Solutions for Common Garage Door Problems

Solutions for Common Garage Door Problems

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2016 Garage Door Return on Investment

Garage Door ROI: 2016 Cost vs. Value Report

Remodeling magazine is a trusted source for information on home improvements and how to get the most value out of your home. The magazine’s 2016 Cost vs. Value report shows once again that a new garage door is among the most valuable home improvement projects you can undertake.

Not only does a garage door replacement offer a recouped cost of 91.5 percent, this cost rose from 2015 to 2016. Even more attractive about the idea of installing a new garage door at your home is the relatively small initial outlay required when compared to other high-return home improvement projects. A new garage door will typically cost less than $2,000, which compares favorably to bathroom and kitchen remodels, add-on rooms and decks, new roofing and other projects.

The 2016 Remodeling magazine report only further confirms the conventional wisdom about garage door replacement return on investment. If you’re looking to improve the way your home looks and feels without throwing away money you won’t recoup, a new garage door could be the perfect home improvement project.

Refresh the Look of Your Home

Most high-return home improvement projects improve the exterior of a home. In addition to the 91.5 percent cost recouped by a new garage door, a new entry door recouped 91.1 percent of investment on average and manufactured stone veneer 92.9 percent on average. This is due to the importance of curb appeal.

Your home will make a statement to prospective buyers the minute they lay eyes on it.  Given how large a portion of the exterior of your home that a garage door often takes up, a new garage door represents a significant opportunity to enhance your home’s curb appeal. Take advantage of this opportunity by finding a look you love and one that complements your existing architecture.

Check Out Our Other Buyer’s Guides From A-All Style Doors

• How to Avoid Garage Door Repair Scams
• Benefits of an Insulated Garage Door
• The Dangers of Cheap Garage Door Service and Products
• Five Incredible Ways to Add Value to Your Home
• Garage Door Repair vs. Replacement
• Garage Door Installation Cost

Let A-All Style Garage Door Help

Are you looking for garage door return on investment? A-All Style Garage Door serves homeowners in Plainfield, Naperville, Bolingbrook, Lockport and surrounding communities with garage door repair, replacement and installation services, plus a team of helpful garage door professionals. We offer a huge selection of Clopay® garage doors, one of the highest quality products on the market, at the best value.

Take advantage of the many different styles, materials, colors, hardware and window options that Clopay® makes available to create the perfect garage door look for your home. We care about our work and the results you get with a new garage door. Let us help you make the most of the significant investment you’ve made in your home. Try out our door imagination system to see how your home will look with various garage door options!

Contact us today to learn more about garage door return on investment, and how we can help evaluate your options for replacing your existing garage door for maximum value!

Garage Door Materials – Wood vs Steel vs Aluminum

Garage Door Materials – Wood vs Steel vs Aluminum

Picking the right garage door takes a bit of research and thought to get all the facts about garage door features and to know what you really want in design and construction. You may be replacing due to a broken garage door, or perhaps you are looking for an update in your exterior décor to improve the curb appeal of your home.

Whatever the reason, we’ve outlined what you need to know to make the best selection for your climate, budget and lifestyle. Plus, once you’ve chosen your garage door style and color from our extensive line of Clopay^® Doors, you can use the Clopay Door Imagination System to upload a picture of the outside of your house to “try on” the different garage doors and make the most informed buying decision.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a New Garage Door

After you have the basic information regarding the construction options and design choices of a new garage door, you can really start to have fun looking through all the models and piecing together all the design elements to create a door that fits your home functionally and visually. These five factors will get you thinking about the things that aren’t always so obvious to first-time garage door buyers.

It’s tempting to just go with what looks good to your eye and budget, but you may not have all the information you need to equip your home with a garage door that’s most appropriate for your climate, house style and personal preference.

1. Material Pros and Cons

Deciding on the best material for your new garage door will depend on the climate as well as your lifestyle and visual interests. With so many types of garage doors to choose from, you’ll be able to narrow down the selection by determining what the ideal material is for all your needs and wants.

Steel Garage Doors

• Offer the widest range of options in insulation, design and price.
• Can be easily painted to coordinate with the rest of your home.
• Offer various R-values for specific models.
• Are often the best choice for high wind load locations.
• Are the most popular material used for garage doors.
• Thicker doors constructed with a layered coating system offering higher durability.

Our Coachman^® Collection offers over 100 style options with twelve designs that can be accented with optional windows and hardware to provide the most custom garage door for your home. These doors look like the old-fashioned swing-out doors, but are actually modern overhead doors. With the composite overlay, you get the attractive design options, and the four-layer steel construction provides the strength and durability. This makes them an ideal choice for high wind load areas.

Wood Garage Doors

• Are handcrafted from a variety of wood species that are harvested from naturally fallen and sustainable forestry.
• Are designed in several unique, eye-catching models, from traditional panel style to carriage house style, and can also be built from completely custom designs.
• Can be designed with a high wind load rating by using a layered hard wood construction.
• Require a bit more maintenance than steel doors to preserve and protect the natural wood look by repainting or restaining every few years.

