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Comparing Garage Door Materials: Which One Is the Right Fit for You?

Feb 08, 2024

The most important factor when considering which type of garage door is best for your home is the material we will use. There are several crucial considerations to take into account when deciding which material to use for your New Garage Doors, the most important of which being durability, aesthetics and price point. Let us help you determine the best material to use for your location, style of home and budget!


The most commonly used garage door materials:

Your garage doors say a lot about your home and who you are as a family or business. You want your doors to not only mesh with the overall appearance of your home, but also fit within your budget and stand the test of time. That’s where we come in! Let us help you make the most important decision of your doors: which material to use.


While your budget may be the most important factor when determining which material to install, there are several other key considerations you should make. 

The climate you live in can make a difference in which type of door will be best. For example, steel doors may be the more cost-efficient option, but may require additional insulation. If you live in a colder climate, you might opt for aluminum or wooden doors to maintain a bit more warmth in your home’s exterior, and ultimately it’s interior.


The overwhelming favorite among homeowners when installing or replacing garage doors for the home (or business) are Steel Garage Doors. Steel doors provide a fairly lightweight and durable product, and at an affordable price point. At an average of $800 – $1500 per door, steel doors will generally be your most affordable garage door option. Steel is much less likely to dent than say an aluminum door, and comes with a wide range of design options and is quite durable to withstand harsh weather conditions.


Aluminum Garage Doors will be your most lightweight option and are generally very low-maintenance. They may dent a little more easily than steel doors but are more resistant to corrosion and will be your ideal choice for coastal areas. On average, aluminum doors will cost anywhere from $1000 – $2000 per door.

If you are wanting to opt for a more classic look, wooden garage doors can be a viable option. This will provide a timeless aesthetic, along with am increased amount of insulation, but at the risk of potentially requiring a bit more maintenance and upkeep years down the road. Wooden Garage Doors come in at the most expensive pricing point, ranging anywhere from $1500 – $5000 a door. That classic look sure does add some curb appeal to your home though.


Fiberglass doors tend to come in at a middle range price point, anywhere between $1200 – $2500 per door. They combine the beauty of wood with the added benefit of requiring a bit less maintenance. It also carries with it a much more affordable price tag. Fiberglass Garage Doors provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for the homeowner and will be more resistant to dents and rust than your traditional steel or aluminum garage door.


Commercial Garage Door Selection

At Mullis Garage Doors, we specialize in installing and replacing Commercial Garage Doors. Your selection on the type of garage door you will ultimately have installed at your business is of the utmost importance. We want nothing more than for you to have the perfect garage door(s) installed at your place of work. There are several key factors to consider:


The size of garage doors needed will be your first and most important factor. Will the garage hold heavy machinery and/or require a higher weight-bearing capacity? Should they be more durable and withstand the wear and tear of day-to-day business? Maybe you’d like your doors to match and mesh with the overall branding of your business. We can help alleviate some of the pressure in deciding which door may be best for your business by bringing to the table our years of knowledge and expertise. That way when your garage doors have been ordered, installed and serviced you can have peace of mind that it’s been done right and won’t require additional servicing or, God forbid, replacing earlier than it should have been. 


Lifespan of your garage doors is a key factor as well, and we can ensure that you’re getting the most out of your garage door system with seamless and professional installation and/or servicing on a regular basis

 


Garage Door Styles for Your Home or Business

While the material selection of your doors is probably the first decision you’ll make, the style of doors you want is second to none in matters of importance. You want your Garage Doors to match the style of your home, whether it be modern or contemporary, elegant or ergonomic. Let us help you figure out which style might be best for your home if you don’t already have a good idea of what you’ll want.


Generally speaking, your three styling options when it comes to your garage doors are traditional, carriage house, or contemporary. 


Traditional Garage Doors, as you might can tell by the name generally are the most commonly used doors due to their popularity and wide range of customization options. They will generally come in heavy duty steel and be either short or long-panel with window customization options.


