Tracker Door Systems https://trackerdoor.com/ Garage Door Kansas City Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:28:20 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://i0.wp.com/trackerdoor.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-Tracker-Door-Systems-Favicon.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Tracker Door Systems https://trackerdoor.com/ 32 32 214901068 New Year, New Garage Doors: Make a Resolution to Revamp Your Garage In 2025 https://trackerdoor.com/new-year-new-garage-doors-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-year-new-garage-doors-2025 Thu, 14 Nov 2024 14:31:00 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3645 Make 2025 the year you revamp your garage with a new garage door from Tracker Door Systems. Get inspired to tackle this New Year’s resolution and improve your home’s value, curb appeal, and functionality.

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A snow-covered suburban split-level home with yellow and navy siding and a white aluminum garage door.

Tracker Door Systems Is Here To Help You Meet Your Annual Goals

It’s a long-held tradition to create a list of goals you want to accomplish as you begin a new year. Bright-eyed and hopeful, you set these resolutions with great positivity and ultimately abandon them weeks later. It’s nothing to be ashamed of; it happens to 88% of people within the first two weeks of the New Year, according to a study by Baylor School of Medicine.

But 2025 can be different because you have Tracker Door Systems on your side. If you make a resolution to revamp your garage in 2025, all you have to do is contact our Leavenworth County garage door company, and we’ll take care of the rest.

Resolve to Get a New Garage Door

Make your resolution to get a new garage door and improve your home’s curb appeal and value. Recent research suggests homeowners can get a 103% return on their investment when they purchase and install a new garage door. In the Kansas City-area housing market, this is a big deal!

Finding a garage door for sale for your home is easy. Tracker Door Systems is an authorized dealer of some of the top brands, including CHI Overhead Door, Clopay, Amarr, Safe-way, and Midland. Garage doors come in a variety of styles and finishes, so you can choose one that suits your home’s architecture and your personal taste.

Call us to set up an appointment for an estimate.

Resolve to Save Up For the Cost of a Garage Door

Not ready to make the phone call to Tracker Door Systems to get an estimate because you want to be able to pay in cash? No problem! Your initial resolution can be to save up for the cost of a garage door. Then, build on that resolution and have us install your door.

Garage door cost depends on a few factors, including brand, size, material, design, insulation level, and more. Our team can tell you exactly how much your savings goal should be to help you accomplish your resolution – just give us a call for a no-obligation estimate.

Make a Goal to Get Your Garage Door Working Properly Again

Sometimes you don’t even need to buy a new garage door; you just need maintenance and repair. If your goal is to get your garage equipment working again, Tracker Door Systems can help with that if you live in our service area throughout the Kansas City metro and in eastern Kansas.

Our residential garage door services team can tune up your garage door, including lubricating moving parts and balancing your garage door. We can also perform any necessary repairs during our visit to your home.

Set a Big Goal to Beautify Your Kansas City-Area Home Exterior

Home exteriors withstand the elements, taking on the harshest of weather. Eventually, your home exterior will need a refresh. Although it’s a huge resolution, beautifying your home exterior with new siding, gutters, roofing, and a new garage door is one that will pay off, both through your home value and in your pride in your home.

You can serve as your own contractor for this project and partner with Tracker Door Systems for the garage door portion. Or if you choose to hire a contractor, request Tracker Door Systems by name.

Make a Goal to Organize Your Garage

Tracker Door Systems can’t help you with this admirable resolution, but it’s an important one nonetheless. Home organization is a common New Year’s resolution, and you can meet your goal by following these steps.

  1. Set a realistic goal or set of smaller goals. “Organize the garage” can be overwhelming, so break it down into more achievable steps, such as “Discard unused or broken items in the garage,” then “Purchase garage organization shelves and bins,” then, “Label the bins and sort items into them.”
  2. Have an accountability buddy. Perhaps this is a best friend who has a similar goal, or it’s your spouse. By making someone else aware of your intentions, you are more likely to work toward your goal.
  3. Reward yourself when you reach your goal. This can be as simple as enjoying a sweet treat, or as big as buying a new item to add to your powertool collection. If you’ve put off cleaning up your garage for decades, perhaps a vacation is a right-sized reward!

Call Tracker Door Systems About Your Garage Resolutions

For more than 20 years, Tracker Door Systems has been revolutionizing the local garage door industry. Although our competitors will focus on selling new doors at any cost, we ultimately want you to enjoy our exceptional customer service and feel satisfied in your choice.

All our new garage doors and operators come with a one-year labor guarantee from the date of service, in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty. Our dedication to quality work proves we’re raising customer satisfaction, one door at a time!

Call us at (913) 585-3100 for a no-obligation estimate on a new garage door, installation, or repair.

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How to Prepare For Garage Door Installation https://trackerdoor.com/how-to-prepare-for-garage-door-installation/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-prepare-for-garage-door-installation Sun, 03 Nov 2024 01:57:41 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3639 Get ready for your new garage door installation with Tracker Door Systems! Learn what to expect, how to prepare your garage, and the benefits of upgrading your opener. Serving the Kansas City area.

