Automatic Garage Doors | Eastern Garage Doors

Automatic Garage Doors Explained: A Homeowner’s Guide

Why people automate

Most homeowners explore automation for the obvious reason: not getting out of the car in the rain. But the secondary benefits often matter more once the door is in. An electric door locks itself through the motor gearing when it closes. Modern operators use rolling-code radio, so the remote’s signal changes with every press and can’t simply be captured and replayed. And because automation is nearly always specified alongside a modern insulated door, the garage itself usually gets warmer, drier and quieter in the process. Running costs are usually modest, but they are not identical from one installation to another: the annual electricity cost depends on the operator’s standby draw, door size and weight, frequency of use and the household’s tariff. As a broad guide, many modern domestic systems are likely to cost only a few pounds to low tens of pounds per year to run, rather than being a major household energy expense.

Start with the door, not the motor

The type of automatic garage door you choose determines almost everything that follows: cost, headroom requirements, insulation performance and how straightforward the door will be to automate. Options cover a wide spectrum. At the lower end, you may be able to add an £850 retrofit motor to an existing retractable up-and-over door. At the higher end, fully integrated roller or sectional doors with app control typically start from around £3,000, with plenty of mid-range choices in between.

Side hinged doors can be automated too, but the hardware is more specialised and usually costs more. Across all door types, doubling the width generally adds around 55% to 100% to the cost of a single door, putting many double-door installations in the £3,000–£6,000 range.

Useful tip: Specifying an up-and-over door as automatic from the outset is uncommon. It does not usually work out cheaper than an entry-level roller door and is generally considered to offer less inherent security than a purpose-built automated system.

Safety and compliance: What are the core features to look for?

 

Feature What It Means Why It Matters
Force limitation The motor must be set so the door cannot close with enough force to cause injury, automatically limiting the pressure it applies if it meets resistance. This is a core safety requirement. It prevents crushing injuries and ensures the door reacts safely when it encounters an obstacle.
Photocells (infrared safety beam) An infrared beam across the opening can detect a person, pet or object in the doorway and stop the door before contact. However, photocells are only one part of the safety system. They add important protection, but the complete door, motor and controls must be assessed and tested together to confirm that the installation meets the required safety standard.
Safety edge for roller doors The tubular motors used in many roller doors do not include built‑in force limitation, so a pressure‑sensitive safety edge along the bottom rail is normally required to stop and reverse the door if it touches an obstruction. Domestic sectional doors often use alternative safety systems, such as
force monitoring or photo‑eyes.
A safety edge ensures roller doors can detect obstacles and react safely. You should ask exactly which
safety devices are included and how the finished installation will be tested.
Door and motor combination testing A drive unit that passes on one door may not on another. The specific combination of door, operator and
controller must have been tested together.
Compliance depends on the tested combination, not just individual components. Testing the actual door–motor–control setup confirms that the installed system meets the required safety standard.

Before choosing an automated garage door system, it’s worth checking that the key safety and compliance features are properly built in and tested. A good installer should help you understand how each device works and confirm that the full setup meets the required standards.

Integrated automatic garage door system showing the door, controller, and motor combined into one unified unit.

A fully integrated automatic garage door system, where the door, controller, and motor work together as one seamless unit for smoother, safer operation.

 

The part most buyers never hear about: Safety law

A powered garage door is legally machinery. It must carry a valid UKCA or CE mark and be supplied with a Declaration of Conformity, as required under the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008. BS EN 12453 supports this by defining the safety requirements — including entrapment protection and closing-force limits — that a compliant power-operated door must meet. If your installer cannot provide the paperwork, treat that as a red flag, not a formality.

None of this is “set and forget”. A sensible routine for a domestic door is a quick monthly check: does the door reverse immediately if you interrupt the photocell beam or place a suitable test object in its path? An annual professional service should check force settings, lubricate moving parts and confirm that sensors have not drifted out of calibration. This matters more than it might seem. A door that has “always been fine” can develop a fault gradually, and force limiters that have not been checked for years are a common finding on service calls.