Our Custom Reserve Wood Collection is where you dream it and we build it. The possibilities are unlimited with the energy efficiency you want and an expansive selection of specialty glass options. Let your creativity flow with your own custom garage door in any design you can think up.

Aluminum and Glass Garage Doors

• Are ideal for coastal areas that have high concentrations of salt in the air as they are rust-proof and corrosion resistant.
• Have the most contemporary designs that complement every modern décor.
• Are designed with a fully paneled door that can include varying types of glass, acrylic, polygal, wood or aluminum panels.
• Offer various window options to provide different levels of natural light and privacy requirements.
• Are a long-lasting option and require little in the way of maintenance.
• Can be less durable than steel and wood garage doors.

Our Avante Collection of garage doors features all aluminum framing with panels. Optional glazing on the panels determines the level of light and privacy for your garage, making this option an ideal choice for functional and alternative living spaces. The architectural brilliance of this model creates a changing appearance throughout the day and emits a warm glow during the night from the outside. This collection can be the ultimate choice for adding visual interest for your home. If you live in colder climates, Avante may not be the best choice since it offers lower insulation compared to other materials.

2. To Insulate or Not: What is R-Value

Every material can offer some degree of insulation for a garage door. You need to decide how much insulating power you want for your door. Insulation is effective at keeping the heat in and the cold out, as well as keeping the heat out and the air conditioning in.

If you have a detached garage that won’t be used for storing anything that will be affected by extreme temperatures, then you can choose a new garage door with minimal insulation.

On the other hand, if your garage is connected to your home or serves as a living or working space, then you’ll want to look at a garage door with an R-value. This rating indicates the material’s ability to reduce the transmission of heat or cold. The higher the R-value, the better the insulating material will be.

If you are concerned about the noise of the garage door opening and closing, a more durable insulated door can also contribute to a quieter operation. This is a definite plus if you have a bedroom adjacent to your garage.

3. The Practical and Aesthetic Matters of Style and Color

Picking the right garage door isn’t just about practical matters of construction and efficiency. You can help boost your home resale value as well by understanding what colors and designs are the best visual complements to your house.

Since your house is an investment as well as your living space, it’s in your best interest to consider how the garage door styles and colors affect the value of your home. For instance, if your home is designed with modern architectural elements, choosing a garage door with single-layer steel construction and a full-panel design would take away from the overall contemporary look and possibly de-value your home.

Take a good look at your house from the street to get a full picture of the exterior of your house. Notice the colors of brick, siding, window frames, front door and any other color gracing the outside of your home. Assess the exterior that includes the full-on view of your garage and think about what may be lacking, how your garage door design will fit into the overall architecture of your house and how you could use the design of the garage door to enhance the visual appeal of your entire property.

The Canyon Ridge Series offers a number of design choices that offer a specific style and improved overall curb appeal. Primarily constructed with steel for energy efficiency, this collection is overlaid with a faux wood composite that can be primed and ready for any color that coordinates with your house as well as white wash, medium finish, dark finish or walnut finish options.

For a more economic alternative to the Limited Edition Series, we have the Canyon Ridge Ultra-Grain Series that has similar design options in a less expensive construction.

How to Match a Garage Door to Your Home’s Style

Garage doors are part of the overall look of your house and should blend in with the style and color of the whole exterior. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best garage door for your house style:

• A Victorian, Country or Colonial style home would pair well with:
  • Paneled wood — real or faux.
  • A carriage house design.
  • Top windows that coordinate with the style of windows on the house.
  • Decorative hardware like Fleur de Lis or colonial handles and hinges.

See how our Semi Custom Reserve Collection works with this style.

• Craftsman or Minimalist style homes would pair well with:
  • Raised panels and block-style windows.
  • Natural wood or painted woodgrain finish.

See how our Premium Series fits as a complementary style.

• A Ranch or French Country style home would pair well with:
  • Simple, clean lines from wood slats or banding.
  • Basic hardware that balances with the home’s exterior.
  • Arched windows or wrought iron designing for top panel.

The many window options in our Grand Harbor Collection would be a great fit with this style.

While selecting the design and color for your garage door, remember that making the best choice is also about fitting the design of your garage door with the rest of your house. Not only will this improve the overall value of your home, it is also an easy way to upgrade the whole look of your current home.

4. The Pros and Cons of Windows on Your Garage Door

Windows will greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home. If you don’t have windows on your current garage door, you can see the impact windows can make on the look of your home by using the Door Imagination System.

You can match the design of the garage door windows to your house windows, and some models offer various types of glass and transparency options for full light or privacy.

5. Using Hardware for Greater Visual Impact

The best thing about garage door hardware is how easily it can be customized to fit or accent the rest of your house.

Give your garage door the fully accessorized look with decorative handles, hinges or plates. All hardware is optional, although a plate handle at the bottom of the door improves manual operation when needed.

Most people find that less is more when choosing hardware for their new garage doors, so be careful not to overdo it either!