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A married couple shakes hands with a garage door installation technician outside their home.

Take These Steps For a Seamless Experience With Tracker Door Systems

Getting a new garage door is a major milestone in home remodeling! Not only is it a component you’ll use every week if not every day, but it’s a major upgrade in your home’s curb appeal.

If you’re planning to purchase a new garage door, contact Tracker Door Systems. We serve the greater Kansas City area and eastern Kansas and consider it a privilege to help you. Then, follow our tips to get ready for garage door installation. us space this fall when you try these six seasonal ideas that bring together your neighborhood, your friends, or your family.

Get an Estimate For a New Garage Door

Contact Tracker Door Systems, garage door installers near you, for an estimate on a garage door replacement. The estimate should include removing your old door and components and hauling them away, plus installing your new door. Tracker Door Systems is an authorized dealer of Safe-way, Clopay, CHI, Amarr, and Midland garage doors.

At this time, you can choose a garage door opener. Traditional options that require a handheld remote are still available, or you can upgrade to a system that uses a smartphone app and alerts you when your garage door is opened or closed, even if you aren’t home. Tracker Door Systems carries operators from Liftmaster and Guardian.

After you make your selection, we will order your door and schedule installation.

Clean the Area Around Your Garage Door

Before garage door installation, make sure the area around your garage door is clear, both inside and out. Keeping these spaces clear will make installation faster and easier. All you have to do is move items to another spot in your garage.

Move items to another spot in your garage and sweep up any debris left behind. It can be helpful to use your broom to brush down cobwebs or spiderwebs around the existing door tracks.

Secure Your Pets Before Garage Door Installation

Door installation does not require access to the main living space of your home, but you should plan to keep your pets away from the garage while our installers are working.

If your back door is located inside your garage, as is the case in certain types of ranch homes in Overland Park, plan to take your pets through the garage on leashes or keep them inside altogether.

Meet the Garage Door Installers

When the Tracker Door Systems team arrives, plan to meet us at your existing garage door. We’ll confirm the work we’re doing, access your garage, and set up our tools. At this time, our installers will give you an estimate of how long your project should take.

We may need to ask questions or show you an installation solution, so be sure to be home for the duration of our work.

Discuss Where Your Garage Door Opener Will Be Installed

If part of your project includes garage door opener installation, talk to your installers about where this opener will be placed.

Most openers are mounted to the ceiling rafters in your garage, but other types are mounted on the wall adjacent to your new garage door. Make sure you understand where yours will be located.

Test Your Garage Door Replacement Before the Technician Leaves

When we’re done installing your garage door and opener, head to your garage to see your new equipment in action. Test out all the features and download any smartphone apps you’ll need to control your door.

Our technicians will show you how to use your new equipment and set up access codes on your keypad, if needed. We’ll also leave the door and opener’s owner’s manuals with you for your records.

Call Tracker Door Systems With Your Questions After Installation

If, after your new garage door and opener installation is complete, you realize you have questions about how to use it, contact the Tracker Door Systems team. You can call us at (913) 585-3100 or send us a message online, and we’ll reach out with helpful advice.

You can also troubleshoot your garage door operator with the manufacturer. Click here to visit the manufacturer’s support information for your Guardian garage door operator. Click here to visit the manufacturer’s support information for your Liftmaster garage door operator.

Ready For a New Garage Door?

To get a free, no-obligation estimate for a new garage door and operator, schedule an appointment with Tracker Door Systems. Contact us by phone or through our website.

The post How to Prepare For Garage Door Installation appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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6 Unique Ways to Use Your Garage This Fall https://trackerdoor.com/6-unique-ways-to-use-your-garage-this-fall/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=6-unique-ways-to-use-your-garage-this-fall Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:46:18 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3635 Make the most of your garage this fall with six creative ideas, from hosting a garage sale to creating a cozy gathering space for Thanksgiving. Discover how modern garage doors can help you transform your space.

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A rack of clothes with a large hat hanging off the end and a "Garage Sale" sign, set up outside for a fall event.

Open Your Garage Doors – Or Leave Them Closed – For These Seasonal Ideas

Your garage becomes a bonus space this fall when you try these six seasonal ideas that bring together your neighborhood, your friends, or your family.

Forget Spring Cleaning! Open Your Garage Doors and Have a Sale

Spring is synonymous with starting fresh, but why shouldn’t fall be, too? If you had a particularly busy spring and summer, fall could be your first opportunity to clean out everything you don’t need and offer it up for pennies on the dollar to bargain hunters in your community.

You can use the proceeds from your sale to buy Christmas gifts for the family, put toward a vacation, or maybe even fund a much-needed garage door replacement (or another home upgrade you’ve been wanting).

Get Spooky With a Mini Haunted House

Halloween is upon us! Delight trick-or-treaters or Halloween party-goers with a small haunted house that weaves through the bays of your garage. Hang lengths of black fabric from floor to ceiling to create walkways, and decorate with scary figures, glow-in-the-dark paint, a smoke machine, and creepy music.

Reward everyone for their bravery at the exit of the haunted house – your garage door – with a big bowl of treats to choose from.

