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Access Control, Business Access, Personnel Doors

How To Choose The Best Access Control System

February 27, 2018Access Control, Business Access, Personnel Doors

how to choose the best access control system

Is your business or residential property as secure as it should be?

Are you wondering how to choose the best access control system?

If you’re looking to get started with access control, there are a few things you need to think about first. Not every access control system is created equally. Each has varying levels of security and reliability. Your requirements may also be different depending on your current building and business needs.

If you’re ready to choose the best access control system for your business, look no further. Below we’ll tell you exactly what you need to know.

Consider Access Control Policies, Models, and Mechanisms

One of the first things to consider when looking for an access control system is what kind of access control policies, models, and mechanisms you would like to use.

These three access control components help designate requirements on both hardware and software for who can gain access and how and when they are going to do it. It’s important to know exactly how you want to structure access and there are multiple models for how this can be done.

You may choose to allow access based on rank within an organization (Role Based Access Control, for example). Alternatively, you may also base access on specific names on a list (Discretionary Access Control).

Know the Type of Hardware You Need

The next thing you need to consider is what access hardware you will use. How will a person actually gain access and what kind of locks will you use? Will you use locks, login credentials, keypads or fingerprinting?

This hardware is what will allow someone to gain access while also rejecting others from getting in. Different types of access features can affect the level of security that you will have and each has different advantages and disadvantages.

For example, fingerprinting will offer a much higher level of security than a basic door with only a keyhole.

Consider the Level of Security

As mentioned above there are different options when it comes to access hardware as well as policies, models, and mechanisms. Much of what you decide when it comes to these features will depend on the amount of security you want in place.

This will vary a lot depending on your individual needs. A large office building may have different access control needs than an automatic gate system in a gated community, for example.

To decide what level of security you need you should take many factors into consideration. These factors may include the location of your business, the crime level in your area, and your business hours.

Manufacturer Reliability and History

If you’re getting ready to install an access control system you’ll want to consider the installer and manufacturer carefully. Take the time to decide if they are the right fit for the job.

Do your research and find out how long the manufacturer has been in business and how long they’ve been developing these types of systems.

You may also want to ask what other types of businesses and end users have used the same solution in the past. Are they similar to the size and scope of your own business needs?

Also, get references if possible and find out as much as you can about the reliability of the business before you get started.

Know What to Expect Going Forward

Implementing an access control system is a big investment so it is important to treat it like one. You should know what to expect after system installation.

Find out if the company will offer updates in the future as well as what kind of support you can expect to receive. Be sure to discuss these things at length before choosing a system for your business.

Also, have a plan for any changes your business may go through later on. If you may decide to change systems in the future you need to know how easy this will be, what the costs will be, and what else to expect.

Operating Systems and Connectivity

Before having an access control system installed, it is crucial that you find out about any compatibility and connectivity requirements you have.

Not all access control systems work with all types of operating systems. Take the time to find out beforehand if you will have any compatibility issues.

Some access control systems will offer web-based connectivity solutions as well. If web connectivity is important to you and your business, make sure to discuss this beforehand.

Map Out Which Doors You Want

You should also think long and hard about which doors will need access control. Not all doors or gates will need the same level of security in place.

Too much security control can lead to a business slowing down since each time someone goes through a door they will need to take a moment to verify their credentials and gain access. It’s good to find the right balance that allows your facility to be secure while at the same time ensuring that your business isn’t unnecessarily interrupted.

Take the time to map out your building. Decide which areas need to be secure through the use of access control and which ones don’t.

Know Your Access Control System Costs

Before you install access control in your facility you also should take the time to accurately assess the costs. It’s a common mistake to only take the upfront expenses into account.

Maintenance of the system, upgrades, regular operations, training, and acquisition can all require additional costs. It can be more expensive than you may realize.

Be sure to ask any company you’re considering working with what the related costs will be in addition to the upfront costs. Ask what the breakdown of costs will be over a five year period, and you’ll get a good idea of what you can expect.

Final Thoughts

Installing an access control system can do wonders for your business. It will help ensure that your business is safe from harm and has the security it needs.

However, installing access control is not a decision to take lightly. There are a lot of factors that you need to be aware of. By considering the points listed above you’ll have the best chance at having an easy access control installation.

Looking for an access control system for your business? Contact us today to learn more about what R&S Erection of Concord can do for you.

DIY Repair, Garage Door DIY, Garage Door Maintenance, Garage Door Repair, Garage Doors

Garage Door DIY: Do’s and Don’ts

January 29, 2018DIY Repair, Garage Door DIY, Garage Door Maintenance, Garage Door Repair, Garage Doors

garage door diy dos and donts

Want to save money this year?

Try garage door DIY maintenance and installation. This is one of the easiest ways to spend less around the house, so you’ll have more money for the things you really want.

However, there are right ways and wrong ways to approach garage door DIY work. If you do things right, you’ll have a garage door that looks and works nicely for years to come. If you do things wrong, you can damage your home and even put yourself at risk for injury.

We’ve compiled this guide to garage door DIY dos and don’ts, so you can approach this DIY project with confidence. Keep reading to learn what you need to know!

Garage Door DIY Do’s

These are the things that you can safely do on your own to keep your garage doors working properly. If it’s on this list, you don’t need to call a professional.

1. Reduce Noise

You can easily reduce the sound of a loud garage door on your own. The trick may be finding out just what is causing the noise.

You can try updating the rollers from steel to nylon to help cut down on noise issues. The friction of steel rollers on steel tracks is a common source of the noise.

Next, try lubricating every part if you hear squeaking sounds. Unlubricated springs, pulleys, rollers, and cables can all add extra noise when the door opens and closes.

Tighten any nuts and bolts that might be rattling. If you notice rust on hinges or other moving parts, replace them to reduce scraping sounds.

Next, check the motor. If the motor is not running correctly, you’ll get extra noise. For a quieter motor, swap out a chain-driven motor for a belt-driven motor.

Of course, your garage door will never be perfectly silent. But you can reduce the noise it makes using these tricks.

