Understanding the Essentials of Garage Door Repair

by Posted in Garage Services Tagged , , , , , ,

A garage door is used many times a day and requires regular maintenance to keep it functioning properly. Repairing a broken door as soon as possible will prevent further damage and save you money in the long run.

Garage Door

If your garage door is dented or discolored, a simple repair will make it look new again. A more significant repair, such as crooked or sagging, should be addressed by a professional immediately. Contact Garage Door Repair OKC for professional help.

The springs offset the weight of the door, allowing it to be easily opened and closed, either by hand or with an electric opener. However, like any component subject to continuous, repetitive stress, garage door springs have a limited lifespan and will eventually break down and need to be replaced.

If left unaddressed, broken springs can cause the entire door to become unbalanced, making it difficult and dangerous to open and close, while also posing a serious safety hazard. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues before they arise and prevent the need for expensive repair or replacement.

Professional technicians use specialized tools to safely and efficiently replace springs, while minimizing the risk of injury for homeowners. They will first determine the type and size of existing springs, then purchase new ones to match those specifications. They will then replace the old springs, carefully following the manufacturer’s installation guidelines to ensure that the door is properly balanced and operates smoothly.

Once the new springs are installed, the technician will connect the safety cable and test the operation of the door to make sure it is safe and fully functional. They may also recommend additional services, such as track straightening or roller replacement, to improve the performance of the door and minimize noise and friction.

Whether you have extension or torsion springs, you will need to take care when working with them to avoid injuries. Both types of springs are under high tension, and even a small mistake can result in disaster or severe injury. Therefore, it’s always best to let the professionals handle the work.

When replacing an extension spring, homeowners should begin by disconnecting the lift cables from the cable drums on the bottom section of the door. Once they have done so, they can loosen the setscrews that hold the cable drums to the ends of the torsion bar and remove them. They can then remove the old springs from the torsion bar and install the new ones. To ensure the safety of the homeowner, a qualified technician should always replace both springs at the same time, regardless of their current condition.

Cable Replacement

The steel braided cables on your garage door provide balance and support for the springs. These are important safety features that should be inspected regularly to ensure they are in good working condition. They should never be allowed to break as they can release the tension of the springs and cause your door to fall or become dangerously out of balance. Cables should also be inspected for rust and corrosion that can weaken them over time. Regular maintenance tasks like spraying your cables with a special garage door spray lubricant can help prevent rust and corrosion.

If your cables have broken, a professional should be called to replace them. Replacing cables is not a job for a typical do-it-yourselfer as it requires removing the springs, loosening and unscrewing set screws on the drums and using winding bars to reduce the tension of the springs. This is a very dangerous task and is not something you should attempt on your own.

A professional technician can remove the old cables and install new ones safely and quickly. During the repair process they will test the operation of your garage door to make sure it is balanced and operating correctly. They will also perform a safety inspection to ensure the other moving parts of the system are functioning properly.

Having your cables regularly inspected by a trained professional can help prevent them from breaking. During an inspection they can check the cables for signs of fraying or kinking. It is recommended that you have your cables inspected twice per year to identify any potential problems before they break.

Another important aspect of the inspection is to look for signs of misalignment or roughness in the tracks. If the tracks are not properly aligned this can put undue stress on your cables, causing them to wear out faster and resulting in additional repairs. Having the tracks adjusted or realigned can prevent this problem from occurring and extend the life of your cables.

Track Repair

Located on either side of the garage door, tracks guide the movement of the door as it opens and closes. Over time, these metal guides can become damaged or misaligned, causing the door to jerk and shutter when opening and closing. Luckily, this is an easy fix. In some cases, you may be able to straighten the track with a rubber mallet or hammer and block of wood. If the damage is severe, you can use a special tool called a garage door track anvil to bend the track back into shape.

To identify the problem, first examine the tracks to see if there are any obvious signs of damage or misalignment. If the tracks have dents or are not level, loosen any hardware (like bolts) connecting the affected section to other sections of the track. This will allow you to bend the affected section of the track back into place without stressing other unbroken parts of the system.