Use Your Garage As a Staging Area For Holiday Decor

As fall transitions to winter, you start thinking about decorating your home for the holidays. Rather than carry boxes of decor items into your main living areas, use your garage to plan what items will go where, keeping your garage door closed for security until you get to the outdoor decorations.

Designate areas of your garage to represent rooms of your home, and sort your decor by location. Then, you can decorate gradually without tripping hazards and clutter that all those decor boxes bring. Just head out to the garage, grab one room’s decorations, and take the empty boxes back out.

Spread Out For Thanksgiving

As home loan interest rates rose, homeowners who planned to upgrade their starter homes realized they may be living in their forever homes instead. If your starter-turned-forever home is lacking in the space you need to host Thanksgiving, it’s time to get creative so you can live out your holiday dreams.

Use your garage – especially if it’s attached – as an extension of your home to:

  • Create a cozy gathering area for kids. By assembling a fun playroom in the garage, you can reduce noise (and toys) in the main living areas of your home. Lay down a plush area rug, set up the patio furniture you brought in from outside, and plug in a television. All the cousins can play video games and bond together. If you’ve recently purchased new garage doors, the updated insulation helps keep everyone warm despite the crisp November weather.
  • Stage and store the Thanksgiving dinner. Your kitchen refrigerator can’t hold everything, but your garage is the perfect room for a spare fridge and coolers of soda or juice boxes. You don’t have to play Tetris trying to cram everything inside your kitchen. The garage door serves as a drop-off entry for side dishes or pies that your relatives contribute to the dinner, so those aren’t taking up space on your counters as you put the finishing touches on the meal.

Host a Homecoming Bash For Your Teen’s Friend Group

After the big homecoming football game and dance, your high schooler’s friends probably want to get together and keep the fun going. The garage is the perfect place to host a teen party, because it provides privacy without being too private.

Set up a table with games, prepare trending TikTok snack recipes (a snackle box, perhaps?), and play music over the stereo to get the party started. Keep the garage door closed to contain any noise and keep the kids warm. Then, when it’s time for bed, everyone can come inside and settle into their sleeping bags.

Create a Dog-Washing Station

Now that it’s too cold to give the family dog a bath outside with the garden hose, you’ll need a space to get Fido clean. Hiring a plumber to install a large utility sink or tub in your garage gives you the dog-bathing station you’ve always wanted. By having this dedicated area in your warm garage, you can keep your pet and your main bathroom clean.

You May Need New Garage Doors to Make These Ideas Happen

If your garage doors are outdated, not functioning like they should, or aren’t as energy efficient as you’d like, it may be time for garage door replacements. In the greater Kansas City area and throughout eastern Kansas, Tracker Door Systems can help you choose the best garage doors for your home and install them for you so you’re ready for fall activities.

To learn more about garage door options and to get a free estimate, contact us today.

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Garage Door Safety Tips to Protect Your Family and Belongings https://trackerdoor.com/garage-door-safety-tips-to-protect-your-family-and-belongings/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=garage-door-safety-tips-to-protect-your-family-and-belongings Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:40:37 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3630 Learn essential tips for keeping your modern garage doors secure, from regular maintenance to using rolling-code technology and smart systems. Ensure your garage is safe for your family with advice from Tracker Door Systems.

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Put Your Modern Garage Doors to Work For You

Your modern garage door isn’t just an entryway to your home’s car storage. They’re an important part of your home’s safety and security, especially with recent advancements in technology and design.

As a homeowner, ensuring your garage door is secure and well-maintained can protect your family and valuables from potential threats. Let’s explore tips for enhancing your home’s safety and security as it pertains to your garage doors.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance keeps your modern garage doors operating smoothly and securely. Over time, components like springs, cables, and rollers experience wear and tear, which can lead to malfunctions. Carefully inspect your set-up and identify potential issues before they escalate into costly garage door repairs or create a security risk.

Watch for strange noises, jerky movements, or difficulties opening or closing the door. These can indicate an underlying problem. Lubricating the moving parts – but never the nylon rollers – can help reduce friction. Balancing the door ensures that the operator doesn’t have to work harder than necessary. This will extend its lifespan. Tightening loose hardware can prevent misalignment, which will affect the door’s performance.

Keep Critters and Cold Air Out

Inspect the weather stripping around your modern garage door. Overtime, this weather stripping can become brittle or damaged, letting in drafts and moisture and thereby reducing your energy efficiency.

It can also become an entrypoint for small pests, like mice. If you replace damaged weather stripping, you can help keep your heating and cooling bills down and avoid exterminator visits.

Garage Door Opener Remote Rolling-Code Technology and Other Smart Systems

The latest in operator equipment comes with advanced security features designed to deter unauthorized access to your home. A garage door opener remote with rolling-code technology changes the access code each time you use your remote, making it difficult for thieves to duplicate the signal and gain entry into your garage.

Smart garage door systems allow you to monitor and control your garage door from anywhere using a smartphone app. The app will alert you if the garage door opens. You can close it remotely to help control access to your home. Automatic locking mechanisms also make it harder for burglars to enter your garage.

