The Hidden Dangers of Cheap Garage Doors

The Hidden Dangers of Cheap Garage Doors

Don’t Let a Cheap Door Cost You More—Get Expert Guidance Today

Discover why thousands of homeowners trust local garage door experts for safe, reliable installations. Schedule your free consultation and learn how to avoid costly mistakes.

It’s tempting to jump at what looks like a great deal, especially when it comes to a major purchase like a garage door. After all, a low price can feel like you’re saving money upfront.

But when it comes to garage doors, if the price seems too good to be true, it usually is. Many cheap doors sold by unofficial or unverified sellers come with hidden risks that can cost you much more down the line. By shedding light on the safety, legal and financial pitfalls of cheap garage doors, this article will show you why working with a trusted local expert is the smarter and safer investment.

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Why Some Garage Doors Are Dangerously Cheap

When you see affordable garage doors advertised at suspiciously low prices, it’s important to understand where those savings come from. The reality is that corners are cut when it comes to materials, safety and compliance with Canadian standards.

Here are just a few reasons to look out for overly cheap garage doors:

• Substandard Materials: Cheap doors are often made with thin-gauge uncoated steel that dents and rusts easily. Hardware, such as springs, hinges, brackets, and rollers, is often flimsy and wears down quickly, resulting in frequent repairs or premature replacement.
• Lack of Safety Standards: Many low-cost imported doors don’t meet Canadian regulations for polyurethane-insulated garage doors. Without proper documentation, they may release harmful VOCs and toxic gases into your garage and home, causing breathing issues, headaches, and other long-term health concerns.
• Unofficial Sellers: If someone shows up in an unbranded truck offering a garage door at half the price of established businesses, that’s a red flag. Many of these sellers push imported products that don’t meet Canadian safety or environmental regulations, leaving homeowners exposed to risk.

The initial savings might look appealing, but the real cost lies in the dangers these products bring into your home.

Major Safety and Performance Failures

Garage doors operate under high stress. When a cheap door fails, the results can be dangerous:

• Faulty Springs: Springs counterbalance the weight of the door, and they’re under tremendous tension. Low-quality, low-cycle springs are prone to snapping, causing the door to slam shut unexpectedly. Most doors weigh a minimum of 100lbs and can reach weights up to 400lbs, leading to property damage, vehicle damage, or even serious injury or death.
• Unreliable openers: Discount garage doors are often paired with discount openers that don’t integrate properly with safety mechanisms. This can mean the auto-reverse feature fails when it’s needed most. Markham Garage Doors only sells premium garage door openers from LiftMaster® that offer the ultimate in safety and security features.
• Flimsy construction: Panels built with inferior materials can warp, crack or buckle under pressure. Even something as simple as a strong wind or a minor bump from your car can compromise the door’s integrity, leaving your home vulnerable.

For families in Markham, garage door safety isn’t optional — it’s critical. A poorly built system puts your property, your security and your loved ones at risk.

The Environmental and Legal Consequences

Beyond safety, cheap garage doors come with environmental and legal problems. Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA), products sold in Canada must meet strict regulations regarding the chemicals used in insulation and other materials.

Many imported doors use insulation made with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are banned in Canada because of their harmful impact on the environment. By choosing a compliant, eco-friendly product, you can lower your carbon footprint and support CEPA compliance initiatives.

A Homeowner’s Quality Checklist

If you’re considering a new garage door, here’s a quick checklist to separate the reliable products from the risky ones:

• Ask for proof of CEPA compliance for the insulation.
• Inquire about the steel gauge, spring life cycle and hardware durability.
• Confirm the company has a physical address and a professional, branded presence.
• Verify that they’re an authorized dealer of trusted brands like Clopay®.

Taking these steps helps you avoid the headaches that come with buying cheap garage doors in Markham, Ontario.

Invest in Quality With Markham Garage Doors

The safest investment is always a reputable, local supplier. At Markham Garage Doors, we’ve been serving Markham, Richmond Hill, Toronto, Aurora, Newmarket and the surrounding communities for over a decade. Our garage doors are built with high-quality steel, long-life hardware and CEPA-compliant, pressure-injected polyurethane insulation.

We’re committed to delivering beautiful, functional products that keep your family safe and meet Canada’s strict safety and environmental standards.

Ready to invest in a safe, durable and compliant garage door for your home? Request service or get a quote today.

Modern vs. Traditional Garage Doors

Your home deserves a sturdy and high-quality garage door. Depending on your home’s style and aesthetic, you can choose from traditional or modern garage door styles. Understanding the differences and key characteristics is essential before deciding which suits your particular needs.  

Modern Garage Doors

Modern garage doors blend sleek design and advanced technology, enhancing functionality and curb appeal. With various materials, colours and styles, these doors cater to contemporary aesthetics while providing superior performance and convenience for homeowners. 

