Because most developments do not allow out-buildings like sheds and workshops, the garages for many homeowners have become their area for work, storage, kennels, and escape. It is used by that spouse who is always working on a home project or car repair; with the advent of attic storage trusses and garage storage systems, many garages have been transformed to storage sheds; yes, it is often the makeshift kennel for pets; and garages have become the escape room for man caves, smoker’s lounges, and hobby areas. The problem for many garages is that the doors do not accommodate these diverse uses. However, your garages can be upgraded to better suit your needs.
A non-insulated steel pane garage door in Florida can heat up a garage, especially if it gets direct sunlight. These plain doors literally radiate heat inside the garages and the temperatures are unbearable in the summer. Most northern homeowners are used to insulated doors due to the cold winters, but an insulated door in Florida has great value for reducing the temperatures during the hot summers. Most garage doors can be upgraded with insulation panels and it is well worth the investment, especially if humans or pets are going to spend any time in their garage.
Speaking of our 4-legged friends, a vented bottom panel on a garage door is great for pets and it is an un-avoidable upgrade. If you plan on using your garage door for a kennel, having some ventilation is a good idea.
Most development homes have steel garage doors with no light inserts, which makes the garage extremely dark, especially if there are no windows in the walls. Another great garage door upgrade is to have insert lights installed. You will be amazed how it brightens up the garage and how it makes your work easier. Just as important, during power outages, lights in garage doors can prevent accidents and help when trying to open the doors.
Another good upgrade to consider before summer is a garage door screen. This allows you to fully open the doors and work in your garage without the nuisance of bugs. Most garage door screens in the area roll on a track to one side or another, but cannister automatic screens are growing in popularity. Anyone who works in a garage at dusk knows, the mosquitoes are rough, which makes this is a great upgrade.
Plus, don’t forget to service your garage doors before summer to ensure good operations when the weather gets hot. Colder temperatures, even in Florida, can put springs and rollers out of adjustment.
Finally, a garage door is only as good as the openers and remotes. Now is the time to check batteries in remotes and to replace operators that are not functioning properly. Consider a keyless opener on the outside of your garage door to allow entry with a code by family, service people, and yourself when you do not have a remote handy. It requires no electricity and the installation is quick and easy. This is a great upgrade and it is very affordable.
Home square footage is extremely expensive and if you can utilize more of your garage efficiently, a garage door or opener upgrade is a wonderful investment. Get your garage doors ready today before the heat starts this summer.
Don Magruder is the CEO of Ro-Mac Lumber & Supply, Inc., and he is also the host of the “Around the House” Show which can be seen at AroundtheHouse.TV.