Securing the Interior

If you store valuables in your garage, you might consider additional security for these items. Locking cabinets or secure shelving keeps items like tools out of sign and not easily discovered. Motion-sensor lights inside your garage can alert you to unauthorized access.

Store spare garage door opener remotes in a secure location, such as in a Faraday pouch, to reduce the risk of high-tech thieves mimicking the signal and opening your garage door. Don’t keep your garage door remotes in your vehicle; instead, carry them with your keys or invest in an operator that uses a smartphone app in place of a traditional garage door opener remote.

Educate Your Family About Modern Garage Door Safety

Even your children should be aware of how to safely operate and be around a garage door. Teach your kids to stay clear of the garage door, both when it is moving and when it is stationary. Make it clear that the garage door and its components are not toys and should never be treated as such.

Show your family how to use the garage door opener remote, keypad, or wall-mounted operator button. Demonstrate how to use the manual release level in case the opener malfunctions or if there’s a power outage.

Explain your garage door’s safety features, and how the auto-reverse mechanism works when the photoelectric sensors detect obstacles in the door’s path. 
Create a family emergency plan that includes steps to take if the garage door poses a threat, such as if it is stuck open or closed or is malfunctioning. Make sure that everyone knows not to attempt to fix it themselves, but rather to call a professional for garage door repair.

By instilling these habits and knowledge, you can help prevent accidents and ensure your garage is a safe part of your home.

Beef Up Security Outside Your Modern Garage Door

Enhancing the exterior security around your garage involves a few strategic upgrades. Start by installing exterior lighting, such as motion-activated floodlights, to illuminate dark areas that may attract intruders or thieves. These lights can act as an immediate deterrent and increase overall visibility around your garage.

Consider installing a security camera system around the garage entrance. Modern systems come with features like night vision, high-definition recording, and real-time alerts to your smartphone. This added layer of surveillance can help you keep an eye on any suspicious activity and provide valuable footage in the event of an incident.

Get Professional Garage Door Repair to Ensure Proper Function

Even the latest modern garage doors need maintenance and repair sometimes. Partnering with a professional team for garage door repair near you can help you ensure your garage is as safe and secure as possible. 

A repair technician can get your garage door back on track, balance the door, and ensure the operator is fully functional, with all the security and safety features you need. 

The post Garage Door Safety Tips to Protect Your Family and Belongings appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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5 Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them https://trackerdoor.com/common-garage-door-problems-repair/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=common-garage-door-problems-repair Sat, 27 Jul 2024 18:23:29 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3427 Experiencing garage door issues? Discover the 5 most common problems and learn when to call a professional for garage door repair in Kansas City. From doors not opening to loud noises and malfunctioning remotes, our guide helps you identify issues and find expert solutions quickly.

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Technician repairing an automatic garage door opener.

Seek Kansas City Garage Door Repair When Your Door Isn’t Working Properly

More than 70% of Americans use their garage doors as the main entrance to their home. With so much up-and-down action, it’s no wonder garage doors need repairs from time to time!

If you’re experiencing a problem with your garage door, you shouldn’t have to let it disrupt your routine for long. Help from a service provider of garage door repairs near you can get you back into – or out of – your garage in just a couple hours, especially if you have one of these five common garage door problems:

  1. The garage door won’t open or close completely.
  2. The garage door is louder than usual.
  3. The garage door opens and immediately closes.
  4. The garage door is off its tracks.
  5. The operator remote is malfunctioning.

If the Door Won’t Open or Close Completely, It’s Time For Garage Door Repair

The root cause of a garage door not opening or closing completely could be related to your garage door opener system, your garage door springs, safety sensors, or track alignment. The only way to determine which of these is the reason your garage door isn’t moving like it should is through the process of elimination.

Start by observing the problem. When, exactly, does your garage door stop moving? Does it stop at the same point of the track every time? Is there something in the way of your safety sensors, located near the floor to the right and left of your garage door? Does the track have debris stuck in it? Or is the track bent from a riding lawn mower or vehicle collision?

If you still can’t identify the problem, it could be due to an internal operator motor or electrical fault. Given the potential for these kinds of problems to escalate or cause injury, it’s best to contact our garage door repair service instead of attempting to fix it yourself.

The Garage Door Is Louder Than Usual

Hearing loud noises as your garage door operates is definitely cause for alarm. Whether it’s grinding, squeaking, or banging, there’s likely a problem with your door’s hardware. This could include worn-out rollers, loose components, or a misaligned track.

Sometimes lubricating some of the moving parts with a silicone-based spray can help stop the noise, but in other cases, this won’t solve anything. Persistent noises can mean deeper issues, so don’t assume these noises are just nuisances. Let a garage door repair professional evaluate your garage door.

If the Door Opens and Immediately Closes, Check the Garage Door Springs

Erratic garage door behavior, like immediately closing or even quickly slamming shut after opening, can be due to malfunctioning garage door springs.

These large springs help balance the door’s weight and facilitate smooth, controlled movement. When the springs are compromised, the balance is disrupted, and the garage door won’t stay open.

