by Mike | Garage
A garage door spring is one of the most important elements of your garage door and it is the one that helps you in opening and closing the door. There is high-tension steel in the springs, so it only usually last a limited time period. As the time passes, the effectiveness of the spring will decrease and you will need to get it replaced. Depending on the usage of the garage door, the replacement garage door springs cost may vary. You can easily replace the door springs, but the most important part is that you that need to buy high quality parts. So, in this article, let’s learn about replacement garage door springs and things needed to be considered during the process.
Understanding garage door springs:
Source: Pinterest.com
The garage door springs balance the weight of the door and they play the main role in opening and closing of the door. This serves the same purpose of counter weights, which have been used to balance the door in past centuries and even today. For example, if the garage door weighs around 200 pounds, then we need the exact 200 pounds of spring force to pull the door. This activity can be fulfilled only by the stretch string or torque special parts for balancing the door. But when it comes to replacement garage door springs, it involves high risk because of the wound torsion spring or the stretch in the extended extension springs.
Also, garage doors get repairs often and we have to replace the garage door parts that are tied into the spring system. We have to understand the forces and how they work, as many accidents, injuries and deaths occurred in the usage of garage door springs. Let’s check the brief explanation about garage door springs.
Types of extension springs:
Normally, the garage door works by means of pulleys, cables, and springs. The types of extension in garage door springs are of two types;
If the garage door has extension springs
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In this type, two sets of pulleys and two sets of cables will be attached. One end of the first cable is anchored to the bottom of the door, which runs over the pulley attached to walls around the moveable pulley, which is attached to the end of the spring and back connecting to the anchored bracket to secure the door track. Once the door closes, the pulleys and cables stretch out the string which creates tension when we open it. Also, the second cable is anchored with track brackets on each end through the middle of the string.
If your garage door has torsion springs
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In this type of garage door, each spring is firmly connected to a center plate which is usually attached to the garage walls and the other end will be attached to the bracket which will be in the bottom corner of the door. A torsion bar runs through the center of each spring and holds the lift cable which runs to the other end of the corner door. The spring is firmly connected with the torsion bar by means of a winding cone. The cables in the garage spring door make the winding drum and torsion bar rotate and twist the spring into a loaded torsion state. And the spring releases when the door is next opened.
Replacement garage door springs:
It is essential to understand how your door and springs operate. As most parts will be disconnected and will be reattached when there are replacements garage door springs. The replacement falls under two categories;
Replace extension-type garage door springs
- First, we have to buy a pair of new springs that matches the specification of the old spring to replace the extension-type garage door springs
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- Then, we have to secure C-clamps to both garage door tracks to prevent any accidents, when we are working.
- Thirdly, the important step to follow is unbolting the first extension from the bracket, which holds the back of the door track and disconnecting the lift cable and pulley from the end of the spring
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- Once the above steps are followed, we have to disconnect the safe cable and attach the new safety cable through the spring and then attach the lift cable
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- Finally, apply some door spray lubricant to the springs and test the operations. However, some adjustments have to be made for the door opener, as the new springs will be more powerful compared to the old ones
Replace torsion-type garage door springs
- For replacement of torsion type garage door spring, as a first step, we have to lock the garage door with C-clamps and disconnect the door opener
- Secondly, we have to unload the springs which will take a number of downward one-quarter revolutions to release the spring’s tension. Make sure to grip tightly as the setscrews are loosening and resulting in releasing a notable amount of pressure
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- Then, we have to disconnect the torsion springs from the center and then detach the lift cables from the door brackets
- After these steps, we have to attach new springs followed by reattaching the lift cables.
- Then load the springs by twisting the winding cone and torsion spring, which might be a challenging step. Once, loaded with anchor, the springs tighten the screws and secure the torsion bar
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- Finally, apply a garage lubricant spray to the springs and remove all the clamps and operate the door several times to check the operation. If the door does not fully open on its own or does not close all the way, then the spring may require further winding.
Bottom Line:
When it comes to the replacement garage door springs, the job can be easily done by us, as it requires frequent replacing. The installation process is pretty straightforward, but it involves a lot of steps, so just make sure you are doing it properly. If you have any other issues with the door springs other than a replacement, then you can call a professional.
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by Mike | Garage
Are you desperately in need of a makeover in your garage? Do you need to revamp it? Then garage floor coatings are ideal for you to give a new look that can last for several years, without any issue. You can convert your garage into a home office or gym with stunning garage floor coatings solutions.