A few practical points specific to family homes:

  • Keep remote controls out of reach of young children and consider a keypad or app control instead of a permanently fitted wall button if the garage is a play or access route.
  • Never let children treat the door as a toy. Pinch points at panel joints and guide rails can trap fingers. Choose sectional doors with pinch‑resistant panels to reduce the risk of injury.
  • If you’re buying an older house with an existing automated door of unknown age, it’s worth a professional safety inspection before relying on it, particularly if there’s no documentation of when it was last serviced.
  • During a power cut, doors without battery backup won’t operate automatically. Make sure your installer shows you how to use the manual release cord or lever so you can safely disengage the door from the motor.

Security: The feature too important to skip

The flagship standard to look for is Secured by Design (SBD) – a UK police-backed accreditation scheme under which the complete door assembly (panel, frame, hinges, locking points and automation) is tested against a sustained forced-entry attack in an accredited lab.

In practice, this usually means an automated door benefits from enhanced security features, such as multi-point or motor-driven automatic locking, anti-lift or anti-lever protection, and secure frames, hinges and fixings. Availability varies by door type and operator model. Both Hörmann, when paired with its own ProMatic or SupraMatic automation, and Garador offer SBD-accredited ranges. Other premium manufacturers, such as JDUK may not always carry SBD certification but can still offer high-end specifications, including thick insulated panels and electronic motor locks that help resist forced entry from the bottom of the door.

Buying tip: Insist on a motor that mechanically locks the door when closed and uses rolling-code remotes, which help prevent the signal-cloning attacks that older fixed-code remotes are vulnerable to. Keep the SBD certificate and any product information on file. Some insurers may take accredited security products into account, but only if you can document them.

How to choose the right automatic garage door?

There is no single automatic garage door that is best for every home. The right choice depends on the opening, available headroom, how the garage is used, the level of insulation and security required, and the automation features you actually need.

  1. If the garage is attached to the house or a bedroom is nearby: Prioritise a well-insulated sectional door with soft-start/soft-stop automation, or tracks fitted with smart-connection systems from models like Hörmann’s LPU 42 or JDUK’s Premier-Line, designed to reduce operating noise. In this situation, reducing vibration and transmitted noise can be more valuable than saving a few hundred pounds.
  2. If you want app or smart-home control: Choose an operator and door combination such as a Somfy or a sectional door’s own factory-matched operator with clearly supported app functionality. Check the manufacturer’s current compatibility information before buying rather than assuming that every smart-home platform will work with every motor. We will talk you through this to make everything straightforward.
  3. If headroom or internal space is limited: A roller door can be advantageous because the curtain rolls into a compact housing rather than requiring the horizontal tracking arrangement used by many sectional doors. Check the manufacturer’s minimum headroom and fitting requirements for the exact model. For example, the Hörmann RollMatic OD requires only 60 mm.
  4. If you have a large or double-width opening: Sectional doors handle wide, heavy openings more gracefully than up-and-over doors because the panel weight is distributed across multiple horizontal sections. They are especially useful for double garages, where an up-and-over panel’s weight and swing can become a practical issue.
  5. If security is the priority: Look for independently recognised security accreditation where available, and consider features such as automatic mechanical locking, anti-lift protection, secure frames and rolling-code remote controls. Check the accreditation for the exact door and configuration rather than assuming that every model in a manufacturer’s range has the same certification.

Aftercare

Automatic garage doors need relatively little day-to-day maintenance, but safety checks should not be treated as optional.

A sensible homeowner routine is to check that the door operates normally and that its safety system responds as expected. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any user-level tests rather than improvising tests that could damage the door or create a hazard. Many manufacturers recommend professional maintenance and servicing every 12 to 18 months.

This is important because a professional eye can spot issues the untrained eye cannot. For example, a door that has gone out of balance can force the motor to work harder and can push impact forces outside the safe range, even when nothing looks obviously wrong.

Professional servicing should check the door’s balance, moving components, track or guide system, operator settings and safety devices. If the door becomes unusually noisy, moves unevenly, fails to reverse as expected, or develops another change in behaviour, stop relying on it until it has been inspected.

If you have bought a property with an older automated door and cannot establish its service history or safety documentation, arrange a professional inspection before treating the system as safe for routine use. 

Before you place the order

Even if you’re just doing your own personal check before ordering, it helps to know that we, as your installer, make sure every detail is covered so nothing gets overlooked.

