The Garage Door Has a Newfound Functionality in American Homes

Posted: Oct 03, 2012
Author: Doors by Nalley of Lake Norman, Inc.

The American home has evolved dramatically over the years, and so too has the garage – especially the garage door. It not only looks different but it has a taken on a newfound functionality. In more than 70 percent of US homes, people are entering and exiting their dwellings via the garage door, using it as a new front door.

Because the garage door is playing such a significant role, we want to help you make sure that this important entrance is secure and safe. We’ve teamed up with LiftMaster, a leading manufacturer of garage door openers, to bring you some tips on how to keep your garage door functioning at its best.

In this article, we’ll focus on maintenance, balance, and the safety reverse.

• Maintenance: All moving parts should be kept clean and lubricated – including the steel rollers.

• Balance: Close the garage door and pull the release mechanism, so that you can move the door manually. If the door is properly balanced (running freely on its tracks and correctly spring-loaded), you will be able to lift it smoothly and effortlessly. It should stay open about 3 or 4 feet above the floor.

• Safety Reverse: All garage openers made in the US have to include a safety reverse function in the form of infrared sensors – also known as photo eyes. These are installed on both sides of the garage door near the floor. There’s an invisible laser beam between the two sensors which, if broken by an obstruction, automatically reverses the door. Check that the sensors are not installed higher than 6 inches from the floor. If they are any higher, a person or animal might not be undetected.

Contact us through our website if you live in or around Charlotte in North Carolina.