Why do you need garage floor coatings?
If you want to revamp your garage floor, then you have to use high-quality epoxy, polyurethane, and polyurea coatings, which are used commercially. Only these solutions can give your garage a completely new look. Your garage floor will be moisture-resistant and will be durable enough to do any sort of activity. It will help you to protect the ground from scratching, chipping, and stains. With such types of floors in your garage; oil, chemicals, dust, and brake fluid can be wiped out very easily.
With modern features coming out almost every day, one can now choose a floor design from an unlimited options of colors, textures and patterns.
Concrete Coating and Resin Flooring
Concrete coatings are difficult to implement and they need some expertise to get it done right. Some people prefer a resinous flooring concept for easy handling. You can enhance safety and efficiency with resinous floor coating systems, apart from the fact that they look aesthetically beautiful.
Comparison of Various Coating Systems
Methyl Methacrylate (MMA) Coating
These types of floors are resistant to acid, alkali, and other types of solvents. Once done, you can use an MMA-coated floor within two hours. As garage floor coatings, it is extremely helpful if anyone wants to complete the job within only a couple hours. MMA coating is scratch proof and can be applied at low temperatures also. MMA coatings are costlier than other options, as it requires a minimum of four coats on any floor.
Polyaspartic Coating
This is a hybrid coating with a combination of epoxy and urethane systems. One coating of this layer is enough, so it is also costly. It does however offer a good amount of flexibility and makes your floor ready in a very short time. It is one of the new technologies being adopted by the market, but due to its high cost, people prefer to use this coating very selectively.
Epoxy and Urethane
Epoxy coatings are popular in the market due to their low cost. And in addition, it gives your floor a completely new look, shining like others can’t, in the same price range. Its hardness and chemical-resisting nature are the best ones to mention. Normally, three coats are enough for your floor to look shiny. But it takes at least 24 hours to set. If you aren’t in any hurry, you can use this coating and wait for 2 days to get brand new flooring. But, if you are in a hurry, then it is advisable to avoid this coating, as it will not give you an instant result.
100% Solid Epoxy
From its name, it is clear that this type of coating is 100% solid. It means no thickness is lost due to any sort of evaporation. It is not harmful to your health and that is why this coating is safer to use. This is the cheapest option to implement. But like an epoxy coating, it demands 24 hours to be ready for use.
Different Varieties of Popular Epoxy Coating System
Garage floor coatings can be of any type depending on requirement and budget. There is a list of options available under epoxy coating that will not only change the look of any garage, but also it will add value to it. Here are the systems under epoxy coating that will not only change the look of any garage, but also it will add value to it. Here are some examples:
Seamless System
If you want a simple floor but with sophistication, then seamless system epoxy flooring is ideal for you. There will not be any ornament, trim, motif, or superfluous pattern on the floor. It will be a simple, yet solid floor that will make you happy whenever you see it. Seamless flooring options are available in multiple colors and these have an aesthetically stunning look.
Chip System
Chip system flooring concepts normally come in deluxe, premium, and ultra categories. With various levels, it gives your garage a different look based on the designs you prefer to choose. Chip system flooring gives the customer the required quality, reliability, performance, service, and durability, apart from its aesthetic beauty. One should check the product quality, whether they are eco-friendly and industrial grade. These types of floors are very easy to maintain and you don’t need to do any kind of touch up work for several years.
Mica Media System
Any garage floor coatings without a mica finish look dull. With its natural shining ability, mica is preferred almost everywhere. Mica floors are available in various colors, patterns, textures, and designs. Mica floors with polyurea coating are ideal for any sort of UV resistance. It is eco-friendly with very low maintenance costs.
Metallic System
Metallic coating system flooring will give your garage a completely new look. This is also called liquid art where floors used to have a 3D gloss finish. It is also available in various colors and effects. Ideal for garage floors where you want a treat for your eyes, these types of garage floor coatings are one of the most popular in the market. It is of very low maintenance and its products are eco-friendly. Due to molecular bonding, it lasts for a long without any noticeable depreciation.
How to Choose the Best Garage Floor Coatings?
Your garage floor coatings should be the best and last for a long time. For that, you need to check several aspects before jumping into the work. You must check the below-mentioned features if available:
- Industrial grade product
- Molecular bonding
- Chemical resistant items
- Ultra Violet ray stability
- Salt resistance
These are the garage floor coatings options available to start working. One needs to check every aspect before starting such an activity. But one thing is guaranteed, the quality of finishing using these coating techniques is brilliant. You are bound to get an aesthetic floor with firmness, robustness, and durability.
