Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Garage Doors

Investing in a new garage door is an excellent way to upgrade your home’s look and comfort. However, figuring out what to do with old garage doors can be challenging once you don’t need them anymore. Repurposing your garage door is a simple way to reduce waste and add an interesting piece to your home. You’ll get to exercise your creative skills and save money on decorating.

Check out these garage door recycling tips to transform your old pieces into something new and stylish.

1. Make a Unique Headboard

Turning your garage door into a headboard is a fantastic way to reuse old materials in new ways. A garage door has a distinctive look, turning your headboard into a focal piece and elevating your bedroom’s style. You can cut the garage door to your bed size, turning it into a true statement piece. If you want to change up the garage door, you can even sand and paint it to match your room better. Additionally, keep the decorative hardware to make your headboard even more unique or add it to drawers and dressers to tie the room together.

2. Build Raised Flowerbeds

Replace your old garage door with a new one and use the old one for flowerbeds. Making your garage door into a flowerbed lets you invest in sustainable solutions, save money and practice your green thumb. Cutting the garage door into panels gives you durable containers for your vegetables, flowers or herbs. Once your old garage door needs replacing, a flowerbed allows you to give it new life.

Raised flowerbeds made from garage doors are tall — perfect for keeping out unwanted critters and making gardening easy on your back. Use paint and stains to customize your panels even further, brightening up your garden and keeping you under budget.

3. Create One-of-a-Kind Artwork

Garage doors also make one-of-a-kind artwork. Use them as canvases for DIY artwork — paint, mixed media and graffiti art all look great on garage doors. If your doors are wood, you can strip and stain them, turning your garage doors into stunning wood pieces on your wall. The large surface area of garage doors makes them perfect for art. You can use their texture, size and hardware to give your home some statement art pieces you’ll love for years.

4. Design a Custom Dining Table

You can even repurpose old garage doors into a custom dining table. Upcycle your garage door into a table to create something functional, unique and stylish, adding a personal touch to your décor. Garage doors are highly durable, making them excellent for a frequently-used dining table. Use custom legs or a base to support your table, along with epoxy resin and glass inserts to bring your garage door table to life. Combining your garage door’s unique texture with its strength gives your dining room the perfect focal point.

5. Build a Special Bookcase

Repurpose your garage door into functional pieces that look good and last years, such as a bookcase. Use your garage door panels to create shelves, turning them into a tiered bookcase with lots of storage space. Use your garage door panels’ different widths and heights to create visually interesting shelves that add charm while displaying all your books and knickknacks.

You can use the natural wear and tear of your garage door panels to add rustic charm or customize the design further. Use staining and painting to give your garage door panels a makeover before turning them into shelves. You’ll make them look brand new and create pieces that perfectly complement your home’s design.

6. Make a Jacket Holder or Key Holder

Turning your garage door into a jacket or key holder lets you get practical use out of an old door. Homes could always use more storage, and your garage door can become helpful and stylish storage. Cut your garage door into smaller, more maneuverable sections. Then, you can add hooks, pegs and even a mirror to the garage door piece to create a functional coat or key holder. Your strong garage door will easily hold up to the weight of storing your belongings while acting as a conversation piece for everyone who stops by.

7. Install a Modern Window or Door

Your garage door can also make a great window or door for your home. If you have glass garage doors, you can turn them into windows and doors that let in lots of natural light. These large glass panels help make your home feel open and modern, elevating its style. Their large size gives you good sun and creates large focal points inside your home. Imagine relaxing in the living room with large glass windows or sliding doors behind you, lighting up your space. You’ll make an old material new while infusing your home with sleek, modern styles.

8. Update Your Patio With a Custom Bench

Garage doors can even become stylish custom benches. Repurpose an old garage door by using the panels as seats and backrests, giving you strong, weather-resistant seating on your porch, patio or garden. Keeping your garage door’s natural texture and unique look makes your bench feel charming and stylish. You can even add built-in storage or planters to the bench to create a multi-function piece that you’ll enjoy for years. Paint the door sections to match your home or yard design, incorporating it into your property’s aesthetics.

9. Use Garage Doors to Create Sliding Barn Doors

Finally, garage doors make for trendy sliding barn doors. Sliding barn doors are a popular design method for creating a divider in a space without taking away from its look. You can separate rooms and conceal storage while easily opening and shutting the barn doors by sliding them along a track. Your garage doors are the perfect size and shape for repurposed barn doors — they’ll easily slide in and out of place while making a statement in any room. Use decorative hardware to personalize the doors and make them complement your home even more.

Transform Your Home With Stylish Garage Doors From Cornwell Door Service

If you want to upgrade your old garage door, Cornwell Door Service has the exceptional service and garage doors you need. We’re a family-owned business with over 50 years of industry experience, so you can trust us to consistently deliver unmatched service. From garage door installation to repairs and maintenance, our comprehensive services will help you get the garage door you need. Experience industry-leading customer service and quality when you contact us online today!

The Best Garage Storage Ideas

Since it serves nearly limitless purposes, your garage is often one of the most critical parts of your home. While the primary function of your garage is to provide a secure place to park your family’s vehicles, it also plays a vital role in storing other items, from tools and lawn care equipment to bicycles and kayaks. You may even keep seasonal items, like holiday decorations or clothes for cold weather, in your garage. Learning how to maximize your space using practical storage solutions can go a long way in making your garage more roomy, safe and efficient.

Garage Organization Tips

Since items can quickly accumulate in your garage, you must commit to keeping your space clean and clear to optimize functionality. Making the most of your garage space begins with a few essential steps. Setting aside enough time to perform each action thoroughly is crucial to a successful project.:

Sorting

Although the sorting phase can be one of the most time-consuming, it’s also the most vital. The first step is determining which items you want to keep and which things you want to throw away, recycle, donate or even sell to help cover the costs of your project. Once you have chosen the items you want to keep, you should group them into similar categories for the best space management.

Cleaning

After you’ve completed the sorting process and removed all the unwanted items, it’s the perfect time for a thorough cleaning. Full access to your floors and walls means an excellent opportunity to work on areas you haven’t given much attention to previously. Cleaning these areas is especially important if you plan to implement hanging or wall-mounted storage. 

Planning

After you’ve sorted your items and performed a thorough cleaning, it’s time to begin planning and organizing. Before anything else, you should determine how much space you need for your vehicles, including enough clearance to drive them in and out of your garage safely. You can begin the design phase at that point, creating specific zones for each category and choosing the storage solutions you want to install.

