Signs You Need a Garage Door Tune-Up

Like any complex mechanical object, a garage door needs regular service to keep it running smoothly, prevent costly repairs, and maximize its life span.

A scheduled garage door tune-up, which involves essential service tasks like lubricating specific parts and components, checking for signs of wear, and performing various troubleshooting steps, enables you to get the most out of your door and reduce your long-term ownership costs.

While an annual check is sufficient for most garage doors, you may need service before the next inspection date in some situations.

How to Tell When You Need Garage Door Service

Garage doors often exhibit warning signs that something is wrong and require immediate attention. Some of the most common garage door repair symptoms include:

Different sounds: A garage door makes “normal” mechanical noises during operation. However, if you start to hear grinding, scraping, groaning, rattling or any other strange sounds, it’s often a sign of a repair problem. A sudden, loud bang typically indicates a broken spring.
Track damage: The tracks, located on either side and above the opening, are the channels that guide the door during operation. Any distortion or damage can prevent the door from moving correctly.
Roller damage: Rollers are rod-and-wheel systems that connect the door to the tracks and allow it to move freely. Chips, cracks and normal wear and tear can prevent these mechanisms from doing their job.
Unusual performance: Any changes in the door’s operation requires a service call. Examples include slower or faster opening and closing, jerking or shuddering, getting stuck halfway and an uneven or unbalanced appearance.
Worn weatherstripping: If the rubber stripping at the bottom and sides of the door shows signs of wear or damage, gaps can allow destructive pests to enter your garage. You may also notice decreased energy efficiency in the form of higher utility bills.
Rusty springs: The springs play a crucial role in raising and lowering a garage door. Signs of rust often indicate they’re about to wear out, which can be an inconvenient and potentially dangerous situation.

Get an Affordable Garage Door Tune-Up From the Doorman

If you live in South Palm Beach or Broward County, The Doorman of Southeast Florida offers a $39.95 tune-up special to meet your service needs and keep your door in excellent shape throughout the year. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a professional garage door technician today.

What Can You Expect From a Garage Door Tune-Up?

Does your home’s garage door experience heavy use? Frequent opening and closing will eventually cause the springs, rollers and other system components to wear out. The opener unit could also fail, posing a safety risk and disrupting the automated opening and closing process that most of us take for granted.

An annual garage door tune-up and inspection performed by a professional technician is the best way to ensure your door functions correctly. It will also reduce the risk of costly repairs and safety issues that could cause serious injuries, giving you peace of mind.

What Does a Garage Door Tune-Up Involve?

When you contact The Doorman of Southeast Florida for service, we’ll work with you to set up a convenient appointment. One of our highly qualified technicians will arrive at your home at the scheduled time and perform a series of inspection and troubleshooting steps to determine the overall health, functionality and safety of the entire garage door system.

Examples of the services we perform include:

Checking and lubricating the springs, rollers and other parts and components
Testing the auto-reverse mechanism that prevents the door from falling on a person, pet or vehicle.
Tightening loose nuts, bolts and other hardware
Inspecting the cables for looseness or fraying.
Assessing the door’s balance.
Evaluating the panels for signs of cracks or other damage.
Checking the bottom seal to ensure it will keep outside air and insects from entering the space.
Determining the opener’s condition.
Performing minor operator adjustments.

What Happens If the Door Needs Repairs?

A garage door inspection may uncover damage like a rusted spring or an underperforming opener motor that requires fixing or replacing. We’ll bring the issue to your attention and recommend the most practical and cost-effective solution. We also provide free repair estimates with no hidden fees or surprise charges. We can often correct the problem during these tune-up visits for your convenience.

How Much Does a Garage Door Tune-Up Cost?

Our tune-up service is only $39.95, making it a budget-friendly way to keep your garage door in the best condition, extend its life span and ensure a safe environment for your family. It can also help you avoid more expensive repairs and replacements.

Learn more about the benefits of an annual garage door tune-up from The Doorman of Southeast Florida. Contact us with questions or to schedule a convenient service appointment today.

How to Preserve the Value of Your Home

Maintaining and even increasing your home’s value can be easy. With a wide range of projects at your disposal, your only limitations are your budget and time. Changing your interior or exterior can alter your home or boost your curb appeal for potential buyers.

The best advice to maintain your home’s value is to continually take care of it through cleaning and maintenance. However, if you want to increase your home’s value, you may consider beginning a renovation project that transforms your space. From renovating an attic to preventing pest infestations, there are many things homeowners can do to add to their resale value.