One style of doors gaining popularity as of late are Carriage House Garage Doors. Generally made out of wood, these are trackless garage doors that swing open and shut. They can give a rustic feel to your home or business and provide more space than a traditional garage door. They also will usually require less maintenance due to the absence of tracks and motor components.


Maybe the best option for your home or business is a contemporary style garage door. When we say “Contemporary Garage Door” usually we just mean a door with clean lines, less paneling, and one that will fit in with a more modern feeling home. A lot of the time a more modern garage door will be made out of aluminum and will have glass windows at the top or on the sides.


Climate Considerations to Garage Door Selection

Ultimately, the key is to choose a garage door material that not only matches your home’s style, but also withstands the climate conditions in your area.

The area you live in is of the utmost importance when selecting the type of garage door you will use. Here in the Piedmont, we have a pretty mild climate and homes in and around the Concord/Cabarrus County area will not be heavily affected by snow and/or heavy winds. Steel or fiberglass material doors would be best for this type of climate due to it’s durability and longevity, but this will not be a primary concern for NC Piedmont area homeowners or business owners. An aluminum or wooden garage door might be sufficient to do the job in and around Concord, year round.


Whichever style door you ultimately decide on, we can help tailor it to match with the look and feel of your home or business. We’ve been around the block and have done this a time or two. If you have any specific questions about your garage door selection, feel free to let us know.


Garage Door Experts in and Around Concord, NC

When it’s time to select the type of garage door that will be best for your home or business, it’s important to consider the long-term implications. How will my selection affect the overall value and curb appeal of my home? How long will my garage door last? How often should I have my garage door serviced? These are all areas that we can help alleviate some stress in by offering our professional and experienced advice. 


If you’re in need of new garage doors or simply need repairs or maintenance done to your existing doors, give us a call! We’re just a click or call away.

The Vital Importance of Timely Garage Door Motor Repairs

24 May, 2024
Your garage door motor is the powerhouse behind the effortless operation of your garage door. It's an essential component that ensures your door opens and closes smoothly with just the push of a button. However, like any mechanical device, it requires regular maintenance and, occasionally, repairs to function optimally. At Mullis Garage Doors, we recognize the critical role your garage door motor plays and why it's important to address motor issues promptly. Here’s why timely garage door motor repairs are essential for your home's safety, convenience, and efficiency. 1. Ensuring Safety A malfunctioning garage door motor can create serious safety hazards. If the motor fails while the door is in motion, it could cause the door to drop suddenly, potentially leading to injuries or damage to your vehicle or other items stored in the garage. Regular repairs and maintenance of the motor reduce these risks, ensuring the door operates safely and reliably. 2. Preventing Further Damage Ignoring minor motor issues can lead to more significant problems over time. A struggling motor can put extra strain on other components of your garage door system, such as the springs, tracks, and cables. This can result in additional wear and tear, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Addressing motor issues early prevents a domino effect of damage, saving you time and money. 3. Maintaining Convenience The convenience of an automatic garage door is one of its main benefits. A faulty motor can turn this convenience into a hassle, making it difficult to open or close the door, especially in bad weather or when you’re in a hurry. Timely repairs ensure your garage door operates smoothly and consistently, maintaining the convenience you rely on daily. 4. Extending Motor Lifespan Regular maintenance and timely repairs can significantly extend the lifespan of your garage door motor. Addressing issues as soon as they arise prevents the motor from overworking and wearing out prematurely. At Mullis Garage Doors, our expert technicians can diagnose and fix motor problems, ensuring your motor lasts as long as possible. 5. Enhancing Security A properly functioning garage door motor is crucial for the security of your home. A motor that doesn’t work correctly can leave your garage door partially open or fail to close completely, compromising the security of your home and belongings. Ensuring your motor is in good working condition helps keep your home secure. 6. Energy Efficiency An efficient garage door motor can help conserve energy. Motors that struggle or operate inefficiently can use more electricity, driving up your energy bills. Timely repairs and maintenance keep your motor running efficiently, helping to minimize energy consumption and reduce your utility costs. Trust Mullis Garage Doors for Expert Motor Repairs At Mullis Garage Doors, we specialize in the repair and maintenance of garage door motors. Our skilled technicians are trained to handle a wide range of motor issues, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely. We use high-quality parts and provide reliable services to keep your garage door system in optimal condition. Regular Inspections and Preventative Maintenance Regular inspections are key to identifying potential issues with your garage door motor before they become major problems. We recommend having your motor inspected at least once a year by a professional. If you notice any signs of trouble, such as unusual noises, slow operation, or erratic behavior, contact us immediately for a thorough inspection and repair. Conclusion Your garage door motor is a crucial component that ensures the smooth, safe, and convenient operation of your garage door. Timely repairs and maintenance not only prevent safety hazards and costly damage but also enhance the overall efficiency and longevity of your garage door system. At Mullis Garage Doors, we are committed to providing top-notch motor repair services to keep your garage door running reliably year-round. Don’t wait for a minor issue to turn into a major problem – contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair service.

The Crucial Role of Garage Door Spring Repairs

24 May, 2024
When it comes to maintaining your garage door, the springs might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, they are one of the most critical components ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely. At Mullis Garage Doors, we emphasize the importance of timely garage door spring repairs. Here’s why keeping your garage door springs in top condition is essential for your safety, convenience, and peace of mind. 1. Safety Concerns Garage door springs are under immense tension, and if they break, they can cause serious injuries or even fatalities. A malfunctioning spring can lead to the door suddenly crashing down, potentially harming anyone or anything in its path. Timely repairs and maintenance of your garage door springs significantly reduce these risks, ensuring your family and property remain safe. 2. Preventing Damage to Other Components A broken or weakened spring can cause undue stress on other parts of your garage door system, such as the cables, rollers, and opener. This can lead to further damage and more costly repairs. By addressing spring issues promptly, you prevent a cascade of problems that could require extensive and expensive fixes down the line. 3. Maintaining Garage Door Balance The springs are responsible for balancing the weight of your garage door, allowing it to open and close smoothly. If a spring is damaged, the door can become unbalanced, making it difficult to operate manually and putting extra strain on the garage door opener. Regular repairs ensure your door remains balanced and functions effortlessly. 4. Extending the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Opener A properly functioning spring reduces the workload on your garage door opener. When springs are damaged, the opener has to work harder to lift the door, which can lead to premature wear and tear. Ensuring your springs are in good condition helps extend the lifespan of your opener, saving you from costly replacements. 5. Cost-Effective Maintenance Ignoring minor issues with your garage door springs can lead to major, more expensive problems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs of the springs are cost-effective strategies to keep your garage door system running smoothly. At Mullis Garage Doors, our expert technicians can identify and fix spring issues early, preventing costly emergencies. 6. Enhanced Security A garage door that doesn’t function properly due to spring issues can compromise the security of your home. A door that’s difficult to close or one that doesn’t stay closed is an open invitation for intruders. Ensuring your springs are in good condition helps maintain the security of your home, giving you peace of mind. Trust Mullis Garage Doors for Expert Spring Repairs At Mullis Garage Doors, we specialize in the repair and maintenance of garage door springs. Our skilled technicians are trained to handle all types of spring issues, ensuring your garage door operates safely and efficiently. We use high-quality parts and provide reliable services to keep your garage door system in optimal condition. Regular Inspections and Maintenance Regular inspections are key to identifying potential issues with your garage door springs before they become major problems. We recommend having your springs inspected at least once a year by a professional. If you notice any signs of wear, such as gaps in the coils, rust, or difficulty in opening and closing the door, contact us immediately for a thorough inspection and repair. Conclusion Garage door springs play a vital role in the overall functionality and safety of your garage door system. Timely repairs and maintenance not only ensure smooth operation but also prevent potential safety hazards and costly damages. At Mullis Garage Doors, we are committed to providing top-notch spring repair services to keep your garage door running safely and efficiently. Don’t wait for a problem to escalate – contact us today to schedule an inspection or repair service.

3 Reasons Why Your Garage Door Springs May Be Breaking

08 Feb, 2024
3 Reasons Why Your Garage Door Springs Might Break

The Dos and Don’ts of Garage Door Installation

08 Feb, 2024
We at Mullis Garage Doors would absolutely recommend that you hire a professional Garage Door Installation professional if you’re looking at installing a new garage door system. That being said, if you did want to do it yourself, there are some definite guidelines that you should follow. In this article we’ll outline for you the “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of such a process. Advantages of a Correctly Installed Garage Door There is a big difference between a properly installed garage door and one that may be faulty in any way. If there are any issues with your garage door system, it may either not work at all or otherwise become a nuisance by making sounds or not functioning properly. A well-installed garage door however offers many benefits to your home including added security against potential home-invaders, additional insulation to keep energy costs down, and an added sense of curb appeal to raise the overall value of your home. Which Size and Style Garage Door is Right for Your Home There are many different styles, types and sizes of garage doors, and it’s important to determine what might be the right fit for your home or business. Climate is also a factor and figuring out which material will best fit the area you live in will definitely be a factor. The first step will be getting exact measurements. Once you’ve done that, the style of architecture and the color scheme of the exterior of your home will definitely come into play in your garage door selection process. After that it is mostly preference as to which type of doors you’d like to install. Advantages of Hiring a Professional Installer While it may be a difficult decision in deciding whether or not to install your garage doors yourself, it is important to weight the advantages and disadvantages carefully. A DIY installation MAY end up saving money in the long run, usually hiring a professional garage door installer will save you time and the headache of running into any issues that may arise during the installation process. This process will require careful research and meticulous planning and ultimately depends on your confidence and willingness to invest time into the project. Which Material Should I Use for My Garage Door There are plenty of factors to consider when deciding the type of material to use for your Garage Doors including aesthetics, durability and ultimately preference. The area you live in may come into play as well. Aluminum doors are usually the most affordable and lightweight option and are resistant to corrosion. Steel doors can be a little more expensive but are very durable and very low maintenance. Wooden doors can be a great option for enhancing curb appeal for your home and offer a timeless look and finally fiberglass doors are very versatile and are resistant to any kind of denting making them a long-term option. Garage Door Openers Nothing could be more important than your garage door opening and shutting the right way. That’s kind of the whole point of a garage door! Understanding how this system works is crucial to the installation process and involves not only the remote opener but also the motor, belt drive or chain and sensors that detect obstructing obstacles. Familiarizing yourself with the various components of this system is of the utmost importance when installing a garage door system. Getting Your Garage Ready for the Install Obviously, clearing out your garage of any debris or clutter before the installation process is key to having a seamless install of your garage door system. Structural issues in the home are a common issue when doing an install. If everything isn’t perfectly level as it should be It can cause issue with the garage door fitting exactly as it should. Taking the time to prep for the installation process will ultimately save you time in the long run. Common Garage Door Installation Mistakes to Avoid The most common mistake when installing or replacing a garage door system is not aligning the tracks properly. If ever there is an issues with the door(s) getting stuck or not functioning properly, this is normally the issue. Another issue is not balancing the doors correctly. This can put unnecessary strain on the door(s) and cause issues with the chain or motor. Other problems can arise from not securing all of the hardware or even not insulating the doors correctly to where the garage will not retain its heat the way that it should. By being aware of these common mistakes you can avoid spending extra time and/or money in trying to remedy these unnecessary problems.

Maintenance & Repair

02 Feb, 2024
Listen to Your Garage Door: Signs It's Time for Maintenance and Repairs
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