Part one of this series discussed the most common problems that affect garage doors, while part two taught us how reactive and preventive repair can help combat those problems. To close this series, we look at why you need a professional contractor for proper and successful maintenance – as well as what you need in such a contractor.
A big part of proper garage door maintenance is having a trusted professional in your corner. Such a person will help you make sense of the entire process so that the safety and functionality of your doors are ensured. After all, a professional:
- Knows what to look for. Garage door inspections are effective tools for cataloguing the current state of your garage doors, and acting accordingly. Some things register only after intensive examination, and these may be things an untrained eye will not spot. And whatever is causing an issue may not be limited to just one factor. For instance, a garage door that does not close may be due to a faulty photo sensor or broken springs.
- Know when to inspect. The frequency and timing with which inspections must be carried out are also important to successful maintenance. Balance tests and visual inspections, for example, should be done monthly.
- Is familiar with the specifics of each component. US federal regulations mandate that every garage door manufactured after January 1, 1993 be equipped with photo sensors and reversing mechanisms. A professional garage door contractor not only knows this – he or she also knows how to make sure that your doors meet industry-established requirements.
Having a professional, however, is not the same as having the right professional. When looking for a contractor, consider:
- The years a contractor has spent in the industry are not only indicative of his or her competence, they also mirror the trust he or she has acquired. After all, a bad contractor will not be in business for long. Examine your potential contractor’s track record, and make sure you like what you see before you sign on the dotted line.
Competitive pricing. Your contractor should also be cost-effective, but remember that the lowest rate is not necessarily the best rate. Verify that everything you are billed for is vital, and absolutely important toward keeping your garage and your home secured. Also, request a consultation before agreeing to a contract to better ascertain the contractor’s way of conducting business.