Item to Confirm What to Ask Why It Matters
Written quotation Request a full quote covering the complete installed system, not just the door price. Ensures transparency and avoids unexpected costs.
Daily use and practicality Confirm how the chosen door supports your day‑to‑day use of the garage. Ensures the door suits your lifestyle and access needs.
Door model and dimensions Check the exact model, size and configuration being supplied. Prevents sizing errors and ensures the correct product is ordered.
Colour and finish Confirm the precise colour, texture and finish. Guarantees the door matches your home and expectations.
Materials and sustainability Ask what materials are used and how eco‑friendly the door is. Important if environmental impact or durability matters to you.
Thermal performance Confirm insulation levels and thermal ratings if relevant. Helps maintain comfort and energy efficiency in attached garages.
Operator/motor compatibility Check the exact motor model and its compatibility with the door. Ensures reliable operation and compliance with safety standards.
Safety devices Confirm all included safety systems such as force limitation, photocells or safety edges. Guarantees the installation meets required safety regulations.
Controls and access options Check remote controls, keypads, wall switches and any app‑based functionality. Ensures you have the access methods you prefer from day one.
Battery backup Confirm whether a backup battery is included or recommended. Keeps the door usable during power cuts.
Extra building work Ask if any structural adjustments or preparation work are required. Avoids delays and additional costs during installation.
Removal of old door Confirm removal and disposal of the existing door is included. Saves you arranging separate disposal and keeps the project tidy.
Warranty arrangements Check product warranties and what they cover. Provides long‑term protection against defects.
Recommended servicing intervals Ask how often the door and motor should be serviced. Keeps the system safe, reliable and compliant over time.
Documentation Confirm you will receive conformity certificates and product documentation. Provides proof of compliance and essential reference information.
Workmanship guarantee Ensure the installation is covered by a quality workmanship guarantee. Protects you if any installation issues arise later.

This makes competing quotations easier to compare and helps prevent a low initial price from becoming more expensive if additional controls, safety equipment or installation work are added. The cheapest automatic door is not necessarily the best-value option, and the most expensive specification is not automatically the best choice. The strongest installation is the one that is properly matched to the opening, correctly automated, appropriately protected and supported by clear documentation and aftercare.

Expert note

This guide has been prepared with input from garage door specialists experienced in specifying, installing and maintaining automated domestic garage doors in the UK. It reflects practical knowledge of common door types, automation systems, safety requirements, security considerations and aftercare issues encountered during real installations. The article also references recognised UK safety and security frameworks, including the Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations, BS EN 12453 and Secured by Design, to help homeowners make informed decisions based on compliance, safety and long-term performance rather than price alone.

Reviewed by: Karl Humphris, Garage Door Specialist, Easten Garage Doors, with 40 years’ experience in domestic garage door installation, safety compliance and automated access systems in the UK.

Automatic Garage Doors Explained: A Homeowner’s Guide

Garage doors have become an integral part of the modern home. While at one time considered to represent somewhat of a luxury, these fascinating devices are now seen within millions of properties throughout the United Kingdom. Not only can these doors address some of the most important classic car maintenance requirements, but they are also capable of adding a stylish touch to any home.

How have garage doors and their associated mechanisms changed over time? Let us take a quick look at why technology and innovation have both played important roles in order to appreciate the big picture.

Traditional Car Enthusiast Tips from the Very Beginning

The earliest garage doors were actually attached to separate structures known as “carriage houses”. Similar to barns and storage facilities, most carriage houses were equipped with doors that swung outwards. This was inconvenient due to the fact that they would require a great deal of space. Also, there were always chances that the vehicle could accidentally come in contact with the doors themselves.

Simple and Yet Powerful Solutions

It was not until 1921 that an upward-swinging mechanism was introduced to the general public. It did not take long before this model was often included within many car enthusiast tips, and for good reason. The most obvious advantage of this design was that it saved a great deal of space when compared to previous versions.

However, another issue presented itself. Some garage doors were extremely ornate and therefore, rather heavy. This made them very difficult to raise and lower. One solution which is still seen on occasion involved the introduction of sliding doors. It was much easier to open and close these models. The only issue was that the dimensions of the garage itself needed to be wider in order to accommodate the sliding mechanism. This would obviously be challenging for those who wished to undertake classic car maintenance within a limited amount of space.

