October 19, 2025

Up and Down Without a Frown

As Colorado’s winter rolls in, your garage door becomes one of the most important — and most vulnerable — parts of your home. Between freezing temperatures, snow buildup, and fluctuating moisture levels, winter can take a serious toll on your door’s moving parts and performance.

The good news? With a little prep and a quick tune-up, you can keep your garage door running smoothly all season long.

Here’s how to get ready:

1️⃣ Check Your Weather Seals

Cold air and moisture can sneak in through worn or cracked weather stripping. If you notice gaps along the bottom or sides of your garage door, it’s time to replace the seal.

Pro Tip: A tight seal not only keeps your garage warmer but can also reduce your energy bill.

2️⃣ Lubricate Moving Parts

Metal components can stiffen and grind in cold temperatures. Use a garage door-safe penetrating oil on hinges, rollers, and springs to keep everything moving freely.

Skip heavy grease — it thickens in the cold and attracts dirt, which can wear parts faster.

3️⃣ Inspect Your Springs

Winter is the most common season for spring breakages due to metal contraction in the cold. If your door feels heavier than usual or lifts unevenly, call a professional right away.

At Astonishing Garage Doors, we offer same-day spring replacements throughout Denver and Colorado Springs to keep your door safe and functional.

4️⃣ Test the Auto-Reverse Feature

Safety sensors and auto-reverse functions are essential in icy weather. Make sure your door reverses properly when something crosses the beam or when light pressure is applied to the bottom edge.

If it doesn’t, schedule a quick Tune & Lube Service for just $99 to ensure everything’s calibrated correctly.

5️⃣ Keep the Tracks Clean

Salt, debris, and ice can build up in the tracks, causing your door to strain or stop midway. Wipe them clean with a dry cloth and check that rollers glide smoothly along the rail.

6️⃣ Schedule a Winter Tune-Up

A quick professional inspection can catch small issues before they turn into big repairs.

Our technicians will tighten hardware, balance the springs, check cables, and make sure your opener is working efficiently — so your garage door runs up and down without a frown all winter long.

🧰 Stay Ahead of the Cold

Whether you’re in Denver, Colorado Springs, or anywhere in between, Astonishing Garage Doors is here to help you prepare for Colorado’s unpredictable winter weather.

✅ Same-day and next-day service

✅ Honest, upfront pricing

✅ Licensed and insured professionals

Call (303) 946-8823

June 17, 2023

   Garage doors may seem like a simple aspect of a home's exterior, but they play a significant role in both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of a property. Whether you're building a new home or looking to upgrade your current garage door, it's essential to understand the different types, styles, and features available to make an informed decision. In this ultimate guide to garage doors, we'll cover everything you need to know to choose the perfect garage door for your home.

   Types of Garage Doors

      The first decision you'll need to make when choosing a garage door is the type of mechanism it uses. The four most common types of garage doors include:

1. Sectional Garage Doors: These doors are made up of multiple horizontal panels that slide up and overhead on tracks. The most popular type of garage door, sectional doors are versatile, durable, and available in a wide range of materials and styles.

2. Roller Doors: Roller doors consist of a single curtain of slats that roll up and down on a drum. They're ideal for smaller garages and those with limited headroom, as they take up minimal space when open.

3. Side-Hinged Doors: As the name suggests, side-hinged doors swing open from hinges on the side of the opening. They're a traditional option that's easy to use and maintain, but they require plenty of clearance space outside the garage.

4. Tilt-Up Doors: Tilt-up doors are a single solid panel that tilts up and out of the way to open. While they're simple and reliable, they're not as popular as sectional or roller doors due to their limited design options.

     Materials for Garage Doors

       Once you've chosen the type of garage door mechanism you prefer, the next step is deciding on the material. The most common materials used for garage doors include:

1. Steel: Steel garage doors are durable, low-maintenance, and available in a wide range of styles and colors. They're also quite affordable, making them a popular option for homeowners.

2. Wood: Wooden garage doors are a classic choice that offers a warm, natural look. They're available in a variety of finishes, from natural wood to painted or stained, but they require regular maintenance to prevent rot and warping.

3. Aluminum: Aluminum garage doors are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for coastal areas or humid climates. They're also available in a variety of colors and finishes.

4. Fiberglass: Fiberglass garage doors are resistant to moisture, insects, and rot, making them ideal for humid or coastal areas. They're also lightweight and available in a range of styles, but they're not as durable as steel or wood.

     Styles of Garage Doors

       Finally, you'll need to choose a style of garage door that complements your home's exterior. Some popular styles include:

1. Traditional: Traditional garage doors feature raised panels and a straightforward design that complements most homes.

2. Carriage House: Carriage house-style garage doors mimic the look of old-fashioned carriage houses with decorative handles, hinges, and windows.

3. Contemporary: Contemporary garage doors feature sleek lines and minimalistic design that works well with modern homes.

4. Custom: If you can't find the perfect garage door style to match your home, consider a custom design that can be tailored to your unique tastes.

     Features to Consider

       In addition to the type of mechanism, material, and style, there are several features to consider when choosing a garage door:

1. Insulation: Insulated garage doors can help reduce energy costs by keeping the garage warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. They also provide a more comfortable workspace if you use your garage for hobbies or as a home gym.

2. Windows: Adding windows to your garage door can increase curb appeal and let in natural light. However, they may not be suitable for those who prefer privacy or security.

3. Security: Look for garage doors with high-quality locks and hardware to ensure your home is secure. Some garage doors also come with smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone control.

4. Maintenance: Consider the level of maintenance required for different materials and styles of garage doors. For example, wooden doors require regular painting or staining, while steel doors are low-maintenance and can be cleaned with a simple soap and water solution.

5. Noise: Some garage door mechanisms can be noisy when opening and closing. If you have a bedroom or living area adjacent to the garage, consider choosing a quieter option such as a belt-drive or direct-drive opener.

     Installation and Maintenance

        Once you've chosen the perfect garage door for your home, it's essential to ensure it's installed correctly and maintained regularly. Hiring a professional garage door installer can ensure that the door is installed safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the tracks and lubricating the moving parts, can also prolong the life of your garage door.

     In conclusion, choosing the right garage door for your home requires careful consideration of the type of mechanism, material, style, and features that best suit your needs. With so many options available, it's important to do your research and consult with a professional to ensure you make an informed decision that enhances both the functionality and curb appeal of your home.