Basic DIY Garage Storage

The benefits of utilizing do-it-yourself solutions are limitless, from saving money to stretching your imagination to experiencing a sense of accomplishment. More importantly, you can choose easy-to-install solutions based on material availability and your existing tools. Many DIY projects offer huge rewards with minimal time investments.

Several examples include:

• Bins: Plastic storage bins are the perfect solution for separating items and ensuring your space remains decluttered. After you divide the items into categories, you can use labels and color-coded bins for easy identification. Most plastic bins are stackable to maximize your vertical storage space.
• Utility hooks: Garage hooks are an easy and affordable way to store everything from beach chairs and sports equipment to shovels and brooms. The most significant benefit of hooks is that they require little horizontal space, saving you plenty of room for your car and other bulky items.
• Shelves: Along with hooks, wall shelves make your area safer by eliminating the tripping hazards associated with floor storage. Shelves are among the most affordable and practical solutions for items unsuited for hooks and storage bins, like paint cans, jars and smaller hand tools. In addition, many homeowners can save extra money by building shelves by hand.

Tips for Installing Overhead and Hanging Storage Solutions in Your Garage

Overhead and hanging solutions are perfect for making your garage area more efficient and functional, similar to how wall hooks and shelving maximize vertical storage space. Strategically placed overhead and hanging racks allow you to easily organize your tools and equipment while having them within reach whenever needed. 

Storing your seldom-used or seasonal equipment overhead frees up valuable floor space for your vehicles and the items you utilize more frequently. Overhead storage also offers increased visibility over bins and many shelf designs, allowing you to identify your items for fast access. These solutions also improve safety for you and your family by minimizing the risks of tripping over objects or items falling off shelves.

Choosing a racking system kit from a reliable manufacturer is always beneficial for ensuring smooth installation and increased safety. Take advantage of some other tips for installation.

Enlist Help

If you’re unfamiliar with the tools required for installation or unaccustomed to working at heights, asking for help can be highly beneficial, especially for efficiency and safety. You can save money if you enlist help from a seasoned do-it-yourselfer, especially if they’re a friend or family member.

Check Your Equipment and Tool Inventory

Besides ensuring you have all the recommended tools to assemble and install your overhead racks, it’s critical to ensure you have the necessary protective gear. Examples include safety goggles, gloves and the appropriate footwear to help prevent slips from ladders or stepstools.

Follow the Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Although storing as much as possible on your racks is often tempting, overloading them can lead to safety risks and potential damage to your items. Following the weight and size guidelines from the manufacturer is the best practice for maximizing safety.

Bike, Kayak and Utility Vehicle Storage in Garages

If your family enjoys riding bicycles, kayaks and other recreational vehicles, setting enough room aside in your garage to accommodate these items is crucial. From wall racks to overhead storage systems, endless options are available to store your recreational equipment efficiently and securely. Garage bike storage ideas range from simple concepts like hooks to more complex designs like pulley systems.

Storing these items off the ground prevents damage when you’re not using them. Keeping bicycles and kayaks away from prolonged sunlight also helps ensure a long life span.

When choosing the perfect indoor bike rack, there are several essential factors to consider, including:

• The number of bikes you need to store
• The amount of space you have available for storage
• The size and designs of your bicycle

Consulting with a professional at your local bike shop is always the best way to ensure you invest in a rack that meets your needs.

Discover More With Cornwell Door Service

At Cornwell Door, we understand how important your garage is to the functionality and appearance of your home. Since 1972, we have solidified our reputation as one of Central Pennsylvania’s leading garage door service providers by emphasizing reliability, quality, affordability and an unwavering dedication to each customer. Contact us online to learn more about our products and services.

5 Garage Remodel Ideas 

If your garage doesn’t meet your standards, it might be time for an upgrade. A renovation project is a great way to transform your space into what you’ve always envisioned it could be. The average cost of a garage remodel varies from project to project, depending on how you refresh the area. Check out the following ideas to gain some inspiration for what’s possible for your garage.

Enhance Your Flooring

If you’re considering a garage remodel, your floor is always a great place to start. Many garages are fitted with dull concrete, which can crack and collect oil and grease stains over time. Painting over your existing floor is easy and cost-effective, but any damage will show through quite noticeably. Epoxy floor coating and modular floor tiles are some of the most popular solutions homeowners utilize, providing a stylish appearance and extra protection for your garage floor. You’ll often find suitable options in an assortment of colors, textures and patterns that allow you to bring your vision to life. 

Increase Storage Space

Adding storage to your garage is one of the best ways to enhance its look and feel. Whether you want to install cabinets, shelves or an overhead rack, these storage solutions can help you clear up floor space and create an attractive place to park your cars. You can find easy-to-use solutions from your local hardware or department store. 

Consider adding a loft to your garage if you’re looking for a more extensive strategy. You’ll double your storage space and add an extra floor to your garage. You can use this newfound area for various needs, including additional bedrooms, an office or a family room. 

Add Windows

Many garages are dark, poorly lit areas making it extremely difficult to see where you’re stepping in some situations. Instead of hoping you don’t trip over the bike that was left out, you can install a set of windows to revamp your space. This garage renovation will provide ample light during the day, illuminating your area to help you easily work on your car or access storage. 

Make It Multifunctional

Garages can be much more than just a place to park your car. With the right designs and materials, you can transform your garage into anything you can dream of. For many, their garage doubles as a workshop, office or an additional entertainment area. You could even create a home gym to get your workouts away from the hustle and bustle of your family’s daily routine. These garage remodel ideas will likely require extensive work to reroute water and electricity lines, which should be handled by a professional. 

Insulate Your Garage Door 

There’s nothing more uncomfortable than stepping out of your home on a brisk morning to be met with a rush of icy air. A surefire way to get more out of your garage is to regulate the temperature throughout the year. Whether you have an attached or detached garage, you can add fiberglass insulation to the walls and ceiling to keep your space warm in the winter and cool in the summer. 

While adding insulation, many people forget about their garage door, which can often be a source of air leaks. An insulated garage door will tighten any cracks or spaces and ensure your home remains energy-efficient to give your HVAC system a break and save you money on your utility bills.