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Materials

Modern garage door styles come in various materials, each offering a unique set of benefits. The following materials provide a range of options to suit different needs and preferences:

• Steel: Steel is durable and low-maintenance but can rust, especially if scratched or punctured. Rust can also occur when water comes into contact with unprotected metal.
• Aluminum: This lightweight and rust-resistant material is ideal for areas with high humidity.
• Glass: Glass provides a sleek and modern look that allows natural light in. It is often paired with aluminum frames.
• Vinyl: Vinyl is durable and dent- and rust-resistant. It requires minimal maintenance.

Design and Aesthetics

Modern garage door designs feature sleek minimalism that complements contemporary architecture. They emphasize simplicity, clean lines and a sophisticated aesthetic that enhances the overall curb appeal of modern homes. Common styles include:

• Flush panels: These smooth, flat panels offer a clean and streamlined look.
• Recessed panels: This style offers subtle, geometric patterns that add depth and interest.
• Carriage house: This modern twist on traditional barn-style doors combines rustic charm with contemporary materials.

Colour Options

Modern garage doors offer extensive customization, allowing homeowners to choose from various colours to match their home’s exterior and personal taste and style. Here are some of the most popular colour options:

• White: White is a classic choice that complements almost any home style.
• Black: This hue offers a sleek and modern aesthetic, perfect for making a bold statement.
• Gray: Gray is versatile and highly contemporary, as it works well with various modern architectural designs.
• Brown: Wood tones offer warmth and a natural look. Brown is ideal for rustic-style homes.
• Iron Ore: This colour offers a cool and uniquely eye-catching appeal.

Functionality and Technology

Modern garage doors have advanced opener technological features that enhance convenience, security and functionality. These technological advancements, such as modern garage door openers, have also made garage doors incredibly user-friendly. Some key features include:

• Smartphone integration: This allows remote control and monitoring via mobile apps, providing real-time alerts and access from anywhere.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: This feature enables seamless integration with smart home systems for automated operation — some even come with voice control.
• Battery backup: This ensures that the garage doors can still operate during power outages, which helps maintain security and accessibility. 
• Advanced security features: One excellent feature is rolling code technology to prevent unauthorized access. Motion detection provides added security and safety.
• Energy efficiency: Insulated doors can help maintain ideal temperatures within the garage, mainly due to the tight seals around the door and panels, which prevent cold air from entering the garage.

Traditional Garage Doors

Traditional-style garage doors exude timeless charm and classic appeal, often featuring intricate designs and rich materials. These doors blend seamlessly with various architectural styles, offering a warm and inviting look. These garage doors prioritize durability and craftsmanship, which makes them a popular choice for homeowners seeking a more conventional aesthetic.

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Materials

Traditional garage doors often feature materials that emphasize durability while maintaining a classic aesthetic. These materials help create a warm, inviting look that complements traditional-style homes. These are some of the most common materials used:

• Wood: This timeless and natural material provides rich textures and grains. However, it does require a fair amount of maintenance to prevent it from warping or rotting, particularly in humid regions.
• Composite wood: Composite wood mimics a similar appearance to natural wood, offering slightly enhanced durability and requiring less maintenance. 
• Steel: This robust material offers excellent security. For a traditional look, you can easily design it with a wood-like texture and finish.
• Aluminum: This material is incredibly lightweight yet strong, sturdy and rust-resistant. For a classic appearance, it is often paired with wood. 

Design and Aesthetics

Traditional garage doors are characterized by their timeless and classic designs, often featuring decorative and intricate features. These designs certainly enhance homes’ overall charm and curb appeal, as they blend well with various architectural styles such as Victorian or Colonial. Some common styles you will find include:

• Raised panels: These doors include panels that help add depth and texture, which creates a sophisticated look.
• Carriage house: Like modern garage doors, traditional ones borrow from the old carriage house doors. These often include decorative hardware and a rustic finish.
• Rail and stile: This style features vertical and horizontal sections that create an excellent framed look, often adding mouldings for extra elegance.

Colour Options

When looking at traditional garage doors, you’ll note they offer a range of classic and timeless colour options that enhance their charm and blend seamlessly with various classic architectural styles. These colours help create a cohesive yet aesthetically appealing look that complements traditional homes. Some notable colour choices include: 

• Earthy browns: These tones range from light beige and taupe to rich walnut, providing a natural and inviting look.
• White: This clean and crisp colour is a versatile choice that complements a range of traditional home styles.
• Soft gray: Choose this colour for a subtle, sophisticated option that pairs well with several home exterior colours.
• Dark green: This colour is ideal for those looking for a touch of vintage charm that blends well with natural surroundings.

Functionality and Technology

Traditional garage doors typically feature basic mechanical systems, such as manual or automatic openers, and sturdy construction for reliable performance. However, many homeowners are now integrating modern technologies to enhance their functionality. Standard features of traditional garage doors include:

• Automatic openers: These have become standard in most traditional garage door setups, which provide ease of use.
• Insulation: Whether thick wooden doors or added insulation, this feature helps maintain temperatures and improve energy efficiency.
• Security features: These usually include basic locks and reinforced panels for added security.