2. Open a Closed Door

If your garage door won’t open, chances are good you can fix it yourself.

First, check the door’s power supply. If the door opener isn’t plugged in or otherwise connected to power, that could be your problem.

Next, check the safety eyes. These are placed a foot or two from the bottom of the door on either side of it, and look like cameras. The safety eyes face each other, so they can detect something blocking the door and prevent it from closing.

When the safety eyes aren’t working, your door may no longer open or close. Wipe off their lenses – it’s possible that a buildup of dirt is preventing them from working.

The sensors also need to be lined up to work properly. If a sensor was bumped or kicked, it may no longer be aligned with the other one. When the sensors are in line, their lights should come on.

Of course, if these tricks don’t work, you may need to call a professional. However, in the meantime, you’ll have to manually open and close your door. It’s important not to operate the garage door motor if the photo eyes aren’t working since they protect people from having the door accidentally close on them.

3. Paint and Stain

When your garage door needs a fresh coat of paint or stain, you can easily do it yourself.

In fact, a wooden door should get painted and stained annually to help prevent rot and damage. This is an easy maintenance task to do on your own.

Garage Door DIY Don’ts

These are the garage door issues that you should never attempt to fix on your own. If you have a problem on this list, get in touch with a professional.

1. Fix a Broken Spring

If one spring on the door breaks, you’ll actually need to replace both of them. The springs need to be working in tandem for the door to run properly. If one pulls more than the other, you’ll get a wobbly door or even one that doesn’t move.

Every garage door runs on springs, and every door can have a spring break on occasion.

However, you should never attempt to fix the springs on your own. These springs hold a surprising amount of tension. If one of them hits you with the force of all that tension, it can cause serious injury. Even if the spring appears to have lost all tension when it broke, it could still be holding some back.

2. Fix Bent or Broken Rollers

Your garage door has rollers to help it run nicely. If a roller gets bent, pops out, or otherwise breaks, you may no longer be able to open the door easily (or at all).

However, this isn’t a problem you can fix yourself. If not done correctly, trying to fix the rollers can result in your door falling on the ground – or worse, on you. Call in professional help for this issue.

3. Straighten a Bent Track

The track keeps your garage door traveling along the correct path so it can open and close. If that track gets bent, the door can no longer open as it should.

Many things can bend a garage door track. It can happen when the door malfunctions, or when the door is hit by a car or something else. This is another fix you can’t DIY – a professional will have the knowledge and tools needed to fix it.

4. Repair Broken Cables

Cables, like springs, hold a lot of tension for the door to work. Fixing a broken cable on your own can result in death or injury if a cable hits you with full force. Professionals know how to safely repair garage door cables and avoid injury.

What To Do When You Can’t Do-It-Yourself

Many garage door fixes can be safely and easily handled on your own. However, as you can see, the things that you shouldn’t do alone can be extremely dangerous. Never try one of these “don’ts” at home – there are plenty of qualified professionals who can help you.

Wondering where to look for a garage door maintenance professional? Contact us today – we can help.

Garage Door DIY, Garage Doors

How To Choose The Perfect Garage Door Color

December 18, 2017Garage Door DIY, Garage Doors

how to choose the perfect garage door color

Your garage door is one of your home’s largest outdoor facades to greet visitors. Additionally, it is the single-most defining factor of your property’s overall curb appeal.

Considering these two factors, we’d say the color you choose to paint your garage door is a pretty big deal!

Ultimately, your garage door color can affect the overall value of your home, and for potential home-sellers, this is one of your most vital considerations.

In this post, we will guide you on how to choose the best garage door color for your home!

Choosing the Best Garage Door Color for Your Home

While there is a myriad of elements which add to the overall aesthetic of your home, your garage door defines your curb appeal.

Finishings such as window trim color, exterior sidings and even the grass and shrubbery you choose to use, make your house a home.

But your single-most important consideration when defining the overall appeal of your home has to be your garage door color.

It’s quite simple: the larger your garage doors, the greater impact they will have on your home’s look and feel.

Whether you are looking to sell your home or give it a much-needed make-over, a good place to start is your garage doors.

Here are a few pointers to keep in mind:

Consider the Color of Your Home

If you are looking to make your property appear larger, a great tip is to paint your garage doors the same color as your home.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to make a statement and want your home to stand out in the neighborhood, a white garage door is always a head-turner.

This is especially noticeable when your home is painted a neutral color, such as beige or grey. A white garage door will create a great contrast.

Brighten Things Up

If your home is white or any other neutral shade such as light grey, cream or beige, adding a pop of color can do wonders for your curb appeal.

It all depends on how much of a statement you want to make and whether your color choice will match the look and feel of your neighborhood.

Unique garage door colors include:

Mocha brown
Charcoal
Black
Evergreen
Dark blue

These colors are bound to make a simple, yet effective statement.

Add Richness to Your Curb Appeal

If you are a traditionalist and prefer the appeal of warm, rich tones, then these garage door colors will appeal to you:

Maroon red
Rich, dark brown
A faux wood / wood-grain finish

This type of garage door color tends to fit in well with homes crafted from brick, complementing the natural brick color of your home.

Consider Your Home’s Accent Colors

Another important aspect to consider when choosing a garage door color is your home’s accent colors.

In other words, the trim colors of your home i.e. window trims and shutters, exterior sidings and your front door.

Essentially, you want your garage door color to complement the trim colors of your property.

If you are looking to draw attention away from your front door and windows, paint your garage door the same color!

Stick to One Shade

If you’re looking to incorporate a little personality into your curb appeal, using more than one color is not advisable!

Clashing colors on your garage door can actually detract from your home’s curb appeal, hurting the value of your home.

Additionally, multiple garage door colors may not fit in with your neighborhood. Sticking to one, solid block of color makes your home look neat, sleek and appealing.

Follow Your Neighborhood Style

Keeping to the overall theme of your neighborhood is always recommended.