Check Out Our Other Style Guides From A-All Style Garage Door

• Clopay® Slate Finish Garage Doors
• Benefits of Ultra Grain Garage Door Finish
• Garage Door Trends
• Types of Garage Door Styles

So Many Types of Garage Doors, so Little Time!

 A garage door is a big investment that warrants the time and effort to come to a decision you’ll be happy with years down the road. Here are a few other considerations to take into account:

• Think about the activity that will happen around your garage door. Do you have children that will be playing in the driveway or pets that may jump on the door? Is your garage door fully exposed to harsh weather? Even if you love some of the fully paneled glass designs, your lifestyle and weather occurrences may have you thinking about the more durable choices.

• Every garage door will have some type of maintenance requirements, just like every other part of your home. Consider the maintenance needed for the construction, color and mechanical features. Some models require significantly less maintenance and are more durable for standing up to harsher weather conditions.

Garage door shopping should be a rewarding experience especially with assistance and guidance from a professional installation company like A-All Style Garage Door. If you’re in the southwest Chicago suburbs, our skilled technicians can help you choose the right model and design for your home.

Contact us today for a free estimate and consultation.

Updated on 4/10/19.

Benefits of an Insulated Garage Door

Winter can be brutal when you live in Plainfield, Naperville, Bolingbrook and other Southwest Chicago suburbs. Because of this, most homeowners focus on creating a safe, comfortable and warm living environment for the coldest months of the year. But what about your garage? Not only does your attached garage most likely hold your second-most valuable asset — your car — it also shares walls with your home. Regulating your garage’s temperature can help control the temperature in your home, which means a more comfortable environment and lower heating costs.

Maybe you’ve been considering garage door insulation and wondering, “is insulating my garage door worth it?” Here are some key considerations as you examine your options.

What Is Garage Door Insulation?

Insulation is placed between or behind the layers of a garage door to improve the garage’s durability and temperature retention. Generally, homeowners insulate attached garages to protect against heat loss and other weathering. Detached garages don’t always need insulation, but you can insulate them if necessary. Additionally, you can insulate roll up garage doors.

Insulation can be installed on many types of door materials, including steel and wood garage doors, which offer extra layers of protection in addition to the insulation. The two most common types of garage door insulation are polystyrene and polyurethane. The insulation you choose for your garage will depend on your needs, budget, climate and door material.

• Polystyrene: This is a rigid form of padding that sits flush against the outer door layer. It’s not as insulative as polyurethane and is less expensive to install.
• Polyurethane: Foam insulation is injected between garage door layers. The foam bonds to the door frame and fills the inside layers of the door, making the door less susceptible to dents and more energy-efficient than polystyrene.

Both types of insulation increase the durability and energy efficiency of your garage door and help with reducing outside noise levels. The better your insulation and the more layers on your door, the better protected the space is from outside elements and heat loss.

Garage doors like Gallery® steel doors can be customized with one to three construction layers and either polystyrene or polyurethane insulation to fit your budget. Choosing a door with three layers of steel and polyurethane insulation, like you’ll find in a Bridgeport™ steel door, maximizes the strength and efficiency of your garage door.

What Is R-Value?

When learning about garage door insulation, you’ll encounter the R-value measurement. In fancy terms, R-value is a unit of thermal resistance. To make it simpler, just think of R-value as how effective your insulation is. Most home walls will have an R-value of about 11. When choosing to insulate a garage door, you should find an R-value that matches or exceeds the R-value of your walls. This will help create an essential and effective buffer zone between the climate-controlled portions of your home and the harsh conditions outside.

Why Should You Insulate Your Garage Door?

Insulating your garage door has many benefits. Though it can be more expensive upfront, garage doors save you money long-term — in 2021, garage door replacement offered a 93% return on investment (ROI). Here are some of the advantages of insulating your garage:

• Protection: You most likely store other valuable assets in your garage. An insulated garage can help extend the life of these assets, keeping them in top condition longer and protecting them from damp, mold and cold damage. In cold weather areas like Naperville and other Southwest Chicago suburbs, insulation can mean the difference between starting your car in above- or below-freezing temperatures.
• Durability: The most effective insulated garage doors use polyurethane injected into the space between two panels. This liquid polyurethane fills all the space and cavities when it dries and hardens, but it also creates a more durable product, preventing dents and regular wear and tear on your doors.
• Noise reduction: Insulated doors are also known to run more quietly than creaky non-insulated doors. You can rest easy knowing you won’t announce your comings and goings to the neighborhood by opening your garage door. They also help reduce outside noise from traffic, other people and pets, lowering the chance that you’re disturbed by outdoor noise when you’re at home.
• Energy efficiency: Non-insulated garages allow heat to move between the inside and outside of the garage — in the summer, your garage might be excessively hot, and in the winter, your garage could be extremely cold. Good insulation helps prevent this, saving you money on your electricity and gas bills. With insulated layers, your garage and home remain the temperature you want them to be without extra effort.