Once the track is bent into shape, tighten any loose hardware and check for alignment. A properly aligned track should have a slight slope toward the back of the garage and a gap of about 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch between the bottom of the track and the ground. You can test this by placing a level over the track to see if it is level.

Another way to maintain the integrity of your garage door is to lubricate its moving components twice per year. This will help the system move smoothly and reduce friction between the track and rollers. Just make sure to use a lightweight motor oil for torsion springs and a silicone spray for other parts of the system.

If you’re having trouble with your garage door, don’t try to fix it yourself by following online tutorials or DIY guides. Instead, contact an experienced technician to diagnose the problem and provide the right repair solution quickly and efficiently. A technician has the right tools and safety precautions to handle high-tension components like broken cables and sections that fell off the track, and they can also save you money by ensuring you don’t fix the wrong problem.

Roller Replacement

The garage door’s rollers allow it to move along the tracks smoothly. When the rollers are worn or damaged, it can cause the garage door to become noisy or even stop working altogether.

There are several signs that it’s time to replace your garage door’s rollers, including squeaking, grinding, or rattling noises during operation. You may also notice that the garage door is pulling away from or pushing into the wall when it moves. If you have been noticing these issues, it’s important to call a professional for repairs as soon as possible to prevent more expensive damage.

If your garage door is exhibiting these problems, it’s important to replace the rollers with high-quality options that will last for years to come. The best option for this is to purchase nylon rollers, which are quieter than steel options and have a lifespan of up to 10 years.

It’s best to have professionals perform the replacement process, as they can ensure that all steps are taken for safety and efficiency. They can also help you select the best roller material, based on cost and lifespan. For example, nylon rollers are a good option for homeowners who are looking to save money on repairs or improve energy efficiency, while steel-wheeled rollers are ideal for businesses that need to withstand frequent use.

In order to replace the rollers, technicians should start by locating the door hinges. They should loosen the bolts that secure the hinges using pliers and a socket wrench, while carefully removing them to avoid damaging the door. Then, they should remove the old rollers and inspect them for wear and tear. Once the new rollers are inserted, they can use a winding bar to straighten bent track and carefully test the movement of the garage door to confirm that everything is working properly.

Once the rollers are replaced, a technician can remove the C-clamps and reconnect the electric garage door opener. They should also check the track seam and roller alignment to ensure that the new rollers are functioning correctly. Regular lubrication can help to extend the lifespan of your garage door rollers by up to 10-15 years.

Understanding the Difference Between Towing Capacity and Payload Capacity

by Posted in Towing Services Tagged , , , , ,

Whether you’re hauling a trailer to the campground or towing your boat to the lake, you need to know how much your vehicle can safely tow. This knowledge will make your towing experience safer and more enjoyable.

Towing

Knowing the towing lingo will help you avoid costly mistakes that can lead to expensive repairs or dangerous accidents. Call Western Towing for trusted advice.

Most truck adverts display various towing numbers across their screens, but these figures often don’t mean what drivers think. Towing capacity & payload capacities are two different things, so understanding the differences between them is important to make smart buying decisions.

A vehicle’s payload is the weight it can carry inside its cabin & truck bed, including passengers. It is different from the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), which refers to the maximum amount of weight that a vehicle can safely carry on its axles, taking into account its strength, suspension & other components.

Towing capacity is the weight that a vehicle can pull behind it on a trailer, including the total weight of the trailer itself plus its cargo. It is also sometimes referred to as the Gross Trailer Weight (GTW) or Tongue Weight. A vehicle’s towing capacity is based on the maximum capacity of its hitch class, although upgrading to a higher hitch class can increase a vehicle’s towing capacity.

It is possible to exceed a vehicle’s payload & towing capacities, but doing so can put strain on the vehicle & reduce its handling & safety capabilities. The extra weight extends braking distances, limits acceleration, increases fuel consumption & puts additional stress on the engine & other components.

Using a vehicle above its recommended payload limit can also reduce its value at resale. It can also void warranties, so it’s best to stay within the manufacturers’ recommended limits.