Take Your Garage Renovation to the Next Level With Cornwell Door Service

If you live in the Central Pennsylvania region and you are looking to revamp your garage’s style with a new overhead door, Cornwell Door Service is ready to help. Our experienced team is proud to offer our residential garage door expertise to local homeowners. Contact us online today or call us at 717-273-9841 to learn how we can help you! 

How to Turn Your Garage Into a Gym

Regardless of your schedule or the weather outside, an at-home garage will give you uninterrupted access to equipment to help you achieve your health goals. If you’re not sure where to start, check out the following tips and tricks.

1. Get Your Game Plan Ready

Before doing anything, you need to know how much ground and overhead space is available in your garage. Determine what you need to renovate yourself and what will need to be done by a professional, such as raising the height of your garage door opener. It’s also wise to install proper locking mechanisms to safeguard your home and equipment.

During this step, you should clear out and organize the items already packed in your garage. Doing this will help you make space for your future gym equipment. A wise strategy is to take everything out and sort through it to determine what you should keep and what you want to give away.

2. Install Garage Insulation

Insulating your garage allows you to maintain a stable internal temperature and protect your gear. You can add fiberglass insulation to your walls and foam board to your overhead door. Ensure you wear gloves, a mask and long sleeves for protection when using fiberglass insulation. Another effective way to insulate your space is to install a new, insulated door from a qualified partner.

Working out in an insulated environment will make a world of difference in your workouts. Design a comfortable space to create a pleasant atmosphere and help you do every activity you have planned, no matter the time of year. Insulation also offers noise-canceling benefits to help you focus on your workouts and prevent neighbors from hearing your weights or pump-up music.

You can try installing garage insulation yourself or request a service from your local garage door technician!

3. Heat and Cool Your Garage

Ductless heating and cooling systems are great additions that can regulate the temperature in your new workout area. Space heaters and portable radiators are also viable options to heat your garage gym, while fans can help circulate the air. 

Consider installing vents to enhance airflow and improve temperatures throughout the year. You can also use a high-quality garage door remote to easily open your door during warmer months for fresh air.

4. Install Durable Flooring

Most garages have concrete floors, which aren’t ideal for joints or muscles. So, you’ll likely want to add shock-absorbent flooring to decrease the impact and load your body experiences. Some common choices at your disposal include: 

• Carpet tiles 
• Foam
• Rubber 
• Epoxy coating 

Some options come in large puzzle-piece configurations that you can easily install to protect your body. What’s great about these products is that you can park your car on them if you’re using your garage as a multi-use space.

5. Choose Equipment and Equipment Storage

With everything else set up, you can finally start filling your home gym with your workout equipment. The key is understanding your goals and choosing the right equipment to achieve them. If you want to lose weight, purchase cardio equipment like a treadmill or StairMaster. Or, you can use dumbbells, kettlebells or pull-up bars to gain strength. 

Whether you purchase your equipment all at once or over time, you’ll need adequate storage. Consider utilizing hooks, racks, shelving, bins and boxes to neatly store your gear while maintaining enough space to carry out your workouts.

Bring Your Home Gym Vision to Life With Cornwell Door Service

Whether you need help insulating your garage door or are looking for ways to keep your garage gym cool, Cornwell Door can assist you. We offer residential garage door services in Central Pennsylvania to help you bring your garage gym ideas to life while enhancing the visual appeal of your home’s exterior. 

You can contact us online or call us at 717-273-9841 to learn more today!

How to Decorate Your Garage Door for Christmas

 Treat your garage door like a blank canvas this holiday season and have some fun with Christmas decorations. Garage door Christmas decor ranges from simple options you can do with children to more high-tech, complex options. Whatever your holiday preferences or skill level, there’s a way to bring the holiday spirit to your home’s exterior.

5 Ideas for Decorating Your Garage Door for Christmas

Want to be the merriest house on the block, but not sure where to start? Give one of these Christmas decorations for garage doors a try.

1. Use Magnets

Decorative holiday magnets are a low-commitment way to spruce up your garage door for Christmas. You can find them in many designs, from letters spelling out “Merry Christmas” to a giant snowman’s face or Santa on his sleigh. 

Before going forward with the entire design, place one magnet on the door to ensure it sticks and that you can open and close the door while it’s in place. When hanging the magnets, be sure not to put them over the door’s seams, as you don’t want them to bend or crack when you open the door.

2. Hang Lights

If your neighborhood goes all out when it comes to holiday lights, join in the fun and hang a few strands around the opening of your garage door. Hang the lights around the door frame rather than crisscrossing the door so you don’t limit the use of your garage during the holiday season.

To hang Christmas lights on your garage door, you can use hooks, clips or nails to hang the lights on the frame. These will help keep your lights in place all season long. Make sure to measure the perimeter of your garage door before hanging the lights so you know that you have enough lights to fit your garage door frame!

3. Project Something Festive

If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add holiday flair to your garage door this Christmas, set up a projector to show festive images onto the door front. You can choose a static image, such as a holiday wreath or a nativity scene. Another option is a moving image that plays on a loop, such as Santa flying through the sky.

When choosing a projector, make sure you buy one that’s made for the outdoors. It should be able to handle some rain or snow, wind, and cold exposure.

4. Use Wrapping Paper

Do you have a lot of holiday wrapping paper left over from last year? Put it to good use by wrapping up your garage door like a present. Wrapping your garage door is a budget-friendly way to add some holiday cheer. Plus, there are an endless variety of wrapping paper designs to choose from – so you can make your garage door look unique every year!

For the environmentally conscious, there are also plenty of eco-friendly wrapping papers to find online. You can find recycled and biodegradable options that are both festive and sustainable. Keep in mind that you will likely need quite a lot of wrapping paper, so don’t forget to measure the door and check how much wrapping paper you get per roll.

Once you’ve wrapped up the door, keep some of the paper in reserve, as you may need to patch it up or replace sections throughout the season. 

5. Hang a Garland

Draping your garage door with an evergreen garland is another way to add some Christmas spirit to your curb appeal. It looks elegant and sophisticated and will complement carriage house garage doors and other traditional styles. You can find plenty of garlands intended for outdoor use online and in many home improvement or Christmas stores.

Similar to hanging lights around your garage door, you can hang a garland by using hooks, clips or nails to keep your garland in place. Make sure to measure the perimeter of the garage door frame to ensure you have the length of garland that fits your door best. 

