Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entries to your home. You open and close it every day as you come and go. Over time, wear and tear can take a toll on your garage door's appearance and performance. Upgrading to the latest garage door supply can refresh the look of your home's exterior while ensuring smooth operation.
I. Replace Worn Weatherstripping
One of the easiest upgrades is to replace worn weatherstripping around the garage door. Weatherstripping forms a seal that keeps out drafts, dust, and moisture. Check the weatherstripping on the bottom of the door as well as on the sides. Look for cracked, brittle, or missing sections. New weatherstripping made of vinyl, rubber, or foam can provide an improved seal.
When shopping, bring measurements to get the correct length needed for your door. Remove the old weatherstripping completely before installing the new materials. Carefully measure and cut the weatherstripping to size. Use a utility knife to trim. Seal the ends with caulk or sealant and allow to fully dry before closing the door.
II. Upgrade Window Panes
Many garage doors have window panes to allow natural light inside. These glass panes can become foggy, cracked, or broken over time. Replacing them improves visibility as well as enhances curb appeal. New window panes are available in single-strength glass, double-strength glass, acrylic, tempered glass, and low-E coated insulated glass.
Consider energy efficiency and impact resistance when selecting replacement panes. Tempered glass and acrylic panes withstand impacts. Insulated glass provides better insulation for energy savings. Measure carefully to get panes cut to the precise size needed. Use glazing points or silicone adhesive to secure in place. Be sure to follow manufacturer’s installation instructions.
III. Improve Lighting
Upgrading the lighting in your garage improves visibility and safety. Older fluorescent tube lights can flicker, produce a harsh glare, and fail unexpectedly. New LED garage light strips or panels provide brighter illumination that shines clearer and lasts longer.
LED lights consume less energy too. Hardwired and plug-in options are available. Hardwired lights require professional installation but provide seamless operation. Plug-in lights are easy to install yourself. Use self-adhesive or screws to mount panels or strips. Place lights to brightly illuminate key areas like door openings and work benches. Add motion sensors for hands free control.
IV. Install New Springs
Torsion springs lift and lower the weight of your garage door each time you use it. They wear out over time and will eventually break. Replacing old springs before they break prevents being stuck with an inoperable door. New torsion springs come in a variety of types and sizes.
Hire a professional garage door technician to complete torsion spring replacement. Special tools and expertise are required to adjust spring tension properly for smooth operation. Upgrading to anti-drop safety cables provides an additional layer of protection in case a spring breaks. Always replace springs in pairs on both sides for balance.
V. Upgrade Door Openers
Today's garage door openers offer major improvements over older models. Keyless entry pads provide keyless access. Smartphone apps allow for remote operation. Battery backup systems let you open and close the door during power outages.
New opener systems lift doors faster and have better energy efficiency. DC motors are ultra quiet. Features like motion detection, self-diagnostics, and automatic force settings enhance convenience and safety. Schedule professional installation and request product demonstrations so you can find the perfect modern opener upgrade.
VI. Improve Insulation
Poor insulation can make your garage uncomfortably cold in winter and hot in summer. Adding insulation improves temperature control and energy efficiency. For attached garages, inspect the insulation and seals between the garage and living space. Seal any air leaks between framing with caulk or foam.
For better insulation across the entire garage, install insulation panels on the interior walls and ceiling. Polystyrene panels are moisture-proof and easy to install using adhesive. Use at least R-10 insulation value on the walls and R-19 on the ceiling. Finish by installing drywall over the panels for a clean look.
VII. Enhance Appearance
Along with ensuring smooth operation, upgrading your garage door system allows you to improve its appearance. Add decorative hardware like handles, hinges, and windows for style. Refinish the surface with fresh paint or stain in your choice of color. Replace worn or damaged garage door panels with new steel, fiberglass, or wood panels.
Consider installing new siding or trim around the garage door opening. Vinyl and engineered wood siding options resist moisture and mimic real wood looks. Decorative trim adds attractive accents around the door perimeter. Curb appeal upgrades can make your garage door a standout feature on your home's exterior.
VIII. Renew Floor Coatings
Don't neglect the floor when upgrading your garage space. Renewing worn epoxy, enamel, or urethane coatings restores appearance and protection. Concrete floor coatings prevent damage from moisture, chemicals, and vehicles. They brighten up dingy floors while adding grip.
Use a degreaser and etch solution to prepare old concrete floors before reapplying a new coating. For the most durable and attractive finish, add color chips and non-slip textured additives. Install floor strips to delineate parking spaces or add company logos. A fresh floor coating keeps your garage space looking clean.
IX. Improve Ventilation
Good ventilation removes exhaust, fumes, and humidity from your garage's enclosed space. Outdated vents and fans limit air exchange. New exhaust fans have higher capacities to keep air continually circulating. Variable speed settings let you adjust ventilation as needed.
Vents placed high on walls and ceilings allow hot air to escape while drawing in fresh air low. Power ventilators with humidity sensors automatically switch on when excess moisture is detected. Install louver vents in garage doors to promote air flow. Keep air clean and prevent dampness by upgrading ventilation.
X. Add Storage Solutions
Finally, upgrading your garage should include ways to keep the space neatly organized. Sturdy wall-mounted cabinets provide enclosed storage to keep items dust-free and out of the way. Systems with adjustable shelves let you customize storage. Freestanding cabinets and utility carts lend flexibility to move storage around as needed.
Overhead storage lifts let you efficiently stow ladders, bikes, boxes, and other items overhead. For large gear, heavy-duty racks securely store items without taking up valuable floor space. Tailor storage additions to keep your upgraded garage free of clutter and chaos. A clean garage promotes productivity and efficiency.
Upgrading your garage goes beyond fixing what's broken. By improving all aspects of your garage systems and features, you can transform it into a functional and inviting place to park, work, and store. Use the latest garage door supplies to increase convenience, organization, energy savings, appearance, and safety. A refreshed garage boosts enjoyment of your home for years to come.
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