Garage door insulation saves you money in the long run by increasing your garage’s energy efficiency, protecting your doors from dents and damages and preventing weather and animals from ruining your belongings. Insulating your garage door and performing regular maintenance will maximize the efficiency and life of your garage doors, reducing long-term costs and increasing your home’s comfortability.

Cost of Insulated Garage Doors

The good thing about insulating your garage door is that there are far more pros than cons. Still, replacing and renovating a garage door can be expensive, so selecting one that meets your needs within your budget is vital for any homeowner.

Many factors influence installing a garage door, and insulations are no different. Polystyrene is a less-expensive insulation option, but it’s not as energy-efficient and soundproof as polyurethane. Though polyurethane is more expensive, it’s generally recommended for homes in very hot and cold climates, as the severe temperatures will significantly affect energy costs and heat transfer.

Garage insulation can cost anywhere from $300-$2,000, depending on door and insulation material, so it’s essential to request an estimate from an installer to determine the exact price you can expect to pay.

Check Out Our Other Buyer’s Guides From A-All Style Garage Door

• Maximizing Your Return on Investment With A Garage Door
• How to Avoid Garage Door Repair Scams
• The Dangers of Cheap Garage Door Service and Products
• Five Incredible Ways to Add Value to Your Home
• Garage Door Repair vs. Replacement
• Garage Door Installation Cost

Are You Wondering Where to Begin?

At A-All Style Garage Door, we are an Authorized Dealer of Clopay^® products, which means we can offer the best garage door products available. Clopay® offers a proprietary Intellicore® insulation that features advanced technology. Clopay’s Intellicore® also features R-values of up to 20.4, depending on the model of garage door you choose. This R-value will far exceed those offered by most home walls. Protect your home from energy loss, weather damage and disruptive noise with our quality insulation and garage door options.

Local and family-owned, A-All Style Garage Door is your source for high-quality products, personalized customer service and attention to detail. You can enjoy a three-year warranty on parts and labor and enjoy the long-term value an insulated garage door can provide at your home.

Browse our selection of Clopay^® insulated garage doors and contact us for a free inspection or with your questions today. 

Garage Door Safety Features and Tips

Last Updated on October 17, 2022

Garages are a commonplace feature in many homes. They provide a safe, secure area to store your vehicles, letting you reach them without walking through rain, wind or snow. However, accidents can happen when using a garage door, so keeping safety and security in mind is essential. 

7 Garage Door Safety Feature Tips

Garage doors are heavy machinery that can harm people and things if not used properly. They also serve as an entry into your home, so you must secure them like you would a front door, back door or window. These garage door safety tips will help prevent accidents and garage door-related injuries.

1. Check Sensors

Most garage doors use sensors to open and close. Garage door safety sensors are usually black boxes at the door’s bottom. If the sensors are misaligned, the garage door won’t function properly. Checking them alerts you to potential problems and allows you to address them as soon as possible.

2. Perform Inspections

You should visually inspect your door and its parts monthly. Any signs of wear and tear in the springs, rollers, pulleys, cables or other parts mean it’s time to call a professional. Maintaining your garage door prolongs its life and increases garage door opener safety.

3. Keep Children Safe

While garage doors today have safety features to prevent accidents and injuries, you can keep children safer with these garage door opener safety tips:

• Always ensure the door’s path is clear before opening it. 
• Don’t allow children to touch or hang on the garage door.
• Keep the garage door passcode a secret.
• Don’t leave toys in the path of the garage door.
• Ensure keypads or control buttons are more than five feet off the ground so children can’t reach them. 

4. Know How to Operate Your Door Manually

You must manually open your door when the power goes out or the door malfunctions. Any motorized garage door will feature an emergency release for these situations. The owner’s manual will show you where to find the emergency release so you can operate the door without power. 

5. Test the Reverse Function

Most manufacturers install a reverse function on garage doors to prevent accidents. Routinely checking this function helps avoid future mishaps. You can test it by placing a roll of paper towels or another object in the door’s pathway and pressing the button to close it. If the garage door does not recognize something is in its path and reverse, the reverse function isn’t working correctly and needs repairs.

6. Protect Your Home

Your garage door opener works like a key to your home. You can keep your home more secure with the following tips: 

• Keep your garage door opener hidden: It can be tempting to leave the opener on your car’s visor or dashboard, but these are the first places most will think to look. You can keep the opener in your glove box, in your home or elsewhere. If you keep it in your car, ensure you keep the doors locked.
• Lock the door that connects your home and garage: While your garage door does provide a measure of safety, go an extra step by locking the door that links your garage and home. If someone makes their way into your garage, you can help stop them from entering your house by locking the entryway.
• Consider a vacation lock: Many garage doors include a vacation lock feature that prevents them from opening and closing while you’re out of town. If you don’t have a vacation lock, consider unplugging the garage door opener if you’re gone for an extended period.
• Use a rolling code: New technology makes it possible for your garage door to change its access code each time someone uses the transmitter. This feature is another way to ensure access to your home is limited only to people with keys and the garage door opener.