Reappraise Your Home

Before investing in home improvements to increase home value, a homeowner should know the appraisal value of their home. The real estate market is ever-changing, and knowing your home’s value can help determine the best time to make changes or sell your home.

When you have a mortgage, you should consider reappraising your home every other year or so. Keeping an updated value will aid when refinancing. Additionally, after you upgrade your home and insurance, you should have your home reappraised to see your home’s increase.

What Helps Home Resale Value?

Your home is a personal space where you likely spend most of your time. When it comes to adding convenience and increasing your resale value, there are many projects you can undergo. Knowing what things increase home value the most can help determine what upgrades and maintenance tasks you should set your sights on.

We’ve listed some of the best ways to improve your home, so you can rest easy knowing you’re improving your quality of life while making your property more marketable. Small changes can have as large of an impact as significant changes, and you should choose a project that fits your home, lifestyle and budget.

Boost Your Curb Appeal

One of the best ways to increase your home value is by giving your garage a new look to boost curb appeal. A new garage door and entry door can transform your home’s exterior, and those driving by will appreciate the cohesive colors and styles that reflect your lifestyle and preferences. Exterior additions can make your life more convenient while increasing your home value.

Because of their size, garage doors can quickly grab the attention of anyone walking past and make a statement about your style. When friends and family pull into your driveway, the first opinions they form about your home will be based on what they see on the outside.

A sleek, modern garage door will grab their attention and show the effort you exert into a fantastic home. Anyone interested in buying your home will appreciate the convenient entrance and exit for their cars without needing to invest in a new door as soon as they move in.

Consider Some Renovations

Home improvements can have a fantastic return on investment. Finished attics, remodeled bathrooms, spacious kitchens and new windows can give your home another level of design and elegance.

You don’t have to gut your bathroom or kitchen to give it a new, fresh look. Upgrading light fixtures, adding a new backsplash or repainting your cabinets can give your space a completely new look and feel. Updating your appliances to energy-efficient models can help save you money over time and increase your resale value simultaneously.

Finished attics are another remodeling project that can transform your useable space. Adding insulation will keep your heat and cool air circulating through your home, and the thicker the insulation, the more effective it will be. Adding flooring and a fresh coat of paint can make your attic a lovely family sitting room or additional bedroom, giving large families more space to gather and socialize. Homeowners who invest in this renovation can expect up to 80% in returns when selling their homes.

Energy-efficient windows can help you save costs on energy while your family works and plays inside. Instead of allowing cool air to escape during the summers or heating the frigid environment during the colder months, energy-efficient windows will keep your air in your home. Additionally, some systems operate with smart thermostats, giving you control of your home’s temperature at any time of the day directly from your phone.

Update Your Appliances

If you’ve lived in your home for over a decade, your appliances could likely use an update. Energy-efficient appliances can make life easier at home and increase property value. Toilets and heating systems that run when you’re not using them can cost you thousands of dollars throughout your lifetime.

High-end appliances, such as cooking ranges and smart refrigerators, can help keep potential buyers from dipping below your asking price when you go to sell. If you live in areas where most homeowners invest in top-notch appliances, your home will benefit from sticking to the trend.

Check Your Plumbing

Important maintenance tasks, such as checking the plumbing, can help you identify any minor problems before they become detrimental or cause significant damage to your home. Older homes are especially likely to experience problems with floods and leaks due to low-quality plumbing work.

You can easily check your toilets, showers, faucets and sinks for leaks and contact a professional plumber to avoid further damage. The sooner you update your plumbing system and invest in high-quality appliances, the less likely you are to experience detrimental damage.

Protect Against Termites

Termites have been around for hundreds of years, and these silent invaders can cause significant damage to otherwise beautiful and sound structures. These pests can chew through wallpaper, flooring and wood, ruining home additions, fresh wood floors and recently remodeled rooms.

It’s common for homeowners to wait until a problem presents itself to deal with the damage, leading to hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars going towards replacements and renovations. When you work with a professional, you can prevent termite infestations before they happen and keep your home’s integrity for years.

Transform Your Home’s Exterior

The Doorman of Southeast Florida is a family-run business that has been operating for more than 20 years. We believe in friendly and helpful service, and many of our customers recommend our services to friends and family.