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Choose The Best Metal Garage for Protection
by Mike | Garage
A metal garage for your building is one of the best options, as it will keep your vehicles and valuables safe. You can even find customized metals that will fit in with your building’s sizes and needs. There are certain metal buildings for your garage that can be installed without any effort and risk. You will find many online sites that offer metal garages for building, so choose one that will cover all your belongings and come at an affordable rate. This article will help you with how to choose metal buildings and the concepts you can follow to find one.
Why should you use a metal garage?
Are you planning on getting the perfect material for a garage? Then one of the best materials you need to consider is metal for your building and garage. The metal for your garage will provide quick construction and also result in cost savings. A metal building can be customized based on your functions and purposes.
A garage is one of the biggest commitments you can have as a building as it is the one that will protect all your vehicles. You may find a wood garage but a metal garage may be harder to find or non-existent. So, here are the reasons that will let you know why you should choose a metal garage.
- A metal garage will take a fraction of the time to build when compared to the wooden garage
- You can start with a simple design and can then customize customize it as per your needs and purposes. Metal garages are highly adaptable
- A metal garage is very cost-effective as an option, as it is lower cost. This will help the installation cost to be lower as well
- When compared to the maintenance of other materials, the maintenance cost of metal buildings is lower
- A metal garage is built with high standards, so it ensures greater durability and protection against rust
Types of metal garage:
Arch type
The arch type is mainly used for garages and can sometimes be used for residential buildings also. This type of metal building will have limited interior space and also will come in a limited in size.
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Single-span rigid frame
This single-span rigid frame is also known as a continuous frame and it is constructed mainly using one beam which supports either end of the structure. The best thing is that you will have an entire covered-up space so don’t need interior columns.
Source: Pinterest.com
Multi-span rigid frame
The multi-span rigid frame will come with a stable structure so you can easily use the interior beam and columns. The space will be huge and it can’t be easily moved once it is fixed.
Source: Pinterest.com
7 things to consider before deciding on a metal structure:
Size
If you are looking for a metal garage for the first time, then dimension is the most important factor that you need to focus on. Even the dimension of the metal, such as length, width, and height may also impact the cost. So you should figure out the exact size of the metal you want for the building structure, to avoid unnecessary cost.
Location
Metal garages are easy to install, but when it comes to dismantling it will take a lot of time. So, you need to choose the exact location where you want to place your metal structure. The space available at the location, its convenience, and ease of access, also needs to be considered.
Budget
You need to know your budget before buying metal for the garage, as it will help you to stay within your financial limits. When compared to a traditional garage, you can save a lot of money by investing in metal garages. Also, the installation and maintenance costs are low with the metal variety.
Reliable dealer
You need to choose a reliable metal building dealer, as they should use quality steel and other accessories. There are lots of companies providing metal structures, but you need to choose a company with a good reputation, great years of experience, and good customer reviews. All your questions need to be answered well by the company.
Type of metal
Depending on our needs and purposes, the type of metal you want will differ. There is a basic level of a metal garage which will come with wooden poles. Another option is all metal building that is customized and sturdy, and it is entirely made of metal, but requires a concrete foundation.
Customization
Customization is the biggest advantage of a metal garage, as they can be made as per your needs and demands. They will match your dream structure and you can even select the type of color you want. Also, if you want you can add additional accessories to the metal structure.
Other benefits
A metal structure should also come with other benefits like durability, safety, ease of maintenance, affordability, ease of installation, and others. If they have any warranty periods, then you are good to go, as it will cover you if your metal gets rusty.
Mistakes to avoid while adding a metal garage:
- One of the most difficult jobs in choosing a metal garage is that you need to find the right size. If you choose a smaller one, then it will seem over-crowded and may not be able to serve its ultimate purpose
- If you are planning for a higher return, then the aesthetics of a metal garage should match the aesthetics of your building
- Customization will also impact the value of the property, so choose customizing options that will add interest to your property
- The type of material, customization, and the color should match the structure of the building
Bottom Line:
A metal garage offers a fully enclosed building, so it will be sturdy and effective by protecting both the interior and exterior of the building. You will find hundreds of options for metal garages and you can customize them according to your uses and needs. Metal garages are not only considered an affordable option, but they are also solid and can withstand any type of temperature.
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