7. Consider MyQ Garage Door Openers

WiFi-enabled garage door openers offer more safety features than traditional ones. MyQ technology allows you to control your garage door with your smartphone for increased convenience and security. MyQ garage openers offer:

• Real-time notifications: You receive notifications on your smartphone or similar device when your garage door opens and closes, letting you know when someone comes or goes.
• Remote access: You can check the status of your door and open or close it from anywhere.
• Secure packages with Key: Amazon offers in-garage delivery with Key to eligible Amazon Prime members in select cities and surrounding areas. All you have to do is link your myQ account to the Key app.
• Daily schedules: You can preset times for your garage door to close or turn the lights on or off.
• Real-time diagnostics: MyQ lets you know when there is a problem with your garage door. The myQ app can connect you with trusted dealers to schedule repairs and share the diagnostic report for faster repairs.
• Advanced security features: Battery backup, automatic garage door locks and the ability to close your door remotely enhance your garage’s security.

Hire A-All Style Garage Door for Services and Repairs

One of the most effective ways of maintaining your garage door safety is to find a professional service for your repairs. A-All Style Garage Door is a family-owned and operated business founded in 1981. We specialize in residential overhead door sales and installation and repair services and are a certified LiftMaster dealer.

You won’t be disappointed when you hire A-All Style Garage Door for your garage needs. We service the areas of Bolingbrook, Plainfield, Lockport, Naperville and throughout Chicago’s southwest suburbs. Contact us with any questions or to schedule a free inspection.

Winterizing Your Garage Door for Cold Weather

Your garage door should be a safe refuge during the winter and able to help you weather any storm or freezing temperatures. But a wintertime garage door breakdown can mean you’re left trudging through the snow, getting things out of your car and into your house without the comfort and protection of a fully operable garage. That’s why it’s important to take action before winter strikes, addressing important factors like:

• Parts — High-functioning garage doors rely on a series of important parts working together, including springs, rollers, tracks and more. In winter months, these metal parts begin to expand and contract with changes in weather, which can lead to breakdowns. Before winter begins, have your garage door checked for problem areas and make proactive replacements before you have issues in harsh conditions.
• Lubrication — Many lubricants begin to lose their viscosity in cold temperatures. Before and during winter, make sure you use a spray lubricant on your garage door. This should help it run more smoothly even in the coldest moments of winter.
• Weather Stripping — If your garage door features weather stripping around the bottom, make sure to keep this base free of snow and ice during the winter. Freezing precipitation can attach to your garage door’s weather stripping, causing it to rip when you raise your door.
• Batteries — Cold weather can be a serious drain on batteries. Make sure your remote and keypad batteries are charged up and ready to go for winter. This will help avoid a situation where you and your family are sitting in a snowy driveway and wondering what’s going on with your garage door.
• Insulation — You can find foam boards to insert, but this isn’t always a quality solution. In our experience at A-All Style Garage Door, foam panels add very little as far as insulation value, can be expensive, and in fact can buckle low-quality single sided doors from added weight. Instead, consider making the smart investment in a garage door pre-insulated with polyurethane.

Proactive Maintenance Matters

It’s always easier to take care of garage door issues before they create a full breakdown. It’s best to have your garage door inspected and maintained twice a year, with one maintenance visit before winter. A garage door professional can inspect all parts, add lubrication, test your batteries, examine weather stripping, and help you identify areas that need attention before the coldest months of the year arrive.

Be prepared for Any Situation With These Guides From A-All Style Garage Door

• Does My Garage Door Need a Tune-Up?
• What to Do If Your Garage Door Is Frozen Shut 
• Garage Door Safety and Security Tips  
• Garage Door Preparation for Summer
• Power Outage? Here’s How to Open Your Garage Door

Serving the Southwest Chicago Suburbs, Including Bolingbrook, Plainfield and Naperville

At A-All Style Garage Door, we offer maintenance service that can help keep your garage door in action this winter.  We focus on proactive and simple solutions that deliver big results for you and your household at a low cost and with minimal hassle. We care deeply about you as a customer, and we emphasize personalized service and quality work as we help you keep your garage door in peak condition.

Contact us today about garage door maintenance for your home.

(photo via)

Five Incredible Ways to Add Value to Your Home

When any homeowner begins renovations or modifications, affordability is one of the first concerns on their mind. And it’s true: Initial expenses are an important factor. But even more important is the anticipated return on investment — that is, how well a project will hold its value, and how well it will pay for itself through relevant short- or long-term savings.

Which would you prefer: A four thousand dollar sunk cost, or an eight thousand dollar investment that will still be worth $6,500 when you sell your home many years from now?

Home improvement projects don’t have to be complicated to deliver a strong return on investment. In fact, the opposite is often true: Relatively simple jobs mean few, if any, hidden costs. And because finding professionals with years of experience in tackling a task becomes easier, competition is higher and prices become more competitive. That’s a win-win for you.

Take a look at five popular projects that not only provide excellent immediate value to your home, but will largely pay for themselves over time.