We know a new garage door can increase the value of your home, and we want to help you find the right one for your lifestyle and taste. Our impact-rated garage doors will help you avoid maintenance costs and repairs while giving your exterior the eye-catching look you need to increase value.

We’re your southeast Florida experts. We specialize in repairs and can service your door for whatever it needs. Our team members are always prepared to answer questions and help you find the right door for your home. Contact The Doorman and transform your home’s exterior with a new, beautiful garage door that boosts your curb appeal.

Guide to Moving to Florida: What Do I Need to Know Before Moving to Florida?

It’s incredibly enticing to pack your things up and move to the Sunshine State. Florida is home to beautiful beaches, world-class theme parks, luxurious golf courses and amazing weather. With all the perks the state offers, it’s obvious why people want to move to Florida. According to the Florida Office of Economics and Demographic Research, the state’s population increased by 387,479 people in 2020.

Are you planning on moving to Florida? If you’re ready to leave your current home for sunshine, learn what you need to know before moving to Florida so you can have the best time living in your new home. Any location you move to can impact many aspects of your life. It’s essential to understand what the entire state of Florida has to offer. You may already be familiar with Florida’s major cities, including Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa and Orlando, but Florida is a large state, and each part offers something different to its residents.

Before you move, reference this moving to Florida guide to cover any topics or questions you have about living in Florida.

In this guide, some of the topics we will cover include:

What to Know About Florida Before Moving There (Weather, Cost of Living, Insurance, etc.)
Best Places to Live (for Retirees, Young Adults, Families and Singles)
Pros and Cons of Living in Florida
Best Time to Move to Florida

Things to Know Before Moving to Florida

So many characteristics make Florida one of the most interesting states in the country. From the endless activities to diverse neighborhoods, Florida can be a great place to call home.

Weather in Florida

When you think of Florida, sunshine and warm weather may come to mind. While that’s true, the weather can also be pretty wild and unpredictable.

Most of Florida has a subtropical climate, and the southern part of the state has a tropical climate. You can expect warm and humid weather throughout most of the year.

However, extreme weather conditions are also fairly common in the Sunshine State. Residents can regularly expect thunderstorms throughout the year. Florida is actually the state that has the most lightning strikes every year.

Florida is also known for its hurricane season. Hurricane season occurs between June and October, seeing the most activity in August and September. Depending on where you live in Florida, hurricanes may be a yearly threat to your home. It’s important to know if your residence is located in a flood zone so you can take the proper precautions in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm.

Wildlife in Florida

A unique ecosystem thrives throughout the state of Florida. From the coastline to the Everglades, many different animals make up Florida’s diverse wildlife.

An animal that most people associate with Florida is an alligator. The American alligator is native to Florida and resides in lakes, rivers and wetlands, but don’t let them scare you off. Florida is also home to more than 350 other exquisite animals. If you love learning about nature and exploring the outdoors, you’ll enjoy seeing the Florida wildlife.

Housing in Florida

The housing market in Florida has heightened in demand, with the median home value increasing 8.6% in 2020. The current median home value is $270,560 in 2021.

Before moving to Florida, do some research on the housing market in the city where you’re planning to live. Look at neighborhoods and the history of the housing market in those areas.

Cost of Living in Florida

The cost of living in Florida depends on the city you reside in. While owning a house may be a popular option in Jacksonville, most of Miami’s residents are renters because of high home values.

When deciding on what city in Florida you want to move to, consider if you’re going to rent or own and what you can afford.

Insurance in Florida

When searching for homes in Florida, an important factor that you may not have considered is if the property is in a flood zone. Property listings will provide a code showing flood zones. If they are waterfront or below sea level, your lender will likely require flood insurance.

Flooding is a significant threat, especially during hurricane season. If you’re near the coastline or living in the wetlands, flooding is a potential risk.

A person would purchase flood insurance separately from homeowners insurance, so it’s best to pay attention to flood zones when searching for Florida homes.

Florida Employment

Once you know how much it will cost you to live in Florida, research your job options. Knowing the industry opportunities may assist in your job search.

When you look for jobs, consider some of the top industries in Florida:

Tourism
Agriculture
International trade
Aerospace and aviation
Life sciences
Financial services

People from all over come to vacation in Florida, so it’s no surprise that the tourism industry is a good place to find a job. Options like hotels and theme parks are large employers in the state.

Florida Cuisine

Florida cuisine offers many options, from traditional Southern foods and fresh seafood to Caribbean- or Cuban-inspired dishes.

