What brands of garage doors do you install?

We install and service all major garage door brands including Clopay, Amarr, Wayne Dalton, CHI Overhead Doors, Raynor, and many more. We're not exclusive to any single manufacturer, which means we can recommend the best door for your specific needs and budget. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly steel door or a premium custom wood carriage door, we have options. Our team can show you samples and help you choose colors, styles, and features that complement your home's architecture.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A standard garage door installation typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on the complexity of the job. This includes removing your old door (if applicable), installing the new door and hardware, mounting the opener, programming remotes, and testing everything to ensure proper operation. Custom doors or unusual configurations may take longer. We always aim to complete installations in a single visit so you're not left without a functioning garage door. We'll provide a time estimate during your consultation.

Do you offer warranties on your work?

Yes! We provide a comprehensive 2-year warranty on all labor and installation work. Additionally, most garage doors come with manufacturer warranties ranging from 3 years to lifetime coverage depending on the model and brand. Our warranty covers any defects in workmanship, and we'll return to make things right at no additional cost if any issues arise from our installation or repair work. This warranty is part of our 100% satisfaction guarantee.

What maintenance does a garage door need?

Regular maintenance extends the life of your garage door and prevents costly repairs. We recommend: lubricating moving parts (hinges, rollers, tracks) every 3-4 months with a silicone-based lubricant; checking and tightening hardware annually; testing the auto-reverse safety feature monthly; visually inspecting springs, cables, and rollers for wear; and cleaning the tracks of debris. We offer annual maintenance packages that include a comprehensive safety inspection, lubrication, adjustment of springs and cables, and testing of all safety features.

Why is my garage door making noise?

Noisy garage doors are one of our most common service calls. The noise can come from several sources: worn rollers (especially older nylon or steel rollers), loose hardware that vibrates, lack of lubrication on moving parts, worn-out springs, or an aging chain-drive opener. Squeaking usually indicates a need for lubrication, while grinding or scraping sounds suggest alignment issues or worn parts. Banging or popping can mean loose hardware or springs under tension. We diagnose the exact cause and provide targeted repairs rather than replacing parts unnecessarily.

Can you fix a dented garage door?

It depends on the severity and location of the dent. Minor dents can often be repaired using specialized techniques that restore the panel's appearance. For more severe damage, or dents in structural areas, panel replacement is usually the better option. We carry common panel sizes in our service vehicles, allowing us to complete many panel replacements the same day. If your door has multiple damaged panels or is an older model, we'll discuss whether repair or replacement makes more economic sense for your situation.

Is it safe to replace garage door springs myself?

We strongly advise against DIY garage door spring replacement. Garage door springs are under extreme tension—a standard torsion spring for a two-car garage can hold 200+ pounds of force. If a spring snaps or is improperly installed, it can cause serious injury or death. Every year, emergency rooms treat thousands of injuries from DIY garage door repairs. Our technicians have specialized training and tools for safe spring replacement. The cost of professional spring replacement is modest compared to the risk of serious injury.

What's the difference between torsion and extension springs?

Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door on a metal shaft and use torque to lift the door. They're more expensive but last longer (15,000-20,000 cycles vs 10,000 for extension springs), operate more smoothly, provide better balance, and are safer when they break. Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door and stretch to provide lifting force. They're less expensive upfront but wear faster and can be dangerous if they snap without proper safety cables. We typically recommend torsion springs for their safety and longevity benefits.

How do I know when to replace my garage door?

Consider replacement if: your door is more than 20-25 years old; you're experiencing frequent breakdowns that are costing more in repairs than a new door would; the door is visibly damaged, warped, or sagging; it lacks modern safety features; your energy bills are high due to poor insulation; or you're planning to sell your home and want to boost curb appeal (garage doors offer one of the highest ROIs for home improvements). We provide free consultations to assess your current door and discuss whether repair or replacement makes the most sense.

Do you work on commercial garage doors?

Yes! While our primary focus is residential service, we also work on commercial and industrial garage doors. This includes rolling steel doors, sectional overhead doors, high-speed doors, fire-rated doors, and loading dock equipment. Commercial doors often have different requirements than residential—higher cycle ratings, heavier construction, and specialized safety features. We have experience with retail storefronts, warehouses, fire stations, and other commercial properties throughout our service area.

How quickly can you fix my damaged panels?