You probably don’t often think about it, but your garage door is likely one of the most prominent features of your home. Research suggests that it’s often the most frequently used entrance, and it’s always on display to the world at large. That makes it an important part of home security.

So whether your current garage door has stopped functioning properly or been severely damaged, or if it’s simply time for a change of stylistic pace, consider a garage door replacement. This project is essential in the short-term and will pay dividends over time.

Why Replace Your Garage Door?

If your garage door no longer locks or is otherwise impaired, you owe it to yourself and to your loved ones to have a replacement installed quickly. Doing so isn’t simply essential for security purposes: It will also have a highly positive impact on utility bills.

Garage doors are by far the largest entrance to our homes. Without a proper seal, you could be losing huge amounts of heat to the outdoors, particularly if your garage itself is heated. That’s a massive waste of money.

Garage doors — especially those that face a main road — are a huge part of a home’s curb appeal. This is the first impression any visitor will get of your property, so make it count! Nobody will be impressed by massive dents or a crooked frame, least of all future buyers. You’ll be fighting an uphill battle right from the start to convince them otherwise. Even if yours is fully intact, a change in design could better complement your home’s exterior and the neighborhood aesthetic.

Return on Investment

When you replace a damaged, inefficient or just plain ugly garage door, the benefits are many: In addition to increasing security, better protecting your family and your valuables, you could be saving real money. And, of course, impressing the neighbors.

This is a smart investment no matter what stage of home ownership you find yourself in. In a recently published 2015 Cost vs. Value Report, garage door replacement was found to average a return on investment of around 88.4 percent — one of the highest ROIs in the publication.

If you anticipate staying put for years to come, the project could more than pay for itself via recurring savings on your monthly heating and electric bills. Those looking to sell in the near future will enjoy enhanced marketability: They can expect buyers to pay a small premium in exchange for increased security and long-term low utility spending.

How to Get Started

Installing a new garage door is an excellent opportunity to explore new style options. Garage doors can roll up in sections, they can swing outwards or upwards, and they may even slide to the side like a barn door.

You’ll need to choose a material, too. Aluminum, steel, fiberglass, wood and even vinyl remain very popular options today. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, particularly in regard to the level of anticipated security, long-term resistance to warping, and the ability to insulate effectively.

The best way to find a door that fits your unique needs is simply to ask a garage door replacement specialist. The best ones will offer emergency service and a free expert consultation/estimate. Just remember to consider your personal taste! You may find it invaluable to have someone who can guide you through the process, providing information on security and utility.

Stroll down the aisle of your local home improvement store and you might get sucked in by the extravagant displays that showcase rich granite countertops, sparkling tiles and gleaming hardwood floors. How tempting to finally create that dream kitchen or lavish bathroom!

While those sorts of projects can be well worth the effort (and we’ll get to them later on), don’t forget the essentials. When showing off your home to future buyers, you’ll find that security and energy-efficiency often take precedence over flashy luxuries. And they’re important features for you as the current owner.

Why Replace Your Front Door?

Installing a new door might not be the most exciting undertaking, but it can result in big savings over time. If your current door is structurally damaged or simply doesn’t form a proper seal at the frame, you may be losing unnecessarily high amounts of heated or chilled air to the outside environment.

A door that lacks toughness or integrity is an appealing target to would-be intruders. If your door doesn’t offer sufficient protection, you risk significant one-time losses to robberies. The safety of your family could even be threated, a fact that potential buyers will take note of.

Form is important too: A new door can be a great way to boost your curb appeal. Not only is this a way to show off a bit to the neighbors, but it’s also a large part of any first impression of your home. Many potential buyers will already have a good idea whether or not they like the house before they even step through that entrance — and if curb appeal is too low, they may not even bother coming inside.

Return on Investment

Steel and fiberglass, two popular alternatives materials for entry doors, typically boast more insulating value than your standard wooden option. Look for Energy Star certified doors when possible, as these tend to feature tighter-fitting frames and double- or triple-panel insulating glass (when applicable). In addition to the tax credit you may be eligible for after installing such a door, most homeowners can expect to save big on their utility bills.

Don’t forget to talk this up to prospective buyers. Anyone concerned for the environment or just their own wallet should be willing to pay a small premium for a home with low monthly bills, as these savings will add up considerably over a matter of years.

A steel door is also extraordinarily hard to penetrate, and the level of security they provide against would-be thieves or home invaders is priceless. Fiberglass, too, comes with a stout coating that makes it much tougher than it appears to the touch. Some may prefer its ability to mimic a natural wood grain. While fiberglass may not hold up quite as well as steel against a truly dedicated intruder that usually won’t matter: Many criminals are opportunistic by nature, and any deterrent is enough to send them on their way.

According to the 2015 annual Cost vs. Value Report, which compared average job cost against average resale value on a national scale, homeowners installing fiberglass entry doors can expect a 72 percent return on their investment. The outlook is even more incredible for those opting for a steel replacement: They look forward to recouping 101.8 percent of the initial cost. Indeed, this is the highest anticipated return on investment in the entire Cost vs. Value Report: This project will more than pay for itself within a fairly short time span.