Endless food options are available because of Florida’s diverse population, but there are main dishes that deserve a taste. Try a grouper sandwich fresh from the gulf, a tangy key lime pie in the Florida Keys, a Cuban sandwich with a side of plantains and traditional Southern cooking in northern Florida.

Population

Florida is a large state with a population of about 21 million people. The resident population, along with the yearly tourists, makes Florida a wildly busy state.

Snowbirds make up a large portion of the Florida population. The term refers to people who travel from northern states and Canada during the winter months to escape the cold weather. The duration of their stay is typically from October to April or May. Some people stay in long-term rentals, and others own vacation homes. It’s difficult to tell how many snowbirds are included in Florida’s population because some still claim residency in their home state or country.

Florida Politics

As you may have noticed in previous elections, Florida is a swing state. When you live in Florida, you’ll see many political ads and rallies for political parties. Florida’s diverse population and the constant sway of political leanings make it a state that candidates target during campaigns.

Florida Activities

Florida is one of the top places to vacation in the country because of the endless activities the state offers. The beautiful weather allows visitors to enjoy the beaches and other outdoor activities. Many tourists enjoy fishing, kayaking, boating, golfing and more vacation luxuries.

Some of the biggest tourist destinations are the theme parks located in Orlando. Walt Disney World, Universal Studios and Sea World attract people from all over the world. Other popular theme parks include Legoland in the Orlando metro area and Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay.

When you move to Florida, brace yourself for the spring break months. This season is a popular time for people to visit, and you may notice a drastic change in the number of people in your city.

Florida Transportation

The state of Florida offers various public transportation options.

Each city can differ between what forms of transportation they have available, but they typically offer the following:

Buses and trolleys
Bicycles
Shuttles
Amtrak

Florida’s turnpikes also offer easy transportation throughout the state. People can pay by plate, by cash or through the SunPass prepaid toll program.

Home Improvement

Once you purchase a home and move to Florida, you may begin some home renovation projects. Like any location, you can buy a new home or an older home that requires more improvements. You’ll probably want to find local businesses to help you with home improvements like plumbing, windows and garage doors.

If you need a garage door repair business to call, consider The Doorman in southeast Florida.

Where to Live in Florida

Florida’s cities and towns have different vibes and lifestyles that attract certain people to live there. The lively downtown scene of Miami Beach is drastically different from the serene town of Bonita Springs. An essential factor of what you need to know before moving to Florida is where you should live. Which city is going to fit your lifestyle best?

Best Places to Live in Florida for Retirees

If you’re nearing retirement and looking for a great place to relax, look into these lovely Florida cities:

Naples
New Port Richey
Orange Park
Stuart
Vero Beach
Inverness
Venice
Sarasota
Sun City Center

Many cities in Florida have 55+ living communities that offer excellent amenities to their residents.

Best Places to Live in Florida for Young Adults

Cities in Florida that have plenty of job opportunities, an active social scene and a thriving nightlife are the perfect places to live as a young adult. Check out these cities when looking for a place to move to in Florida:

St. Petersburg
Tampa
Miami Beach
Orlando
Winter Springs
Coral Gables

Explore fun restaurants and bars in these cities along with professional sports teams, outdoor activities and more.

Best Places to Live in Florida for Families

Some of Florida’s cities have schools that are top in the state and the country. When you’re looking to move your family to the Sunshine State, check out these cities that offer great places to grow:

Melbourne
Jacksonville
Sarasota
Tampa
Pensacola
Lakeland
Orlando
Fort Myers

Other aspects to consider are your commute to work and activities available for your family.

Best Places to Live in Florida for Singles

If you’re moving to Florida on your own, knowing which city would best accommodate your single lifestyle financially, socially and economically will benefit your moving plans. Look into these Florida cities if you’re moving to the state by yourself:

Fort Lauderdale
Tallahassee
Tampa
Jacksonville
St. Petersburg
Miami
Orlando
Port St. Lucie

It’s important to research each city and see which one best fits your lifestyle. Find out which age groups live there and what date activities these cities offer.

Moving to Florida Pros and Cons

With any big life decision, it’s crucial to recognize the good and the bad. Florida is a beautiful state with a long list of great reasons to move there. Whichever city your choose to make your home in, there will be pros and cons of becoming a Florida resident there. It’s essential to consider all aspects before packing your bags and moving. Here are the top pros and cons of living in Florida.