6. Hang a Wreath

For those who love a traditional Christmas style, wreaths are the most classic Christmas decoration and complement wood garage doors beautifully. If you are planning to hang the wreath directly on the garage door, make sure that there is enough room for the wreath when the garage door opens and closes. If you do not have enough space for the garage door to close, you can also hang the wreath just above the garage door on the exterior wall.

To hang a wreath on your garage door, you can use large adhesive hooks directly on the garage door to keep your wreath in place. For hanging your wreath above the garage door, you can also use adhesive hooks or opt to use nails instead.

7. Hang a Bow

For those looking for something that is low-effort but still shows Christmas cheer, we recommend wrapping a bow on your door. You can find bow stickers or you can find a bow with long tails to wrap around the door. To make sure your bow is fully secure, make sure to wrap the bow in a way that the tails wrap around all sides of the garage door, including the top and bottom.

8. Mix & Match Decorations

For those who just can’t get enough of Christmas, feel free to mix and match the decoration ideas above! Many people wrap garlands and lights around the garage door frame and top those off with a wreath above the door. It creates a beautiful and magical holiday look for your home.

Cornwell Door Service Wishes You a Merry Christmas

We hope you have a lot of fun decorating your garage door for Christmas! We look forward to you sharing your holiday cheer with your garage doors this season. At Cornwell Door, we like to share magic all year round with our garage door services. We offer garage door maintenance and repair throughout the year so you can keep your garage door in working order. You can contact us today to learn more or call us at 717-273-9841!

Common Garage Door Repairs & When To Call In Professionals

Garage doors have a lot of complex moving parts that need care over time. If you keep your car in the garage, you properly open and close the door at least once a day to go to work, take your kids to school or run errands. Every once in a while, you’ll need to prioritize routine maintenance and repair to prolong your garage door’s life span.

You may be able to fix some garage door problems yourself, but it’s always best to call in professionals because these kinds of repairs are considered dangerous. Follow these tips to know when to do it yourself and when to get some garage door help.

Common Garage Door Problems You Can Repair Yourself

While it’s best to rely on a professional technician, you can handle a few common garage door repairs on your own. These do-it-yourself garage door repairs are relatively straightforward:

How Do I Operate My Garage Door When the Power is Off?

If you have a power outage in your local area, you may lose power to your garage door. Fortunately, you can operate your garage door manually. 

Make sure the door is closed before disengaging the opener system. Then, pull on the emergency release cord. This cord is usually a red rope that hangs from the garage door’s trolley. Tug the cord to move the door along its tracks until the power returns. If the release cord doesn’t work, contacting a garage door technician is best to troubleshoot and fix the problem. 

Why Does My Garage Door Go Up by Itself?

Your garage door might go up by itself for several reasons, such as a malfunctioning garage door opener. Consult the manual to determine how to change your garage door opener’s frequency and repair as necessary. If the auto-reversal mechanism is activated, clean the photo-eye sensors and clear obstructions from the pathway. Adjust the limit settings if the garage door doesn’t close properly. If you discover that it may be an electrical issue, it’s best to consult a professional.

How to Fix the Disconnect Switch

If the wall switch to your garage door is not working, you can troubleshoot the problem independently. The problem is most likely related to the wiring or the switch itself. Test the wiring by detaching the wires from the switch and carefully touching them together.

The switch is the issue if the opener responds when the wire touches. Otherwise, you’ll need to replace the wires. You may want to contact an expert technician if you’d rather not handle electricity.

What if the Sensor to My Garage Door Is Open?

If your garage door starts to close and stops before reversing, the sensor may keep your garage door open for several reasons. Try using the cardboard test to find out if something is wrong with the photo-eye sensors. Choose cardboard boxes higher than the photo-eye sensors and try to close the garage door automatically. 

If the photo-eye sensors malfunction, the garage door won’t stop and will destroy the boxes. In that case, switch to manual operation and keep the door shut to keep you and your loved ones safe. Consult a professional to replace your photo-eye sensors and inspect your garage door further.

My Garage Door Only Closes With the Remote

If the safety sensors are misaligned or malfunctioning, you may need to press and hold the wall control button to close the garage door. Holding down the button overrides the safety feature of the garage door opener. To fix this issue, clean the sensor lens and check for debris such as dust and cobwebs. Clear any obstructions from the garage door’s pathway and ensure the sensor path is straight. If one sensor becomes loose, the sensor line will break, and the opener system won’t work.

You should also ensure the sensors’ lights are either green or red. Adjust the sensors until both lights come on, and secure the sensors in place by tightly fastening the bracket screw.

How Do I Maintain My Garage Door?

Even though it’s usually best to choose professional preventative maintenance for your garage door, you can also take care of the system yourself. Inspect the entire system and make notes of any damages. Clean all the working parts to remove debris and residue buildup. When the garage door system is dirt-free, lubricate all moving parts with white lithium grease.

You can also regularly test your garage door system by disconnecting the opener and manually operating the door. This way, you can determine irregular behavior and know whether you need to contact a technician. 

My Garage Door Is off Track

A garage door can slip off track due to dirt or damage to the system. To fix this issue, disconnect the garage door from the power supply and use vice grips to realign the rollers. Open the track with pliers and guide the roller into place, then close the track with a rubber mallet when the roller is secure. After making this adjustment, test the garage door to ensure it’s back on track.

I Can’t Get My Garage Door Open

Your garage door might not open for several reasons. It could be something as simple as dead batteries in your garage door opener. You can start by taking care of the easy troubleshooting ideas, such as replacing your garage door batteries, ensuring the opener is connected to a power source and unlocking your garage door. If you still can’t get the garage door open, you may need to consult a professional to check out the electrical wiring or other complex parts.

How Do I Fix Garage Door Noises?

Most of the time, a squeaky noise or unusual sound may indicate that there’s a screw loose or metal parts that need lubrication. As you operate your garage door, listen for the parts and make adjustments as necessary. Humming or banging noises could indicate a serious issue with the door, so you’d need to consult a professional.

The Dangers of DIY Garage Door Repairs

You should never attempt advanced repairs to a garage door system with a DIY approach for several reasons. Garage doors are extremely heavy — most weigh between 100 and 300 pounds. If the door should slip or come crashing down while you are performing extensive repairs, injuries can be severe, if not fatal. That’s not to mention the extensive property damage associated with falling garage doors. 

Advanced garage door repairs often require more than one technician and various essential specialized tools and equipment. Even if you have some of the necessary tools, you may not have the expertise to repair major garage door system problems on your own safely.