How to Get Started

Replacing your front door is a relatively simple project, and is often a viable DIY affair for an owner who is interested in taking on the task. You don’t need to be a master carpenter, as most units will come pre-hung in a weather-stripped frame.

Begin by selecting the right door for your needs. As mentioned above, an Energy Star certified door will give you the greatest savings on your utility bill. If security is a motivating factor, you’ll be best served by a model that swings outwards rather than inward. This makes it difficult for a would-be intruder to force entry by prying the door open at the frame. Visit your local home supply store and take a look at what’s available. Remember to bring your doorway’s measurements along with you.

Once home and back at your current door, you’ll need to tap the hinge pins out with a hammer. Next, carefully swing it open and life it off the frame. Pry the trim loose from the frame with a putty knife or a pry bar. Finally, remove the jambs. You should be left with a bare, open doorway ready to receive your replacement model.

Leaving the job to a professional is a viable alternative as well. Under most normal circumstances, installation should be a single-day endeavor. If you don’t have a go-to handyman, try asking friends and family for recommendations.

A sprawling hardwood deck is often seen as a bit of a luxury, and may not be the first project on your radar. But as the recession ends, deck additions are resurging in popularity across America, and with good reason.

Why Build A Wood Deck?

A wide, open deck can really make your house feel more like home. There’s little as comforting as laying back in a deck chair with a panoramic view of the landscape or just the sky and clouds above. The deck offers a place to hold gatherings, to tend flowers or just to sit around and read. You’ll have one of the most popular properties around.

These are benefits everyone can enjoy, including future buyers. You’ll be able to raise your asking price considerably with a well-designed deck, and as we’ll see below, the return on investment is pretty stellar.

Return on Investment

Wood decks are among the cheapest ways to expand your effective living area, often at pennies on the dollar when compared to full-fledged home additions. Even so, their ability to hold value over the long term offers another benefit.

The 2015 Cost vs. Value Report found the addition of a wooden deck to offer an average return on investment of 80.5 percent — a figure well above that of bathroom remodeling, roofing replacement or other common projects. Future buyers appreciate the aesthetics of a well-constructed deck, as well as the recreation space and the fact that the work has already been done for them. And since there’s no need to heat or cool these additions unlike an indoor expansion, they should have little-to-no impact on the monthly utility bill.

Any “outdoors living” style of project looks poised to hold its value, as our love for fresh air and sunlight at the homestead trends upwards. You’ll easily sell the image of enjoying future BBQs, lounging in the warmth or perhaps even using a hot tub!

How to Get Started

The most adventurous DIY-ers may be willing to tackle this project without professional assistance, although the help of a few strong friends is welcome. Create a solid plan that incorporates every beam, slice and angle necessary to bring your dream deck to fruition. The aid of a computer with drafting software may be helpful.

Any home supply store should be able to provide lumber and additional tools that you may need. This won’t be a weekend project: You’ll need to dig and install supports (possibly including the pouring of concrete), make the cuts, and establish a solid frame first.

Those not building their own should start by finding an architect or engineer to help draw up some plans, and perhaps to offer advice on the lumber choice. As always, friends and family members are a great source of recommendations. A general contractor shouldn’t have a difficult time putting those plans to life: You’ll likely only need to pay for basic labor and supplies.

The time it takes to finish will vary greatly with the scale of the project, but anywhere from one to three weeks is a good general estimate. Your contractor should be able to give more detailed information.

Another common, current trend in home renovation is the attic bedroom remodel. It’s a great way to increase the amount of usable room in your house, and allows you to sidestep a lot of cost and zoning issues that would pop up if you were to instead build an entirely new add-on.

Why Convert Your Attic Into a Bedroom?

You may have a growing family in need of additional living space. You may love the idea of a warm and dazzling skylight brightening your room each morning. Or perhaps you’d simply like to free up your existing bedroom to serve as a home office.

Attic conversions saw a surge in popularity a few years back, thanks in part to the recent recession making move-up houses feel less affordable. Rather than dropping big money on a new home and moving expenses, why not reclaim an existing area that probably doesn’t see much use? Now that so many skilled handymen and utility specialists have gained familiarity with this kind of project, there has never been a better time to remodel your own attic.

What’s more, it’ll prompt you to reevaluate how much of the “junk” you’ve been storing up there is really necessary — and what you’re better off selling, donating or tossing. When starting spring cleaning, sometimes we all need a little kick in the pants.

Return on Investment

Converting your existing attic into a bedroom is an incredibly economical way to increase living space. Rather than increasing the overall footprint of the building, you’ll be using pre-existing walls, floors and ceilings. This keeps remodeling costs under control and non-prohibitive, though there are a few considerations you’ll have to keep in mind.

Most attics are not originally designed to support human residence, so some changes should aim to make the room feel comfortable and livable. Your project expenses will likely include running new electric wires, improving airflow and insulation and perhaps even better soundproofing the space. If you hope to include a private bathroom alongside the bedroom, plumbing will be an additional undertaking.