There are many ways to increase a vehicle’s payload, such as adding heavier-duty tires, reinforcing the frame & lowering the center of gravity. It is also advisable to use a lighter-weight trailer & a properly rated hitch. A professional can help you determine the right configurations & accessories for your truck. He or she can also install a towing package that includes better cooling systems, gearbox coolers & stronger suspension. This helps to protect your investment & ensures that you are safe & legal when driving over the payload & towing capacity limits.

Towing Capacity

The towing capacity of a tow vehicle is the maximum amount of weight it can safely carry behind a trailer. This number is based on the total gross combined weight rating (GCWR) of the tow truck and the loaded trailer, including any cargo or passengers. However, it’s not a hard and fast rule that will apply in every situation. It’s important to do your own calculations based on the specifics of your situation and towing setup. Doing so can prevent your towing vehicle from becoming damaged or causing accidents, and it can also help you avoid expensive mistakes.

If you’re buying a new car or truck, it should come with a chart that lists its maximum towing capacity. This is typically located on the driver’s door or on a placard in the glove box. You can also find this information on the manufacturer’s website if you’re unable to locate it in your vehicle manual. To calculate a vehicle’s towing capacity, first find its GCVWR by looking at the rating on the vehicle’s placard or online. Then subtract its curb weight to get its payload capacity. Cargo capacity is different than towing capacity, so it’s best not to confuse the two.

This is the amount of weight that can be added to a vehicle without exceeding its GCVWR. It typically includes all of the weight of a vehicle’s passengers and cargo, but excludes any fluids like oil, coolant and fuel. It’s the number you’ll want to use if you’re planning on adding a camper or other type of trailer.

Braked towing capacity is the maximum amount of weight that a tow vehicle can safely pull with its own brakes engaged. This number is often less than its payload capacity, and it’s the number you’ll want to consider if you plan on using a trailer with its own braking system. It’s vital to understand and adhere to these limits for the safety of yourself, your passengers and others on the road. Exceeding them can cause unnecessary wear on your truck and trailer, and it could even lead to mechanical failures or accidents.

Dead Weight

The dead weight of a towing vehicle refers to the maximum amount of weight that a vehicle can safely tow. The term is used in contrast to the towed weight, which includes both the load on the trailer and passengers inside the towing vehicle. This distinction is important because exceeding the dead weight limit can lead to damage to the towing vehicle and traffic accidents.

The term dead weight is also used figuratively to describe heavy burdens and responsibilities. For example, a large house may be considered a dead weight, especially if it’s not occupied. Similarly, someone who is not working or contributing to society may be considered a dead weight. The term dead weight can also be applied to a business or a company that does not generate profits or provide jobs.

A towing vehicle is a heavy-duty truck that is equipped with a boom and sling for towing vehicles, motorcycles, and other loads. These vehicles come in many different configurations, including flatbed trucks that offer a wheel lift or a combination boom with a sling. They are primarily medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, with some units built on light-duty chassis. Some are equipped with a bypass system that is designed to isolate the wiring of the trailer from the towing vehicle’s lighting harness.

When loading a tow vehicle, it is important to determine the dead weight of the vehicle and the total loaded weight of the trailer. This information can be found in the vehicle’s owner’s manual or on its door jamb. Once this information is known, the towing capacity of the vehicle can be calculated.

Generally, the towing capacity of a vehicle will be higher than its dead weight rating. The difference between the two values can be explained by a basic principle: The force of the added trailer weight is localized on the towing vehicle’s rear axle. If this force exceeds the vehicle’s dead weight rating, it may cause the front of the trailer to leave the ground, which can be dangerous for both drivers and other motorists. Also, it can damage the towing vehicle’s drivetrain and other components.

Towed Weight

The total load of your trailer, including its cargo and the weight of the towing unit itself, should not exceed your towing vehicle’s gross combined weight rating (GCWR). It’s important to understand this limit because a combination that is too heavy can damage both the towing unit and the trailer. It’s also not safe to drive a vehicle with more weight than it’s rated for because the driver can lose control of the vehicle or be unable to stop the vehicle within a required distance.

Review your towing vehicle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s online tools to determine its tow rating and GCWR. These figures are located on a sticker on the driver’s door and can include other information, such as tire sizes and inflation numbers.

