ€™t Close? Hereโ€™s Why + How To Fix It

Is your garage door stuck open and refusing to shut? Whether youโ€™re coming home from work or heading out for the day, a garage door that wonโ€™t close is a big problem. It can leave your home, cars, and valuables exposed.

Donโ€™t worry โ€” Local Garage Doors is here to help.

Weโ€™ve put together the most common reasons why your garage door wonโ€™t close, and what you can do about it.

๐Ÿ“ž Need help now? Call 866-337-1631 or Book an appointment online
โœ‰๏ธ Email us: info@localgaragedoors.com
โญ Rated 5 stars on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack!




Top Reasons Your Garage Door Wonโ€™t Close


โœ… 1. Something is Blocking the Sensors

Garage doors have photo-eye sensors to stop the door from closing if somethingโ€™s in the way. These safety features can get triggered by small objects, dirt, or even sunlight.


Common Sensor Blockers:


Obstruction Type How to Fix
Toys Move them away from the sensor path
Tools Remove from garage door area
Leaves/Debris Sweep the sensor beam zone
Storage Boxes Clear clutter near the tracks

๐Ÿ“ธ Pro Tip: Wipe the sensor lens clean with a soft cloth.




โœ… 2. Misaligned Sensors

Even if nothing is blocking the path, your garage door may still not close if the sensors are misaligned. They must “see” each other to work properly.

How to Check:


      • Look for flashing sensor lights


      • Ensure both sensors are pointing directly at each other


    • Gently adjust brackets and tighten screws




โœ… 3. Power or Remote Issues

If youโ€™re pressing your garage door remote and nothing is happening, check these first:


      • ๐Ÿ”Œ Power supply: Is it plugged in?


      • โšก Breaker or fuse: Has it tripped?


    • ๐Ÿ”‹ Remote batteries: Try replacing them




โœ… 4. Manual Lock Is Engaged

Sometimes the garage door is in manual mode. This often happens during power outages.

Look for a red cord hanging from the opener rail. If itโ€™s pulled, the opener is in manual. To fix:


      • Pull the cord again toward the garage door


    • Re-engage the door into the opener carriage




โœ… 5. Broken Hardware or Track Issues

If your garage door:


      • Makes grinding sounds


      • Gets stuck halfway


    • Starts to close then opens again

โ€ฆthere might be a mechanical issue.

๐Ÿ”ง Possible Problems:


๐Ÿ“ž These issues are dangerous โ€” call Local Garage Doors at 866-337-1631 to inspect and repair safely.




๐Ÿงฐ Garage Door Troubleshooting Checklist


Step What to Check Quick Fix
1 Clear the sensor path Remove objects & wipe lens
2 Sensor alignment Adjust until light is solid
3 Remote or wall button Check batteries & power
4 Manual lock engaged Reconnect red release cord
5 Track or hardware damage Call a professional




๐Ÿ”Ž Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Why does my garage door go down and then back up?

This usually means the sensors are blocked or misaligned. Clear the path and check the alignment.


Can I fix a garage door that wonโ€™t close by myself?

Yes โ€” for simple issues like sensor blockage or remote problems. For mechanical problems, always call a professional.


How do I know if my garage door sensors are bad?

If the sensor lights are off, blinking, or wonโ€™t stay steady, they may need repair or replacement.


Is it safe to force my garage door closed?

No. Forcing it can cause damage or injury. Identify the issue or contact a technician.


Do you offer emergency garage door repair?

Yes! Local Garage Doors offers 24/7 emergency repair in California and Nevada. Call 866-337-1631 anytime.




๐Ÿ“ž Call Local Garage Doors โ€” Fast, Trusted, 5-Star Rated

At Local Garage Doors, weโ€™ve helped thousands of homeowners across California and Nevada. From minor fixes to full replacements โ€” weโ€™ve got you covered.

โœ… 5-Star Reviews on Yelp, Google, Facebook, and Thumbtack
โœ… Licensed
โœ… Emergency Services Available 24/7
โœ… Same-Day Service in Most Areas

๐Ÿ—“๏ธ Book an appointment online
๐Ÿ“ž Call Now: 866-337-1631
โœ‰๏ธ Email: info@localgaragedoors.com



We offer the following garage door services:


We also provide garage storage solutions & garage screen solutions to home owners who have garage doors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your garage door, contact us today to request an estimate or schedule service. For immediate assistance, you can call or text our office at 866-337-1631

Related Articles:


      1. Expert Garage Door Repair Service


      1. Reliable Garage Door Off Track Repair


    1. Expert Garage Door Torsion Spring Repair

 

Categories Garage Door Miscellaneous, Garage Door Openers

When Were Garage Door Openers Invented? A Brief History

When Were Garage Door Openers Invented? A Brief History

When Were Garage Door Openers Invented? A Brief History

Garage door openers are the heart of every modern garage. But have you ever wondered when and how this smart technology began?