When to Call a Garage Door Technician

While you can troubleshoot and mend minor garage door issues, it’s essential to reach out to an experienced technician if the following repair needs arise:

• Broken springs: Since springs are under constant pressure and could snap, it’s best to let a professional handle spring replacement. Safely replacing the springs requires specific tools and skills. If you’ve discovered you need new springs, avoid using your garage door, as the springs could give in at any moment.
• Broken or cracked door panels: Since garage door panels can be heavy, you’ll need at least two people to help you replace them. Expert garage door technicians have the skills and equipment to replace broken garage doors safely.
• Sagging garage door: Regularly test your garage door system by operating it manually. Use the release cord to pull the door along its tracks. Let the door stop halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. But if the door drops, you’ll need to reach out to a technician. 
• Broken photo-eye sensor: If you have cleaned the dust and debris out of the photo-eye sensors and they’re still not working, you’ll need to consult a professional to inspect and repair them.
• Broken garage door bracket: The garage door’s top bracket looks like a hockey stick, and it connects to the cables. Contact a professional to replace your bent or worn brackets so the door operates properly.
• Garage door is not level: If you test your garage door and it’s not level, identify the problem after you’ve disconnected the door from the power source. In that case, you will want to consult a professional because you may not want to deal with the garage door’s weight. A garage door technician can diagnose the issue and fix the electrical wiring as needed.

Contact Cornwell Door Service for Garage Door Dent Repair Near You

No matter what garage door maintenance and repair you need, we’re here to help. We specialize in services in the Camp Hill, Lebanon and Harrisburg areas. Contact us online or call (800) 820-9841 to schedule garage door repair or maintenance.

Carport vs. Garage

If you’re a homeowner with one or more cars, you may be wondering which would better serve you — a carport or a garage? The answer depends on a number of factors, including your lifestyle, budget and location. 

Your home and vehicle are both valuable assets, so you’ll want to carefully consider the pros and cons of garages and carports. Both of these vehicle storage options have unique advantages, so think about your needs and preferences to make the right choice. 

The Difference Between a Carport and Garage

A carport is an outdoor structure that houses your vehicle, mainly providing overhead protection from the elements. Carports are typically smaller, more economical and quicker to build than garages, which are completely enclosed and offer more storage space and overall security.

The primary difference between a carport and a garage is their structure. Carports are made with a simple structure and a roof or overhead cover, while garages are enclosed with solid walls, a roof, and at least one door. Since carports are not enclosed with walls and doors, a carport is not considered a garage. While carports are not garages, they still provide value by allowing you to protect your assets from the elements. Both carports and garages have their own benefits to consider if you are deciding between a carport and a garage for your own home!

Benefits of a Garage

Compared to carports, garages are typically larger, more secure and easier on the eyes, as you can match the design of your garage to the design of your home. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages of housing your vehicle in a garage space: 

1. More Protection

Most cars spend 95% of their lives parked, so a secure parking space is a must. Unlike carports, a fully enclosed, locked garage provides better protection from theft. It also does a better job of shielding your car against the elements. Though you may think an overhead cover is enough protection against rain, snow and hail, vehicles are also susceptible to damage from pollen, dust, sunlight and extreme temperatures. A garage is the better option if protecting your vehicle is your top concern. 

2. More Convenience

The distance between your driveway and your front door may seem trivial — but when you’re lugging in groceries or need to load up your car for a road trip, it can feel like a mile. You can make life more convenient by having an attached garage with an interior access door into your home. Compared to carports, garages eliminate the trip between your car and front door where you could slip in inclement weather or fall victim to criminals. 

3. More Space

Unlike carports, which are not closed off to potential thieves, garages offer extra storage space for items you don’t want or need inside your home. Many people use garages to store items like lawnmowers, power tools, maintenance equipment and emergency supplies. You can also use a garage for extra living or working spaces, such as a home gym or a woodshop. The extra garage space has so much potential and is definitely a pro for garages in the carport vs garage debate.

4. Better Appearance 

For homeowners invested in overall appearance and curb appeal, garages may offer better design options. You can easily design your garage to match your home’s color, style and architecture. 

If you think a garage will overwhelm your home’s facade, you can opt for a detached or freestanding garage. Set at an angle or placed behind your home, a detached garage offers all the storage space and protection of an attached garage while giving you more control over your home’s appearance. Many homeowners dislike the “cluttered” look of cars parked outside their homes, and a well-designed garage can be the best solution.

Benefits of a Carport

Garages have many great advantages for homeowners. However, carports may be better suited to you depending on your time, budget and preferences. Let’s look at a few advantages of housing your vehicle in a carport: 

1. Easier to Build

Carports cost significantly less to construct than garages. They can be as straightforward as a simple roof with a frame, but even an elaborate carport with walls may not take longer than a few days to install. For more protection, you can also consider an enclosed carport. 

Unlike garages, carports are not living spaces and do not have doors, windows, air-conditioning or electrical wiring. As a result, they are not always required to conform to building codes and are less limited in material and size. Additionally, carports do not always need a floor or concrete slab, which reduces construction time and cost. Dirt or grass are perfectly suitable for carports. 

2. Less Clutter

Often, garages become a place to dump unneeded items and forget about them. After a few years, clutter can build up — sometimes enough that homeowners start parking their cars outside. The economical size and structure of carports prevent you from creating unnecessary clutter, ensuring you always have a secure place to park your vehicle. 

3. Increased Value

Many homeowners wonder about the home value of carports vs. garages. If you want to sell your home and don’t have a garage, installing a carport may offer an advantage. A convenient carport can boost your home’s property value and make it more attractive to potential buyers, who may not like the prospect of parking on the street. 

Thinking About Turning a Carport Into a Garage?