The towing capacity will be listed under the “Gross Vehicle Weight Rating” section. You will also see a GAWR, which refers to the maximum amount of weight an axle can support. If your vehicle has tandem axles, each of the two rear axles will have its own GAWR. You can calculate the trailer’s axle weight by subtracting the vehicle’s dry weight from its GVWR.

Then you will add your towing vehicle’s weight, passengers and any cargo loaded in the cabin and bed. Don’t forget to add in the trailer’s tongue weight, which is the downward pressure on your tow vehicle’s hitch. This can be measured at any certified scale by driving your towing vehicle onto the scale and disconnecting it from the trailer. You will then get a ticket that lists the tow vehicle’s and trailer’s weight. To ensure that the load is positioned properly on your tow vehicle, you can also weigh the towing vehicle and trailer with the truck hooked up. This will tell you the vehicle and trailer’s overall weight. You should be able to find the statement, “The combined weight of the driver and passengers should never exceed XXX kg or lbs,” on the vehicle’s placard. This number equals your towing vehicle’s maximum load. You should also locate your trailer’s GCWR on its owner’s manual or VIN tag.

Foundation Repair Costs

by Posted in Contractor Services Tagged , , , , , ,

Foundation issues can damage your home, decrease its value and threaten your safety. It’s important to address these problems early on with a professional for long-term stability and peace of mind.

A foundation repair company should be able to provide you with an inspection and recommend a solution that is right for your situation. They should also be able to explain the reason for their recommendation. Visit https://www.apexplanofoundationrepair.com/ to learn more.

Foundation Repair

When you notice cracks in your foundation, it’s understandable to worry that your house will collapse. However, many cracks in a foundation don’t indicate structural damage. It’s important to know how to discern between cracks that need attention and those that don’t.

Non-structural cracks are caused by shrinkage during concrete curing, and they’re usually not a major concern. They can be fixed with a DIY epoxy crack filler, hydraulic cement or caulk and paint. If you notice a crack isolated to just one block, it is most likely a result of transportation or construction and not a structural issue.

Hairline cracks, on the other hand, are a different story. These cracks are typically less than 18 inch wide and may run vertically or diagonally. They’re often found in new homes, as the concrete settles. They’re also common in concrete block foundations and don’t pose a risk of structural damage to your home.

Structural cracks are much more serious and can be caused by expansive soils, soil washout or compression of poorly compacted soils beneath the foundation. These cracks can appear horizontally across your basement floor and may be accompanied by inward bowing of wall corners.

If you have a structural crack in your foundation, it’s best to call a professional to assess the problem and discuss repair options. It’s important to repair these cracks as soon as possible to avoid further movement and to minimize potential water leaks.

There are several solutions for fixing structural cracks in a foundation, including carbon fiber straps and wall plate anchors. Carbon fiber straps transfer the weight of the foundation to a reinforced soil bed, preventing further shifting and bowing of the foundation walls. Wall plate anchors are installed in the interior of the foundation wall to provide additional support and stability to the structure.

For poured concrete foundations, expert contractors use an epoxy crack injection to seal the crack and prevent further movement. This method is effective and offers lifetime warranties that are transferable if you sell your home down the road. Before applying the filler, experts dig a 2’ x 2’ hole centered on the crack and clean the area with a wire brush and vacuum. They then widen the crack slightly with a chisel to create a V-shaped groove for better adhesion and inject the epoxy/polyurethane crack filler as instructed by the manufacturer.

Water Invasion

If you have a home with a basement, crawl space, or other lower area, then it’s important to keep an eye on moisture levels in those areas. Moisture intrusion is the enemy of foundations, as it can lead to a number of problems that eventually compromise the structural integrity of your home. This is why water intrusion should be taken seriously and addressed as soon as you notice signs that it’s occurring.

While concrete looks impenetrable, it is actually a very porous material that can easily be penetrated by water. When rainfall, groundwater, or broken water lines collect around a foundation and saturate the soil, this creates a situation known as hydrostatic pressure. The pressure exerts against the foundation walls, causing them to crack and shift over time. This can result in hairline fractures that eventually lead to bigger gaps and serious structural damage.