Modern upgrades add enhancement and combine traditional designs’ charm with modern technology’s convenience. Some of the potential upgrades include:

• Smartphone integration
• Wi-Fi connectivity
• Battery backup

Contact Markham Garage Doors for Your New Modern or Traditional Door

If you’re a homeowner in the Markham, Ontario, area and looking for a modern or traditional garage door, Markham Garage Doors stocks a range of quality garage doors to suit any home style. We provide premium service and ensure the best experience when purchasing and installing a new door. Get in touch with us today and request a quote, or call us at 905-472-9178 for assistance.

Garage Door Materials: Which Is Right for You?

With the advent of the automobile came a need for a private facility where owners could shelter or protect their vehicles; hence, the concept of a dedicated garage rather than a more multi-purpose structure such as a barn or carriage house. It would naturally follow that the often heavy, awkward and inflexible doors of barns and carriage houses would evolve into more aptly designed garage doors.

Initially, garages were often built separately or detached from the home, and the garage doors were primarily made of wood. As time progressed and attached garages became the preferred residential design, garage doors became an integral part of the exterior appearance or aesthetics of the home. Add advancements in technology with respect to garage door construction into the mix and, to paraphrase an oft-used expression, what is available today ‘is not your grandfather’s garage doors.’

Residential property owners today can select from many different types of garage doors. Each material offers a number of advantages based on specific homeowner needs. Understanding how various garage door options compare to one another will help you make an informed decision and find the best-suited system for your home.

What Is the Best Material for a Garage Door?

Many factors go into choosing a new garage door system for your house. Your style preferences, lifestyle, budget, and needs can all influence which garage door is best for you. One of the most important considerations is the door’s material.

Steel

Steel is the way to go if you’re looking for a popular garage door material that works well in all climates. Steel garage doors come in various design options and finishes, making it easy to find a style that complements your home. Some finishes can even replicate the look of natural materials like wood, offering a more affordable way to bring your design vision to life.

Steel garage doors are easy to maintain and feature multiple insulation options to create a more energy-efficient design at a cost-effective price.

Some of the key benefits of steel doors include:

• High durability
• Best insulation values
• Reasonable price
• Low maintenance

Wood

Wooden garage doors offer a traditional aesthetic that works well with all kinds of exterior styles and designs. With several different types of wood to choose from, homeowners can customize the look of their garage door, adding a charming touch to their property.

Custom wood doors are usually very expensive as they are handmade and built to complement or match your home’s exterior aesthetics. While the other types of wood doors are composed of very inexpensive wood and wood by-products that builders use to keep costs down.

Keep in mind that weather and outdoor conditions can have an impact on your garage door — especially if you don’t regularly maintain it. Changes in temperature or wet, cold, and humid environments like we experience in Ontario, can cause your door to expand, shrink, split or warp, so wooden garage doors typically work best in mild, dry climates.

When properly cared for, you’ll be able to preserve the appearance and integrity of your wooden garage door and enjoy customization features that enhance the beauty and function of your home.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass garage doors are the lease common option with little to no suppliers in Canada. Unlike entry doors, where fibreglass is a very common option, the size of a garage door to be constructed similar to an entry door would be too heavy and the cost unaffordable. Due to this lack of quality, most fibreglass doors exterior top finish will start to deteriorate in as little as 3-5 years.

Aluminum

No matter your design preferences, you’ll likely find an aluminum garage door that suits your unique aesthetic vision. This garage door style is easily customizable and gives homes a contemporary look that will turn heads. Along with plenty of design capabilities, aluminum doors with window panels will allow natural light in, adding a bright and beautiful appearance.

These doors are lighter than materials like steel. Aluminum does offer the benefit of being rust-resistant even when exposed to high humidity. While aluminum garage doors work well in all climates, extreme heat can impact their durability.

Wood Composite

If you want to achieve the same classic look of a wood garage door but want a stronger and more durable design, wood composite is a great alternative. As a faux wood, this material is especially beneficial for wet, humid climates that would cause real wood to weather and rot. They are manufactured from recycled wood fibers that you can paint or stain to meet your style preferences.

These doors are constructed of sustainable materials and offer as many customization options as traditional wood. Even though they have a higher upfront cost, you’ll pay less in the long term because wood composite doors are strong and easy to maintain.

How to Choose the Best Garage Door Material

With all kinds of garage doors available, narrowing down the best option for your home can take time. Every material has unique pros and cons, which is why you want to evaluate a few key factors before making a decision:

Aesthetic and Style

What is your overall exterior design vision? Whether you want to achieve more of a traditional or modern style, certain garage door materials will fit your architecture and style better than others. Because your garage door is one of the most noticeable elements of your home’s exterior, you want to choose the right colour and finish to boost your curb appeal.

You can work with a professional to determine the right material that coordinates with your home’s unique design features and aesthetics.

Budget

When it comes to your budget, you need to consider a garage door’s initial and long-term maintenance costs. Are you more willing to pay a higher price upfront to have a low-maintenance, long-lasting garage door, or would you rather get a cheaper option that will likely require maintenance more frequently throughout its life span? In many cases, investing in high-quality materials will be more financially advantageous in the long term.

A garage door expert can help you find a material that suits your style preferences and budget.