Because garage door springs are under such high tension, spring repair is best left to professionals in garage door repair near you: Tracker Door Systems.

The Garage Door Has Come Off Its Tracks

Track derailment is a symptom of an underlying issue that could be much bigger than your garage door. When your garage door comes off its tracks, you’ll want to fix it quickly to keep your home and its contents secure. Misalignment also puts unnecessary stress on the rollers and tracks, which can worsen your garage door system’s problems and require larger-scale repairs later on.

Garage doors can go off their tracks due to:

  • An impact that bends the track.
  • Worn-out rollers that no longer glide smoothly.
  • Foundation settling or shifts.

Given the weight of a garage door, attempting to realign or repair the tracks yourself could result in injury to yourself or more damage to the door. Let a professional handle the track realignment instead.

Your Garage Door Operator Remote Won’t Work

When you rely on a remote control to open and control your garage, realizing it isn’t working properly can be a frustrating experience. Although remote control issues can seem simple at first-glance, they aren’t always.

Your problem could be solved as easily as replacing the batteries in your remote. But if that doesn’t work, consider that your operator itself – the one mounted on the ceiling of your garage – may not be properly receiving the signal. You should check that the signal is not blocked by a physical object – although this is a rare issue because of advancements in modern technology.

If you suspect your garage door won’t open because of the operator or other piece of equipment, requesting a garage door repair visit can get you closer to a solution.

Remember: When It Comes to Garage Door Repair, Safety First!

Even if you consider yourself handy, repairing a garage door is not as easy as an online video may make it seem. Rather than risk bodily harm or further damage to your door system, it’s best to contact our local garage door professionals, who can address your concerns, perform the repair, and restore your garage door function.

The post 5 Common Garage Door Problems and How to Fix Them appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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The History Of Garage Doors: From Carriage Houses to Modern Marvels https://trackerdoor.com/history-of-garage-doors/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=history-of-garage-doors Thu, 18 Jul 2024 17:57:33 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3423 Explore the fascinating evolution of garage doors, from ancient chariot gatehouses to modern smart-home marvels. Learn how garage door innovations have redefined our everyday lives and discover how today's overhead doors combine functionality, style, and cutting-edge technology.

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Renovated home with modern carriage-style garage doors
A beautifully renovated home featuring modern carriage-style garage doors that enhance both its aesthetics and functionality.

Garage Door Innovations Over the Years Cater to Modern Lifestyles

They say necessity is the mother of invention, and that is particularly true for garage doors. Transportation and mobility has long been necessary for thriving civilizations. Without the ability to quickly travel over distances, you can bet humankind wouldn’t have such a long list of achievements.

And as these vehicle innovations progressed, it was only natural that mankind would want somewhere to keep their latest set of wheels. Keep reading to learn more about the history of the garage door and how we got to where we are today.

“Garages” For Chariots

Many ancient civilizations used chariots for transportation and entertainment, including the Egyptians, Romans, and the Celts. The first known chariot was developed by the Eurasian Andronovo or Sintashta cultures before 2,000 BCE.

Just like we need somewhere safe to park our cars today, these ancient peoples, too, wanted somewhere to park their chariots, so gatehouses were employed for this purpose.

Like modern garages, gatehouses could be closed and locked to protect what was stored inside. However, they didn’t use overhead doors like we do today. They were secured with a gate – hence the name gatehouse.

The Popularity Of Carriage Houses

Before motor vehicles, carriages, coaches, and buggies were primary forms of transportation, and like chariots, they needed to be stored somewhere safe and out of the elements.

Carriage houses, as we know them in North America, were detached outbuildings that housed carriages and carts when not in use. Sometimes they’d include lofted staff living quarters as well, but this was only common among the most wealthy.

Carriage house doors swung outward – very different from how garage doors as we know them today operate. However, their classic styling has inspired the charming look of modern overhead door designs.

The Dawn Of Early Garage Doors

In 1886, Carl Benz applied for a patent for a vehicle powered by a gas engine – the first ever automobile. It made history with its three wheels, but cars were only accessible to the very wealthy at that time.

Because Benz’s car didn’t have a roof, it had to be stored inside a carriage house, alongside its predecessors that were still in use – horse-drawn carriages and carts. But as more automobiles were produced, including the Ford Model T, which was affordable for the everyman, garage door innovation had to keep up.

In 1902, Cornell Iron Works made a “float over door” in Chicago. Variety Manufacturing created a much larger “cross horizontal folding door,” designed to accommodate a locomotive. But they were made individually, and like the first Benz car, simply weren’t commonplace.

People with carriage houses continued to store their cars in them, but what about those who didn’t have the luxury, or the city dwellers who didn’t have the space? They could store their vehicles in public parking lots or parking garages for a monthly fee, the first of which was built in 1918 for the Hotel La Salle in downtown Chicago.

Thank Detroit For Modern Garage Doors

Henry Ford’s Model T, built with interchangeable parts on a moving assembly line in Highland Park in Detroit, may have been what prompted the development of the modern garage and its doors. Because the Model T was mass-produced, the average American could afford an automobile.

Although carriage houses were still in use, they had big flaw. In the winter, snow would pile up in front of the carriage house doors, preventing them from opening. Without a lot of shoveling and sweat, car owners couldn’t get their Tin Lizzies out of storage.

In 1921 in Detroit, C.G. Johnson found a solution. He created the first overhead door, which folded while lifting upward. When open, the garage door lay parallel to the building’s ceiling. It was a revelation: there was no more work involved keeping the carriage house door clear, and it left plenty of room to park cars and store other household goods in the garage itself.

Johnson wasn’t done with his innovations just yet. In 1926, he and his company, Overhead Door Corporation, developed the first electric garage door opener. Americans were immediately attracted to this modern development, and the garage door industry as we know it today was born.

Today’s Garage Door Technology

Modern garage doors embrace smart-home technology, with operators that open and close at the touch of a button on a smartphone screen, or keypad codes that eliminate the need to carry a bulky remote.

In 1993, photo eye sensors were made available. These serve as a safety device that prevent the door from closing when they detect an object in its path. The mechanical release lets you open a garage door by hand in the event of an emergency or power outage.

The doors themselves, too, have changed over the years. Once made of wood or steel, garage doors come in a variety of materials, so homeowners can choose the best one for their home. Climate is even a consideration, with pre-insulated doors that reduce energy spent on heating and cooling. Some are pinch-resistant, designed to prevent injury or damage to anything that might find itself between garage door panels.

With so many new developments, today’s overhead door is seemingly unrecognizable from the one developed in the 1900s. One thing hasn’t changed, however: people still store one of their most prized possessions behind these protective doors.

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Summer Upgrade Guide: A Look At the Garage Door Brands We Carry https://trackerdoor.com/summer-garage-door-upgrade-kansas-city/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=summer-garage-door-upgrade-kansas-city Wed, 10 Jul 2024 17:38:18 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3420 Upgrade your home this summer with stylish and energy-efficient garage doors from top brands like CHI Overhead Doors, Clopay, and Amarr. Discover why summer is the perfect time for a garage door installation and explore our favorite collections that combine functionality with modern design. Whether you prefer the contemporary look of CHI's Planks Collection or the timeless elegance of Amarr's Heritage Collection, Tracker Door Systems has the perfect garage door to enhance your home's curb appeal and performance. Call us today for a free estimate and start enjoying the benefits of a new garage door.

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Modern home with two carriage-style garage doors accentuating its design

We’ll Help You Choose a New Garage Door For Your Home In the Kansas City Metro Area

The summer months are a great time to upgrade your garage door for a variety of reasons.

  • Although it’s warm, the weather is generally cooperative enough to keep your home interior dry as our crew performs your garage door installation. 
  • After a summer installation, you’ll have ample time to enjoy your newly updated garage before winter hits.
  • You’ll immediately reap the benefits of the added insulation modern garage doors provide, taking strain off your air conditioner and even lowering your utility bills.

Call Tracker Door Systems to learn more about getting a new garage door this summer from the leading brands that trust us.

What Is an Authorized New Garage Door Dealer?

An authorized dealer of garage doors is a company that door manufacturers permit to sell, install, and repair their brand’s garage doors. Manufacturers are satisfied that these companies are knowledgeable about their products and the installation process because they are trained on their recommended tools and procedures. Authorized dealers are also able to honor the manufacturer’s warranty.

Tracker Door Systems, based in DeSoto, Kansas, and serving the greater Kansas City metro area, is an authorized new garage door dealer for CHI Overhead Doors, Clopay, Amarr Garage Doors, Midland, and Safe-Way. These companies trust us to handle and install their quality garage doors.

Let’s take a look at three of these garage door manufacturers with collections we love!

We’re Your Source For CHI Overhead Doors In Kansas City

Since 1981, CHI Overhead Doors – short for Coach House Inc. – has been producing quality garage doors. This premier manufacturer promises premium doors with low maintenance requirements; customizable design options, including an array of trendy colors; and one of the best warranties in the garage door industry.

Kansas City residents choose CHI Overhead Doors because they love their diverse and stylish product lines, including:

  • Planks, a contemporary collection of steel wood-look doors that come in seven tones. The Planks collection is ideal for prairie modern homes, a popular style for new builds in Prairie Village and Leawood in particular.
  • Overlay Carriage House, which puts a bold spin on a timeless style, harkening back to the days of horse-powered transportation. This collection’s old-world aesthetic comes in wood, steel, or fiberglass and a wide range of customizations that look great on more traditional architecture, including colonial, Georgian, and craftsman-style.
  • The Stamped Shaker Collection, loved for its minimalism and clean lines. An embossed frame and beveled edge creates definition in each panel. With strong steel craftsmanship, the Stamped Shaker line leaves a lasting impression.
  • And more! Contact us to learn more about the full selection of CHI Overhead Doors in Kansas City.

Choose From Popular Clopay Garage Doors

Clopay garage doors are produced by a company that honors integrity and performance. This popular brand produces styles from the standard steel to high-design solid wood overhead doors. In short, Clopay is a great choice for every new garage door budget.