If you see cracks in the walls, floors, or ceilings of your home’s basement or crawl spaces, it’s essential to have a professional inspect the foundation to ensure that it’s in good condition. Also, be on the lookout for sagging or uneven floor surfaces, as these are indicative of shifting and movement in the foundation. Additionally, if you notice a musty or mildewy smell in these areas of your home, this is another sign that there is excess moisture present and should be dealt with immediately.

The most common cause of water intrusion into a foundation is poor drainage and inadequate ground slope. This is often caused by clogged gutters that cause rainwater to spill over the side of the house in sheets or down into the soil around the foundation, downspouts that aren’t directing water away from the home, broken water or sewer lines, and/or improper grading that causes water to pool at the base of the foundation. If you have a drainage problem and don’t fix it, your foundation will continue to deteriorate over time, leading to costly repairs down the road. The best way to prevent this from happening is by repairing the drainage problem and having a waterproofing treatment applied to protect your foundation from moisture intrusion.

Structural Damage

A foundation is a home’s base, providing support and stability. Unfortunately, issues like shifting soil and water leaks can weaken a foundation, causing cracks in walls and floors, doors and windows that don’t close properly, and even structural damage to the home itself. Regular inspections by experienced professionals can help you catch these problems early and choose the right foundation repair solution for your needs.

Wall cracks can be a sign of serious foundation problems, but not all wall cracks are the same. Hairline cracks that don’t widen or spread over time may simply be a result of the natural shrinking and expanding of concrete. You should still monitor these cracks and call a professional if you notice them getting wider or deeper.

More severe cracks are a sure sign that it’s time to schedule foundation repair. Large cracks in a stair-step pattern along the mortar joints and those that appear at ground level are usually a sign that your foundation is sinking or shifting. These types of cracks typically signal that the foundation has not been laid correctly, which will cause the house to tilt and become unlevel.

You can also check for horizontal cracks in the basement or foundation walls. These are often a sign of a settlement problem and can be resolved with a helical pier installation. These piers transfer the weight of the structure to the surrounding soil or subbase and can work on almost any upper soil condition.

Another common warning sign of foundation damage is a leaning chimney or sinking soil in the yard. These issues can be corrected with a jacked and lifted method of foundation repair, which uses hydraulic jacks to lift sunken areas and then installs steel piers that are screwed into the ground.

Finally, you should watch for signs of moisture in your basement and crawl space, including water stains, mold or mildew, puddling or dampness. Moisture in these areas can lead to severe damage over time, so it’s important to take steps to reduce humidity levels and protect your basement from excessive moisture.

Cost

A number of factors impact the cost of repairing your home’s foundation. The size of your house, the extent of the damage, and the material used to build the foundation can all increase or decrease the price of the job. However, labor is the primary driver of the price. On average, a contractor will charge between $45 and $200 per hour. The price will also vary based on the area you live in and the complexity of the work involved.

Once a repair plan is established, the foundation contractor will begin installing supports under the foundation. This can include hydraulic jacks and steel piers that help to lift the sunken portions of the foundation to the correct elevation. This process will take a while to complete, but it is vital for stabilizing your home and preventing further movement or structural issues.

It is important to note that only contractors who specialize in foundation repair should be hired. General construction contractors may not have the skills and equipment needed to accurately diagnose and repair your foundation problems. It is the same reason that you wouldn’t hire a plumber, electrician, or painter to do your roof or plumbing work.

In advanced cases of foundation damage, a structural engineer might need to evaluate your home and create a report that details the problem and suggests solutions. These reports are not cheap and can cost up to $1,000.

While the cost of repairing your foundation can seem high, it is important to remember that the longer you wait to have the issue addressed, the more extensive and costly the repairs will be. If you are worried about the financial impact of a foundation repair, consider a contractor who offers financing options. This can allow you to borrow against the equity you’ve built up in your home without draining your savings or maxing out credit cards. Another option is to get a home equity loan, which allows you to borrow against the value of your property while resetting your mortgage payment schedule. Whatever you do, do not put off foundation repair, as it can detract from the value of your home and potentially lead to further structural damage.