Climate

Your local climate should also guide your decision-making process. For instance, wood may not be the best option if you live in colder climates that will benefit from selecting more durable materials with added insulation.

For homeowners in the Markham, Ontario, area, having an insulated garage door is a must for maintaining top energy efficiency and keeping your space feeling comfortable in colder weather.

Maintenance

Some types of garage door materials will require more upkeep and maintenance than others. Working with a garage door provider that offers service and repairs is best for ensuring your system is always working as intended and looking its best.

Safety Features and Technology

Safety should always be a top priority when selecting a new garage door. There are all kinds of add-on features you can utilize to enhance your system. From locking mechanisms to smartphone control, implementing advanced technology is easier than ever.

When exploring garage door upgrades for your home, ask about top-performance openers that have modern safety features to keep your home and family secure.

Markham Garage Doors Offers an Extensive Inventory From Top Manufacturers

Choosing new residential garage doors can be a daunting and exhaustive process and should be based on more than just their composition/material. To assist homeowners in the buying process, Markham Garage Doors has an extensive inventory of residential garage doors on full display in its 1000+ square foot showroom, located at 176 Bullock Drive, Unit 11, in Markham. 

Markham Garage Doors carries and installs garage doors from major manufacturers such as LiftMaster, Clopay, Equal, Haas Door, Richards-Wilcox and Steel-Craft. We’ll help you explore different garage door materials to find the perfect option for your home. 

If you are in the market for new or replacement residential garage doors, check out our extensive inventory or contact us online to request a quote for today!

How to Keep Rodents Out of Your Garage

Garages are a tremendous asset for our homes — they keep our vehicles safe, offer storage space and can be used as recreational rooms or workshops. However, since most homeowners will leave items in the garage unattended for long periods, it’s common for pests such as insects and rodents to make themselves at home. Mice, in particular, might see your garage as an excellent source of shelter, food and water.

If not stopped, pests can destroy your belongings and the structural integrity of your garage. Learn the reasons mice or rats might be targeting your home and how to prevent rats in your garage.

Why Mice Choose Garages

According to a 2019 American Housing Survey (AHS), 37% of Americans have seen rodents in their homes, with 39% finding them in their garage. Rodents are among the most dangerous garage pests because they can spread over 35 diseases, chew and burrow into your belongings and seldom arrive alone.

Chances are, you’ve encountered a rodent or insect in your garage at some point. But have you ever wondered why they seem to love garages so much? A few reasons include:

• Garages provide protection: Many homeowners struggle to keep bugs out of their garages and find it difficult to deter rodents from their homes throughout the seasons. This is often because garages protect pests from the warmth of the summer and the frigid cold of the winter. They might also seek your garage to hide from predators or if their outdoor home has been destroyed.
• Garages simulate a pest’s natural environment: Most bugs and mice are drawn to garages because they’re reminiscent of their natural habitats — dark and warm with bountiful materials and debris to burrow and nest in. 
• Pests are attracted to smells: Your garage can be a source of tempting smells that may attract rats and insects, such as garbage or plants.
• Garages provide a food source: Mice will eat most grain-based food, such as dog food or bird seed, which is commonly stored in garages.
• Garages offer various hiding places: Mice prefer small, protected spaces that aren’t too damp so they can hide or nest. They may take up residence in storage boxes, walls or car engines.

5 Steps to Keep Rodents Out

Many homeowners struggle with mice infestations, especially when their homes reside next to empty fields, lots or unoccupied buildings. Fortunately, there are several ways to deter mice from your garage and protect your home and belongings.

If you’re struggling with a garage mice infestation or want to be proactive, consider the following precautions:

1. Maintain an Organized Space

Since rodents tend to take residence in your garage when you leave it unattended, it’s an excellent idea to sweep the area every few weeks. By storing items off the ground and staying as organized as possible, you can rid your garage of the dark, tiny places mice love to burrow and nest in. If you use your garage primarily for storage, regularly checking in and keeping the space clean and tidy can prevent mice from using it to hide and nest.

2. Seal Access Holes

Most mice can fit through a hole just a quarter of an inch in diameter. It’s essential to seal any access holes, cracks or crevices in your garage’s ceiling, floor and wall materials to prevent pests from invading your space.

Follow these steps to rat-proof your garage:

1. Install weather stripping to prevent entryway through doors and windows.
2. Use silicone-based caulk to seal cracks, holes and crevices within your garage walls, windows, doors, foundation and roofing.
3. Apply masonry sealer to large openings in stone, concrete or brick.
4. Block holes in window screens with a screen repair kit — they’re available at most home supply stores.
5. Place vent covers over access points to your plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system, like dryer vents or duct openings.

3. Eliminate Desirable Resources

One of the most significant ways to deter rodents from your garage is by making the space inhospitable. To eliminate their most desirable resources, you’ll want to:

• Lock up food: Remove food attractions by using covered trash containers and cleaning your cooking grills regularly. If possible, try to keep food waste out of your garage until trash pickup day.
• Use plastic storage containers: Use plastic containers with tight-fitted lids to store decorations, food and other goods rather than cardboard boxes. This way, rats can’t hide or make nests out of the material.
• Trim nearby trees or shrubs: Prevent rodents from getting close to your garage by eliminating nearby hiding spots. Trim any trees or shrubs close to your garage that may provide them cover.