Pros of Living in Florida

Let’s begin with the pros. What are the best things about living in Florida?

Florida residents pay no state income tax.
There is an array of outdoor activities on beaches, lakes and other nature parks.
Residents can enjoy warm weather throughout the year.
Many Florida resident discounts are available for theme parks, cruises and other activities.
There are lower housing costs.
Residents who are 55+ can enjoy exclusive communities catering to retirees or snowbirds.

Cons of Living in Florida

Now to discuss the cons. Take these aspects into consideration when deciding whether to move to Florida.

Hurricane season and intense storms are a risk for flooding and damage.
Residents can expect a lot of tourists throughout the year.
Insurance costs will be higher than in most states because of flooding and other issues.
Florida is not a state for avid hikers because the landscape is extremely flat.
Florida is home to extreme wildlife, including large bugs, alligators and other reptiles.

Every state has a list of cons, but if you believe that the advantages significantly outweigh any disadvantages, then moving to Florida may be a good choice for you.

When Is the Best Time to Move to Florida?

Once you decide to move to Florida, the next step may be to choose when you’re moving. As you probably know, Florida can be scorching in the summer. Moving during the summer months may not be the best option if you can avoid it.

The best time to move weather-wise is between November and May. This weather will make it easier for you and your movers to accomplish the job and avoid profuse sweating or heatstroke.

When moving, always remember to drink plenty of water and take breaks when you need to. A safe move will help start your new journey as a Florida resident.

Should I Move to Florida?

Moving is a decision you should make with careful consideration. Florida has a lot to offer people of all ages.

If you’re ready to move to Florida, start making your packing list and get excited. Once you’re a Florida resident, you can learn about all the local businesses that are there for you when you need them. Many great places are in Florida to help with your home, health and other aspects of your life.

If your priority is to find companies to help with your home, contact The Doorman for all of your garage door repair and replacement needs. The Doorman has provided high-quality service in Palm Beach County and Broward County for 20 years. We are ready to help Florida residents with their garage door projects.

How to Protect Your Home From High Winds

Residents of Southern Florida may experience hurricanes many times during the year. Most homes in this area feature structural designs that comply with local wind-rated codes. However, every part of your property must be able to withstand harsh storms, including high winds. It’s vital to know how to prevent wind damage to avoid costly repairs and devastation to your living space.

Investing in a sturdy, impact-rated garage door can guard your home against heavy gusts and windborne debris. Explore how to protect your house from high winds.

Table of Contents:

The Consequences of Failing to Prepare Your Home
How to Protect Your House from High Winds
- Inside Wind Protection
- Outside Wind Protection
How to Restore Your Home from Wind Damage
The Benefits of Impact-Rated Garage Doors

The Consequences of Failing to Prepare Your Home for High Winds

The following types of damage can occur to your property as a result of strong winds:

Ripped or missing roof shingles: After a windstorm, you may notice missing or ripped shingles from your roof. The gaps on the top of your house can allow rainwater inside and cause stains, mold or mildew to develop. Even if the shingles look like they’ve remained intact, the nails holding them in place may have loosened. The adhesive under them could’ve also weakened. To prevent this damage to your home, consider how to protect your roof from high winds.
Dents or tears in your garage door: Besides protecting your roof, you’ll also need to know how to protect your garage door from wind damage. A garage door is large compared to other openings in the home, so it’s more vulnerable to high winds. Gusts can tear and bend an unreinforced door away from the house during a severe storm. When this damage happens, your interior property will be vulnerable to flooding and impact from debris.
Blown-in windows or doors: The garage door is a gateway into the rest of your home. When a storm brings heavy winds onto your property, it can create uncontrolled internal pressure. As a result, your walls, windows and doors could break or bend, causing severe structural damage to your home.
Expensive repairs: When high winds and heavy debris tear through or break your property, you’ll need to get the affected building components replaced. Repairs can cost a considerable amount of money and take much time to complete. Investing in new, wind-rated parts for your home will save you the time and money that you would’ve spent replacing the damage from a storm.

How to Protect Your House From High Winds

These tips will help you protect your home from strong winds.

