Your garage door protects the interior from the elements, contributes to your home’s energy efficiency, and enhances the residence’s security. Because this is such a complicated and important piece of machinery, many homeowners have numerous questions about various aspects of maintenance and other topics. Below, the team at Overhead Door Co. of Lycoming County, based in Williamsport, PA, answers a few common queries.

4 Common Questions About Garage Doors

Can I Paint It?

At times, you may want to paint the garage door, especially if the current coat is cracked or peeling, or if the color no longer complements the decor of the house. Most materials can easily be painted; just use a liquid deglosser and a latex exterior primer, as this is the least likely to fade. Also, check your owner’s manual to ensure there aren’t any warnings against paint.

Is It Okay to Replace a Section of the Door, or Do I Need a New One Entirely?

This depends on the extent of the damage. If only a small piece was affected by an accident or another incident, it is possible to simply buy a new section of the door. If the damage is extensive, however, you might need a full replacement. Speak with a professional before making any final decisions.

How Can I Maintain It?

Especially if the door is a newer model, this doesn’t mean it can be neglected. Listen for odd noises coming from the components and other signs of issues, like the door not closing all the way, and have them fixed immediately to prevent the problem from worsening. Once a year, schedule a tuneup with a qualified technician. They will make sure the door is working safely and fix minor problems during the inspection.

What Should I Know About R-Value?

This value indicates how energy-efficient the door is. Generally, the higher the number, the more insulation you’ll receive. This will help you save money on your HVAC bills, as hot and cold air won’t be leaking out of the garage. If you’ve been spending a lot of money cooling the house this summer, you may want to find out what R-value the door has, as it might be contributing to the problem.

Have more questions about garage doors? Speak with the team at Overhead Door Co. of Lycoming County, a division of Schrader Architectural Products. They’ve been in business since 1965 and are known as "The Genuine, Original Overhead Door Company.”  They offer a wide variety of new doors and repair, installation, and upkeep services. To learn more about the company, call (570) 326-4749 or visit them online. You can also find the company on Facebook.