4. Place Traps

If you find potential problem areas or access points, laying traps can help you get rid of mice in your garage and prevent them from returning. Remember to keep children and pets away from your garage if you use toxic or spring-loaded traps. Release rodents at least a mile from your home to keep them from coming back.

A few vulnerable spots to place pesticides, sprays or traps can include:

• Interior and exterior walls
• Windows
• Doors
• Roof eaves

5. Fortify Your Garage Door

While many rodent infestations occur through cracks or crevices, other mice simply enter through the garage door. To ensure your garage isn’t vulnerable to rodents, follow these necessary steps to fortify it:

• Apply weatherstrip: Many mice might chew through the weatherstripping to get into your garage. Ensure your garage doors and windows are adequately sealed and apply new weatherstripping in these areas if needed.
• Ensure your door closes completely: Make sure your garage door closes without any gaps and responds to your controls. Promptly call professionals to make necessary repairs to your garage door, remote or operating system.
• Consider replacing your garage door: If your garage door is particularly old or damaged, you may want to consider replacing it. A new door can protect you from rodents and keep your home safe while saving you money on pest control and energy costs.
• Keep up with garage door maintenance: It’s a great idea to regularly clean debris from your garage door to prevent buildup and damage. Professionals can also perform a routine maintenance check to ensure your garage door is running smoothly and protected from pest invasion.

Protect Your Garage With Help From Markham Garage Doors

While there are many ways rodents can enter a garage, there are also several steps you can take to protect your home and belongings. Sealing entryways and maintaining your garage door can significantly deter mice or rats. It’s also crucial to contact a professional door servicing company when you’re concerned about your garage door.

Markham Garage Doors can provide routine maintenance, such as sealing and weatherstripping, while also taking care of serious problems to prevent rodents from invading your garage. We offer same-day services and quality repairs for your needs.

To schedule garage door services, contact us today! 

5 Garage Conversion Ideas

What’s a homeowner to do in the middle of one of the coldest winters in recent memory here in Markham? Aside from trying to keep your driveway and sidewalks free of snow and ice, you’re probably not getting into too many outdoor activities in what has been either double-digit below-freezing temperatures, or mini ice storms.

But being stuck indoors can leave you at a loss for what to do next. Here’s a suggestion, next time you’ve had enough of Netflix, reading and social media, you can start thinking of the possibilities for converting your garage into a living space.

Even if the thought hasn’t entered your mind, the idea of it is intriguing, especially when you check out some of the possibilities.

If this sounds interesting, and its hailing outside, sit back and take a look of just some of the possibilities for your garage.

Increase Your Home’s Value With These Garage Conversions

1. Instant Home Addition

Well, maybe not instant in the sense of ‘right this minute’, but certainly faster and less costly than building an extension to your home.

One of the first examples we ever saw of using an attached garage to add living space was right here in Scarborough. If you’ve never heard of the ‘Ben Jungle’, it is the neighbourhood of typical 1950s Scarborough bungalows on the north side of Lawrence Ave., between McCowan and Brimley, where all the streets have ‘Ben” in their names, including Benleigh Drive, Ben Stanton Blvd., and, maybe coolest of all, Benorama Crescent.

Unlike many houses of the era, most Ben Jungle homes were built with an attached garage, even though the homes were relatively small compared to today’s standards. To open up space in the home for a larger family, one homeowner created a formal dining room in the garage. You could also create a bedroom, family room or any other space for which you would otherwise need to build an addition.

2. Hobby Room

If you’re indeed stuck inside, it might be a great time to indulge in your hobby, like artistic painting, modeling or scrapbooking. The problem is that many hobbyists need to put everything away when not actually taking part in the hobby, and bring it all out again when they’re ready to go. If you want a dedicated space where you can indulge in your hobby any time, your garage can be it.

3. Home Gym

This one can even pay for itself over time. While many fitness buffs might have one or two pieces of equipment at home, buying a gym membership is usually needed to get all the facilities they want for a good workout. But you can save the membership fees and have the space for different machines, as well as an aerobics and stretching area, right in your garage – and you don’t have to drive to get there!

4. Brew Pub

They are trendy places to go for a night out. But, if you brew your own beer and/or make your own wine, not only does your garage offer lots of space for all that fermenting, but you can have your very own brew pub in your garage. This is one that you can take to any level you want, from a bare-bones brewery and bar, to a fully decorated and ‘lit’ nightspot.

5. Home Entertainment Centre

Home entertainment has come a long way. It used to be just a TV and a stereo. Now, to do it right, you need a multi-seat home theatre, including a couch-shaking sound system, a dedicated hi-def gaming screen, seating and two or three different brands of game consoles, a popcorn machine, fridge and (are you ready for this?) a space for a VR system.