If you already own a carport and are interested in reaping the benefits of a garage, you can consider converting your carport into a garage. The time and cost of the construction process will depend on the structure of your current carport and what kind of garage you have in mind. Before converting your carport into a garage, consider these factors: 

• Check local building codes and HOA (Homeowner Association) rules: One of the differences between a garage and a carport is that carports aren’t always subject to building codes. If you plan to add a garage door to a carport or install electrical wiring for lights, you will likely need to inform your HOA and get a building permit. It’s important to follow protocol and hire an experienced contractor if you’re uncertain. Violating building codes could risk more inspections, extra fines and potentially the teardown of your new structure.
• Inspect your existing structure: The carport’s structure needs to be sturdy and damage-free to serve as a viable base for your new garage. Check for damage from weather, termites and rotting, and make sure the structure isn’t leaning or wobbling. Some components of your carport may need to be upgraded or replaced. 
• Consider wall materials: The garage walls are one of the most important features you’ll be adding to your new space, so consider what materials would best suit your needs. Metal siding, concrete blocks and faux stone or brick are all potential options. When choosing an exterior finish for the new garage, you can try to match the exterior of your home as much as possible. You may also need to factor in the cost of insulation, window installation, and electrical wiring for lighting and automatic doors. 

Trust Cornwell Door Service for Your Garage and Carport Needs

Carports and garages both have advantages for homeowners. If you’re considering building a carport or garage or wondering how to turn a carport into a garage, Cornwell Door Service is here to help. With over four decades of experience, we are committed to serving our customers’ needs with unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. For top-notch carport or garage construction and door installation, contact us at Cornwell Door today or call us at 717-273-9841!

Garage Spring Cleaning Checklist

Does your garage floor have unsightly stains? Is it cluttered to the point where you can’t park your car or find your toolbox? Spring’s mild weather and cool breezes make it a great time of year to air out your garage and do some deep spring cleaning of your garage. Cleaning your garage can be a daunting task at first, especially if you’ve been putting it off for years while using it as a primary storage unit. Luckily, we are here to help by providing tips for how clean a garage using our comprehensive garage cleaning checklist.

1. Decluttering Your Garage
2. Dusting and Vacuuming
3. Cleaning Garage Walls
4. Cleaning the Garage Floor
5. Cleaning the Garage Door and Windows
6. Organizing Your Garage

Materials Needed for Garage Cleaning

Before you start cleaning, prepare all the tools and materials you will need. That way, you won’t need to make an unexpected trip to the store or scour your house for supplies when you’re halfway through cleaning your garage. You will need:

• Gloves
• Face masks
• Trash bags
• A shop vacuum
• Baking soda
• Liquid soap
• A scrub brush
• A nonabrasive sponge and clean towels
• A bucket
• A step ladder
• Storage supplies
• A cleaning checklist

Optionally, you can also use a hose or power washer to make cleaning the garage easier. If you do use a power washer, make sure not to use it on your garage door. Even in low settings, the high pressure of a power washer can damage the garage door.

If you have a lot of clutter to reorganize, you may want to look into garage storage ideas. Shelves, cabinets or pegboards are great storage options but are easiest to install when the garage is already empty. Plastic bins or storage boxes are another option and could be particularly useful if you plan on donating unwanted items when you’re finished.

Making a spring cleaning list for your garage before you start will help you stay organized, too. An itemized list will keep you from accidentally skipping a step and make it easier to pick up where you left off if you take a break. And remember to take breaks as needed. Cleaning your garage can take a lot of time and physical exertion, but a clean garage will be worth the hard work. Crossing items off your checklist as you work is a great way to stay motivated!

How to Clean Your Garage

With your supplies and checklist, you’re ready to start spring cleaning your garage. Break the garage cleaning and organizing process down into different steps to make it more manageable. Follow these garage cleanout tips and steps to help you efficiently clean the garage:

1. Declutter

Even if your garage is already well organized, it is a hassle to periodically stop to move things around when cleaning the walls and floor. We recommend setting your stuff outside of the garage, either in your yard or the driveway. If you have belongings you don’t feel comfortable putting on the ground, consider setting up a tarp or preparing empty boxes first. Starting with everything outside the garage will make it easier to reorganize your belongings after you finish cleaning. Once you have everything out of the garage, you can make a garage declutter checklist to decide what items can be thrown away, what items can be kept for later organization and any items that can be given away or repurposed.

You may have some items in your garage that are not suited to be stored there. The conditions inside a garage can ruin some materials and create actively dangerous situations with others. The heat and humidity in garages can damage electronics and cause canned food to spoil. Firewood and paper products can attract pests like insects and rodents. Propane and gasoline, if not stored correctly, can create a fire hazard. You will want to either dispose of or relocate these items to a more suitable storage area.

2. Dust and Vacuum

Removing dust is the next step in garage cleaning. Dusting makes your garage look and seem cleaner, and it can also help reduce dust-related allergies. To dust your garage, start at the top and work your way down. That way, you won’t have to clean dust from the concrete floor multiple times as you continue to knock the dust down from above. You’ll also avoid dusting an area of the wall only to knock dust from up high back onto it.

With the dust down, it’s time to vacuum. It’s better to use a shop vacuum than to sweep a garage floor. The dust found in garages is often too fine to be picked up effectively by a broom and dustpan, resulting in you pushing the debris around rather than removing it. You don’t need to limit yourself to vacuuming the floor, either. You can use a shop vac to clean the ceiling and walls, too. After vacuuming, use a damp microfiber cloth to remove any remaining dust.

This step can kick a lot of dust up into the air while you work. Wear a mask to keep the dust out of your mouth and lungs for a more pleasant cleaning experience.

There are additional steps you can take to dustproof your garage moving forward. Applying a concrete sealer to the floor will help preserve your garage floor, which will reduce the creation of internal dust. 

There are numerous ways you can prevent external dust from finding its way into your garage, too. To help keep your garage floor clean, clean any lawn equipment and garden tools before storing them in your garage. Using sealed storage containers for things like fertilizer and grass seed can keep it from getting loose in your garage. 

The most important tip for keeping dust out of your garage is checking the seals for your garage door. No matter how careful you are not to track dust in with you, loose, cracked or torn seals on your garage door will let outside dust in. 

3. Cleaning Garage Walls

Garage walls can get dirty easily, and they can get much dirtier compared to the walls inside your home. Garage walls can become stained from dust, dirt, oil and water damage, so it is good to consider cleaning your garage walls at least once a year.

If you are using a pressure washer, it is best to avoid using the pressure washer on your garage walls. The pressure from pressure washers can be too powerful for interior garage walls, especially if your garage walls are made of drywall. Instead, skip the pressure washer and use a bucket of warm water, soap, and a large sponge when you are cleaning your garage walls. Even if a pressure washer allows you to clean faster, it is better to avoid any potential damage to your garage walls.

When you clean your garage walls, you should use a top-down method. Start by cleaning the top of the walls and work your way to the bottom of each wall. This ensures that you will not get any dirty residue dripping down onto areas of the wall that you have already cleaned. Depending on the height of your garage walls, you may also need to use a ladder for any higher sections.

The type of cleaner you use to clean your garage walls depends on the type of stain on the walls. For dirt and dust, you should be able to easily wipe down your walls with warm soapy water and use a vacuum to dust off your walls. For tougher stains like oil stains, you should mix your water with a heavy-duty cleaning agent or degreaser. This will make cleaning oil stains much easier and save you time in the long run. If you do need to opt for heavy-duty cleaners or degreasers, make sure to ventilate the garage by opening any windows or garage doors.

4. Clean the Garage Floor

After cleaning up any dust from the walls and floor, you can remove the stains that have accumulated on the floor. Garage floors are susceptible to a variety of stains — oil and rust are two common ones. Cleaning the stains on your garage floor will give it a fresh look and even slow your floor’s wear. A nylon bristle brush is a good tool for cleaning a garage floor that won’t scratch the concrete.

Different cleaning solutions work better for different types of stains. For oil stains, use dish soap or laundry detergent. For the best results, let it sit for 45 minutes before adding water and scrubbing for the first time. Oil stains are stubborn and will likely require several rounds of scrubbing. Let the soap sit for 10 to 15 minutes between cleanings.

You can use white vinegar to remove rust stains. Let the stain soak for about ten minutes before scrubbing. You may need to repeat this process multiple times, too. Alternatively, you could use a mixture of water and a baking soda-based laundry detergent. This solution needs to sit on the stain for at least an hour, and you need to keep the mixture wet, or it will be ineffective.

For general cleaning purposes, mixing half a cup of baking soda with a gallon of warm water makes an effective cleaner. You can add a few drops of liquid soap to the mix for a bit of added cleaning power to remove light stains. For a more concentrated solution to spot clean with, make a paste of baking soda and a few drops of dish soap, then scrub it into the problem areas.

Once you’ve finished scrubbing your garage floor, the easiest way to remove the extra cleaning solution is to spray the surface with a hose or power washer. Alternatively, you can finish cleaning the concrete floor by going over it with a mop.

5. Clean the Garage Door and Garage Door Windows

Knowing how to clean your garage door prevents rust and extends the life of your garage door’s finish. When cleaning your garage door, you need to be cautious — you don’t want to scratch your paint or windows! Take these steps to preserve your door as you clean:

• Avoid ammoniated, abrasive or solvent-based cleaners.
• Use a nonabrasive sponge and a clean cloth.
• Don’t scrape your door or windows with squeegees, razor blades or other sharp tools that can scratch the windows or paint.
• Avoid using a power washer on your garage door and windows.

Mild dishwashing soap and a soft cloth is a simple but effective way to clean most garage door windows. Some garage doors, such as the Clopay^® CLASSIC™ steel door, have decorative inserts you can remove for easy cleaning.   

You will want to use either dishwashing soap or car wash soap on your door. Apply the soapy water with a nonabrasive cloth or sponge and dry it with a clean, dry towel. Clean your door from top to bottom. You will likely need a step stool to help with this. Make sure you clean both the interior and exterior sides of the door.

If you have a steel door, you will want to apply wax, as well. The same liquid wax you would use on a car works well for this. The resin can be applied to your garage door windows as well. Annually applying wax to your garage door can protect against fading paint, hairline scratches and minor abrasions.

Now that your garage door is clean, you should inspect it for any damage or wear and tear. Checking your door can let you spot potential problems early before they grow worse. If you see something that concerns you, seek professional garage door maintenance and repair services.

6. Organize the Garage

Now that your garage is clean, it’s time to move your belongings back inside. Take this opportunity to evaluate what you really need and how to best organize it instead of tossing everything in haphazardly. Cutting back on what you store can help keep your garage clean over time.

First, you need to determine what you want to keep and what you intend to do with your unwanted items. If your belongings are old or broken, you’ll likely want to throw them away. Other things might be worth donating or reselling. If you plan on donating or selling unwanted items, it’s best to prepare empty storage containers beforehand. Create three to four separate groups for what you plan to keep, toss, donate or sell.

Once you have set aside what you plan on getting rid of one way or another, you will need to determine how to store what you will keep. Remember, you should not store some items including firewood, canned food, propane, wooden furniture, photos and paint in your garage. If you had these in your garage before, now is an excellent time to relocate them somewhere else. 

For the things you wish to keep, there are many garage storage solutions to consider. Shelves, overhead storage racks and wall hooks are all viable options. The garage organization ideas you choose will depend on what you have to store and how much space your garage has. Drafting a floor plan of your garage can help you visualize where things will go and how much space you have to work with.

When planning your layout, try to keep things off the floor to the greatest extent possible and consider keeping items you will use the most often towards the front for easy access. Try storing large bulky equipment such as lawnmowers in corners to avoid accidentally bumping them with your car.

For garage shelving ideas, consider open options instead of cabinets. Cabinets take up more room as you need to leave enough space to open the doors. Open shelves also incentivize you to keep the area clean by not allowing you to hide clutter behind closed doors. But, if you have pets or children, you should consider a locked cabinet for chemicals or tools you don’t want them reaching. 

After setting up your storage space with a mix of shelves and racks that suit your needs, consider what types of storage containers will work best for you. Different storage containers work best for different items. Sealable plastic containers are suitable for larger objects you need to protect in storage. A tight seal prevents dust and insects from getting in. These containers can also be stacked easily and are more durable than cardboard boxes. Clear jars are great for storing smaller items like nails and screws.

How to Keep Your Garage Clean

Once you’ve cleaned your garage, it’s time to make sure it stays clean. Keeping your garage clean doesn’t have to be a challenge! There are many ways to easily keep your garage clean throughout the year. You can keep your garage clean by:

• Washing & brushing off your car
• Using storage bins and shelving
• Lining your floor with garage mats
• Installing epoxy coating on the floor
• Installing garage door weather stripping
• Implementing a regular cleaning schedule

Resolve Garage Door Concerns With Cornwell Door Service

While cleaning your garage, you’ll be taking a closer look at your garage door system than you likely do at any other point of the year. You may notice issues with your garage door, tracks or garage door opener during this time. If you do, Cornwell Door is here to help. 