The Introduction of the Electric Overhead Door

Garage doors equipped with electrical motors were first introduced in the first half of the 1970s. The main advantage here was that the doors no longer required manual labour to be opened and closed. Initially a luxury, the 1980s witnessed the mainstream introduction of remotely operated units, so the doors could be activated with the click of a button. These also reflected the fact that the cars themselves were changing over time. Just as vehicles began to use modern solutions, it only stood to reason that car enthusiast tips involved mechanised doors.

We now live in an era associated with composite doors, superior levels of insulation and even affordable, smart systems that are able to detect the presence of a vehicle as it enters the driveway. So, it is clear to see that we have come a long way in less than a century. This is why professional car enthusiast tips should always address the presence of a reliable garage door. If you would like to learn more about the services offered at Eastern Garage Doors, please contact us directly.

Garage Door Trends Over Time: A Brief History

Convert your manual garage door to automatic and enjoy the difference it makes! Automatic garage doors bring added convenience, better security, and a touch of modern comfort to your home. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the benefits and show you how Eastern Garage Doors can help you find and fit the perfect upgrade.

Converting a Manual Garage Door to an Automatic System

Converting a manual garage door to an automatic system requires integrating a motorised  opener with the existing door structure. Firstly, it needs to be a retractable type rather than a canopy – one that operates on a guided track system, where the door lifts upwards and retracts fully into the garage space. We install a compatible opener suited to the door’s weight and size for smooth, effortless operation. Securing it to the ceiling, we align it with the door’s center to ensure balanced lifting and reduce strain on components. A reinforced rail and trolley mechanism enable motorised movement, connected by a sturdy arm for reliable performance. We program remote controls or a wall switch for seamless access, enhancing convenience and security. Finally, we test and adjust force settings to ensure smooth, safe operation, transforming the manual door into an efficient automated system that saves time and effort.

Convenience

While converting a manual garage door to an automatic system is a popular upgrade, other garage door types also automated advantages. Roller and sectional doors enhanced security, while side-hinged options provide easy pedestrian access. No matter the style, automation enhances security and simplifies daily use.

The most apparent benefit is convenience. With an automatic garage door opener, you can open your door from the comfort of your car. No more stepping out to battle the elements—rainy days and freezing mornings are no longer a hassle.

Some automatic doors feature built-in lighting, illuminating your front garden and garage for better visibility during winter or bad weather. For even greater ease, automatically closing doors ensure you never forget to secure your garage – offering the ultimate in effortless functionality.

Safety

An automatic door removes the risk of fingers getting jammed or a faulty door falling down on someone. This makes them an ideal option for those with younger children or anyone with a medical condition such as arthritis that makes manually closing the door more difficult.

Security

Your garage door is an important part of your home security. As well as storing important and valuable possessions, lots of garages have a door that leads through to the main house, so having a secure door is paramount. The automatic doors that we supply come with plenty of security features, including remotes that operate with a unique code so only you can gain access and settings that disable the remote control completely.

Low energy use

Despite being more technical than a manual door, automatic doors don’t need much power to work. Installing one won’t have a dramatic effect on the cost effectiveness of your home, or its carbon footprint.

Maintenance

Automated garage doors require little upkeep and deliver reliable performance for years. If an issue occurs, our team provides expert repairs to restore function. We also offer routine servicing to extend durability and prevent future faults, ensuring continued efficiency with minimal maintenance.

Cost

With all the convenience offered by automatic garage doors, lots of homeowners see them as an expensive luxury; however, you can find a range of affordable, quality doors in our range.

Find the ideal automatic garage door

Are you interested in an automatic garage door? We pride ourselves in offering an outstanding range of doors that are suitable for a range of homes and budgets. Get in touch with us today to get started with your new garage door.

Benefits of Upgrading to an Automatic Garage Door

Find out how our customisable garage door service works

Are you looking to replace your garage door with one that is perfectly suited to your needs? Our bespoke garage door service is the ideal solution. Find out how you could be enjoying a made to measure garage door with our help in today’s blog.

The process begins with a free survey. A member of our friendly customer service team will arrange for one of our expert installers to visit your home and carry out a survey of the garage, as well as to discuss your needs and explain how your door will function. We’ll listen to exactly what it is that you’re looking for from a new garage door, before forming a plan with you for your own door that fits with what you need.

We’ll then get to work confirming these plans before sending them over to you with the exact measurements and costs for your approval. This is your chance to advise us about any changes you’d like to make to the plans, and we’ll quickly confirm with you if these are possible or not. We always strive to include the features you want where possible.  

Once we’ve made any changes and you’re happy with the plans, we’ll finalise them before sending you instructions to prepare for the installation. We’ll then book your installation in on a date that works for you.

Installation

Your very own garage door is then fitted by our expert installation team. We carry out every installation both promptly and with great care and attention to detail. This minimises the amount of time we spend disrupting your garage space with the installation, while ensuring that everything is up to our high standard of quality workmanship.

Truly bespoke designs

Although ‘bespoke’ or ‘made to order’ usually only refers to custom sizing, we offer a truly customisable door service. This means you can choose the materials, style and colour.

We’re equipped to cater for all sorts of requests, so don’t discouraged if you’re looking for an unusual garage door; we’re more than happy to help as much as we can with our range of materials and styles. Some of these styles include:

  • Non-protruding doors
  • Sliding doors
  • Side hinged
  • Overlap doors
  • Roller
  • Sectional
  • Ceiling doors

 

To get started with your very own bespoke garage door, get in touch with us today and one of our customer service experts will be happy to help you get your free survey booked. We offer our services throughout the whole of East Anglia, from Suffolk and Norfolk to Cambridge and Essex. You can find our contact details here, and more about our services here.

Transform your Garage with a Bespoke Door

a garage door snow fall

A garage door is one of the biggest and costliest pieces of mechanical kit in your home and most of us open and close the door several times a day without thinking twice. Winter can be a tough season for your garage door, and depending on the harshness of the winter – which is especially relevant depending on which area of the country you live in – there are some potential problems that could come to fruition if you aren’t careful.

Of course, having a broken garage door would be a pain during any season, but if you’re unable to get your car out of the garage during those cold, dark months, it would be far worse than any other season.

The positive news is that you can potentially avoid these by performing a little maintenance.

Garage Door Springs

 

Cold weather can distress a garage door in a multitude of ways, but broken springs are the most common. Wear and tear is usually the main culprit – garage door springs typically last around 10,000 cycles and with everything else we need to remember in our lives, particularly during winter, maintaining the springs on our garage doors often slips by the wayside.

Despite this, it’s important to check the springs quite often by lifting the door to halfway and letting go. If the door is stationary, the springs are in good working order. If it begins to drop slightly, then consider replacing the springs.

Another way to safeguard against broken springs in the winter is to ensure you have a safety cable installed. The cable exerts enough force to act as a counter-weight, so if your springs do break, you won’t need to worry so much.

Door Frozen to The Ground

a man shovelling in front of his garage door

If water pools at the base of your door, a frost overnight can freeze the water and seal the door shut.

There are no easy or fast ways to deal with this problem, but here are a few solutions which you use to try to rectify the problem:

  • Manually open the door using the emergency cord. The severity of the freeze will directly impact this option.
  • Pour boiling water along the base of the door. Be sure to sweep away the pool though, as it could refreeze.
  • Use a scraper to chip at the ice until you can free the door.

Any of these methods takes a fair bit of time and energy, the best thing to do is to ensure you sweep away any puddle or snow build up and pour some salt around the area to prevent the reappearance of ice.

Water Damage

Especially the case with wooden garage doors, the moisture over winter can lead to the swelling of the door and the frame itself. In the worst scenario, this can close up the space, which causes rubbing.

The door can even get stuck, which prevents you from entering or exiting through the door.

It’s important to clear your rain gutters of leaves and debris to prevent water from running down onto the door, which only exacerbates the problem.

Opening Issues

Colder temperatures can meddle with the opening and closing functions of your garage door, here are a few things to watch out for:

  • Lubrication Consistency – Garage door opening mechanisms require lubrication at various times throughout the year to ensure the parts run correctly. During winter, it’s not unheard of for this lubrication to alter its consistency and prevent the components from moving successfully.
  • Sensitivity Problem – All automated garage doors are designed to stop the process if there is an obstruction. Thickened lubrication can alter the sensitivity of the sensors and prevent the garage from opening or closing correctly because it confuses the thickened deposits of lubrication for something it might crash into.