A number of insulation options set Clopay apart. Even buyers of a standard steel panel door can select from high-performance insulation choices that can reduce energy consumption and utility bills.

In particular, we think these Clopay collections are stellar:

  • Classic Steel brings new meaning to “basic.” These doors are made of durable steel formed in the traditional raised-panel style. The line complements every home, especially when you consider the number of design, construction, and color options at your fingertips.
  • Modern Steel adds mid-century appeal. Modern Steel is a direct relative of the Classic Steel, adding stacked horizontal windows on each panel for a throwback Mad Men-inspired look.
  • The Canyon Ridge Louver line is the epitome of transitional style. These unique new garage doors are constructed with a steel core, stopped with horizontal composite slats designed to look just like natural wood. Clean horizontal lines complement cozy coastal-style homes or modern estates alike, making them a great choice for many Kansas City homes.
  • And more! Send a message online to request more information about Clopay garage doors for your home.

Amarr Garage Doors Maximize Curb Appeal

Amarr Garage Doors Maximize Curb Appeal

Amarr believes your garage door should welcome you home. This company combines style, energy efficiency, and quiet performance to deliver a selection of new garage doors that delight homeowners who choose them.

Check out these notable Amarr collections:

  • The all-new Northwoods line, a modern plank garage door with digitally printed wood grain. A play on modern, mid-century, and traditional styles, this durable door looks identical to wood, but is much lower maintenance.
  • The carriage-house-style Classica line, made in three sections instead of four. These energy-saving doors provide modern functionality and curb appeal while adding a covetable antique flair to your home.
  • The Heritage Collection, with a variety of customization options, so you get exactly what you want, without compromise. Choose from window style and size – wagon wheel, mosaic, prairie, trellis, sunray, and more – plus pick your favorite from more than 800 factory-applied colors, with Amarr Color Zone.
  • And more! Ask us about our partnership with Amarr to find a garage door you can fall in love with.

Schedule Your Garage Door Installation With Tracker Door Systems Today

No matter which brand you prefer, the Tracker Door Systems team can help you select the right size, style, color, and performance when you shop for your new garage door. For a free estimate on a new door and garage door installation, call Tracker Door Systems at (913) 585-3100 or send us a message online. A friendly team member will reach out to you quickly to schedule a visit to your home.

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Energy Efficiency and Your Garage Door: What You Need to Know For Summer In Kansas City https://trackerdoor.com/energy-efficiency-and-your-garage-door/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=energy-efficiency-and-your-garage-door Fri, 21 Jun 2024 02:58:06 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3343 If you’re a suburban dweller, you likely use your garage door as the main entrance to your home. It’s convenient; you pull your vehicle in, close the door behind you, and carry groceries, kids, and pets straight into your main living space.

The post Energy Efficiency and Your Garage Door: What You Need to Know For Summer In Kansas City appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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Modern insulated garage door in a well-lit garage, showcasing energy-efficient design and materials.

Count On Tracker Door Systems to Save You Money On Your Energy Bill With Quality Insulated Garage Doors

You make sure your windows are shut tight when the air conditioner is running, and you remind your family to turn off all the lights when they leave a room. Saving energy and money are your top priorities, but are your old garage doors undermining your efforts?

Garage doors can help improve your home’s overall energy efficiency, so make the right choices for garage door services this summer with the help of Tracker Door Systems.

Keys to Energy Efficiency in Kansas City

Think of your garage door as a large, moving wall that can either invite or repel the seasonal temperatures, directly impacting your home’s comfort and your energy bills. With the right insulated garage door in place, the struggle to keep your home cool during the scorching summer days is easier.

By focusing on the efficiency of your garage door, you’re not just cutting down on your energy usage; you’re taking a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. This proactive approach doesn’t only contribute to a healthier planet by reducing your carbon footprint but also aligns with a more cost-effective, energy-smart home strategy.

The U.S. Department of Energy recommends choosing a garage door with an R-value – the measure of insulation – between 13 and 17 for moderate climates. An R-value of at least 18 is even better for extremely hot summers and frigid winters. When you shop for a new door with Tracker Door Systems, our technicians will explain how R-value affects your home in both the summer and winter seasons.

Contact us to learn more about the R-value you need to help with your home’s energy efficiency.

Garage Door Insulation and Garage Door Seals

An insulated garage door that’s expertly installed creates a tight seal around the edges, acting as a formidable barrier against hot summer air or the chill of winter. It’s this garage door seal that helps keep conditioned air where it belongs: inside your home. Sealing materials include weather stripping and insulating within the garage door itself.

You may be tempted to add polystyrene foam insulation to your garage doors. This aftermarket insulation attaches to the inside of your garage door. However, this type of insulation can be unsafe and add strain to your opener, springs, and track, eventually causing failure or damage – or worse, hurting a member of your family if the door unexpectedly falls.

Instead, Tracker Door Systems can help you choose a pre-insulated garage door. In these doors, liquid foam polyurethane insulation is injected between steel skins or a slab of polystyrene foam is built-in, resulting in a durable door that resists dents and dings and keeps your air conditioning inside your home. This type of insulation can keep your garage cooler by 10 to 20 degrees. For example, if it’s 90 degrees outside, your enclosed garage could be as cool as 70!