It’s kinda fun thinking of everything you can do with your garage, isn’t it? Maybe until it comes time to actually do it! If you’d like to instantly improve the look of your garage, consider getting a new garage door! Markham Garage Doors has the only showroom in Markham, so you can browse our selection while waiting out this cold winter! Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.

Insulated Garage Doors

Garage doors don’t only provide cover to protect your vehicle and secure your assets — they have numerous other benefits, too. An insulated door is especially beneficial because of its heat retention and temperature-control properties that help you reduce electricity costs.

An unheated garage or uninsulated garage door only retains the heat lost from your home, specifically the surrounding rooms. Newer model garage doors have an airtight seal around the frame and between the panels, preventing cold air from entering your garage.

Learn more about why you should invest in garage door insulation below.

Advantages and Considerations of Garage Door Insulation

Any internal or external upgrades to improve features in and around your home have their benefits and drawbacks. There are more advantages to having your garage door insulated than not. They include:

• Improved durability: Garages are inherently tough to withstand strong winds and other forces. Insulation reinforces its strength, improving its performance in extreme weather conditions.
• Quieter operation: Added insulation promotes smoother, quieter garage door operation. 
• Insulation options: Two insulation options are available to choose from. The first is polystyrene or styrofoam. This is sandwiched between the two metal door layers but offers less insulation support because it doesn’t fill the door’s entire inner layer, meaning tiny gaps may still allow air to pass through. The other is polyurethane, a more commonly used and effective material. It is a pressure-injected foam substance inserted between the garage door’s steel layers, filling it completely to close all gaps. About 90% of our Clopay insulated garage doors are installed with polyurethane foam.

Aside from the initial investment, adding insulation has no significant disadvantages. Note that insulation is less effective if the garage door is kept open extensively or opened and closed more frequently. 

Money-Saving Benefits of an Insulated Garage Door

An insulated garage door is an investment that will serve you long-term. We’ve listed some benefits that will impact your pocket in different ways.  

1. Lower Energy Costs

A room built above your garage adjusts to the temperature in the garage. Other adjacent rooms are also affected because you’ll use the HVAC unit to heat and cool your home. You’ll likely use more electricity in doing so. An insulated door can keep a garage warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Let’s consider the following example. After learning that an insulated garage door would make a difference to the temperature inside his garage, a Markham homeowner installed one. He recorded some temperatures inside and outside the garage before and after the door was installed to determine the difference.

These were his findings:

• Before installation: With an outside temperature of 10 degrees, the inside temperature was 36 degrees. 
• After installation: With an outside temperature of minus 5 degrees Fahrenheit, the garage temperature was 43 degrees.

This meant the insulated doors kept the garage 7 degrees warmer, even though the outside air was 15 degrees cooler. Although this is an example, it demonstrates the efficiency of insulation, especially how you’ll benefit from heat gain and loss in the cold and hot seasons. 

R-Value Insulation

Insulated garage doors have varying measures to determine how well they can resist heat transfer into and out of your garage in extreme weather conditions, whether hot or cold. This measurement is called the R-value. The rule of thumb is that the higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

For example, an R-value of 0 means there’s no insulation, while a higher R-value provides a higher insulation. Most of our Clopay doors have an R-value of 12.9 or 18.4, while others have an R-value between 8 and 10. This makes our garage doors suitable to achieve your insulation goals.

2. Longer-Lasting HVAC Equipment

An insulated garage door helps control the temperature in the garage so the HVAC unit is used less frequently in surrounding rooms. You save on energy costs by keeping your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Your heating and air conditioning equipment will not switch on and off as often. It also won’t have to operate as long, helping extend its usage life span. 

3. Reduced Strain on Your Car

While your car will start up in the colder temperatures, it endures more strain. The insulated door in the example above maintained a 48-degree difference between the outside and inside air versus a 26-degree difference for the uninsulated door. That means your car is starting in about 10 degrees colder temperatures. 

An insulated garage door will help control the temperature to avoid extreme cold in the winter. This reduces the effort it takes to start and cuts down on time to warm up, extending the motor life and making your vehicle more comfortable to drive in less time.

4. Added Home Value

If you sell your home, an insulated garage door can impact your asking price. You can highlight the different benefits prospective buyers could enjoy. These include saving on energy bills, equipment storage costs and extending their car’s life. Insulated garage doors also keep the garage quieter. They look better, last longer and drown out noise pollution. New homeowners can even convert the garage for added living space like a playroom, home office or gym. 

Call Markham Garage Doors for Your Insulated Garage Door Installation

Installing an insulated garage door is a necessity if you consider the advantages. Markham Garage Doors has an impressive range of suitable doors in various materials, styles and colours for all homes in the Markham area. We meet your requirements and tailor installations to your unique specifications. Trust us to get the job done right.

Request an estimate for your new insulated garage door today! You can also visit our showroom in Markham to view our selection.

Black Garage Doors That Can Modernize Your Home

When you imagine a garage door, black might not be the first colour that comes to your mind, but black garage doors have been a growing trend for homes over the last few years. If you’re looking to modernize your home’s exterior, we have a variety of the best black garage door options for you at Markham Garage Doors.

Modern Black Garage Door Home Benefits

Some advantages of installing a black garage door for your home include:

• A fresh, modern look: If you ever get tired of looking at the front of your home because it’s too plain or boring, installing a black garage door can fix your problem almost immediately. Not only does it add a little bit of contrast to your home, but it also makes the outside look newer and more modern. So, the next time you walk out into the yard, you’ll feel good about what you see.
• Increased property value: Replacing your garage door is a great way to increase your home’s value — and replacing it with a modern black door can increase it even more!

Top Black Garage Door Options We Offer

If you’re looking for an attractive, reliable black garage door to install on your property, Markham Garage Doors offers multiple styles that will improve your home’s aesthetic.

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GALLERY® Collection Garage Doors

One of our best black garage door options is the GALLERY® collection by Clopay®. You can buy the doors in a number of colours, including black, charcoal and ultra-grain oak slate finish. These are carriage house style garage doors with large windows that let in some light and help keep the garage from being dark and stuffy.

The windows come in almost two dozen different designs with multiple types of glass options. You can also choose to have your garage doors made with or without insulation depending on your individual needs. Take a look online for more decorative hardware options.

Modern Steel™ Collection Garage Doors

Our other top black garage door for sale is part of the Modern Steel™ Collection. Like the GALLERY® collection garage doors, these also come in the attractive shades of black, charcoal and ultra-grain oak slate finish.

The Modern Steel™ Collection doors come with flush panels or grooved panels, as well as a multitude of window designs. For instance, one of our popular designs is flush panel with four windows down the side. This gives the door a contemporary feel that many other decorative window inserts fail to replicate.

Many customers also choose the flush panel choice over other black garage door options thanks to its strength and insulation capabilities. If you want something durable and pleasing to the eye, this is the best garage door we have for sale.

Choosing black garage doors from either of these collections will allow you to strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Give us a call at 905-472-9178 or contact us online.

Revamp Your Home with Stylish Black Garage Doors From Markham Garage Doors

How Does a Garage Door System Work?

There are numerous garage door components that work together to create its operating system. Your garage door not only protects your vehicle, equipment and storage, it provides security from intruders. It also creates a protective seal to best eliminate elements such as wind, rain and snow from entering the garage.

The average garage door is opened 3-5 times a day, over the year that can add up. However, many homeowners only notice the system when it malfunctions. Yet, it’s beneficial for every homeowner to learn how their garage door works.

By understanding the mechanics of a garage door system, you can identify minor issues before they become significant, know when your garage door requires maintenance or repairs and understand garage door parts.

Standard Garage Door Systems

Garage doors operate via a counterbalance system. A counterbalance system uses force to offset the weight of an object (your garage door). The two main types of garage door systems are:

1. Torsion spring system: A torsion spring system is the most common type of garage door system. With a torsion spring system, there are cables at the bottom corners of the door, and the torsion springs are above the door opening. When you close your door, the springs wind up and store energy. The springs release this stored energy when you open the door, which helps it lift.
2. Extension spring system: Similar to a torsion spring system, an extension spring system has cables at the bottom of the door. Unlike a torsion spring system, the springs attach to these cables at the bottom of the door. When the door closes, the springs stretch and store energy, which they release to lift the door upon opening.

Anatomy of a Garage Door System

A combination of its mechanics, parts and hardware and the garage door opener machine allow your garage door to operate quietly and reliably. You can better understand how your garage door system works by learning these different parts.

Garage Door Parts & Hardware

Several pieces of hardware work together to ensure your garage door operates dependably and smoothly. These hardware pieces include:

• Door: Most garage doors are sectional overhead doors. Garage doors have four or five horizontal panels connected by hinges. They can be made from various materials, like metal, wood, fibreglass and vinyl. Countless styles are available, ranging from sleek panels to decorative glass doors with and without insulation.
• Springs: Most garage doors feature either an extension or torsion spring system. Torsion springs are most common because of their superior quality, enhanced safety and longer life span. Typically, torsion springs last up to 10-15 years, while extension springs only last up to 5-7 years.
• Cables: Your garage door’s cables are braided steel wires that work alongside the springs to lift and lower the door. The size and weight of your door determine the thickness of its cables.
• Drums: The drums are located at the top of the door on both sides. The drums are responsible for holding the cable in place as the door opens and closes. This attaches to the torsion bar and acts as a pulley to lift the door when the torsion springs wind and unwind.
• Rollers: The rollers connect your door to its tracks and allow it to open and close. Nylon rollers are quieter than steel or plastic. When you properly care for your rollers by routinely lubricating them, they will roll along the track and not slide.
• Hinges: Hinges are on the garage door panels. They allow the sections to bend and retract when opening or closing the door. Professionals recommend more oversized garage doors have double hinges to help hold the door’s weight while it’s open.
• Tracks: There are vertical and horizontal tracks that assist with your door’s movement. Steel tracks are thicker, so they can support more weight and resist bending and warping.
• Reinforced struts: Reinforced struts help support the weight of double garage doors so they can be open for an extended time. 
• Weatherstripping & Bottom Rubber: Weatherstripping helps prevent exterior elements, like debris, pests and moisture, from entering. You can find it between the door sections, on the outer frame and along the bottom of your door.
• Centre support bracket: The torsion springs attach to the centre support bracket.
• Opener: Your garage door opener has a curved arm that attaches to the door. When you open or close your door, the motor in the opener allows the action by activating the spring system.