When the cold weather descends, your garage door may be pushed to its limits. However, by keeping an eye on your door and performing a few small tasks, preparing your garage inside and out for winter means it will be able to withstand the harsh conditions of winter.

 

If you have any questions about winter protection for your garage or any of our other products or services, then contact us today.

For a free, no obligation survey give us a call on 0800 048 0741, and our team will be happy to advise you on which security considerations would be right for your home and garage.

How Can Winter Affect My Garage Door?

remote control garage door opener

Closing an automatic garage door may seem like an easy task and one that we take for granted. However, like with any machines, if we’re not careful we can cause ourselves and our property damage. It was only last summer that a Cambridgeshire woman was crushed in the roller mechanism of an automatic garage door after misusing it. Accidents such as these can be avoided with a few simple steps, and that’s why we’ve put together the following guide, describing 7 easy ways to stay safe around automatic garage doors.

Read the Manual

The best way to become familiar with your garage door and how it operates is to read the manual. Whilst it’s not Dickens, it’s an important document to read at least once. The manual should be able to tell you essential information, such as the key safety features e.g. the emergency release.

Keep Out of Reach of Children

Kids are known for being excitable, and often like to run around outside and play. However, it’s never safe for a child to go near a garage door, or be allowed to play with the remotes that operate it. If this is becoming an issue in your home, consider having a chat with your child about the dangers of playing near garage doors and always check twice before you open yours.

Inspect Your Garage Door Regularly

The best way to detect any developing problems with your door is to regularly check over it, making sure it’s as healthy and well-operational as it should be. Look for any signs of wear and tear. If your garage experiences any damage, for example, if it was backed into by a vehicle, then it should be checked over by a professional as the damage may be not be immediately apparent to an untrained eye. Never try and fix problems yourself, and always get a specialist company to carry out the repairs and maintenance. Due to the high tension springs and cables present in the mechanism, attempting the repair work yourself could result in injury.

Check Reversing Ability

An essential feature of an automatic garage door is its reversing ability, which ensures that if the door hits an obstruction, it will reverse its path and return back upwards. To test this, place a brick or similar below the garage door to make sure it performs this movement, repeating this test at least once a month.

Stay Away From Moving Doors

Don’t attempt any Indiana Jones close shaves by running under a garage door as it’s closing. Stand well clear any time a door is either opening and closing, encouraging anyone else around you to do the same, including pets and children. Don’t touch or hang onto a door as it’s moving either; this is how last year’s fatality occurred.

Deactivate Your Opener When You Go Away

garage security

For both safety and security reasons, it’s important to deactivate your garage door opener whilst away on holiday, preventing any unwanted access during your time away.

Always Shut the Door Fully

Try not to leave your garage door partially open. If it is reactivated, it will complete its closure, leaving very little time for escape if something happens to be underneath at the time. Not only this, but it’s wise to close the door completely to prevent would-be criminals from taking the opportunity to explore your garage.

 

Here at Eastern Garage Doors, we’ve got your safety in mind. We offer comprehensive garage door servicing, repair and maintenance services, in addition to installing a huge range of manual and automatic garage doors available in a range of styles. Our specialists cater for the entire East of England. If you have a question about your garage door, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly advisers today.

7 Ways to Stay Safe Around Automatic Garage Doors

cctv

Don’t leave your garage defenceless. Many homeowners overlook the security of this area of their properties, leaving it vulnerable to would-be thieves. And with many garages housing valuable equipment such as lawnmowers, bikes and electricals, they can be very attractive to criminals. But just a few simple precautions can turn your garage into a safe and secure space to keep your most prized belongings. That’s why in this month’s article we will be focusing on top tips and advice for enhancing your garage security.

Use Your Common Sense

Sometimes we can overlook the simplest things that can bring about our downfall. For example, never leave your garage keys/remote in your car. Vehicles are easier to break into than most garages, and therefore leaving unlocking equipment in your car is not advisable. Another precaution that is sometimes forgotten is leaving the garage entry door into the home unlocked. If a thief does manage to enter your garage, don’t double your problems by granting them access to your home as well.