In this blog, we explore the history of garage door openers, how theyโ€™ve evolved, and why Local Garage Doors is your go-to expert for everything garage door related.


๐Ÿ“œ The Early Days: Before Garage Door Openers

Before garage door openers were invented, people had to lift heavy garage doors manually. This was time-consuming, difficult, and sometimes dangerousโ€”especially with wood or metal doors that weighed over 100 pounds.

Problems With Manual Garage Doors:

Problem Description
Heavy lifting Required significant strength to open and close
Safety risk Risk of door falling or slamming shut
No security Easy for intruders to gain access
Limited convenience No remote or keypad access

๐Ÿš— 1921: The Overhead Garage Door is Born

The game changed in 1921 when C.G. Johnson invented the first overhead garage door in Hartford City, Indiana. Instead of swinging out, this door rolled upwardโ€”a much better design for cars and space.


โšก 1926: The First Electric Garage Door Opener

Just five years later, in 1926, Johnson introduced the first electric garage door opener. It used a basic motor and switchโ€”no wireless controls or apps yetโ€”but it laid the groundwork for the smart garage doors we have today.


๐Ÿ› ๏ธ Evolution of Garage Door Openers

Since 1926, garage door openers have come a long way:

Year Milestone
1926 First electric opener invented
1954 Remote control introduced
1990s Rolling code technology for better security
2000s Smartphone connectivity & smart home sync
Today Wi-Fi, mobile apps, and voice assistants

๐Ÿ”ง Types of Modern Garage Door Openers

Garage door openers now come in several types. Hereโ€™s a quick chart to help you choose:

Opener Type Noise Level Strength Best For
Chain-Drive Loud Very strong Heavy doors, colder climates
Belt-Drive Quiet Strong Attached garages, daily use
Screw-Drive Moderate Fast but limited Warm climates, fewer moving parts

๐Ÿ“ฑ Smart Technology: Garage Doors Go Digital

Today, garage door openers can connect to:

โœ… Smartphones
โœ… Wireless keypads
โœ… Security systems
โœ… Amazon Alexa or Google Home

This means you can open your garage from anywhereโ€”whether you’re on vacation or letting a family member inside.


๐Ÿ›‘ Donโ€™t Forget the Safety Features

Modern openers include safety technology like:

These features protect your home, your belongings, and your loved ones.


๐Ÿ† Trust Local Garage Doors For Your Opener Needs

Looking to upgrade, install, or repair your garage door opener? Local Garage Doors has you covered!

Why Choose Local Garage Doors?

โœ… 5-Star Ratings on Yelp, Google, Facebook & Thumbtack
โœ… Open 7 Days a Week
โœ… Trained Local Technicians
โœ… Fully Stocked Trucks for Same-Day Service
โœ… Affordable Pricing

๐Ÿ“ž Call Today: 866-337-1631
๐Ÿ“ง Email: info@localgaragedoors.com
๐Ÿ“… Book an appointment online


โœ… Quick Checklist: Do You Need a New Garage Door Opener?

Use this simple list:

    • โŒ My current opener is over 10 years old
    • โŒ It makes loud noises
    • โŒ I donโ€™t have remote or smart features
    • โŒ I want better security
    • โŒ It sometimes wonโ€™t open/close properly

๐Ÿ‘‰ If you checked even one box, itโ€™s time to call Local Garage Doors.


๐Ÿ“Š Fun Fact: Garage Door Opener Stats

Percentage of U.S. homes with an automatic garage door opener:
โžก๏ธ 1940s: <1%
โžก๏ธ 1970s: ~30%
โžก๏ธ 2000s: ~80%
โžก๏ธ Today: 90%+

Final Thoughts

The invention of the garage door opener in 1926 transformed how we live. It brought safety, comfort, and convenience to homes across the world.

Whether you’re replacing an old system or upgrading to the latest smart features, Local Garage Doors is the team to trust.

๐Ÿ“ž 866-337-1631
๐Ÿ“ง info@localgaragedoors.com
๐Ÿ“… Book an appointment online

Opener Ending:ย 

We offer the following garage door services:

We also provideย garage storage solutions & garage screen solutionsย to home owners who have garage doors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your garage door, contact us today toย request an estimateย orย schedule service. For immediate assistance, you canย call or text our office at 866-337-1631

Related Articles:

    1. Choosing The Right Opener Drive System
    2. How to Choose the Best Garage Door Opener Manufacturer for Your Home
    3. Which Garage Door Opener is the Quietest?