Send us a message online to request an estimate for new garage doors or to schedule garage door service in the Kansas City metro area. Read more about the brands we carry.

Enjoy a Return On Your Investment With Our Garage Door Services

Although upgrading your garage doors comes with an initial investment, the payoff in energy savings and benefits outweighs this cost. Think of it as planting a seed that grows into a tree offering shade for years to come. Advanced garage doors can slash your energy bills by helping to maintain optimal temperatures in your home and reducing strain on your HVAC system.

If you’d prefer to make a smaller investment instead, Tracker Door Systems can replace your garage door seals and weatherstripping to keep your home cooler this summer.

Regardless of the path you choose, embracing energy efficiency in every aspect of your home, starting with your garage door, sets a solid foundation for a cost-effective, eco-friendly lifestyle.

Schedule a consultation with Tracker Door Systems to learn how you can make your garage door more energy efficient this summer. Call us at (913) 585-3100 to get started.

For residents in the Leavenworth, Lansing, Eudora, and De Soto areas, our team is ready to assist you with all your garage door needs.

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How to Choose a Garage Door Repair Company: Tips and Red Flags https://trackerdoor.com/how-to-choose-a-garage-door-repair-company-tips-and-red-flags/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-choose-a-garage-door-repair-company-tips-and-red-flags Wed, 12 Jun 2024 02:42:50 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3338 Learn how to choose and install the right garage door opener for your lifestyle and home in Johnson County, Kansas. Discover the benefits of different opener types, from chain drives to wall mounts, and find out how advanced features can enhance your garage's functionality and security.

The post How to Choose a Garage Door Repair Company: Tips and Red Flags appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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Technician wearing blue and orange gloves using a drill and wrench to repair a garage door.

Finding Reputable Garage Door Repair Near You Doesn’t Have to Be Difficult

Just like anything in your home, your garage doors can sometimes break down or malfunction and require repair. And just like you’d hire a licensed plumber to fix your sink or a master electrician to rewire your outlets, you should hire a professional garage door repairman.

But you don’t want to hire just any repair company. It’s important to choose a reputable garage door repair company so you know the job is done right. Keep reading to learn how to identify a quality company.

Understanding the Basics of Garage Door Repair

Your garage door could need repairing for a variety of reasons. A knowledgeable repairman can identify the problem and provide the scope and cost of the necessary repair.

The following parts could be causing door malfunctions:

  • Door springs, which help raise and lower your door.
  • Tracks, which guide the door.
  • Cables, which support the door’s weight.
  • Garage door operator, the motorized component that opens and closes your door.
  • Sensors, which signal when it’s safe to close the door.
  • The door itself.

Repairs could be very minor, like realigning sensors, or replacing springs to help ensure smooth operation. Sometimes, the situation may call for more extensive work, such as replacing the garage door system altogether if it’s beyond repair.

By understanding these fundamental components of your garage door, you’ll have a foundation for a successful interaction with a garage door repairman and ensure your garage door remains a reliable and secure access point to your home.

Avoid These Red Flags

Steer clear of these warning signs that could signal trouble ahead when searching for a trustworthy garage door repair company. Avoiding these red flags can save you from frustration and financial strain.

  • Prices that are too good to be true. A repairman who asks for significantly lower fees may not have the experience or skills necessary to perform the repair your garage door needs. It could also mean they’re cutting corners or using inferior parts.
  • The absence of an online presence. If a garage door company is nowhere to be found on the internet, it might not be an insured business with a license to operate.
  • A lot of negative reviews on social media, Google, Yelp, Angi, or Better Business Bureau. A barrage of dissatisfied customers should be enough to rule out a company.
  • A hesitancy to provide references. Avoid any company that cannot provide references or prove they’re licensed and insured. You should only hire professionals who are legally permitted to operate and who are covered in case of an accident during the repair process.
  • Pressuring you to make an immediate decision. A garage door company should never send a salesperson who tells you that you have to make a decision right now, or who pressures you to buy all-new equipment without thoroughly explaining why you need it.

Hallmarks Of Reputable Garage Door Repair

Identifying a reputable garage door repair company is like finding a needle in a haystack; it requires attention to detail and a bit of savvy. If you find one company that waves all of these green flags, you can feel good about partnering with them to get your garage door and operator up and running again.

  • Have a valid business license and proof of insurance coverage. They’re not only qualified, but they’re prepared for any mishaps that could occur on the job. They should be happy to provide their credentials.
  • Provide a warranty on workmanship and materials. This warranty ensures your satisfaction.
  • Thorough and honest written estimates. A reputable company provides details on costs and materials before they begin work, so you know exactly what you’re approving and are never surprised when the bill comes.
  • A proven track record of delighted customers. You can read customer testimonials and reviews online to gauge a residential garage door repair company’s reliability and quality of service.
  • Accessibility. The company answers their phones or returns your messages in a timely manner. They offer emergency services when necessary, so your peace of mind is just a phone call away.
  • