Security Benefits of Commercial Garage Doors

Owning commercial property has its benefits. As with any investment, it’s important to secure it in the best way to protect it from external dangers. This includes the prospect of intruders, adverse weather conditions and more. Securing your assets is worth your while. 

A commercial garage door must be strong and durable enough to withstand these potential risks to your property and the contents within. Here’s more on the security benefits of commercial garage doors, the types of doors available, safety tips and why you should leave all your commercial garage door worries to Olympic Garage Door. 

Types of Commercial Garage Doors

Garage doors are available in a variety of materials and insulation, all designed to provide the utmost support and strength. Here are a few types available for commercial use, along with their applications:

• Roll-up sheet doors: These doors are made of steel sheets that roll up and down as required. They are commonly used for small to medium-sized warehouses and self-storage amenities. 
• Service doors: A type of steel door used as an entry door in commercial and industrial settings. It is made of 18-24 gauge galvanized steel and is often reinforced to meet wind and impact requirements. 
• Counter shutters: These are usually seen in cafeterias and concession areas and are preferred for their versatility and sturdy construction. They are easy to operate and not as heavy as complete doors since they are considered windows or shutters and cover a smaller section. 
• Energy saving series: As the name suggests, these polystyrene insulated steel doors are often used for shipping docks and general warehouses where energy efficiency plays a big role in managing operational costs.
• Security grilles: Airports and shopping malls commonly use these steel or aluminum rolling grilles. They offer full transparency while securing the inside of a shop or site. The open grilles are designed to enhance air circulation in spaces requiring ventilation while ensuring limited access. 
• Industrial series: Another popular option for warehouses and shipping docks, the industrial series is made of thick-roll ribbed steel with polystyrene insulation and is highly resistant to rust and other damage. 
• Energy series with Intellicore: Commercial structures like firehouses and warehouses that need effective internal temperature control and energy efficiency will benefit from these high-insulated steel doors.
• Architectural series: This door style is commonly observed at service stations, restaurants and car dealerships where a certain degree of transparency is required. It has a contemporary design compared to other industrial-like applications and is also highly insulated and extremely durable due to its see-through construction. 

Security Benefits of Commercial Garage Doors

When it comes to keeping your residential or commercial property secure, you are likely to implement all the necessary measures to ensure it is fully protected. Numerous ways to improve your business’s physical security will benefit your business:

• Enhanced security: The main and most important benefit is the improved level of security that a garage door offers. Together with an efficient alarm system, security cameras and security guards, you should have peace of mind knowing that your investment is well protected. Modern technology lets you remotely access and control your garage door using your mobile device, adding an extra layer of security and convenience. 
• Asset protection: Most commercial garage doors come standard with a variation of insulation R-values, which helps regulate the temperature within the building. This is beneficial if you own a warehouse that stores perishable and non-perishable goods or other temperature-sensitive products. Garage doors offer further protection by preventing air from escaping through seals, keeping it trapped inside. Having this garage door feature available adds value by keeping your goods protected.
• Weather resistance: Garage doors are made to withstand high winds and other elements that pose a threat to your valuables inside. Some designs have a wind load resistance that ensures they can endure hurricane winds while sustaining minimal damage. Their durable materials like steel, metal and aluminum protect your business from wind and any external impact like vehicles or equipment that might knock it accidentally. It also resists fire and rust, which ensures their longevity. 
• Increased safety: Modern garage doors are equipped with openers and sensors that will help keep employees safer during operation. Features like auto-reverse ensure the door won’t close on anyone. Motion sensors detect movement that will alert you of any unusual activity inside, especially after business hours. You will rest assured knowing that your business is safe with the added protection the garage doors offer. 
• Added space: Roll-up construction saves you space that would otherwise be wasted with swing doors. They are generally also high enough for forklifts and other machinery to move through easily, another benefit these garage doors offer overall. 

Safety Tips for Commercial Garage Doors

Safety and security are things you should never compromise on. Here are a few tips that will help promote your commercial garage door’s safety functionality. 

Limit Visibility

Outsiders rarely covet what they can’t see. Unless you need a specific door style like security grilles for air circulation, you may benefit more from solid steel doors to avoid prying eyes. It’s a good idea to secure valuable content behind sturdy garage doors. However, this principle may not always apply practically, especially if you own a car dealership or restaurant that has a degree of transparency. Fortunately, architectural doors are designed with this aspect in mind, and extra security measures are usually in place to offer maximum protection against the possibility of intruders.

Integrate Security Systems 

Ideally, you would have a smart security system to keep your business safe. Incorporating your garage door opener with this system will optimize and enhance your security. Install security cameras above your garage door to give you a full view of your premises. Motion sensors will detect activity, while floodlights above your garage door to alert you of movement. Ensure you are aware of everyone who has access to your commercial property at all times and revoke access where necessary to maintain control. 

Inspect and Maintain Your Garage Door

Your garage door endures immense wear and tear, especially if it’s older or used often. Since it serves you and your business, you should keep it in optimal condition to continue performing its function efficiently. Inspect all moving parts regularly and replace any that are worn or damaged. If your garage door has sustained severe wind or storm damage and panels need to be replaced, contact a reputable garage door supplier to assist. 

Let Olympic Garage Door Take Care of Your Garage Door Needs

No matter what type of commercial property you own, Olympic Garage Door has a suitable garage door for you. We use high-quality brands like Clopay and Liftmaster and have a staffed showroom that features samples of our select doors from our top-end ranges. No warehouse, shipping dock or industrial unit is too big for us to fit our doors. 

We are ready to get started on your commercial garage door installation or repair. Visit our showroom or request a service online, and we’ll call you back to discuss your requirements. 

Minimizing Garage Pests

As a homeowner, you know how important it is to keep your property safe and clean, and the garage is no exception. Unfortunately, garages are often a hotbed for pests, including rodents, insects and other critters that can damage your belongings and even pose health risks to you and your family.

These pests be a nuisance to deal with and cause significant damage to your garage and its contents. From chewing through electrical wiring to contaminating food, the problems caused by garage pests can quickly add up.

That’s why it’s important to take steps to minimize the presence of pests in your garage. Following simple tips and tricks on removing pests from your home can create a cleaner, safer environment for your family and protect your property from damage.

What Attracts Pests to a Garage?

By understanding what attracts pests to your garage, you can take steps to prevent infestations and keep your garage pest-free.

• Food: One of the main things that attract pests to garages is the presence of food. Rodents are especially attracted to food sources and will seek out any available food in your garage. Store food, such as pet food or bulk food items, in sealed containers to prevent rodent infestations and promptly clean up any spills or crumbs.
• Clutter: Pests love clutter, as it provides hiding places and nesting sites. Clutter also makes it difficult to spot signs of a pest infestation. To prevent pests from being attracted to your garage, keep it clean and organized and eliminate clutter.
• Moisture: Moisture is another factor that can attract pests to garages. Leaks, standing water and high humidity levels can create a breeding ground for insects and other pests. To prevent moisture-related pest problems, repair any leaks promptly and ensure your garage is well-ventilated.
• Cracks and gaps: Pests can enter your garage through even the smallest cracks and gaps in the walls or foundation. Seal up any openings, including gaps around windows and doors, to keep pests out.

Common Garage Pests

Garages are great places to store belongings, park your car and even work on projects. Unfortunately, garages are also a haven for pests. Here are some of the common ones you might spot in your garage:

1. Rodents

Mice, rats and other rodents are some of the most common pests found in garages. They can cause damage to stored items, chew through wiring and insulation and even pose a fire hazard. To prevent rodent infestations, seal any cracks or openings in your garage walls or foundation, store food in sealed containers and remove any clutter that could serve as a hiding place.

2. Insects

Cockroaches, spiders and other insects are also common garage pests. They can contaminate food, cause allergies, and in some cases, even cause damage to the structure of your garage.

Tips on cleaning bugs out of the garage include keeping your garage clean and dry, eliminating any standing water and sealing any cracks or openings where insects could enter.

3. Termites

Termites are a particular concern for homeowners with wooden garages. These pests can cause significant structural damage, compromising the integrity of your garage. To prevent termite infestations, ensure your garage is properly ventilated, repair any leaks and store firewood away from the garage.

4. Bats

While bats may seem relatively harmless, they can cause damage to your garage and pose a health risk to you and your family. They can leave droppings, which can carry disease, and their urine can damage garage surfaces. To prevent bat infestations, seal any openings in your garage, such as cracks or gaps in the roof or walls.

How to Tell if You Have Garage Pests

Explore some of the telltale signs of an infestation in your garage:

1. Droppings: One of the most obvious signs of a pest infestation in your garage is the presence of droppings. Rodent droppings are typically small and pellet-shaped, while bat droppings may look like small black beads. Insect droppings may also be present but may be harder to identify.
2. Gnaw marks: Another sign of a pest infestation is gnaw marks on your garage’s stored items or structural elements. Rodents are known for chewing through wires, insulation and other materials. At the same time, termites can cause significant structural damage to wooden garages.
3. Strange noises: If you hear strange noises coming from your garage, such as scratching, scurrying or chirping, you may have a pest infestation. Rodents and bats are often active at night, while insects buzz or click.
4. Nests: If you find nests or burrows in your garage, this is a clear sign of a pest infestation. Rodents may build nests from paper or fabric scraps, while birds and bats may create nests from twigs and other materials.
5. Unpleasant odors: Pests can leave behind unpleasant odors. If you notice any unusual smells coming from your garage, it’s worth investigating further.

Tips to Minimize Garage Pests

Here are some tips on keeping bugs out of the garage to help you maintain a clean and safe space:

1. Proper Food Storage

One of the main reasons pests are attracted to garages is the presence of food. Store food properly to minimize attracting unwanted guests. Ensure any food you store in your garage is stored in sealed containers. This will prevent pests like rodents and insects from accessing the food.

2. Keep the Garage Clean and Organized

Pests love clutter, as it provides hiding places and nesting sites. Keep your garage clean and well-organized, and get rid of any unnecessary items. Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris and crumbs that can attract pests. Disposing of trash and recycling properly is also important, as these items can attract pests.

3. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Pests can enter your garage through even the smallest cracks and gaps in the walls or foundation. Weather stripping and maintaining the garage will prevent pests from being able to enter the garage through these openings.

4. Reduce Moisture

Moisture can attract pests, creating a breeding ground for insects and other pests. Repair any leaks promptly and ensure your garage is well-ventilated. Use a dehumidifier if necessary to reduce humidity levels. This will help make your garage less attractive to pests.

6. Use Pest Control Products

There are a variety of pest control products available for keeping pests and bugs out of your garage. These include traps, baits and sprays. Use these products as directed and keep them out of reach of children and pets. If you need help deciding which products to use, consider consulting with a pest control professional.

7. Keep the Garage Door Closed

One of the easiest ways to prevent pests from entering your garage is to close the garage door as much as possible. This can also help to keep out other pests, such as wild animals and insects. Ensure your garage door is in good working condition, and consider installing a garage door threshold to prevent critters from snaking under the door.

Olympic Garage Door Can Help

By implementing the tips we’ve discussed, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a pest infestation in your garage. Additionally, it’s important to ensure your garage door is serviced by a professional and properly sealed.

A malfunctioning garage door or damaged weather stripping can invite pests to enter your garage. The professionals at Olympic Garage Door can service your garage door and fix any weather stripping issues to prevent pests from sneaking in.

Schedule garage door service with our team today!

Benefits of Having a Roll-Up Garage Door

Garage doors protect your home or commercial building from break-ins, harsh weather and energy loss, all while opening and closing every day to give you garage access. Investing in a durable, well-made garage door allows your business to run smoothly and efficiently.

If you have a commercial business or want an extra-secure home garage, check out some of the benefits and features of roll-up doors below.

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Renovations to Increase Home Value

Renovating your home is one of the best ways to increase your property value. There are many different changes you can make to your home, such as finding ways to increase curb appeal, functionality, and more. From completely updating your kitchen, adding a deck, or replacing your garage door, the possibilities can range from simple to complex. However, some renovations are bound to increase the value of your home more than others. Use this guide to learn more about the best home renovations that add value and how they can be beneficial investments in your home. 

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Do I Need an Insulated Garage Door in Port Angeles?

If you live in or around Port Angeles — an area with a relatively temperate climate — you may be under the impression that an insulated garage door just isn’t necessary for your home. You may believe the only benefit of an insulated garage door is to help protect against extremely hot or cold weather outside, neither of which Port Angeles really has. However, the insulation inside a garage door actually provides many other benefits for homeowners, regardless of where they live.

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