We understand that damaged panels are both an eyesore and a security concern. In most cases, we can repair or replace damaged panels within 24-48 hours. For emergency situations where your garage door is inoperable or poses a security risk, we offer same-hour emergency service. Our technicians arrive with a fully stocked van carrying common panel sizes and hardware, allowing us to complete many repairs in a single visit. For specialty or custom panels that need to be ordered, we'll provide a temporary solution to ensure your home remains secure while we await the replacement parts, typically arriving within 3-5 business days.

What causes damaged panels in garage doors?

Garage door panels can become damaged from several common causes. The most frequent is accidental impact from vehicles backing into the door, which accounts for about 40% of panel damage we see. Weather-related damage is another major factor, especially in New Hampshire where harsh winters, heavy snow loads, and ice accumulation can warp, crack, or dent panels. Age and wear also play a significant role—older panels made from thinner gauge steel or untreated wood are more susceptible to rust, rot, and deterioration. Other causes include children playing near the door, windblown debris during storms, failed springs causing the door to slam down, and improper installation that creates stress points. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify early warning signs before minor issues become major damage.

Do you offer financing for new contemporary door installations?

Yes! We understand that a new contemporary garage door installation is a significant investment in your home. That's why we offer flexible financing options to fit various budgets. We partner with several reputable financing companies to provide options including 0% APR for qualified buyers on terms up to 18 months, low monthly payment plans extending up to 60 months, no money down options for approved credit, and special financing for homeowners with less-than-perfect credit. During your free consultation, our team will discuss all available financing options and help you find the plan that works best for your situation. A new contemporary garage door not only enhances your home's curb appeal but can also increase energy efficiency and property value—making it a smart investment regardless of how you choose to finance it.

Chain Maintenance: A Complete Guide for Homeowners

2024-01-15 8 min read Mike Thompson

Your garage door chain drive system is the workhorse of your garage, operating thousands of times per year. Proper maintenance ensures reliable operation and extends the life of your opener. Here's everything you need to know about keeping your chain drive in top condition.

Understanding Your Chain Drive System

Chain drive garage door openers use a metal chain, similar to a bicycle chain, to push or pull a trolley that moves your garage door up and down. They're popular because they're affordable, durable, and can handle heavy doors. However, they do require regular maintenance to operate smoothly.

The main components include the chain itself, the sprocket (gear) that the chain wraps around, the trolley that connects to your door, and the rail that guides the trolley. Each of these components needs attention to keep your system running properly.

Monthly Visual Inspection

Every month, take a few minutes to visually inspect your chain drive system. Look for signs of rust, excessive slack, or unusual wear. The chain should have a slight sag in the middle—about 1/2 inch below the rail—when the door is closed. Too much slack causes the chain to slap against the rail, creating noise and accelerating wear. Too little slack puts excessive strain on the motor and sprocket.

Check the trolley for cracks or damage, and ensure it moves freely along the rail. Look at the sprocket for worn teeth, which can cause the chain to skip or slip. If you notice any significant issues, it's time to call a professional.

Quarterly Lubrication

Every three to four months, lubricate your chain drive system. Use a garage door-specific lubricant or white lithium grease—never use WD-40, which is a solvent and can actually dry out components over time.

Apply lubricant to the entire length of the chain, focusing on the links. Also lubricate the sprocket, the trolley where it contacts the rail, and any pivot points. Wipe away excess lubricant to prevent dripping on your car.

Annual Professional Inspection

Once a year, have a professional inspect your entire garage door system, including the chain drive. They'll check tension, alignment, and wear patterns that aren't obvious to the untrained eye. They can also adjust the chain tension precisely and identify problems before they lead to a breakdown.

Signs Your Chain Needs Attention

Watch for these warning signs: excessive noise during operation, the chain sagging more than usual, jerky door movement, the door reversing unexpectedly, or visible rust on the chain. Any of these symptoms warrant prompt attention to prevent more serious damage.

When to Replace vs. Repair

Chains typically last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. If your chain shows significant stretching, has damaged links, or is heavily rusted, replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair. A new chain is relatively inexpensive, and replacing it before it fails prevents damage to other components.

Regular maintenance of your chain drive system is a small investment that pays off in reliable operation, quieter performance, and a longer lifespan for your garage door opener. If you're unsure about any aspect of chain maintenance, our team at Wentworth Garage Doors is always happy to help.

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