Most people don’t really think about overhead doors, automatic gates or access security systems in an emergency until….the emergency. And that’s a problem because they control how employees and customers can enter or leave your business, a crucial piece of any emergency plan. So how do you open the front gate manually? Will the entry door keypad keep working? What happens if it doesn’t?

Most people don’t think about garage doors, keypads or automatic gates in an emergency until….the emergency. And that’s a problem because they control entering and leaving your home, a crucial piece of any emergency plan. So how do you open a garage door or gate manually? Will your front gate keypad keep working? What happens if it doesn’t? Here’s breakdown of what to know about your doors and gates to keep you and your family safe during an emergency.

SB 969 requires automatic garage door openers manufactured for sale, sold, or installed in a residence in California on or after July 1, 2019 to include a backup battery that is designed to operate in the case of an electrical outage. 

We adhere to recommendations by two third-party testing laboratory companies when designing and repairing automatic gate systems. These two recommendations, UL 325 and ASTM R2200, form the blueprint of requirements to help prevent accidents. 

By law contractors working on a job totaling more than $1,000 for labor and materials are required to be licensed with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB), part of the Department of Consumer Affairs. Having the proper insurance and licensing increases costs for contractors, and therefore for homeowners, but using an unlicensed contractor puts homeowners at risk.

Selecting the proper garage door impacts energy efficiency, security and home aesthetics. It’s important to consider local climate, style compatibility, and functionality as well as your specific needs, style preferences and budget to make an informed choice.

Check out this guide for details on how to correctly measure the sizing for a rolling steel or aluminum shutter door.

We invite you to join us April 11-13, 2025 at the Alameda County Spring Home Show.