For lasting strength, dependability and performance, choose Clopay Garage Doors made of quality galvanized steel with a polyurethane foam injected insulation. 

Trust Markham Garage Doors for Your Garage Door System Repair and Installation Needs

Homeowners use garage doors daily to safely and conveniently enter and exit their homes. Thus, you want to ensure your garage door system is in good condition so it functions reliably and efficiently. Markham Garage Doors is a locally owned and operated company servicing homeowners throughout Markham, Mount Albert, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Whitchurch-Stouffville, Aurora and Scarborough. Our highly-skilled and friendly technicians will provide you with quality garage door services at an affordable price.

To learn more about our garage door repair services or quality products, contact us today by calling 905-472-9178 or completing our online contact form.

3 Garage Door Repair Myths Busted

Garage doors can be very deceptive. They can last for decades, which might make you think that you’ll never need a garage door repair. They are also very easy to operate, even when opening and closing them manually, which can lead you to believe they are always easy to handle.

Unfortunately, those deceptive characteristics of garage door have led to many myths about repairing them. Myths that, at best, can end up costing you more to repair and, at worst, cause you serious injury.

Don’t Believe These Garage Door Repair Myths

Even if you are a committed DIY repair person, and you’re handy around the house, the vast majority of garage door repairs should be handled by professionals. This is both for your personal safety and to save you money.

1. The Garage Door Isn’t Complicated, So it Should be Easy to Repair

How complicated can it be? The opener pulls it up, lowers it and that’s about all. But, for it all that to happen consistently, day after day, there is a complex system of springs, cables, rollers, bearings and hinged panels that must work in perfect balance. The result? There is probably no non-mechanized part of your home that is more complicated to repair than your garage door.

2. OK, It’s Complex, but That’s Just a Squeak

OK. Let’s say you notice the rollers are making a lot of noise along the track. So you put some oil in the roller tracks. You’ve just made the problem worse. Dirt and debris will cling to the oil in the tracks. But that’s not the worst problem. The added friction of the gummed-up tracks can cause your garage door to go out of balance. Now you have a real problem. A costly one. So even repairing a garage door squeak isn’t necessarily easy.

3. One of the Springs Broke, So I Only Need to Replace One Spring

First, replacing a door spring can be very dangerous and should only be done by a professional. But when a garage door repair person tells you to replace both springs, take their advice. The springs help keep your door balanced. As they age, they can stretch and weaken. If you replace only one spring, the new one will be stronger. The difference between the performance of the new spring versus the old spring can put your door out of balance.

Yes, there are some garage door repairs that you can do yourself. The hinges between the panels are lubricated in much the same way as any door hinge. If you’re not sure about repairing your garage door, call us at 905-472-9178 or fill out our online contact form, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.

How to Winterize Your Garage Door

You change the filter on the furnace. You top-up the antifreeze in your car. You buy road salt for the driveway. You do them all because you want to minimize the chances of an accident or inconvenience in the middle of winter.

So why don’t you winterize your garage door? It might not be a disaster, but the moment your garage door decides to not work will probably be the coldest, stormiest and darkest moment of the winter.

It might be a ways off, but now’s the best time to get your garage door ready for winter.

4 Steps to Winterize Your Garage Door

This is mainly just good-sense, regular maintenance to keep your garage door in good working condition.

1. Look and Listen

To the garage door opener that is. If it conks out, the door won’t open. When the door is in operation, listen for unusual sounds of grinding in the motor and squealing from the metal parts of the door.
Also look at the door as it raises and lowers. Make sure the bottom of the door stays parallel to the floor and that the door doesn’t ‘lurch’ as it travels.

2. Check That the Safety Features are Working

Sticking with the opener, it’s important the door’s two main safety features are working properly.
For the first safety feature, put a 2X4 on the garage floor across the line where the door touches the floor. Trigger the door to close. It should automatically stop and go backwards when it hits the 2×4.
You can test the second safety feature with a stick and empty cardboard box. Use the stick to push the box into the path of the door as it closes. Stay well away from the door’s path. The door should stop and reverse as the box goes between the two photo eyes on either side of the door opening.

3. Fasten Connections Where Needed

There are metal hinges between each garage door panel. The tracks along which the rollers run are connected to the ceiling of the garage. And so too is the garage door opener. Check all their fasteners and connections for tightness.

4. Add Lubrication

Lubricate the rubber seals between the door panels, along the bottom of the door and around the door frame. Lubricate moving metal parts including the door hinges, cables, springs, and rollers.  

There’s no guaranteeing that you’ll survive the winter without a garage door issue. But there are lots you can do to minimize it. And if you run into problems, contact Markham Garage Door. We’re happy to help in any way we can.