How to Protect the Inside of Your House

While you’re inside, you can follow these tips for keeping your home safe during a windstorm:

Review your insurance policy: Homeowners’ insurance usually covers storm damage to your property. Before the next hurricane, examine your specific policy to know what it covers. When you take the time to familiarize yourself with your plan, you can conveniently submit a claim to get your home restored more quickly.
Note all your belongings: Documenting all the items in your home can help you file your insurance claim after a storm. Take pictures of your expensive valuables or record a video while walking through your home to keep account of your possessions.
Relocate your valuables: It helps to put your jewelry and important documents in a safe location in case of intruders or flooding. Since the first floor is the most vulnerable to floodwater, consider relocating your items upstairs or in the attic if possible.
Designate a safe room: Homes in Southern Florida can usually withstand the local area’s severe winds. However, it also helps to create a safe space in the house where you can seek shelter during a storm. The room should also be away from glass items, especially doors and windows.
Use protective window treatments: To protect windows from winds, set up storm shutters and keep them closed during a storm. These components prevent windows from breaking from windborne debris or heavy wind pressure. If you’re concerned about the glass throughout your home’s exterior breaking, you may also want to add shatter-resistant film or stormproof high-impact glass.
Seal garage doors and double-entry doors: Flimsy garage and entry doors can break or blow in due to wind pressure. Reinforce your garage door with girts and lubricate the moving parts to strengthen the wheels on the tracks. You can also enhance the protection of your double-entry doors with heavy-duty deadbolt or slide bolts. Secure your doors with longer hinge attachments on the frame.
Replace your windows and doors: One of the most efficient methods for protecting windows from strong winds is to get new ones. Investing in impact-resistant windows and doors will save you money in replacement parts after a storm. These products can withstand the pressure from heavy gusts to keep your property safe.
Follow updates from the weather channel: Local weather reports may help you prepare your home for a severe windstorm. If you suspect a hurricane is coming, watch or listen to the weather channel to stay updated on vital information. They can inform you about evacuation orders and where to find shelter in your area. If you have to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
Unplug all electronic items: An unexpected power surge may damage the circuit board. If you lose power during the storm, unplug all the appliances and items in your electrical sockets. Avoid plugging them back in until the storm is over and your home has regained power. You may also want to use surge protectors to keep the circuits intact in case of a power surge.

How to Protect the Outside of Your House

Here are some ways you can protect your home’s exterior:

Trim or remove dead branches or trees: High winds can rip off weak limbs and knock down dead trees. The impact from these heavy objects can tear your walls and affect your home’s structural integrity. Before your next storm, trim or remove your damaged trees, especially if they are closer than 40 feet to your house.
Get rid of waste and debris in your yard: Any lightweight objects outside the home could fly into the air and damage your siding, windows and doors. Leaves can also build up on your roof and cause mold to develop. Walk around your yard and throw out any trash or debris you find on the ground.
Secure furniture and appliances outside of the home: Consider putting your portable garbage cans, sports equipment and furniture in your shed or garage so they don’t fly in the wind. It also helps to ensure that your HVAC system and other outdoor appliances are secure on the ground.
Seal gaps and cracks: During a hurricane, water and air leaks can enter your home and cause interior damage. Caulk around the windows and doors of your home to seal any gaps or openings around them.
Replace gravel and rock landscaping materials: Heavy winds can pick up the rock and gravel and dent your home’s exterior. Instead of using these materials for your landscaping, try replacing them with mulch or dirt.
Maintain your garage door: Your garage door is a significant opening into your home. If any of its components are broken or worn-out, the door can bring wind and debris into your living space. An annual tune-up from a local professional can help keep your property secure against heavy winds. During the maintenance appointment, the technician will lubricate all the metal components of your door and inspect the whole system for cracks and gaps.
Repair or replace your garage door: While maintaining your garage door, the specialist may recommend which parts to update to prolong your product’s lifespan. They may also suggest upgrading to a wind-resistant garage door, especially if yours isn’t up to code. When you invest in a brand-new garage door, you can prevent costly damage to your whole house during a storm.
Protect the top of your home: When you prevent wind damage to the roof, you’ll protect your entire property from wind damage and leaks. Inspect your roof’s shingles and underlayment for missing or torn components. Re-attach the loose shingles that may have fallen off the top of your home. Depending on where you live, you may even want to invest in clay tiles instead of asphalt shingles. A reliable roofing contractor should install your roof correctly so it can stay sturdy during the next storm.