One of the most important reasons is based on your home’s resale value. The bottom line is that no one wants to buy a new home which sticks out like a sore thumb!

If you live in a neighborhood which is a little more traditional or reserved, ideally, you should stick to this trend.

For example, of your neighbor’s front door and garage door are the same color, it may be best to do the same.

However, if your neighborhood allows for a statement, go ahead and add a little personality to your curb appeal!

Consider Your Home’s Building Materials

Lastly, it’s wise to consider the materials which define the exterior of your home.

If you live in a wood-sided home, a warm, earthy color for your garage door would fit right in.

In this instance, you wouldn’t choose a bright, contrasting color – it just wouldn’t match the look and feel of your property. A brick home would benefit from a similar color garage door in order to complement the exterior.

Vinyl-sided homes generally allow for a range of garage door colors.

The deciding factor will be matching up your trimmings and your garage door to tie it all together.

Popular Garage Door Colors

In today’s property market, some of the most popular garage door colors include:

Light green
Light blue
Black
Light grey
Dark grey
Dark brown
Wood-textured brown
Beige
Cream white
Bright white

Choosing the right color may seem overwhelming, but factoring in a few of the above considerations could go a long way in upping the value of your home.

Increase the Value of Your Home with Us

At R&S Erection of Concord, we are your one-stop-shop for all your garage door and automatic gate needs.

Our service extends to both residential and commercial properties, offering 24-hour emergency service, 7 days a week.

Our business prides itself on being ‘manufacturers with a personalized touch’.

Whether you’re looking for garage door maintenance or installation, we do it all.

View our gallery of residential garage door installations, and get in touch with us for a quote today!

Garage

The Benefits of Garage Insulation

November 29, 2017Garage

the benefits of garage insulation

Garages aren’t just for cars anymore.

In fact, 2/3 of Americans use their garages for all kinds of other things, like bedrooms, storage rooms, or extra living spaces.

But even though most people use their garage as an extension of their house, they don’t treat it like one.

No matter what you use your garage for, garage insulation should be your top priority.

Why Should I Insulate My Garage?

It Saves Money

With cooling and heating costs only rising, much like an insulated attic, an insulated garage will lower your utility bill and help you save money.

An uninsulated garage can’t retain warm or cold air. In other words, if you try to heat it up during the winter, the warm air will seep out through the walls, and if you try to cool it down in the summer, the cool air will escape, as well.

Most garages are connected directly to the rest of the house. If your garage isn’t insulated, it will actually suck hot or cold air from the rest of the house, making you spend more money on heating and air conditioning.

Garage insulation will keep the garage from drawing air from the rest of the house, so your electric bills will go down while your house stays comfortable. This is especially worthwhile if you have a furnished room over the garage, also known as a FROG room.

It Keeps Your Items Safe

Insulating your garage also protects the items you store inside, including your car (if you still keep it there).

Hot weather is one of the main reasons a car battery dies. A car battery contains liquid, and hot weather evaporates the liquid and causes the battery to stop working.

Cold weather can also negatively affect your car battery. If the temperature in the car battery gets too low, the chemical reaction inside the battery slows, often meaning the car fails to start.

Insulating your garage will keep the temperature inside from getting too hot or too cold, keeping the items inside undamaged.

Do I Have to Insulate the Whole Garage?

If the only reason you want to insulate your garage is to lower heating and cooling costs, you don’t necessarily have to insulate the entire garage.

All you really need to insulate are the walls touching other parts of your house. This could also include the garage ceiling if you have a FROG room above it.

You can also use weather stripping kits around the garage door threshold. You can apply these kits yourself, and they will help keep things like drafts, rain, and snow out of your garage.

If you want your garage insulation to protect your car or if you’re planning to use the garage as another bedroom or living space, you’ll want to insulate the whole thing.

How Do I Insulate My Garage?

There are a few different ways you can insulate your garage, and they all depend on your garage insulation goals and your budget. Some of these options may also require a contractor.

Batt Insulation

This insulation is made of cotton-fiberglass material. It is very light, which makes it easy to use. All you have to do is hang it between the wall studs with nails or staples.

Because batt insulation is made of fiberglass, it is not good to breathe in, so you’ll want to cover it with drywall if you’re planning to use the space a lot. You can hire a contractor for this job, or because drywall is fairly easy to install, you can do it yourself, as well.

Blown-in Insulation

If your garage already has drywall but doesn’t have insulation, you can insulate the insides of the wall with blown-in insulation. This means a contractor will cut a little hole in your wall and blow a cellulose material through the walls.

When they are done, the contractor will fix the hole they made. This method is quick, but it may be more expensive than batt insulation.

Other Alternatives

If you use batt insulation but don’t want to put up drywall, you may be able to get by with thick, foam board. This is not ideal, and you will have to check with building codes and make sure it’s completely fireproof.

After you get the insulation installed, take some time to make sure everything is sealed correctly. Caulk cracks between the drywall, where the drywall meets the floor, and where the drywall meets door or window frames.

You should also weatherstrip the access door to the house to prevent any car exhaust from seeping into the house.

What About the Garage Door?

The garage door is the tricky part. Obviously you’ll want to weatherstrip the garage door, as previously mentioned, but actually insulating the garage door is a little bit harder.

There are ways you can insulate your garage door on your own, but they are not usually good longterm options. Because the garage door is meant to open and close a lot and folds in many different places, batt insulation or spray-on foam insulation won’t work well.

Even if you find a kind of insulation that is specifically meant for garage doors, it will often flake off or break apart after a while.

Unless you want to insulate your garage door, again and again, you should look into buying insulated garage doors. These are garage doors that are made fully insulated.

However, if you aren’t planning to use your garage as a living space, you probably don’t need to worry about the garage door.

Whether you try to insulate your garage door yourself or buy one that’s already insulated is completely up to you and your garage needs.

Garage Insulation Keeps You and Your Things Comfortable

What’s the point of insulating the rest of your house if the garage sucks away or transfers hot and cold air? Insulating your garage will help you lower your energy, save money, and even protect your possessions. It is a good choice no matter what you use the garage for.

Getting ready to make some changes in your garage? Contact us and we will get you on the right path!

Commercial Doors, High-Speed Doors

7 Advantages of High-Speed Doors

October 13, 2017Commercial Doors, High-Speed Doors

7 advantages of high-speed doors

Taking your service doors for granted is the biggest mistake your business can make. High-speed doors create operational efficiencies, keep employees safe, and reduce costs.

Before we look at some of the advantages of these specialized doors, let’s cover the basics.

High-Speed Door Basics

High-speed doors are also referred to as high-performance doors. They serve the basic function of a barrier in commercial settings. But their most important purpose is to open and close quickly.

Other characteristics of these doors are…

power operated
sliding or rolling
horizontal or vertical orientation
high cycle (75-100 open/close per day)
breakaway features
minimal maintenance

High-performance doors, in general, allow quick movement throughout your facility.

They also have specific functions used in industries like food processing, logistics, and high-tech. Among these functions are weather resistance, security, environmental containment, and pressure stability.

Basics are great but they don’t tell the whole story. High-performance doors provide many advantages for your business. One of the seven below might be the make or break advantage your company’s been looking for.

7 Amazing Advantages of High-speed Doors

High-speed doors are versatile enough for use in auto dealerships, food processing plants, and semiconductor manufacturing facilities. Their unique construction and operation allow them to fit specific needs.

Let’s look at these advantages and see how they impact your business.

Increased Security

Standard high-speed doors have built-in security functions. Their quick open/close times cut the risk of employees entering non-authorized areas of your facility.

Rigid construction doors, made with rugged aluminum slats, are used for exterior applications. They’re found in auto dealerships, hotels, and convention centers.

Some doors have no rubber gaskets between slats. This eliminates intrusion by slicing them open.

Intruders can’t get through the slats which means they stay outside, where they belong.

Keep Employees Safer

There are many reasons why businesses use high-speed doors to segregate areas of their facilities. Some areas work with corrosive or noxious materials. In others, employees produce sparks while welding.

Still in others, extreme heat or cold is necessary. Quick operation, strong seals, and durable materials keep employees and visitors safe.

The doors themselves are flexible. Because the door curtain has no rigid parts, damage and injury after collisions are reduced. On rigid style doors, transparent panels limit vehicle collisions when entering and exiting.

Some doors have intuitive signaling technology to warn employees of approaching vehicles on the opposite side.

Reduced Loss of Heating and Cooling

There are four primary features that promote energy efficiency.

tight seal
quick opening and closing
durability
wind resistance

High-speed doors seal very well on all four sides to keep hot and cold where they belong. The quick open and close cycles limit hot and cold air escaping.

Their durability comes from a design that is more damage-resistant than conventional doors. Conventional door issues like bent slats allow heat and cold to escape.

Certain high-performance doors are wind resistant up to a set number of miles per hour. This feature is very useful for keeping cold winds from affecting warmer areas.

Doors can also be equipped with insulation curtains that limit condensation and ice build-up.

This is especially important in auto dealership service departments where customers drive straight into the service bay from outside. Cars move in and out of the service bay all day, even in inclement weather.

Airflow Prevention

In some businesses, like those that need clean rooms, airflow is key. Dust and airborne debris can damage the manufacture of some products. They can also damage heating and cooling systems.

High-performance doors control airflow and reduce risk. Use them in pairs to form airlocks in pressure-sensitive environments.

Hygiene standards are another reason to control airflow in operations like food processing. Food manufacturing facilities use high-performance doors to separate waste disposal areas from the assembly line.

Increased Productivity

High-performance doors fast open/close cycle saves time and increases productivity. Products, equipment, and people move throughout your facility with ease.

Businesses where material handling and transport is a priority, thrive on volume processing and smooth logistical flows. High-performance doors allow these businesses to maximize productivity.

High-performance doors work great at auto dealerships, too. Customers are impressed when the service bay door opens many times faster than a traditional door. The faster customers can pull in and park on the service drive, the faster they can get on with their busy days.

Easier to Clean and Maintain

In the food processing sector, doors must be easy to clean and disinfect. High-speed doors with PVC curtains and stainless steel side covers are made to withstand heavy use of cleaning agents.

When conventional doors are knocked off track, a service call is usually the only option. High-performance doors feature a self-reinserting curtain that prevents downtime after collisions. Opening and closing the door returns the curtain into its side guides.

In the event a rigid door’s aluminum slats are damaged, replacement is simple. Some repairs take 15 minutes, or less. With proper security measures in place, the door can still operate while waiting for a technician.

In cold climates or environments, de-icing doors and guides are time-consuming. Equip your high-performance doors with heated side guides, insulated curtains, and defrosting systems. These options make de-icing a non-issue.

Finally, doors equipped with patented push/pull drive technology require little maintenance. The design purposely limits wear on moving parts.

Cost Savings

A standard rolling steel door, in a 2m high opening, opens and closes in 11 seconds. A high-speed security door, in the same opening, opens and closes in 2 seconds. This increased speed creates a number of cost savings, like the following:

reduced HVAC maintenance costs from better environmental controls
reduced heat and air conditioning costs
reduced repair costs from collisions
reduced workers compensation costs from fewer door-related injuries

These massive advantages make it easy for high-performance doors to revolutionize your operation.

An Open and Shut Case

Sorry, we couldn’t help ourselves. But high-speed doors are no joke.

They provide so many benefits that pay for themselves. A 21st-century business literally cannot afford to go without them.

RS Door offers high-performance doors from Dynaco, featuring their patented push-pull drive technology.

To see all the advantages we’ve talked about today, click the link for a free high-speed door estimate.

Garage Safety

Fire Safety and Prevention in Your Garage

October 11, 2017Garage Safety

Garage fire safety is an issue for every homeowner. Most homeowners don’t think about their garage catching fire but the reality is that over 6,600 garages catch on fire in the United States every year. That’s why we’ve put together a guide on garage fire prevention to help protect your home from an unexpected fire hazard.

garage fire safety prevention

Firemen at work on fire

Garage Fire Prevention

Clutter is a pretty big problem for those wanting to prevent a garage fire. Often used for more than just a parking spot, the garage can be used to house a plethora of belongings, valuables, and flammables. Adding shelves and containers to store items until needed may help battle the mess. By developing a few safety habits and practicing caution, fire hazards can be easily prevented. In doing so, this keeps fire damage to a minimum and the lives of your loved ones safe.

Use of Electronics and Appliances

The leading cause of all residential garage fires is electrical malfunction. Damaged wires that short out or overload circuits is the primary contributing factor. Practicing caution when using appliances is a great step toward maintaining garage fire prevention.

You should only ever have one appliance plugged into an outlet. Having multiple cords and appliances only multiplies the chance for a fire hazard outbreak. You should also never use an extension cord while charging an appliance. It may actually be best to tape down all cords and wires to ensure they do not get accidentally yanked from the outlet.
Heaters and boilers should be kept away from flammable liquids as the sparks can ignite and cause a fire. Even a car battery has a chance to spark under certain conditions and should be removed from potential accelerants.
All exposed wiring should be repaired or removed prior to performing any work inside the garage. If you happen to use your garage as a workshop, then keep all flammables sealed and removed from the electrical tools. A spark from a saw can ignite the fumes and liquids setting your work space ablaze. Be prudent in cleaning up any sawdust or debris afterwards. Small pieces of wood are far more combustible than the larger pieces.

Proper Storage of Flammables and Combustibles

Seeing as fire only needs a combination of: fuel, heat, and oxygen – It may be in your best interest to keep these things from coming together.

Never keep flammable products out in the open when not in use. This will include cans of paint, finishing oils, as well as other solvents and flammable liquids. Ensure after every use, that you reseal all containers and store them in a safe place. A dedicated storage container with a closed door is preferred.
Avoid taking any unnecessary risks with combustibles to minimize the chance for an accidental fire hazard. Ensure that all combustibles are removed from regular sources of heat. Propane tanks are prone to ignition or explosion and should be kept in a storage unit outside of the garage.

Buy Better Safety Equipment

If a garage fire breaks out, your reaction and response time is critical. If left unchecked, it won’t take very long for the fire to reach your living spaces. Having the proper safety equipment in place to alert you to the presence of a fire is crucial.

Have a heat alarm – not a smoke alarm – installed in your garage. A smoke alarm is not designed to alert you to a fire. It can be affected by a slight change in temperature, humidity, or too much dust. When purchasing a heat alarm, make sure it is hard-wired and installed by a qualified electrician. It’s best to purchase one that comes with a battery backup and can interconnect with your home’s smoke alarms.
A fire extinguisher is a no-brainer in this situation. Having one on hand that is kept close to an exit door is ideal for fire safety. A fire extinguisher is bother practical and inexpensive making it a smart purchase for every home with or without a garage. You may also consider having a sprinkler system installed to promote further garage fire safety.

Penetration Prevention

Fires that originate inside of an attached garage are more likely to spread to other parts of the home than one that is detached. A garage fire can spread rapidly throughout other areas of your home in very minimal time. For this reason, it is recommended that attached garages be adequately sealed from all living areas.

Installation of the right door can aid in slowing and containing the spread. According to the International Residential Code (IRC), “Openings between the garage and the residence shall be equipped with solid wood doors not less than 1-3/8” (35mm) in thickness, solid- or honeycomb-core steel doors not less than 1-3/8” (35mm) thick, or 20-minute fire-rated doors.” If you’re in doubt, reach out to our team at R&S Doors and we’ll help.

To help contain a garage fire from spreading, the doors leading into the home should be self-closing so as not to sit ajar. They should also possess tight seals around the joints to prevent carbon-monoxide fumes from seeping through and into the living areas.
If the door happens to have a window, then ensure that the glass is fire-rated. Avoid adding pet doors to a fire-rated door in order to maintain its integrity.

Garage fire safety doesn’t begin or end in the garage. Taking the necessary precautions to ensure fire safety begins and ends with you. In disastrous times, there are teams of qualified professionals standing by to assist you. If your garage or home suffers fire damage and is in need of repairs, then don’t hesitate to call your local fire damage restoration team.

Commercial Doors, Warehouse

What You Need To Know About Commercial Overhead Doors

September 7, 2017Commercial Doors, Warehouse

what you need to know about commercial overhead doors

We probably all remember hearing our parents yell, ‘Close the door behind you!’

There were a myriad of reasons to keep that door closed: bugs, weather, insulation, and safety. Bottom line, though – the door needed to be closed.

Keeping our business enclosed as well as protected is an integral part of our daily business operations. We open in the morning, close in the evening and at the end of the day want to know that when we leave – our property and assets are safe and secure.

Commercial overhead doors have come a long way in energy-efficiency, safety, and security. However, they are large, heavy, and can become a liability if not installed correctly by a professional to ensure they are OSHA compliant.

Check out these things that every shop, business, and/or warehouse owner should know about their overhead doors.

Types of Commercial Overhead Doors

First, let’s chat overhead doors.

These are the most popular types of doors used in both residential and commercial properties. They are convenient, they are efficient, and they are easy to operate.

But why choose the commercial overhead door?

These types of doors are pretty impenetrable, making them the Fort Knox of doors. Doors that close and latch into the ground don’t really leave a lot of room for entry without a key, remote, or access code. They create a peace of mind that owners can trust to keep their property secure during working and non-working hours.

Here are the types of commercial overhead doors most commonly used and information you should know about each:

Rolling Doors

These doors do exactly what their name implies – they roll up and down.

Used primarily for warehouses, storage units, and outdoor shops, restaurants, and businesses, rolling doors are specifically manufactured for strength and durability.

Once you roll one of these commercial overhead doors to the ground, it’s final – the day is done. Made out of galvanized steel, Superman would be the only impending threat that could penetrate these doors when closed and secured.

Available in manual push-up, chain pull, or motor operation – rolling doors are great choices for warehouses, car washes, machine shops, auto body shops or any other place that needs a strong, durable door that can ensure your property is incredibly secure at the end of the day.

High-Speed Doors

Known for being the safest, fastest, and best-sealing doors – the high-speed door gets you in and out with speed and efficiency in mind.

These doors can be custom-fit for any space, are reinforced with heavy-duty PVS vinyl, and can be used inside or outside. Even more useful, these types of commercial overhead doors can cater to many specific design requirements:

High winds and/or harsh weather environments
Hygiene, cleaning, sealing, and/or corrosive conditions need attention
Freezing temperatures
Cleanroom environments

With the ability to stop if someone or something is detected underneath the door, this option is one of the safest in the industry and a great option for larger volumes of foot traffic.

Sectional Doors

Probably the doors that you may recognize most often, the sectional door is exactly what it implies – multiple doors in multiple sections. These types of doors are used for fire stations, loading docks, and other locations where multiple vehicles require access.

Built to take regular usage, sectional doors are the garage door choices for many businesses based on cost, efficiency, and design. Easy to maintain and available in a variety of colors, these doors can offer secure access as well as an aesthetic appeal.

Aluminum Grilles

Need some quality security and ventilation?

Aluminum grilles are the commercial overhead door that could best fit your needs. Constructed out of galvanized steel in a handful of different grate patterns, these doors allow maximum airflow as well as maximum protection.

The standard grille is the usual go-to for storefront locations inside shopping malls or other enclosed spaces.

The heavy grille is the perfect choice for parking garages. This type of door is built stronger to withstand something like a speeding vehicle.

Counter Doors

It’s late, you’re hungry, and you want to find some food ASAP! These types of doors may have been your greeting if you showed up past normal operating hours.

The counter doors are compact, visually attractive, and durable. Used mostly for food counters at walk-up or cafeteria style locations as well as drive-throughs, these types of commercial overhead doors are smaller and more compact in design.

Able to fit most custom measurements, counter doors are perfect for smaller openings that don’t extend to the ground.

Fire Doors

Fires happen. That’s why there is a specific type of commercial overhead door to cater to this potential fiery situation.

Depending on the type of business that you need to outfit, these types of doors may be a requirement. These are rolling doors that have an added layer of fire resistance and extreme heat durability.

These types of doors are not meant for continuous use. In fact, most are equipped with the following options that only activate during an emergency situation:

Smoke detectors
Release devices
Perimeter gasketing
Vision Lites
Powerdercoat
VIBRATECH (a quiet close option)

Depending on your type of business, you may be required to install doors with a certain level of fire resistance. Hospitals are prime examples of where these types of doors are a necessity and a requirement.

Lock It Up

You’ve invested your time, money, and energy into a commercial business. You definitely don’t want bugs, weather, insulation concerns, or safety issues to impact your daily operations in any way.

To rest easy and know that your company or business is safe in your absence – a commercial overhead door will pacify your worry. With all of the different options available, these types of doors have become the literal gatekeepers to our businesses and warehouses.

Installing the right type of door(s) may seem overwhelming, but finding a door that is durable, reliable, and safe is a must.

Find a company with extensive knowledge between the differences of the various commercial overhead doors and outsource to a professional that can help diagnose your business needs.

After you ‘close the door behind you’, do so knowing that your business is protected with a door you trust.

Garage Doors

5 Types of Garage Doors for New Homeowners

August 10, 2017Garage Doors

5 types of garage doors for new homeowners

Welcome to the world of homeownership. You’re likely going to spend the next few years obsessing over home decor and weighing the pros and cons of having certain appliances.

While you might be able to easily pin down which washer and dryer set you want, selecting one of the many types of garage doors on the market is sure to make your head throb. Garage doors aren’t, after all, cheap, so you want to get things right the first time.

So which material should you look into when selecting a garage door for your new home? Which one will provide the most utility given your budget and preferences? Let’s find out.

Aluminum

As some of you may now, aluminum isn’t the most durable material. Despite that fact, building garage doors with aluminum has its benefits.

Aluminum, for example, resists rust better than some of the other options on this list. This means that you don’t have to worry about that ugly, rusty look a few years down the line.

Further still, aluminum is a lightweight material. As a result, it is often incorporated in extra wide garage doors and other types of garage doors that might get a little hefty.

One of the only drawbacks of using aluminum is that it doesn’t resist dents so well. Fortunately, you can find more aluminum doors on the market. Needless to say, though, you’re going to pay a bit more for that added durability.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass gives homeowners some of the same benefits that aluminum provides. Like aluminum, it resists dents. It also doesn’t rust.

Dents and rust aside, fiberglass is an “easy” material to work with because it can be easily manipulated. It can be crafted to look like somewhat expensive wood or it can be made to look a bit transparent. All in all, fiberglass allows homeowners a fair amount of customization at a decent cost.

The material, however, does not come without its faults. It has been known to take on a yellowish hue over time. It has also been known to break as it ages.

As a matter of fact, it is more likely to break on impact than some of the other types of garage doors mentioned here. That said, if you’re planning on backing into your garage door for some reason, don’t choose fiberglass.

Wood

Wood is timeless. We’ve been building with it for millennia, and we’re not likely to stop anytime soon. And since some people are branding it as a sustainable building material, maybe that’s a good thing.

Wooden garage doors are fairly durable compared to fiberglass and aluminum, but this doesn’t mean that they last longer than other doors. For obvious, they resist dents well. If maintained well, they can last for years.

If you’ve ever purchased wooden furniture, you probably know that wood is costly. That said, you’re definitely going to pay a steep price if you want a wooden garage door.

Of course, that price is arguably worth the expense. Similar to fiberglass, wood is a material which offers customers lots of opportunities for customization. Homeowners can choose from a vast array of woods to get the look that they really want for their garage doors.

If you go with wood, however, just remember to properly maintain your garage door. You do, after all, want your money to go as far as possible.

Wood Composite Doors

Wood composite doors are slightly different from wooden garage doors. They consist of a blend of derivative woods products. In other words, they’re fairly processed compared to wooden doors.

While both types of garage doors (wooden and wood composite) are durable, wood composite doors arguably come out on top here. For one, composite woods typically have a longer life span than solid woods. Because of the longer life span, the money homeowners put towards wood composite doors goes a lot further.

Don’t, however, misunderstand us here. We’re not suggesting that wood is inferior to wood composites. Some people would argue that composites don’t compare to solid woods when it comes to style and elegance. We’re just pointing out that composites are a budget-friendly option.

Steel

Steel is even more durable than wood. Not only that, but the typical construction of steel garage doors pretty much ensures that this type of garage door will withstand the elements well. They’re usually made from multiple layers of galvanized steel.

To be fair, though, steel garage doors aren’t perfect. As some of you might expect, they do rust. They can also be dented.

Further still, they are susceptible to corrosion. This is even more true for people who live in coastal areas. As a result, we don’t recommend steel garage doors for people who live in such areas and aren’t willing or able to replace their garage doors somewhat frequently.

If, however, you can live with the corrosion (which we doubt), go for it.

Vinyl

Vinyl is perhaps the most budget-friendly material on this list. We say this because vinyl garage doors are so hard to actually damage. Furthermore, they require so little maintenance that it’s hard for some homeowners not to go vinyl when they need something that will last for a while.

As with most good things, though, there is a tradeoff. If you want a vinyl garage doors, you’ll have to compromise on the design. Vinyl doors are not available in as many colors or designs as most of the other options on this list. Those of you who can’t live without a little customization should rule vinyl out as an option.

Choosing Between the Different Types of Garage Doors

It looks like you’ve got your work cut out for you. You have to make a major decision that will affect your home’s exterior design for years to come.

Unless, of course, you have thousands of dollars to spare.

In any case, once you settle on a material for your garage, you can start picking out a garage door opener. Because, you know, no garage door is complete without one.

Still haven’t even had your garage door installed yet? Contact us today for a free estimate.

Garage, Garage Door Maintenance, Garage Door Safety, Garage Doors, Garage Safety, Maintainance

7 Safety Tips That Help With Garage Door Maintenance

July 6, 2017Garage, Garage Door Maintenance, Garage Door Safety, Garage Doors, Garage Safety, Maintainance

7 safety tips that help with garage door maintenance

Most people only know something’s wrong with their garage door when it stops working thus requiring garage door maintenance.

No one wants to get home at night and realize their garage door doesn’t want to open. Then begins the personal struggle: fix it yourself or call a professional. Fixing it on your own can be potentially dangerous, and it can be tough to figure out just what the problem is. If you call a professional, the costs can rack up quickly.

Luckily, there are some steps any homeowner can take to prevent their garage door from breaking suddenly.

With these garage door maintenance tips in your toolbox, you’ll never be taken by surprise by a garage door suddenly malfunctioning. Use these measures to keep your garage door in great working order.

Ready? Let’s go through our 7 safety tips that help with garage door maintenance.

Why Garage Door Maintenance Matters

You might be thinking, “well, if I can just call someone to fix it, why should I maintain my garage door?”

What people don’t realize is that garage doors can be dangerous if they aren’t well-maintained. A door that suddenly breaks, fails to open, or closes randomly can not only cause damage to vehicles, but it can injure people as well.

This applies to self-repairs as well. Trying to fix your garage door alone isn’t a good idea if you don’t know what you’re doing. No one should hurt themselves doing DIY repairs if it can be avoided. However, doing some quick checks on your garage door is fairly harmless and actually prevents future injuries.

By maintaining your garage door, you’re keeping you and your family safe.

1. Use your eyes and your ears

With garage door maintenance, your eyes and your ears are great tools for diagnosing issues.

A well-maintained garage door won’t sound loud and noisy — in fact, it will sound rather quiet when it closes. Loud creaks and groans can indicate issues with the garage door, so if your opener makes a racket it might be a good idea to do some DIY maintenance.

2. Keep your garage door balanced

Your garage door has a balance system that keeps it from coming down too quickly or not far enough. If the door is out of balance, it might slide down with a lot of force, potentially damaging anything underneath it. This also puts a lot of wear on the door, causing it to break early.

It’s fairly simple to check your garage door’s balance. Before you do anything, make sure that the opener is disconnected. Usually, you can disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle, which is generally a red cord.

After that, pull your garage door up manually until it’s halfway open.

If your garage door stays in place at that position, it’s balanced. If it slams down or keeps moving upward, it’s unbalanced in one way or the other.

Unfortunately, if your garage door is unbalanced, you will need a professional to adjust it.

3. Keep moving parts oiled and greased

Just like with any other machine, doing garage door maintenance means you keep the moving parts in working order.

There are tons of moving parts in a garage door opener and they all need lubrication to work properly. The rollers, springs, and hinges need it, as well as the opener chain.

If you live in a cold climate, you might need to use specific oils and greases made for low temperatures. Also, try not to over-oil or over-grease any parts — while not dangerous, it’s a mess that can get on people’s clothing.

4. Inspect your sensors

If the garage door isn’t closing properly, there may be an issue with the LED sensors at either side of the entrance.

Check them for dust or obstructions and clean the lenses if they’re dirty. If that doesn’t work, check the LED lights themselves. If either one isn’t working, the door won’t close anytime soon. Adjusting the sensors so that they match up should cause the door to successfully close.

If not, it’s time to call the professionals.

5. Adjust the door’s force

Most people don’t know that you can actually change the force of the opener. This affects how hard the door comes down.

What this system is useful for is detecting objects beneath the garage door. If the force is too high, the door will crush anything beneath it. With a weak force, however, the door won’t actually close at all.

An easy test is to put something like a wooden board or a rock underneath the door. If the garage door detects the object and opens again, the force is probably fine.

However, if the door refuses to close at all, or if it smashes down on the object, it needs some adjustments.

6. Childproofing

While not technically garage door maintenance, this is a safety concern nonetheless. If you or your friends have children, it’s useful to figure out ways to childproof your garage door.

Never leave the garage door opener where a child could get hold of it. It might seem like a toy to them.

The button on the wall for opening the garage door should always be high up on the wall, far over the height of any child. It’s also important to understand how the emergency reverse function works. Educating your children on this feature is vital for their safety.

7. Update your garage door

It’s much tougher to do garage door maintenance on old, outdated garage doors.

Many of these aged doors lack the modern safety features that new doors have. For example, older doors might not reverse until the door actually hits the object. If the object is a person, then it’s already too late.

While it can be costly to replace, the added security and function of your new garage door will surely be worth it.

Regular garage door maintenance creates a smooth-running door and a safer environment.

If there are issues, don’t hurt yourself trying repairs — call our trusted garage door technician and we will help you get your door working.

Garage Door Openers, Garage Doors

The Best Garage Door Openers of 2017

June 5, 2017Garage Door Openers, Garage Doors

the best garage door openers of 2017

As soon as you leave work, the last thing you want to do is sit on your driveway pressing your garage door opener so many times you can’t count.

This unfortunate scenario happens to the best of us.

Once your garage door opener fails, you can’t get inside your garage without muttering complaints about why the door opener stopped working.

Know The Best Garage Door Openers

Luckily for you, we’ve comprised a master list of the best garage door openers money can buy in 2017.

Read on to find out more information on these top-performing picks.

First, let’s establish the difference between the four major types of garage door openers that exist on the market today for you to choose from.

Chain Drives

A chain drive mechanism operates by using a chain that smoothly rolls against the rails.

These chain drives are often the most used for a typical garage door.

Chain drives also come equipped with chain separators that prevent your garage door from making too much unnecessary noise when the door goes down.

If you are experiencing any problems with your current garage door, make sure to ask us for any helpful tips we can give you by shooting us an e-mail!

Direct Drives

These direct drives do not use chains or belts, but rather one singular moving part that resembles an arm moving up and down.

Using direct drives can be a hi-tech option that eliminates unnecessary noise with its lack of vibrations.

These types of technologically advanced garage door openers can be costly for a typical family.

Belt Drives

Belt drives are great if your garage is located below a bedroom and you need to control how much noise is created from constant garage door use.

These drives are usually made out of steel and move quietly around a centralized hub.

More and more belt drives are being designed to be quieter than ever before, and they are also becoming smartphone controlled.

Jackshaft Drives

These drives are brand new in terms of garage door opening, which also means they can get expensive fast.

By installing the mounted opener, you will be able to access it through Wi-Fi capabilities. These drives are truly where technology is headed.

Now onto the best garage door openers:

Liftmaster 8500

This is a top-rated #1 product because it has some outstanding key features.

We highly recommend a LiftMaster.

Why?

It’s dependable and quiet, for starters.

Here are some more amazing factors that make the LiftMaster opener a winner in our book:

Ultra Quiet Belt Operation
A Lifetime Warranty
Soft Start and Stop Capabilities
Wi-Fi to control from anywhere
Timer-to-close
Motion Detection
Real-time alert

This impressive garage door opener is a wonderful option for a family that is concerned about their security.

If you want to operate your garage door with Wi-Fi, you can do so with a Liftmaster 8500.

It’s an elite series machine that makes it a reliable garage door opener.

This garage door opener has multiple tech savvy abilities to give you the control you need whenever you leave or enter your garage.

Liftmaster/Chamberlain/Sentex

You need to install the Liftmaster/Chamberlain/Sentex on your own, but that’s quite alright because this garage door opener has easy to follow instructions.

Even when the power goes out and you think you are stranded with your car parked inside your garage, this opener is equipped with a backup battery that is energy efficient.

The drawback to the Liftmaster/Chamberlain/Sentex is that it only uses one remote.

Chamberlain WD1000WF

This garage door opener uses a belt drive operation which makes it less costly to buy in comparison to the more hi-tech ones.

With this specific unit, you receive two remotes, a panel that lets you control from the inside, a backup battery, and a keypad to use on the outside of your garage.

There is also a mobile app that you can download to operate your garage door straight from your phone!

Simply download the app to get instant notifications concerning everything there is to know about what is going on with your garage door.

Need to know if your garage door is functioning properly?

The notifications can tell you everything from whether or not it has properly closed, to information regarding if it has been opened without your permission.

Sommer Direct Drive 1042V001

As with other direct drives, the Sommer Direct Drive 1042V001 uses just one part to move.

It does not use a chain or a belt.

It glides across a chain that is stationary, which aids in its noise level.

The noise levels heard from in and around your residential garage will be significantly reduced by purchasing one of these options as our pick for the best garage door openers in 2017.

This specific model has been reviewed on places by actual customers and has been given a positive response.

This drive can also lift the heaviest of doors, with its limit of up to 550 pounds!

Now that is one powerful motor.

What’s included with this direct drive garage door opener?:

Two remotes
A wall panel for optimal control
Light sensory capabilities
Technology that automatically cuts the motor connected to the door if it senses objects/movements in its way

What Do You Want Out Of An Option For The Best Garage Door Opener?

You need to protect your family from intruders.

A secure garage door will keep the burglars out of your way for GOOD.

No more worrying about your pets and children when you are out of town.

Have the ability to operate your garage door opener from places such as your smartphone or PC computer at a moments notice.

Understand the warranty that is associated with the operator that you choose.

Prevent any injuries from falling doors that causes over 2,000 deaths each year by selecting the right door for your home.

Now You Know

Our hope is that you now understand a little more about the best garage door openers available in 2017.

Which one will you pick?

A chain, belt, direct drive, or jackshaft?

Feel free to let us know in the comments below so we can further share our knowledge with you, our valued customers.

Is your garage door in need of replacing? Contact our licensed garage door repair technician today so you can stop worrying about the safety of your family.