Cornwell Door has served residents in Camp Hill, Lebanon, Harrisburg and the rest of South Central Pennsylvania for over 40 years. We pride ourselves on our reputation for quality work and excellent customer service. We offer preventative and emergency garage door maintenance and keep our warehouse stocked with everything needed to keep your garage door in top condition. We also sell and install new garage doors when it’s time to replace your old one. Contact us online to learn more or call us at 717-273-9841!

What Are the Best Uses for a Garage

What Are the Best Uses for a Garage?

Your garage has a lot of potential, and it offers you a great deal of space beyond the square footage of your home. You might be wondering what to do with an empty garage. Fortunately, you’ll find there are plenty of things to do in your garage. Many homeowners have devised creative ways to utilize the space, transforming it into workshops, art studios or storage rooms. Check out these garage makeover ideas for inspiration. As a bonus, many of the best garage features are inexpensive and easy to install. 

1. Storage 

Garages tend to become areas of storage, but many homeowners only use some of the available space. If you’re looking for storage projects to do in the garage, here are a few ideas:

• Ceiling storage system: You can make use of vertical space by installing shelves near the ceiling. 
• Bike lifts: Bicycles can take up a lot of room. A bike lift system is a clever method for clearing bikes out of the way. Using roped hooks and pulleys, you can lock bikes into place near the ceiling. 
• Door storage: If your garage has an up-and-over door, you can use it for added storage. Attach mesh totes to the inside of the door, fixed with brackets. 
• Bungee rope bins: If you have any athletes in your house, you know how sports balls can get in the way. You could use a storage bin with vertical bungee ropes attached across the opening to contain the balls while allowing easy access. 
• Jars under shelves: You can make double use of your shelves — all you have to do is screw the lids of jars to the underside of each shelf. This is a great way to store small, easy-to-lose items like screws, nails and rubber bands. 
• Pegboards: Pegboards are a great addition to any garage because they’re so versatile. They allow you to arrange your items however you choose to utilize every square inch. 
• Rolling bins: Another option for tool storage is a rolling storage bin. You can pull it out when needed and push it against the wall when not, saving floor space. 

2. Workshop 

A garage is a great space to use for a workshop with its easy-to-clean surfaces. You can do all your handy projects right in your garage, whether you’re upcycling furniture or repairing a vehicle. Your garage also offers some protection from the elements, so your ongoing projects will be safe from rain, snow or beating sun. This can save you a great deal of money, as renting a workspace can be expensive. 

If you want to turn your garage into a functioning workshop, make use of pegboards, shelving and vertical storage. A well-organized system will keep your tools undamaged. It’ll also save you time and frustration, since you’ll know where to find anything at a glance. 

3. Entertainment 

A garage can make a great space for entertaining guests. Add seating, tables, speakers and a mini-fridge to make your garage party-ready. A garage is the perfect area for a summer night gathering — simply open the door for indoor-outdoor flow. Use fold-up chairs and tables for easy after-party cleanup. To make the space more inviting, add some decorative wallpaper, twinkling string lights or tealight candles. Check out these pictures for stylish garage remodel ideas.

4. Home Gym 

If you’re looking to get into fitness but prefer not to use a public gym, you’re not alone. Gym memberships can be expensive, driving to the gym can be a major time commitment and being surrounded by strangers can make you feel insecure or uncomfortable. The solution? Turn your garage into a gym. Exercising is one of the most common things to do in the garage, for a good reason. 

Garages make great exercise spaces. They offer plenty of room to stretch out, and you can open the door for fresh air. You need not buy expensive equipment for a proper workout. With nothing but a floor mat and a few dumbbells, you can work up a sweat. Plus, it can be easy to turn your garage into a gym!

5. Studio 

A garage can be like heaven for the hobbyist. It has storage space for supplies, and its concrete surfaces make for easy maintenance. As long as the weather is tolerable, you can also open the door for natural lighting. If you want to conserve space, hang foldable easels or tables from wall hooks and utilize vertical storage options for your supplies. That way, you can maximize your garage floor for other uses. 

While a garage can be a great art studio for an adult, it can also be the perfect arts and crafts space for kids. You can breathe easy knowing your kids will enjoy messy art supplies without spilling any on your furniture or floor. Make sure any dangerous tools or equipment are out of reach before setting kids loose to play. 

6. Mudroom 

Are your family members or guests tracking mud everywhere when they come inside? You can use your garage as a mudroom, as it makes the perfect pit stop between inside and outside. You can set up cubbies and shelves to separate shoes, jackets, scarves, umbrellas and other outdoor necessities. For some fun personalization, add nameplates above each cubby. Using your garage as a mudroom will help protect your indoor surfaces from mud, dirty water and even pests. What’s more, it’ll make it easier to grab your accessories on the way out the door. 

7. Living Space Above Garage 

If you’re interested in increasing your home’s value, you could add a living space above the garage. Even a single car garage takes up quite a bit of land. You can increase the livable square footage of your home by building upwards, on top of the garage. This is attractive to homebuyers if the space includes a kitchen and bath. Granted, an extension like this can be expensive, but your home’s resale value will benefit from your investment. 

8. Ideal Parking Space 

Parking a vehicle in your garage might pose a challenge. Many garages offer a tight fit and have poor lighting. This can lead to damaging your vehicle as you attempt to park. Before you invest in expanding your garage outward, try some of these garage finishing ideas: 

• Use overhead storage to maximize floor space. 
• String tennis balls to your ceiling to act as parking aids. 
• Try a higher tech parking aid, like a wireless parking sensor. 
• Install better lighting for improved visibility. 
• Secure wall bumpers to minimize damage. 

Things to Consider Before Making Major Changes 

Although these garage transformation ideas might have you feeling inspired, proceed with caution. Before you start using your time and savings to alter your garage, consider these factors: 

• Insulation: If you want your garage to be usable year-round, you’ll need proper insulation. 
• Lighting: Many garages have poor lighting. For a garage to make a safe studio or workshop, you’ll need to invest in quality lighting. 
• Electrical wiring: If you plan to use any electronic devices in your garage, you might need to add some outlets. 
• Permits: Before making major changes, make sure you’ve obtained all necessary building permits. 

Contact the Experts at Cornwell Door Service 

No matter how you use your garage, you need a proper, functioning garage door. Here at Cornwell Door Service, we provide an array of door options to fit any garage use. We can fulfill your garage door needs as you convert your garage into the perfect usable space. Schedule a garage door service with Cornwell Door Service today, or call us at 800-820-9841.