What is the one thing to do when your Garage Door suddenly stops working?

What is the one thing to do when your Garage Door suddenly stops working?

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What kind of garage door Opener and Door Do You Have? .


It is important to know the kind of garage door and opener you own before you begin troubleshooting.


Garage doors generally fall into several categories according to their design and operation.The most popular varieties are roll-up, sectional, and tilt-up doors.Sectional doors are made of panels that are joined by hinges that allow the door to bend as it closes and opens on a vertical track.Roll-up doors, often found in commercial environments, are constructed from the slats which roll into coils.

The tilt-up door on the contrary, is a solid, single piece that opens by tilting inward and upward.

Belt-drive garage door openers have a lower noise however, they employ a rubber band rather than a chain. They're an excellent choice for attached garages. Garage door openers with screw-drive make use of a rod made of steel for moving the garage door. This is the perfect option for noise and cost.


The next thing to do is to inspect your garage door opener and identify the type. Make sure to check the plug and breaker to ensure that the opener is operating. Inspect the manual release cable to be sure that it hasn't been pulled. This will cause the door to become disconnected from the opener. Inspect the rollers and tracks of the door to determine if there are damage or obstructions and remove any debris.

Lubricate moving parts if necessary in order to prevent lubrication issues. can cause sticking or jamming.

If the door still doesn't operate, think about resetting your opener.This will often fix electronic issues or faults.Consult the manual for your opener to find specific reset instructions, as the process may differ between models.Many modern openers feature a reset button, whereas others require disconnecting the plug and plugging it back in.


In some instances it could be more complicated for instance, a damaged spring or a motor that is worn out which will require expert assistance.Springs are under significant tension and could be hazardous to repair without the proper tools and skills.


When the garage door stops working then the

Check for Obstructions or Debris


It's not easy and perplexing when the garage door stop working abruptly, particularly if you utilize it regularly.

One of the basic and most efficient steps you can do when confronted by this issue is to check for obstructions or debris.This simple but effective step could be the answer in identifying the issue and returning functionality to the garage door.

Garage doors work on a system of rollers, tracks, and other moving parts that have to be clear of any obstacles in order to function smoothly.Over time dirt, leaves, small rocks, or other debris can accumulate along the tracks, or get trapped in the rollers.Even an obstruction of a tiny size can prevent the door from opening or closing properly.Therefore an in-depth inspection of these components should be your first step.


Start by inspecting the tracks both on the right and left sides of the door. Find obvious obstructions, or debris buildup. If you see something odd, such as a twig, or a rock that is stuck in the track. Remove it carefully.

What is the one thing to do when your Garage Door suddenly stops working? - bell

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The issue might not be obvious at all times. To determine whether the issue is there, you can run your hands along the track. Also, make sure that the tracks are aligned. A misalignment could result in the door jam.

After that, check the rollers and hinges.These parts should be able to move without resistance.If they're squeaky or stuck, it might be an indication of accumulated grime or rust.In the event of such a situation cleaning and lubricating them will often solve the issue.Use a soft brush or cloth to clean any dirt and apply a suitable oil to ensure a smooth and easy movement.


Be sure to inspect the area surrounding the door. Sometimes, objects in the garage may drop or move, creating obstacles for the door. Make sure the area is free of obstructions and there are any objects that could hinder the door.


If, after clearing all visible obstructions, the door still refuses to work check the sensors.

Modern garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that stop doors from closing if something is detected in its path.Make sure the sensors are clean and aligned properly, as dirt or misalignment can cause them to malfunction.

By maintaining a clean path and avoiding obstructions, you can save yourself the hassle of calling a professional to fix a problem that is often straightforward.

Check the remote control and Wall Switch


It's important to check the wall switch as well as the remote control.

Checking these components can help you to save time and avoid costly mistakes.

First, consider the remote control.This handheld device is your primary tool for operating the garage door without direct physical interaction.Over time, remote controls can experience issues such as drained batteries, signal interference, or even internal damage.Start by replacing the batteries with new ones.It might seem simple, but dead batteries are a common reason for a garage door not responding.If the problem persists after replacing the batteries, try reprogramming the remote according to the manufacturer's instructions.Additionally, ensure that the remote is within the recommended range and that there are no obstructions blocking the signal.


Then, shift your focus towards the wall switch. It is also a important component of the garage door's system.

If you're comfortable you are comfortable, then open the switch to examine for damaged or disconnected wires.

The remote control or wall switch may be working properly however the door not yet responding. This could indicate an issue with the garage opener's unit or related components, like sensors or door tracks.

It will allow you to eliminate these common problems before proceeding to more difficult troubleshooting procedures.

This initial inspection can help you save time and provide confidence that you've taken the proper steps to determine the cause of your issue.

Test the door balance manually




What is the one thing to do when your Garage Door suddenly stops working? - bell

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When your garage door suddenly stops functioning is both frustrating and inconvenient.The garage door is a vital part of your house, offering security, shielding from the elements, and ease of access to your vehicle as well as storage area.

Conducting a manual test of the balance of the garage door can be an important step in the event that your door is not functioning properly. This simple but effective method can help you identify any possible issues and avoid any further damage.

Balance in a garage door is crucial to its optimal operation. A door that is not balanced can cause more serious problems, including misalignment and broken springs.


To check the door's balance, you must first disconnect the garage door opener.

Many garage doors have the release mechanism, which is usually with a red handle or cord that allows you to disengage the door from the motor.Once the door is disconnected from the motor, gently lift it to waist height and then release it.A well-balanced door will remain in place or move slowly.If the door drops fast or jumps up the floor, it could indicate an imbalance.

If you discover that the door isn't balanced it is vital to address the issue promptly.Door balance issues are usually related to tension in springs, and could be risky to adjust yourself due to the extreme tension they're under.It is advisable to get help from a professional to adjust the springs and ensure the door is balanced correctly.Doing so not only resolves the immediate issue but also will increase the longevity and stability of your garage door's mechanism.


Checking the balance manually of your garage door is a critical first step to take when it suddenly ceases to function.

This process helps to identify the source of the issue, whether it is the balance of the door or elsewhere in the system.By being aware of the importance of door balance and addressing any issues promptly it will prevent further damage and ensure your garage door runs efficiently and safely for many years to be.

Take a look at the tracks and rollers.

When confronted with a garage door that suddenly ceases to function, your first reaction is likely to be fear for your life or to think of the most difficult technical issues.However it is often the answer is in a straightforward inspection of the tracks and rollers.This vital check could help you save time and costly repairs, making it the one priority in the event that your garage door ceases working.


Tracks and rollers are essential elements of the garage door's operation system.The tracks are the metallic rails that help guide the door's movement when it opens and closes, while the rollers are tiny wheels that travel along the tracks.

Over time, these parts can become dirty, misaligned or worn out, leading to operating issues.

Begin by inspecting the tracks for obstructions.Dust dirt, grime, and even tiny pieces of debris can build up within the tracks, which causes the rollers to struggle while they travel across the path.Cleaning the tracks using a damp sponge can usually solve these issues.Make sure that you dry them completely following the cleaning process to stop rust from forming.


After that, you should check the alignment of the tracks.Tracks should be straight and parallel to one other.If they look bent or not in alignment, the door can jam.You can gently tap the misaligned sections back into their proper position with the help of a rubber mallet.However in the event that there is a significant amount of damage, it is advisable to seek out a professional for help to align the tracks properly in order to ensure safety and efficiency.


In addition, checking the rollers are important.Over time, the rollers could be damaged or worn out particularly if they're constructed out of plastic.

Find indications of wear and tear, such as cracks, or chips.If the rollers look worn, consider replacing them with new ones.Metal rollers with ball bearings typically offer greater durability and more smooth operation.

Utilizing silicone-based lubricants may decrease friction and wear. Make sure you lubricate the hinges as well as the springs to ensure that your garage door operates efficiently.


To conclude, taking a look at the tracks and rollers is a sensible first step when your garage door suddenly isn't working.It's simple procedure that will often reveal and fix typical issues.By ensuring these components are properly aligned, clean, and well-lubricated, you could typically bring your garage door back to its original functionality without the need for costly repairs.

Making the effort to inspect and maintain these components can help prevent problems in the future, and prolong the life span of your garage door system.

Be on the lookout for visible damage or wear

It's frustrating and inconvenient when garage doors stop working suddenly, especially if you're on your way home, or trying to lock your home to sleep.


Garage doors are a complex system comprising rollers, springs tracks, cables, and many other elements. In time, components of this system will be damaged due to constant use and exposure.

Through a thorough visual exam, you can spot any obvious indications of damage making the door malfunction.

Start your inspection with springs. They are responsible for lifting and lower the door. Examine for indications of wear or rust. A worn or broken spring could make the door unusable, which is why it's essential to fix the problem as soon as you notice it. In the next step, inspect the cables for signs of fraying and broken strands.

What is the one thing to do when your Garage Door suddenly stops working? - bell

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The door is another place that requires care. Examine for visible dents, warping, or bends.

In addition, ensure that the sensors of the door are in good condition and aligned because misalignment or dirt could hinder their work and make the door stop functioning.

A visual inspection can be beneficial, but it's important to be aware that not all problems are instantly apparent. If you don't notice any obvious signs of damage or wear, you might need to speak with a specialist to pinpoint the issue.


In conclusion, when you are confronted by a malfunctioning garage door, looking for signs of wear or damage is the initial step.This approach is not just helpful in identifying the issue quickly but also enables you to take the necessary action to restore the door to normal operation.

You can extend the lifespan of your garage door by taking proactive steps.

Examine the Springs and Cables

It's a hassle when your garage door ceases functioning. You should check the springs and the cables. These are crucial to the smooth operation of your garage, and are the primary reason for a malfunctioning garage door.


Springs play a vital function in the operation of the garage door by counterbalancing the door's weight.When the door is in motion the springs carry most of the burden and allow the door to be opened and closed smoothly.There are typically two types of springs: the torsion and extension springs.Torsion springs are placed above the garage door and twist to store energy. While extension springs are located to both sides of the door and can stretch to create the force needed for the.

These springs can get worn out, break or lose tension, which can cause operational problems.

The cables could also be damaged by wear and tear. They may fray or snap when pressure is applied.


When assessing the springs and cables, begin by visually looking at them.Look for signs of rust, wear or fraying.If you spot a broken cable or spring it is essential to stay clear of using the door until the problem is fixed, as pushing it could cause more damage or even lead to an accident.If the springs appear intact but the door is not functioning, it may be that they have lost tension and require adjustment.


Safety is the most important factor while working with garage door components.

Cables and springs are under intense tension, and may cause serious injuries if mishandled.If you're not experienced in garage repair, it's advisable to consult an experienced technician.They are equipped with the right tools and expertise to properly replace or repair these parts making sure your garage door operates properly and safely.

In conclusion, when your garage door suddenly stops working, assessing the springs and cables is a key step in diagnosing the problem.Understanding their role and potential issues can help you determine whether a simple adjustment is needed or if professional intervention is required.Taking prompt action not only restores functionality but also ensures the safety and longevity of your garage door system.

Take a look at calling a professional technician


The garage door could suddenly stop working and cause you to be delayed. It may even cause your home to be at risk.

It is tempting to pick up the toolbox and try to fix on your own however it is better to contact a professional. This will not only guarantee your safety, but provide a long-lasting and more effective solution.

Garage doors are complex systems composed of various components such as springs, cables, tracks, and electronic parts.Each of these elements plays a crucial role in the door's operation, and a malfunction in any part can cause the entire system to fail.Without proper knowledge and experience, attempting to fix these issues can be dangerous.For instance, garage door springs are under high tension and can cause severe injury if handled improperly.Professional technicians are trained to deal with these risks safely, using the right tools and techniques to handle repairs.


A professional technician can also bring a level of expertise and experience that laypeople do not possess.

They can quickly diagnose the issue and identify whether it's a minor problem, like a misaligned track, or something more serious, like a broken spring.This expertise not only saves you time but also prevents the potential for further damage that can occur with incorrect handling.Professionals also have access to high-quality parts and can ensure that replacements match the specifications of your existing garage door system, leading to better functionality and longevity.

A skilled technician can be economical in the long-term. While the DIY method may appear more affordable at first but, it could end up resulting in more costly and extensive repairs in the future.

Many technicians also offer guarantees on their work which provides peace of mind knowing that in the event of something going wrong, you're covered.

Finally, calling a professional will save you lots of time and hassle.Trying to understand the complexities of garage door mechanics and purchase the proper equipment, and perform the repair could take hours or days.In the opposite, a professional can usually resolve the issue in a short time, allowing you to get back to your routine without delay.


The desire to repair the garage door yourself is very strong. However, calling in professionals is the safest choice, as well as the safest and most effective alternative. Their experience as well as access to top quality parts for replacement and their ability to perform quick and precise repairs will ensure that your garage is working well and safeguarding your home.

Citations and other links

Village of Mokena
The gable bank barn at the historic McGovney–Yunker Farmstead
The gable bank barn at the historic McGovney–Yunker Farmstead
Flag of Village of Mokena
Official seal of Village of Mokena
Motto(s): 
Planned Progress, Pleasant Living
Location of Mokena in Will County, Illinois.
Location of Mokena in Will County, Illinois.
Location of Illinois in the United States
Location of Illinois in the United States
Coordinates: 41°32′04″N 87°52′37″W / 41.534414°N 87.876873°W / 41.534414; -87.876873
CountryUnited States
StateIllinois
CountyWill
TownshipFrankfort, New Lenox
Incorporated1880
Government
 • TypeVillage
Area
 • Total8.68 sq mi (22.47 km2)
 • Land8.68 sq mi (22.47 km2)
 • Water0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2)
Population
 (2020)
 • Total19,887
 • Density2,292.19/sq mi (885.05/km2)
Time zoneUTC-6 (CST)
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code
60448[2]
Area codes708
FIPS code17-49854
Websitehttp://www.mokena.org/

Mokena (/mˈkinə/ moh-KEE-nuh) is a village in Will County, Illinois, United States. It is a southwest suburb of Chicago. The population was 19,887 at the 2020 census. The Census Bureau's 2019 estimate found that the population had increased to 20,159.[3]

Etymology

[edit]

Mokena is a name apparently derived from a Native American language meaning "turtle".[4] While the particular language from which the name originates is not documented, likely candidates are Anishinaabemowin, whose word for "snapping turtle" is mikinaak,[5] and its close sister language Potawatomi, in which the same animal is called mkenak.[6] Both languages were once spoken in the area now occupied by the town.

Mokena is located at 41°32′4″N 87°52′37″W / 41.53444°N 87.87694°W / 41.53444; -87.87694.[7] According to the 2010 census, Mokena has an area of 8.893 square miles (23.03 km2), of which 8.89 square miles (23.02 km2) (or 99.97%) is land and 0.003 square miles (0.01 km2) (or 0.03%) is water.[8] It is bordered by Tinley Park to the northeast, Orland Park to the north, Homer Glen to the northwest, Frankfort to the south and New Lenox to the west.

Education

[edit]

Elementary school services are provided by one of four school districts: Mokena School District 159, New Lenox School District 122, Frankfort School District 157C, and Summit Hill School District 161. Schools within District 159 include MES (Mokena Elementary School), MIS (Mokena Intermediate School), and MJHS (Mokena Junior High School). Mokena is served by Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210; students living in districts 159 or 122 attend Lincoln-Way Central High School, and students living in districts 157C or 161 attend Lincoln-Way East High School. Higher education is provided at Joliet Junior College, the nation's first public community college, and at Rasmussen College.

Demographics

[edit]
Historical population
CensusPop.Note
1880522
1890364−30.3%
1900281−22.8%
191035927.8%
192047532.3%
193056218.3%
194065716.9%
195090337.4%
19601,33247.5%
19701,64323.3%
19804,578178.6%
19906,12833.9%
200014,583138.0%
201018,74028.5%
202019,8876.1%
U.S. Decennial Census[9]

As of the census[10] of 2010, there were 18,740 people, 6,358 households, and 5,120 families residing in the village. The population density was 2,432.4 inhabitants per square mile (939.2/km2). There were 4,848 housing units at an average density of 808.6 per square mile (312.2/km2). The racial makeup of the village was 94.5% White, 1.3% African American, 0.01% Native American, 2.0% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.9% from other races, and 0.63% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.8% of the population.

As of the census of 2000, there were 4,703 households, out of which 48.5% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 73.7% were married couples living together, 7.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 16.8% were non-families. 14.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 3.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 3.10 and the average family size was 3.46.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 32.4% under the age of 18, 7.1% from 18 to 24, 32.7% from 25 to 44, 21.5% from 45 to 64, and 6.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 34 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 97.3 males.

The median family income is $82,596 and the median income for a household is $91,817. Males had a median income of $58,226 versus $31,522 for females. The per capita income for the village was $31,944. As of 2008, the median house value was $350,130, up from $211,300 in 2000.[11]

About 0.7% of families and 1.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 0.6% of those under age 18 and 4.6% of those age 65 or over.

Transportation

[edit]

The Village of Mokena is serviced by the Metra rail service Rock Island District. Mokena has two commuter rail stations, Hickory Creek and Front Street, providing service to downtown Chicago's LaSalle Street Station, connecting with components of the Chicago Transit Authority. Mokena is also served by I-80, which runs along its northern border. Through I-80 commuters have convenient access to I-355 (Veteran's Memorial Tollway) and I-57. The main north–south thoroughfares are US Route 45 (LaGrange Rd) and Wolf Rd. The main east–west thoroughfares are 191st St, LaPorte Rd., and US Route 30 (Lincoln Highway). Rail freight traffic travels along both the Metra RI District Railway (Metra RI) and the Canadian National Railway (CN). The CN tracks run east/west along Mokena's southern boundary, while the Metra Rock Island District (Metra) tracks approximately bisect the town in a northeastern/southwestern direction.

Notable people

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "2020 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved March 15, 2022.
  2. ^ "Mokena IL ZIP Code". zipdatamaps.com. 2023. Retrieved January 26, 2023.
  3. ^ "2010 Census Interactive Population Search". Archived from the original on June 15, 2016. Retrieved December 6, 2017.
  4. ^ Gannett, Henry (1905). The Origin of Certain Place Names in the United States. U.S. Government Printing Office. p. 211.
  5. ^ "The Ojibwe People's Dictionary". ojibwe.lib.umn.edu. Retrieved January 7, 2021.
  6. ^ "Potawatomi Language Dictionary - View Word". potawatomidictionary.com. Retrieved January 7, 2021.
  7. ^ "US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990". United States Census Bureau. February 12, 2011. Retrieved April 23, 2011.
  8. ^ "G001 - Geographic Identifiers - 2010 Census Summary File 1". United States Census Bureau. Archived from the original on February 13, 2020. Retrieved December 19, 2015.
  9. ^ "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  10. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  11. ^ "Mokena, Illinois (IL 60448) profile: population, maps, real estate, averages, homes, statistics, relocation, travel, jobs, hospitals, schools, crime, moving, houses, news, sex offenders". www.city-data.com.
  12. ^ "Boers: Leaving Home Produces Rush Of Vivid Memories". December 23, 2014. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
  13. ^ Sherdog.com. "Jason Guida MMA Stats, Pictures, News, Videos, Biography - Sherdog.com". Sherdog. Retrieved January 4, 2020.
  14. ^ 'Don C. Hall, 87, Veteran Show Trouper, Dies,' Stevens Point Daily Journal, October 29, 1953, pg. 15
  15. ^ "Ron Kittle: Renaissance Man | Chicagoly Magazine". Archived from the original on June 22, 2019. Retrieved June 22, 2019.
  16. ^ Sotonoff, Jamie (August 30, 2011). "Denise Richards: Suburban upbringing kept me grounded". Daily Herald.
[edit]

Sectional garage door
Up-and-over garage door
Torsion springs, drums, cables, end bearing plates, center bearing plate and rolloers (wheels) all hardware needed for a functional garage door.
Garage Door Hardware

A garage door is a large door to allow egress for a garage that opens either manually or by an electric motor (a garage door opener). Garage doors are frequently large enough to accommodate automobiles and other vehicles. The operating mechanism is usually spring-loaded or counterbalanced to offset the door's weight and reduce the human or motor effort required to operate the door. Less commonly, some garage doors slide or swing horizontally. Doors are made of wood, metal, or fiberglass, and may be insulated to prevent heat loss.

Description

[edit]
An electric garage door opener operates on the center track

A typical version of an overhead garage door used in the past would have been built as a one-piece panel.[1] The panel was mounted on each side with an unequal parallelogram-style hinge lifting mechanism. Newer versions of overhead garage doors are now generally built from several panels hinged together that roll along a system of tracks guided by rollers.[1] The weight of the door may be 400 lb (180 kg) or more but is balanced by either a torsion spring system or a pair of extension springs.[2] A garage door opener is controlled motorized mechanism for opening garage doors adds convenience, safety, and security often used with a remote or a button on wall.[3]

History

[edit]

The history of the garage door could date back to 450 BC when chariots were stored in gatehouses, but in the United States, they arose around the start of the 20th century. As early as 1902, American manufacturers—including Cornell Iron Works—published catalogs featuring a "float over door." Evidence of an upward-lifting garage door can be found in a catalog in 1906.[4]

Types

[edit]

Single panel garage doors

[edit]
jamb type hardware
one piece track type hardware

Single-panel doors are constructed from one monolithic panel. A single panel door swings up and overhead with a hinge on each side (jamb-type hardware) to a fully open position from the closed position. A disadvantage of monolithic panel doors is that the swing-up arc of the door occurs partially outside the garage. This means a vehicle must stop and park several feet in front of the door to avoid being hit by the garage door when it is opened.

Single panel doors can also be installed with (one piece track type hardware) that folds the door back with a single horizontal track on each side (mounted at the top of the wood frame) and a roller mounted to the top of the door on each side. A hinge on each side that attaches to the bottom of each side of the garage door. Using track hardware, a car can be parked much closer to the door, as the door is positioned entirely inside the garage door header when in the open position. Track-type hardware has less arc when raising and lowering the garage door than jamb-type hardware.[citation needed]

Sectional garage doors

Sectional doors usually have three to eight panels and slide up and overhead. Sectional doors occupy the same internal garage space as a monolithic door. Sectional doors have two advantages over single-panel monolithic doors:

  • Sectional doors do not require any space outside the garage to open. A vehicle may park very close to the garage before opening the door.
  • Each panel of a sectional door has its connection to the door track. This increases reliability and robustness compared to monolithic doors, which have only a few track connections for the whole panel.

Garage doors can be made of many materials, but steel, aluminum, wood, copper, glass, and vinyl (polyethylene) are the most popular materials. Some manufacturers incorporate foamed-in-place polyurethane insulation within the monolithic panel and sectional garage doors.

The side sliding sectional door[5]

  • A lot of space under the garage ceiling.
  • Can use the entire ceiling of the garage.
  • Fast access to the garage

Roller doors

[edit]
Detail of roller door mechanism
Industrial tents with rollup overhead doors

Roller doors (sometimes called "sheet doors") are usually constructed of corrugated steel. They evolved from cover window and door coverings.[4] Other materials can be used (e.g., transparent corrugated fiberglass) where strong impact resistance is not required. Corrugations give the door strength against impacts. A typical single-car garage roller door has a preloaded spring inside the rolling mechanism. The spring reduces the effort required to open the door. Oversized roller doors in commercial premises are not sprung (except in the US), and a manual pulley and chain system or a geared motor is used to raise and lower (roll up and roll down) the door. Roller doors cannot be effectively insulated.

In the UK (and other parts of the EU), 'insulated' roller garage doors are available, using an aluminum lathe filled with polyurethane foam for thermal and acoustic insulation.

Concerning thermal insulation, the roller door has a typical insulation R-value of 4.9 to 5.2. A sheet steel garage door has a typical insulation R-value of 0.5 to 2.7.

An application that needs more thermal insulation typically uses a foam-filled sectional garage door, which provides typical insulation R-values of 6.1 to 6.4.

Garage door materials

[edit]
  • Aluminum garage doors are usually found in commercial settings and are uncommon for residential ones. Aluminum is typically only used for full-view garage doors (doors that are made up of glass sections divided by aluminum stiles). Aluminum doors are rust-proof and low maintenance.
  • Fiberglass and vinyl garage doors are composite units, combining a steel core behind a fiberglass or vinyl skin. They also have polyurethane insulated base sections or other types of foam insulation. These premium doors can match steel garage doors and be a realistic imitation of wood (namely fiberglass units), but they may be more expensive than steel units. Fiberglass doors are commonly used near an ocean, where salt water can ruin regular steel doors.
  • Steel doors have a variety of sizes and styles, provide strength and security, are cost-competitive, and may have optional insulating value. Extra strength is available with two or three layers of galvanized steel with a low gauge number (0.6 - 0.7 mm steel panels).[6]
  • Wood garage doors offer aesthetic appeal, but they are high maintenance and may be expensive. Low-priced wood garage doors may warp and break easily.

Steel stamped construction

[edit]
Sectional-type steel with exterior cladding overhead garage doors in the style of old carriage house doors

A common material for a new garage door is a steel sheet formed or stamped to look like a raised panel wooden door. Steel doors are available in uninsulated, insulated, and a three-layer door, also known as a sandwich-style door. A design mimicking carriage house doors has become popular since the early 2000s, and many manufacturers clad the exterior of a steel door with composite, vinyl boards, or other trim to give it the appearance of wood.

Insulation

[edit]

In situations involving residential attached garages, the insulating value and the energy efficiency of a garage door are essential to avoid overheating and freezing problems, as well as for comfort and energy savings.

Torsion spring lift mechanism

[edit]

A torsion spring counterbalance system consists of one or two tightly wound-up springs on a steel shaft with cable drums at both ends. The apparatus mounts on the header wall above the garage door and has three supports: a center bearing plate with a steel or nylon bearing and two end bearing plates at both ends. The springs consist of a steel wire with a stationary cone at one end and a winding cone at the other. The stationary cone is attached to the center bearing plate. The winding cone consists of holes every 90 degrees for winding the springs and two set screws to secure the springs to the shaft. Steel counterbalance cables run from the roller brackets at the bottom corners of the door to a notch in the cable drums. When the door is raised, the springs unwind, and the stored tension lifts the door by turning the shaft, thus turning the cable drums and wrapping the cables around the grooves on the cable drums. When the door is lowered, the cables unwrap from the drums, and the springs are rewound to full tension.

Life of torsion spring

[edit]

Garage door manufacturers typically produce doors fitted with torsion springs that provide a minimum of 10,000 to 15,000 cycles and are guaranteed for three to seven years. One cycle is a single opening and closing sequence. Most manufacturers offer a 30,000-cycle spring. However, it is essential to remember that if the garage door's weight is increased by adding glass, additional insulation, or even several coats of paint, the torsion spring's life may be significantly reduced. Additionally, springs in highly humid environments, such as coastal regions tend to have a significantly shorter cycle life, due to the corrosive cracking.

Other factors like poor garage door maintenance, loose tracks, or components shorten torsion spring life. Owners are advised to avoid applying grease to garage door tracks because that makes the wheels "skate" in the track instead of turning on their bearings. Only bearings, hinges, and spring wire require lubricant.

Extension spring lift mechanism

[edit]

An extension spring counterbalance system consists of a pair of stretched springs running parallel to the horizontal tracks. The springs lift the door through a system of pulleys and counterbalance cables running from the bottom corner brackets through the pulleys. When the door is raised, the springs contract, thus lifting the door as the tension is released. Typically, these springs are made of 11 gauge (3 mm) galvanized steel, and the lengths of these springs are based on the height of the garage door in question. Their lifting weight capacity can best be identified by the color that is painted on the ends of the springs.

Maintenance

[edit]

Maintenance of garage doors is described in the manufacturer's instructions and consists of periodic checks for correct operation, visual inspection of parts, and lubrication. [7][8]

Safety

[edit]

Garage doors can cause injury and property damage (including expensive damage to the door itself) in several ways. The most common causes of injury from garage door systems include falling doors, pinch points, improperly adjusted opener force settings, and safety eyes, attempts at do-it-yourself repair without the proper knowledge or tools, and uncontrolled release of spring tension (on torsion spring systems).

A garage door with a broken spring or the wrong strength can fall. Because the effective mass of the door increases as the garage door sections transfer from the horizontal to vertical door tracks, a falling garage door accelerates rapidly. A free-falling garage door can cause severe injury or death.

The sections and rollers on garage doors represent a significant pinch hazard. Children should never be allowed near a moving garage door for this reason. On manually operated garage doors, handles should be installed vertically to promote "vertical orientation of the hand".

Mechanical garage door openers can pull or push a garage door with enough force to injure or kill people and pets if they become trapped. Modern openers have “force settings” that make the door reverse if it encounters too much resistance while closing or opening. Any garage door opener sold in the United States after 1992 requires safety eyes—sensors that prevent the door from closing if obstructed. Force settings should cause a door to stop or reverse on encountering more than approximately 20 lb (10 kg) of resistance. Safety eyes should be installed a maximum of six inches above the ground. Many garage door injuries, and nearly all garage door-related property damage, can be avoided by following these precautions.[9]

Certain parts, especially springs, cables, bottom brackets, and spring anchor plates, are under extreme tension. Injuries can occur if parts under tension are removed.

Extension spring systems should always be restrained by a safety cable that runs through the middle of the spring, tying off to a solid point at the rear and front of the horizontal door track. The safety cable prevents hazards to bystanders when a spring, pulley, or cable breaks under tension and makes the system relatively safe.

Torsion spring systems can be hazardous as they are always under tension and release energy when the spring fails. Severe injury or death can be caused by the projectile pieces of a failed torsion spring. Many people have been injured or killed trying to adjust torsion springs, and special training and procedures are required to modify a torsion spring safely; it is a job for a professional, not a homeowner or DIYer.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b Hamilton, Gene; Hamilton, Katie (2004). Do it right the first time: what every homeowner needs to know before the work begins. Innova Publishers. p. 154. ISBN 9780974937359. Retrieved 2015-07-19.
  2. ^ Ask the Family handy-man. Reader's Digest. 1999. p. 138. ISBN 9780762101429. Retrieved 2015-07-19. garage door can weigh 400 pounds or more; they only seem light because the springs balance the weight as you lift the door.
  3. ^ Day, Richard (July 1982). "Tips from a pro: how to install a garage-door opener". Popular Science. Vol. 221, no. 1. pp. 91–93. Retrieved 2015-07-19.
  4. ^ a b Winterton, Deanne (2012-02-21). "History of the Garage Door". Amazines.com. Retrieved 2015-07-19.
  5. ^ Deziel, Chris (10 October 2023). "Are Sliding Garage Doors the Best Option for You?". Family Handyman. Retrieved 3 February 2024.
  6. ^ "DASMA Metal Gauge Chart Technical Data Sheet #154" (PDF). DASMA. Archived from the original (PDF) on 2014-08-02. Retrieved 2015-07-19.
  7. ^ "DASMA Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association". Dasma.com. 1993-01-01. Archived from the original on 2012-10-28. Retrieved 2012-11-04.
  8. ^ "DASMA Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association". Dasma.com. Archived from the original on 2012-08-26. Retrieved 2012-11-04.
  9. ^ "How Important Are Garage Door Safety Sensors". rsvallejo.com. Retrieved 2023-04-06.
[edit]

Media related to Garage doors at Wikimedia Commons


A residential garage door opener. The motor is in the box on the upper-right.

A garage door opener is a motorized device that opens and closes a garage door controlled by switches on the garage wall. Most also include a handheld radio remote control carried by the owner, which can be used to open and close the door from a short distance.

The electric opener

[edit]

The electric overhead garage door opener was invented by C.G. Johnson in 1926 in Hartford City, Indiana.[1] Electric Garage Door openers did not become popular until Era Meter Company of Chicago offered one after World War II where the overhead garage door could be opened via a key pad located on a post at the end of the driveway or a switch inside the garage.[2]

As in an elevator, the electric motor does not provide most of the power to move a heavy garage door. Instead, most of door's weight is offset by the counterbalance springs attached to the door. (Even manually operated garage doors have counterbalances; otherwise, they would be too heavy for a person to open or close them.) In a typical design, torsion springs apply torque to a shaft, and that shaft applies a force to the garage door via steel counterbalance cables. The electric opener provides only a small amount of force to control how far the door opens and closes. In most cases, the garage door opener also holds the door closed in place of a lock.

The typical electric garage door opener consists of a power unit that contains the electric motor. The power unit attaches to a track. A trolley connected to an arm that attaches to the top of the garage door slides back and forth on the track, thus opening and closing the garage door. The trolley is pulled along the track by a chain, belt, or screw that turns when the motor is operated. A quick-release mechanism is attached to the trolley to allow the garage door to be disconnected from the opener for manual operation during a power failure or in case of emergency. Limit switches on the power unit control the distance the garage door opens and closes once the motor receives a signal from the remote control or wall push button to operate the door.[3]

The entire assembly hangs above the garage door. The power unit hangs from the ceiling and is located towards the rear of the garage. The end of the track on the opposite end of the power unit attaches to a header bracket that is attached to the header wall above the garage door. The powerhead is usually supported by punched angle iron.

Recently another type of opener, known as the jackshaft opener, has become more popular.[when?] This style of opener was used frequently on commercial doors but in recent years has been adapted for residential use. This style of opener consists of a motor that attaches to the side of the torsion rod and moves the door up and down by simply spinning the rod. These openers need a few extra components to function safely for residential use. These include a cable tension monitor, to detect when a cable is broken, and a separate locking mechanism to lock the door when it is fully closed. These have the advantage that they free up ceiling space that an ordinary opener and rail would occupy. These also have the disadvantage that the door must have a torsion rod to attach the motor to.

Types

[edit]

There are five types of garage door openers:

  1. Chain drive openers. These have a chain (similar to a bicycle's) that connects the trolley to the motor.
  2. Belt drive openers use a rubber belt in place of a chain.
  3. Screw drive openers have a long screw inside the track. The trolley connects to this screw.
  4. Direct drive openers have the motor installed inside the trolley and use a gear wheel to guide the trolley along a fixed chain.
  5. Jackshaft openers mount on the wall at either end of the torsion bar.

Remote control

[edit]

The first wireless garage door openers were invented and developed by two US inventors at the same time, one in Illinois and the other in Washington state, around 1930. They were unknown to each other.[4]

The first garage door opener remote controls were simple and consisted of a simple transmitter (the remote) and receiver which controlled the opener mechanism. The transmitter would transmit on a designated frequency; the receiver would listen for the radio signal, then open or close the garage, depending on the door position. The basic concept of this can be traced back to World War II. This type of system was used to detonate remote bombs. While novel at the time, the technology ran its course when garage door openers became popular. While the garage door remote control transmitter is low power and has limited range, its signal can be received by other, nearby, garage door openers. When two neighbors had garage door openers, then opening one garage door might open the neighbor's garage door as well.

The second stage of the wireless garage door opener system solved the opening-the-neighbor's-garage-door problem. The remote controls on these systems transmitted a digital code, and the receiver in the garage responded only to that code. The codes were typically set by eight to twelve DIP switches on the receiver and transmitter, so they allowed for 28 = 256 to 212 = 4,096 different codes. As long as neighbors used different codes, they would not open each other's garage doors. The intent of these systems was to avoid interference with nearby garage doors; the systems were not designed with security in mind. Intruders were able to defeat the security of these systems and gain entry to the garage and the house. The number of codes was small enough that even an unsophisticated intruder with a compatible remote control transmitter could just start transmitting all possible codes until he found one that opened the door. More sophisticated intruders could acquire a black box master key that automatically transmitted every possible code in a short time. An even more sophisticated method is known as a replay attack. The attacker would use a code grabber, which has a receiver that captures the remote's digital code and can retransmit that digital code at a later time. The attacker with a code grabber would wait nearby for the homeowner to use his remote, capture the code, and then replay the code to open the door when the homeowner was gone. Multicode openers became unpopular in areas where security was important, but due to their ease of programming, such openers are often used to operate such things as the gates in gated apartment complexes.

An intermediate stage of the garage door opener market eliminated the DIP switches and used remotes preprogrammed to one out of roughly 3.5 billion unique codes. The receiver would maintain a security list of remotes to which it would respond; the user could easily add the unique remote's code to the list by pressing a button on the garage door opener while activating the remote control. A large number of codes made the brute force try-all-possible-digital-codes attacks infeasible, but the systems were still vulnerable to code grabbers. For user convenience, these systems were also backward compatible with the older DIP switch remote codes, but adding an old technology remote to the security list made the garage door opener vulnerable to a brute force attack to find the DIP switch code. The larger code space approach was an improvement over the fixed DIP switch codes but was still vulnerable to the replay attack.

The third stage of garage door opener technology uses a frequency spectrum range between 300-400 MHz and rolling code (code hopping) technology to defeat code grabbers. In addition to transmitting a unique identifier for the remote control, a sequence number and an encrypted message are also sent. Although an intruder could still capture the code used to open a garage door, the sequence number immediately expires, so retransmitting the code later would not open the garage door. The encryption makes it extremely difficult for an intruder to forge a message with the next sequence number that would open the door. Some rolling code systems are more involved than others. Because there is a high probability that someone will push the remote's button while not in range and thus advance the sequence number, the receiver does not insist the sequence number increase by exactly one; it will accept a sequence number that falls within a narrow window or two successive sequence numbers in a much wider window. Rolling code technology is also used on car remote controls and with some internet protocols for secure sites.

The fourth stage of garage door opener systems is similar to third stage, but it is limited to the 315 MHz frequency. The 315 MHz frequency range avoids interference from the land mobile radio system (LMRS) used by the U.S. military.

The following standards are used by units manufactured by Chamberlain (including LiftMaster and Craftsman):

Dates System Color of programming button and LED on unit Color of LED on remote*
1984–1993 8-12 DIP switch on 300-400 MHz white, gray, or yellow button with red LED red
1993–1997 Billion Code on 390 MHz green button with green or red LED green
1997–2005 Security+ (rolling code) on 390 MHz orange or red button with amber LED amber or none
2005–present Security+ (rolling code) on 315 MHz purple button with amber LED none
2011–present Security+ 2.0 (rolling code) on 310, 315, and 390 MHz yellow button with amber LED and yellow antenna wires red or blue

* Does not apply to keyless entry keypads or universal remotes.

Recent Chamberlain garage door openers that have Security+ 2.0 features also use a special serial protocol on wired connections rather than a simple switch closure.[5]

The following standards are used by units manufactured by Overhead Door Corporation and its subsidiary The Genie Company†:

Dates System
1985–1995 9–12 DIP switch on 360, 380, or 390 MHz[6][7]
1995–2005 Intellicode/CodeDodger (rolling code) on 390 MHz
2005–present Intellicode/CodeDodger (rolling code) on 315 MHz
2011–present Intellicode 2/CodeDodger 2 (rolling code) on 315 and 390 MHz

Note: There are no standard color codes for the learn button or LED on units manufactured by Overhead Door or Genie. All accessories made for later versions of Genie Intellicode and Overhead Door CodeDodger are backward compatible with previous generations of Intellicode and CodeDodger.

Cloning garage door opener remotes

[edit]
A typical photo of both the outer case and inner circuit of a garage door opener remote control.

Many garage door opener remote controls use fixed-code encoding which use DIP switches or soldering to do the address pins coding process, and they usually use pt2262/pt2272 or compatible ICs. For these fixed-code garage door opener remotes, one can easily clone the existing remote using a self-learning remote control duplicator (copy remote) which can make a copy of the remote using face-to-face copying.

Additional features

[edit]

Additional features that have been added over the years have included:

  • Automatic courtesy lights that turn on when the door opens (or via motion sensors) and automatically turn off after a preset delay
  • A remote lockout feature, which turns off the radio receiver while one is on vacation or away for an extended time.
  • The availability of accessories has increased, including such features as wireless keypads, key chain remotes, and solenoid-operated deadbolts to lock the door itself.
  • Automatic door closing feature, which after a fixed time by the owner, closes the garage door to prevent theft.

More sophisticated features are also available, such as an integrated carbon monoxide sensor to open the door in case of the garage being flooded with exhaust fumes. Other systems allow door activation over the Internet to allow home owners to open their garage door from their office for deliveries.

Another recent innovation in the garage door opener is a fingerprint-based wireless keypad. This unit attaches to the outside of the garage door on the jamb and allows users to open and close their doors with the press of a finger, rather than creating a personal identification number (PIN). This is especially helpful for families with children who may forget a code and are latchkey kids.

Safety

[edit]
Electric eye for safety

The garage door is generally the largest moving object in a home. An improperly adjusted garage door opener can exert strong and deadly forces and might not reverse the garage door in an emergency. The manufacturer's instructions provide guidance to the user on the proper adjustment and maintenance of the opener.

Garage door openers manufactured and installed in the United States since 1982 are required to provide a quick-release mechanism on the trolley that allows for the garage door to be disconnected from the garage door opener in the event of entrapment.[8] Garage door openers manufactured since 1991 are also required to reverse the garage door if it strikes a solid object.[9][10]

In the United States, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 1990 required that automatic residential garage door operators manufactured on or after 1 January 1991 conform to the entrapment protection requirements of the 1988 version of ANSI/UL standard 325.[11] A requirement for redundant entrapment-prevention devices was added in 1993; such a system can use an electric eye, a door edge sensor, or any other device that provides equivalent protection by reversing the travel of the closing door if an object is detected in its path.[12][13]

California Senate Bill No. 969

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In California, Senate Bill No. 969 requires that any automatic residential garage door opener that is manufactured for sale, sold, offered for sale, or installed in a residence to have a battery backup function that is designed to operate when activated because of an electrical outage.[14] The bill went into effect on July 1, 2019. Under the bill, any automatic garage door opener that is in violation is subject to a civil penalty of $1000.

The bill was passed by Gov. Jerry Brown on Sept. 21, 2018, in response to the 2017 California Wildfires in which at least 5 individuals lost their lives because they could not open their garage door when the power went out.[15]

The Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association International opposed the bill arguing that garage door openers with backup batteries require regular maintenance and that the bill should be amended to make this clear. In addition, they said that "garage door openers with backup batteries are not designed to serve as life safety devices, and should not be relied upon to prove a means of egress from a garage during an electrical outage."[16]

The bill passed, despite most garage doors having a release pull cord.

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Robert J Girod (2014). "Garage Door Openers - High-tech Burglary". Advanced Criminal Investigations and Intelligence Operations: Tradecraft Methods, Practices, Tactics, and Techniques. Taylor and Francis. p. 90. ISBN 9781482230741.
  2. ^ "Aids To Modern Living - Garage Doors". Popular Science: 137. December 1946.
  3. ^ Castro, Diane. "The Complete Garage Door System". Regency Conference Center. Retrieved 10 March 2020.
  4. ^ "Widely Separated Inventors Invent Garage Door Openers By Radio Impulses". Popular Science: 32. February 1931.
  5. ^ "Will my older accessories work with the new line of Security+ 2.0 garage door openers?". alldaygaragerepair.com. Retrieved 2017-06-23.
  6. ^ Willmes, Dave. "My Overhead Door Opener Doesn't Work with this Universal Remote". www.overheaddooronline.com. Retrieved 20 October 2016.
  7. ^ "FCC ID BSH8YN106546 by Overhead Door Corporation". FCCID.io. Retrieved 20 October 2016.
  8. ^ "Falling Garage Doors — A Crushing Concern". Garage Door Child Safety.
  9. ^ "Non Reversing Garage Door Openers a Hazard" (PDF). U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  10. ^ "Garage Door System Safety Guidelines". Door & Access Systems Manufacturers Association International. Archived from the original on 2008-12-23.
  11. ^ Garage Door Operators • CPSC
  12. ^ Non-Reversing Automatic Garage Door Openers Are a Hazard • CPSC
  13. ^ 16CFR1211
  14. ^ "Bill Text - SB-969 Automatic garage door openers: backup batteries". leginfo.legislature.ca.gov. California Legislative Information. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
  15. ^ "New California Law Could Cost You $1000 in Fines". Clark's Garage Door. 4 September 2019. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
  16. ^ "California Mandates Battery Backup With All GDOS - Experts Cite Problems With The Legislation" (PDF). dasma.com. DASMA. Retrieved 6 September 2019.
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