What to Do If You Experience Wind Damage

When your property suffers from wind damage, follow these steps to restore your home:

Practice safety precautions: Be careful when inspecting your interior and exterior property after a windstorm. While you walk through your yard and living space, watch out for any hazardous materials, such as broken glass or exposed nails. Avoid going near downed power lines in the street, and shut off the main gas line if you smell gas somewhere in the house.
Document the aftermath of the storm: When you file your insurance claim, you must provide evidence of any storm damage to your home. As soon as it’s safe to go outside, walk around your whole property and take pictures of any dents, cracks or missing components. Note any wind damage to the roof and inform your homeowners insurance provider promptly.
Test your garage door: After a storm, it’s vital to check your garage door so you can keep your property safe from intruders. Try opening and closing your garage door automatically and check the panels, openers and locks for cracks or missing pieces. If there are any water leaks, structural damage or operation problems, call a professional garage door specialist immediately.
Call your insurance agent: When you inform your insurance provider of the storm damage, an adjuster will visit your home to assess the projected repair costs. Most insurance companies cover replacing broken garage doors and other building components, but you should confirm your policy’s coverage.
Look for a reliable professional to repair your home: While you’re waiting for your insurance reimbursement, you might have to make temporary repairs to cover gaps and cracks. If you suspect that the shingles lifted, call a professional roofing contractor to repair the damage. Get a few estimates before choosing the right company to fix your roof. You can also contact your local garage door company to update this component of your property. Check with your insurance provider before hiring any contractor to confirm that they’ll reimburse you.

The Benefits of Impact-Rated Garage Doors

Wind-resistant garage doors are sturdy and durable enough to protect your home against high winds. They comply with local building codes, and their high-quality materials can withstand wind pressure and windborne debris. Consider some of the reasons you should upgrade to an impact-rated garage door:

Protection against heavy winds: An impact-rated garage door includes thick, galvanized steel and a twist-resistant framework. These components keep the door from bending and breaking from the forceful winds outside your property, providing the appropriate wind protection for the home.
Resistance to impact damage: Standard garage doors tend to dent or scratch when debris knocks into them during a storm. On the other hand, impact-resistant garage doors resistant have a steel coating around them to protect them from windborne objects.
Security against intruders: Besides protecting your house against heavy winds, an impact-rated garage door can also keep out invaders. After a heavy storm, people may wander around the neighborhood, looking for vulnerable, damaged homes. If you have an attached garage, a broken door provides convenient access to the rest of your house. However, with robust and impenetrable steel on your door, your property is more likely to be safe from theft and vandalism.
Durability and long lifespan: Impact-rated garage doors feature steel and wood composite panels. These sturdy, long-lasting materials can withstand most types of damage to protect your property for decades. Look for products with WindCode® reinforcement, a protective element that satisfies building codes. Since your door will be free from dents and scrapes, it’ll also enhance your home’s curb appeal.
Aesthetically pleasing decorative elements: A modern wind-resistant garage door features more than a boring industrial steel panel. You can find wind-rated garage doors in various unique styles to complement your home’s design aesthetic. You can also get a galvanized-steel door with a wood composite overlay for a carriage-house appearance.
Long-term financial gain: An impact-rated garage door protects your property against permanent damage. As a result of your upfront investment, you can avoid having to put money toward future repairs.
Few maintenance requirements: Since a hurricane-rated garage door has long-lasting materials, it doesn’t need as much care as other products. An annual tune-up is still necessary, but until your next appointment, you’ll have peace of mind that your garage door will last against harsh storms without the need for additional reinforcement.

The Doorman Can Help You Prepare Your Garage for High Winds

Knowing how to protect your garage door from high winds will keep your whole property safe during the next storm. Our team at The Doorman of Southeast Florida provides WindCode®-rated residential garage doors to meet the local regulations and standards for hurricane resistance. We also have impact-rated entry and patio doors in our inventory for additional wind protection for the home. If you need to upgrade any of your doors to prepare for the next hurricane, reach out to us online or call us at 561-600-9606.

How Homeowners Associations Impact Home Improvement Projects

New projects for your home or condo will always require planning and preparation. Because homeowners associations (HOAs) apply to a large number of Southeast Florida community codes, extra planning and approval are needed before you begin a project.

What Is a Homeowners Association?

The purpose of an HOA is to set guidelines pertaining to the rate of growth, positively control the marketability and value of homes, and improve the overall standard of living for the community. To facilitate their objectives, HOAs create bylaws and Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). These laws are similar to borough codes and ordinances in that they are statutory laws enacted by a smaller governmental committee.

Like ordinances, they dictate what is allowed to be done on your property and when. Because they restrict your ability to start a renovation whenever you want, they can hamper future plans if you don’t gain prior approval. Remember, CC&Rs are put in place so that your quality of life is improved and property values remain high.

By following your HOA’s CC&Rs, you can expedite your approval process. If you neglect to follow the legally binding CC&Rs, your HOA could give you notice, fine you or even take legal action.

Let’s take a look at the various projects that typically do and don’t require HOA approval so you can plan your project accordingly and do it right the first time.

Projects That Don’t Require HOA Approval

HOA restrictions don’t apply to every project. Generally, HOA rules apply to the exterior of your home — such as the color of your garage doors or the composition of your fence — and for condo owners, they apply to what is known as common property. Renovations on individual property are outside the scope of CC&Rs and can reasonably be done without approval from your HOA.

Examples of individual property include carpeting, kitchen cabinets, sink basins and toilets (but not the attached plumbing), paint and other superficial coverings. Since CC&Rs differ by HOA, it’s important to familiarize yourself with yours before starting a project to ensure you don’t face consequences.

Projects that don’t require HOA approval typically include:

Interior paint and wallpaper
Changes to trim or moldings
Replacing a sink or bathtub
Changing light fixtures, light switches or outlets
New carpeting
Adding a garden to your backyard

Projects That Do Require HOA Approval

Larger, more involved projects may require you to get approval from your HOA. An HOA can prevent you from updating your home if your project does not follow their rules or is set to be done by companies of dubious ethics.

If you live in a condo, projects done on common property require approval. Projects such as adding plumbing or electricity in your kitchen renovation, or removing a load-bearing interior wall to open up space, may affect your neighbors and the building’s structural integrity, therefore requiring approval.

If you are a homeowner, CC&Rs are generally limited to the outside appearance of your home. Does the HOA cover garage doors? Yes, projects on your home that require HOA approval include adding a new garage door, making changes to your roof, changing the color of your front door, landscaping and more.

Projects that require HOA approval typically include:

Making exterior changes to your home
Installing a new garage door or entry door
Replumbing the home to accommodate a new sink or bathtub
Making electrical changes for new lighting
Putting in a hardwood or tile floor
Knocking down a wall to add space
Any changes that may affect the structural integrity of the building

What Happens if You Build Without HOA Approval

It is imperative that your HOA approves your plan before you begin any work. If you begin work on a project before it is approved, the HOA board can send you a notice, fine you or force you to undo the work. Putting together a plan of action for their benefit will ensure you make the best use of everyone’s time.

How to Ask for HOA Approval

Obtaining approval from an HOA for home improvement projects is a matter of filing paperwork. While the process varies from one HOA to the next, you usually need to detail the steps of your renovation or construction. Hiring an insured, qualified contractor to do preliminary drawings or write-ups will greatly improve your chance of approval for a larger project. Qualified contractors will ensure you stay in compliance by reviewing your CC&Rs before work begins.

It is essential to be prepared before asking your HOA for approval. Knowing the exact nature of the work and if it affects common property as well as providing a timeline will help strengthen your argument for approval.

If your HOA grants you approval, they may tack on a few conditions. These might concern the materials used, the hours work can take place and the licenses contractors need before starting work. Since every HOA has different rules, we advise you to talk to a member of the board before starting work.

The Doorman Has You Covered

The Doorman of Southeast Florida has the experience and knowledge to keep your garage door improvement projects in CC&R compliance. As an Authorized Clopay® Dealer, we specialize in garage door installations and replacements, repairs and service, and entry and patio door sales. In addition, we offer fast, friendly and reliable customer service.

We are the only garage door showroom in South Palm Beach County. We do not subcontract, so you can be confident that we are responsible and accountable for the work being done on your property. As a Florida-based garage door dealer, all our products are WindCode rated in order to meet local regulations for hurricane resistance. In addition, our entry and patio doors are impact rated for compliance.

Contact us online or give us a call today at 561-272-3667 for a quote or to inquire about our $39.95 garage door tune-ups and other specials.

Important Message About COVID-19

We are open and servicing all of your garage door needs during the Coronavirus pandemic. The Doorman is considered an essential service to our community, facilitating a safe means of entry and exit from homes and businesses. During this time our showroom is closed but we are available by phone and have 3 service crews on the road Monday through Saturday.

We remain committed to providing quality service to our customers in as safe a manner as possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for your support and understanding during this time.

On behalf of The Doorman team, stay safe and healthy.