Finally, note that residential building codes in your area will likely require your new bedroom to be reachable via a standard staircase. If your attic only features ladder access, start thinking about where you may be able to install new stairs: Closet conversions are one popular option. Spiral staircases are typically more space-efficient than more traditional straight runs, although the initial cost may be somewhat higher.

An attic bedroom remodel doesn’t merely expand your home in an affordable way: It also holds its value quite strongly. The 2015 Cost vs. Value Report estimates that those who undertake this project will recoup around 77.2 percent of the initial investment cost. So if you’re in real need of extra space, attic conversion is a financially sound — and much lower stress — alternative to buying an entirely new home.

How to Get Started

Transforming an attic is a more simple process than building an entirely new room from the ground up, but it still generally requires minor structural changes. And as with any modifications to the structure of your home, including a few licensed professionals in the process is highly recommended.

Consult with an electrician to determine whether your current electric setup can handle the demands of an additional bedroom. They can also assist in running new wires. An HVAC specialist will help you to arrange proper heating and cooling of the new space, which will be essential for comfort. Structural engineers can assess the strength of your floor joists, and ensure that they’ll support a full set of furniture. A plumber is essential if your plans include a new bathroom.

Finally, don’t forget about windows. Many attics won’t have any initially, but they’re essential for natural light, comfort and air circulation. Fortunately, windows aren’t terribly expensive to install, and the unique shape and location of the room gives you a chance to flex your creative muscle. Why not try an expansive dormer window or let the sun in with a well-placed skylight? With a little imagination, you can design a room that’s the envy of your friends and family.

A revamped kitchen is the dream of many homeowners, especially those who have been using the same cooking area for a while and are starting to find it boring or outdated. But kitchens are more than just a place to prepare dinner: They’re a gathering place for friends and family, and a reflection of our own tastes (no pun intended).

Fortunately, freshening up that stale space can be more affordable than you’d ever imagined. Kitchen remodels hold their value well, and they’re sure to catch the eye of neighbors and visitors. You’ll feel recharged every morning in your new environment with the satisfaction of a smartly made investment.

Why Remodel Your Kitchen?

Don’t underestimate the emotional impact that a revamped kitchen can provide. This is often the heart of a home. It’s one of the first rooms your guests will see, and a place where family members will congregate frequently. And you’re not the only ones who will appreciate it.

A kitchen can easily make or break the sale of any house. When you remodel yours, you’ll not only create a wonderful space to spend the coming years, but also make it irresistible to future buyers.

Return on Investment

The amount of sustained value you get from a kitchen remodel will depend on the scope of the project. The 2015 Cost vs. Value Report found minor kitchen remodels to
deliver an ROI of around 79.3 percent while major overhauls came in a bit lower, at 67.8 percent. If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck, you may wish to stick to changes on a smaller scale.

The addition of a tile backsplash or a stylish new countertop is often enough to have a powerful effect on the room’s atmosphere and won’t break the bank. You can even change the tone simply by sanding down and refinishing cabinet doors with a different stain color. Going all-out with fancy faucet heads and ornate cabinet knobs, while appealing to some, won’t have nearly the same overall impact — not to mention future buyers might not share your taste in accessories.

A spacious and modern kitchen is appealing to both owners and buyers alike, so don’t rule out total reinvention either: Just recognize which features are likely to hold their value best.

How to Get Started

Kitchen renovations are not a one-man job. You’ll likely need to coordinate with several different specialists depending on what exactly you want done. Surface fabricators can help measure, cut and install new countertops, while an appliance specialist can make recommendations for stovetops, ovens and refrigerators that meet your budget as well as neighborhood trends (this can be essential for resale value). Cabinet professionals will ensure a perfect fit, installation and aesthetic. And don’t forget the invaluable advice an interior designer could offer.

Neighbors and other friends or family members in your area may have local pros to endorse. Start asking around for suggestions. Most of these specialists will offer free initial consultations, so you’ll get a chance to see who you best click with.

For a total reinvention, you may also need to find a plumber, electrician or even an architect. This may sound overwhelming, and it’s true that a larger-scale kitchen remodel is a massive undertaking that could well run into the tens of thousands of dollars. But as long as you spend that money wisely, you can expect to recoup the great majority down the line.

Check Out Our Other Buyer’s Guides From A-All Style Garage Door

• Maximizing Your Return on Investment With A Garage Door
• How to Avoid Garage Door Repair Scams
• Benefits of an Insulated Garage Door
• The Dangers of Cheap Garage Door Service and Products
• Garage Door Repair vs. Replacement
• Garage Door Installation Cost

Take Action Today

As we’ve seen, there are plenty of great and easy ways to increase the value of your home. You could be enjoying life to the fullest, while simultaneously saving big on energy bills and impressing future buyers. Why wait any longer to get started?

If you’re searching for garage door replacement in Chicago’s southwest suburbs, look no further. A-All Style Garage Door makes it easy, with fast and friendly service, competitive pricing and a commitment to quality installations. Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate.