How to Hire the Right Garage Door Repair Service

March 19, 2023

63% of homes across America have either a garage or a carport. If you are lucky enough to have a garage, you’ll know how useful it is. Your garage provides storage and security for everything you keep in it. 

However, for you to be able to make the most of everything your garage has to offer, you need to maintain it properly. Faulty switch openers, remotes, and motor runs can all put your garage door out of action. If your door is more than 30 years old it also might be in need of replacement.

In that case, you will need help from a garage door repair service and it is important that you find a company that can deliver quality service. That said, with more than 27,000 locksmith and door repair companies in the US, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Well, you’re in the right place!

Read on to find out everything you need to know about finding a great garage door repair company in no time!

What Can a Garage Door Repair Service Do For You?

Garage door companies will cover a range of different commercial and  residential services depending on what you need. This includes:

  • Reprogramming opener switches, remote controls, and access keypads
  • Roller repairs and replacement
  • Repairing and replacing torsion springs
  • Reattaching loose belts
  • Reprogramming the door’s opening and closing limits
  • Replacing jammed locks on manual locks on garage doors
  • Replacing old garage doors completely

Your garage door mechanic should also be able to provide some handy garage door repair tips to help you keep on top of your garage maintenance. This will ensure that your door and its mechanisms work for as long as possible.

However, it is extremely important that you choose a great quality garage door repair firm to work on your home. Let’s take a look at why this is. 

Security

A garage is a great addition to any home, however, a poorly maintained garage can become a target for burglars. In fact, 9% of burglars get into a home through the garage.

This might not seem like a particularly high figure. However, when you consider that around 1.7 million burglaries occur every year in the US that’s almost 170,000 burglaries via garages alone! Even if a burglar doesn’t use your garage to access your home, they may still steal valuable items from the garage itself.

Burglars aren’t the only things you need to worry about when it comes to the security and safety of your property though. Garage doors that don’t shut properly can leave the property in your garage exposed to the weather, which can cause serious damage.

If you want to look after your property then it’s vital that your keep your garage door working properly! So you don’t want to cut corners with a garage door repair company.

Lasting Garage Door Repairs

Great garage door repair companies are able to deliver fast, high-quality work. They will get your door in good working order  and they will ensure that it stays that way. 

You don’t want to bring in a company whose repair job needs work on again in a matter of months. This leads us to our next point.

Value for Money 

Getting your garage door repaired can be an expensive business and this is especially true if you go for a quality company. However, it is important to think of this as an investment in your home. 

If you hire a company that carries out a poor repair job, you will need to bring someone else in to sort this out in a matter of weeks or months. Then you will end up having to pay  twice for the same repair job. 

If you have proof that the other company messed up their work you might be able to get your money back. But this can take a long time and involves a lot of extra work on your part. Taking the time to find a great garage door repair company the first time around will certainly pay off!

With these things in mind, let’s take a look at some of the things you should consider when looking for a garage repair company. These will help you find the best possible company to work on your garage.

Look for Recommendations

If you are looking for a garage door repair guide on which company to choose, it is a good idea to ask people that you know and trust. For someone to recommend a company they will have to have really delivered the goods, so this can tell you a lot about how they work.

You could ask friends or family who live in the same area as you. Or you might want to check with neighbors who have garages. When asking about the company they used make sure to check: 

  • When they had the work done
  • How much they paid
  • How long it took to carry out the repair work
  • What services they used 
  • Which issues they were having with their garage door
  • How quickly the repairman was able to diagnose the problem
  • How well the company communicated

It’s also worth asking if they had any issues or weren’t happy with the work for any reason. Some issues will be more trivial than others so you can use your judgment to decide on what matters to you.

Check Out Reviews

Once you have a few recommendations or have looked online, make sure you check out reviews of companies before getting in touch with them. These provide a wealth of information about the quality of service a garage door repair company provides.

When looking at reviews keep an eye out for: 

  • Ones that are specific to your garage door repair issues
  • Reviews made in the last twelve months
  • Responses from the company offering to resolve any complaints
  • Seriously bad reviews that raise red flags about a company

It is a good idea to look for reviews on independent websites, like Google. Company websites might offer their own reviews but they aren’t going to share bad reviews on their own site!

Keep it Local 

It is always best to look for garage door repair services that are local to you. This means that they will be able to reach you quickly and can come back if you run into any more issues. 

For example, if they need to go back to collect a part from their workshop then they should be able to do this in a day, rather than driving for hours.

Some companies run as a chain, servicing multiple different areas around the country. In that case, they will most likely have a number of offices around these areas to ensure that they can still deliver quality services.

Make Sure You Use an Experienced Garage Door Repair Company

When it comes to working quickly and efficiently, experience is key.

This helps repairmen to diagnose issues and understand the fastest way to resolve them.  Experienced repairmen are also much less likely to make mistakes when working on your garage. So make sure you go for a company with experience. 

You can see how long a company has been around for by checking when they were established. To see the kind of work they have done, they might also provide a list of clients on their website. This is a good way of checking how extensive their experience is.

Of course, if you’re looking for something specific then you should make sure that your repair company offers this. For example, if you need commercial repairs you want to work with a company that can offer these.

Check Which Services They Offer

When you first check out a garage repair company, you need to make sure that they cover the services you need. Otherwise, they might not be able to help with your problem. 

For example, if you want to replace your entire garage door a company that only specializes in repairs won’t be able to help you.

You might not be sure what type of repair your garage door needs yet. In that case, make sure you find a company that offers a range of garage door repair services. They should be able to cover you.

Ask to See Licenses and Insurance

Before you hire a garage door repair company, you need to make sure that they have all the paperwork they need. This includes their proof of license and insurance documents.

Licensing demonstrates that a company has been inspected and approved by an independent body, so you know they’re up to scratch. You need to make sure that the company’s license covers the work they are offering and is still in date. 

A company’s insurance will protect you if someone gets injured while working on your property. If a company doesn’t have insurance and an accident takes place at your home then you could become liable for this.

Some companies also have insurance to cover accidental damage to property. This can give you peace of mind that if anything does damage your property, the repair company will cover the cost of it. However, not all repair companies will offer this so make sure you ask about it before your hire anyone.

Any decent garage door repair service will be happy to show you their licenses and insurance, so don’t be afraid to ask. If a company tries to avoid showing your these things or doesn’t have valid licenses and insurance, look elsewhere immediately. 

Keep Your Budget in Mind

When it comes to your garage door security and repairs, it is important to keep your budget in mind. After all, if you definitely do not have the funds to cover the cost of an expensive repair company then it’s no use trying to hire them.

That said, you should not try to cut corners financially when it comes to garage door repairs. Shoddy workmanship could do more damage to your door and cost you financially in the future. So if you are able to, investing a little more in a good garage door repair company will seriously pay off in the long run. 

If you are struggling to get work done within your budget then you might be able to discuss this with your repairman.

For example, they may be able to recommend a cheaper fix to resolve some of your garage door issues. Or they can help you choose which repair work you need to prioritize. This can give you a bit of time to save up for the rest of the repair work.

Ask About Guarantees and Warranties

A lot of repair companies will offer guarantees or warranties for their work and it’s a good idea to ask about these. A guarantee or warranty is basically a promise that the work they have done should last for a minimum period of time. 

For example, a company might offer a warranty on their work for two years. If anything goes wrong with your garage door during this time then they will come back and resolve the problem for free. 

There are two major benefits to choosing a company that guarantees their work. Firstly, it means that if something does go wrong with your door, you won’t have to spend more money on resolving the issue. 

However, a guarantee also tells you something about how committed a company is to delivering quality work. It is in their interest to do a good job the first time around, otherwise, they’ll have to do more work for free! So you know these companies will always offer their best.

Get Help With Your Garage Door Repair Today

There are plenty of things that you should keep in mind when looking for a garage door repair service. Keep a note of these and you will be sure to find a great service to help you with your repairs in no time. 

Are you worried about your garage door? Then get in touch or request a garage door service online today — we’re here to help!

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How to Remove a Broken Key from a Lock Without Damage

By Youmna Rehman • February 19, 2025
Few things are more frustrating than inserting your key into a lock, turning it as usual, and suddenly feeling it snap. A broken key in a lock can instantly turn a routine task into a stressful situation. Whether it's your home, car, or office, the inability to access your property can disrupt your day and leave you scrambling for a solution. But before you start panicking or consider replacing the lock entirely, take a deep breath. There are several effective ways to remove a broken key from a lock without causing damage. This guide will walk you through the process, helping you understand why keys break, how to remove them safely, and what steps you can take to prevent this from happening in the future. How to Fix a Stiff or Hard-to-Turn Lock Why Do Keys Break in Locks? A key breaking inside a lock is usually the result of a combination of wear and tear, force, or an issue with the lock itself. Here are some common reasons why keys snap: 1. Metal Fatigue and Weakness Keys undergo stress over time. Daily use, exposure to moisture, and bending can weaken the metal, making it prone to breaking when inserted or turned in a lock. 2. Misalignment of the Lock and Key If a lock is old, rusty, or poorly maintained, the internal components may become misaligned. This forces the key to work harder than it should, increasing the likelihood of snapping. 3. Using Excessive Force Sometimes, in frustration, people turn the key too hard when it isn’t turning smoothly. Applying extra force can cause a weak or old key to break instantly. 4. Cold Weather Conditions In freezing temperatures, metal contracts, making both keys and locks more fragile. If your key was already worn down, cold weather might push it to its breaking point. 5. Debris or Dirt in the Lock Over time, locks accumulate dust, dirt, and small debris. If these particles build up inside the lock, they can create resistance, making it harder for the key to turn properly and increasing the risk of breakage. Step-by-Step Solutions to Remove a Broken Key Safely Now that we understand why keys break, let's focus on how to remove a broken key without damaging the lock. 1. Assess the Situation First Before attempting any removal, check how much of the key is visible outside the lock. If a significant portion is sticking out, your job will be much easier. If the key is deep inside, you’ll need to use more precise techniques. 2. Try Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers If part of the broken key is visible, use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers or needle-nose pliers to grip and gently pull it out. However, be cautious—if your tweezers are too thick, they may push the key further into the lock, making extraction more difficult. 3. Use a Broken Key Extractor Tool Professional locksmiths use a broken key extractor, a thin tool designed to slide into the lock and hook onto the broken key's teeth. If you have one, carefully insert it along the groove of the key and pull it out slowly. 4. Apply Lubrication If the key is stuck, applying a lubricant like WD-40 or graphite powder can help loosen it. Spray a small amount into the lock and wait a minute before attempting to remove the key again. 5. The Tapping Method If gravity can work in your favor, hold the lock opening downward and gently tap it against a hard surface. Sometimes, the vibration is enough to loosen the broken key and allow it to fall out. 6. Using a Jigsaw Blade or Thin Wire If you don’t have an extractor tool, a fine jigsaw blade or thin piece of stiff wire can work in a pinch. Insert it along the broken key, try to hook onto the ridges, and gently pull it out. 7. Seek Professional Help If none of these methods work or the key is deeply lodged inside the lock, calling a professional locksmith is the best option. A locksmith has specialized tools and experience to remove the key without damaging the lock. Risks Involved in DIY Key Removal While removing a broken key yourself can save time and money, there are some risks to be aware of: Pushing the Key Further In : If you’re not careful, attempts to extract the key can accidentally push it deeper into the lock, making removal more difficult. Damaging the Lock Mechanism: Using improper tools or excessive force can bend or break internal lock components, leading to more costly repairs. Leaving Key Fragments Inside: If only part of the key is removed and small fragments remain, they can cause future problems with inserting and turning a new key. Preventive Measures: Avoiding Broken Keys in the Future To ensure you never have to deal with a broken key again, follow these simple preventive measures: 1. Regularly Inspect Your Keys If your key looks worn down, has visible cracks, or feels weaker when used, consider getting a new one before it breaks. 2. Keep Locks Clean and Lubricated Dirt and debris buildup inside a lock can make it difficult to turn the key. Clean your locks occasionally and use graphite powder or WD-40 to keep them functioning smoothly. 3. Don’t Force a Stuck Key If your key isn’t turning easily, stop and check for obstructions or try lubricating the lock before applying pressure. 4. Get a Spare Key Made Having a spare key on hand ensures that if one key gets weak, you can switch to the backup instead of pushing your luck with an old, worn-out key. 5. Upgrade to a More Durable Key or Lock Consider upgrading to a sturdier key material or even a smart lock system, which eliminates the need for physical keys altogether. Conclusion: Patience and the Right Tools Make All the Difference A broken key in a lock is undoubtedly an inconvenience, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. By using the right techniques and tools, you can safely remove a broken key without damaging the lock. The key to success? Patience and precision. And remember—prevention is always better than cure. Taking simple steps to maintain your keys and locks can save you from this frustrating situation in the future. If you ever find yourself in doubt or dealing with a deeply lodged key, don’t hesitate to call a professional locksmith for assistance. With the right knowledge and approach, you can tackle a broken key issue with confidence and get back to your day hassle-free!

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