Invest in Some Basic Security Equipment

Sometimes just the presence of security equipment is enough to make thieves think twice about attempting a break-in. Motion sensor security lighting is great way to deter lawbreakers. It might even be worth installing an alarm system especially for the garage, or even a security camera if it’s within your budget.

Close The Garage Door Properly

This may seem like an obvious step, but everyone is guilty of missing things when they’re in a hurry. Unfortunately this blunder is an open invitation to burglars. To stop yourself from making this mistake, it might be worth installing some high-tech gear to help you out, such as an automatic door closer or a garage door monitor.

Keep Things Concealed

The contents of your garage will only be more attractive if they are on display. If your garage has windows, consider hanging sheer curtains or blinds to stop people from peeking in, but that still allow sunlight enter. You should also consider putting some tarpaulins over more expensive items, concealing them from prying eyes when you have your garage door raised.

Style Matters

While all garage doors can offer a good level of security if used properly, there are certain styles that provide that little bit more protection. Roller doors are well suited for automation devices which can enhance security. Sectional garage doors are also a good choice, as their strong design means they lack any decent penetration points for burglars to prise open the door.

 

If you’re searching for the perfect garage door for your property, look no further than Eastern Garage Doors. Providing extensive coverage across the East of England, our specialists provide, install, repair and service a huge range of garage doors in a variety of styles. For more information about any of our services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch today.

Garage Security: Top Tips & Advice

remote control opening garage door

Most manual garage doors are cumbersome to open and close, and sometimes when we’re struggling to lift our garage door, battling the wind and rain, the idea of sitting in our car and simply pressing a button to achieve the same result can seem very appealing. Automated garage doors can offer convenience to homeowners, as well as enhancing security and safety. However, you don’t always have to install a brand new door to accomplish this; many types of garage door can be upgraded by automation, meaning you can minimise hassle by adapting your existing door.

What are the benefits of automating? And how is it achieved?

  • It allows you to make use of your current door without having to install a new one.
  • UK weather is renowned for being fickle, and when the wind, rain and snow are raging outside, leaving the warmth of your car to open the garage can be an unwelcome prospect. Automation allows you to stay seated and comfortable while your garage opens with the click of a button.
  • For elderly people or those with disabilities, opening and shutting heavy garage doors can be a challenge that automation can eliminate.
  • When opening manually, if the movement is not completed correctly, with the door not being opened at the centre, this can throw the door off balance and lead to eventual expensive repairs. However, if the movement is automatic then this ensures that the door opens in a smooth, centered motion that preserves the performance of the door for as long as possible.
  • Automation may also improve security, as forced entry is more difficult to achieve with non-manual garage doors.

What Types Of Garage Door Can Be Automated?

remote control garage door opener

Many types of door can be automated with a couple of exceptions. If your door is too badly damaged or warped, they might not work effectively with an electric motor, and repair or replacement should be considered instead. In addition, if your door possesses an especially odd spring and gear arrangement, then this could hinder automation.

Retractable Up and Over: This type is the easiest to automate, and is also fairly cost effective. A boom is simply installed above the structural opening, and an electrical motor is installed at the other end. Sectional garage doors can also be automated in a similar manner.

Canopy Up and Over: This style of up and over do not adapt as well to an electrical opening system. Instead, these doors may require a bow arm conversion kit, which is fitted against a door and is able to slide, giving the door the ability to fully open and shut.

Side Hinged Garage Doors: Almost all doors of this style can be automated, usually through one of two methods. 1) Swing arm kits, which work by installing two pivotable arms to each side of the door and the boom. 2) Electromechanical system, which consists of a series of mechanical components used to open the doors.

Roller Doors: Most roller doors can be automated, but demand some reconstruction and dismantling of the existing garage to achieve this.

 

Eastern Garage Doors recognise the comfort and convenience of automatic garage doors, and can provide quality upgrades of existing doors in addition to installing brand new electric doors. Our team of professionals serve a wide range of areas, including the East of England and North London, and offer a variety of garage door systems and solutions. Call us today for your free, no obligation survey.

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