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.

Preparing Your Garage Door for Cold Weather: Essential Tips

2024-01-10 7 min read Sarah Johnson

New Hampshire winters bring unique challenges for garage doors. From freezing temperatures to heavy snow loads, your garage door faces extreme conditions that can cause problems if you're not prepared. Here's your complete guide to winterizing your garage door.

Why Winter Preparation Matters

Cold temperatures affect nearly every component of your garage door system. Metal contracts, making parts that fit perfectly in summer suddenly tight or misaligned. Lubricants thicken and become less effective. Weatherstripping hardens and loses flexibility. Without proper preparation, you could face a door that won't open on the coldest morning of the year—exactly when you need it most.

Inspect and Replace Weatherstripping

The rubber weatherstripping at the bottom of your door and around the frame is your first line of defense against cold air and moisture. Over time, it cracks, hardens, and loses its ability to seal properly.

Before winter, inspect all weatherstripping carefully. Press on it—it should be soft and flexible. Look for cracks, tears, or gaps. Replace any damaged sections immediately. Quality weatherstripping is inexpensive and makes a significant difference in your garage's temperature and energy efficiency.

Lubricate All Moving Parts

Apply a silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant to all moving parts: hinges, rollers, springs, and the opener chain or screw. In cold weather, standard lubricants can thicken and impair operation. Look for products specifically designed for cold-weather use.

Pay special attention to springs, which work harder in cold weather as the door becomes heavier. Well-lubricated springs operate more smoothly and last longer.

Check and Adjust Spring Tension

Garage door springs counterbalance the weight of your door, making it easy to open. In cold weather, doors can become slightly heavier due to temperature effects on the springs. If your door seems harder to open or doesn't stay in position when partially open, the springs may need adjustment.

Spring adjustment is dangerous and should only be done by professionals. If you notice issues, call us for a safety inspection.

Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

Your garage door opener's auto-reverse feature is crucial for safety. Test it monthly, but especially before winter when the cold can affect sensor alignment.

Place a 2x4 flat on the ground where the door closes. Close the door—it should reverse when it contacts the board. Also test the photo-eye sensors by breaking the beam with your foot while the door is closing. If either test fails, have the system serviced immediately.

Clear Snow and Ice Promptly

After snowfall, clear snow away from the bottom of your garage door before attempting to open it. Snow and ice can freeze the weatherstripping to the ground, and forcing the door open can tear the seal or damage the opener.

If the door is frozen shut, use a heat gun or hair dryer to gently melt the ice. Never use hot water, which can refreeze and make the problem worse.

Consider Insulation

If your garage isn't insulated, winter is a great time to consider an upgrade. Insulated garage doors maintain more consistent temperatures, reducing strain on components and keeping your garage more comfortable. They also reduce energy costs if your garage is attached to your home.

Schedule a Pre-Winter Inspection

The best way to prepare for winter is with a professional inspection. We'll check every component, make necessary adjustments, and identify potential problems before they leave you stranded in the cold.

Contact Wentworth Garage Doors today to schedule your pre-winter inspection and face the season with confidence.

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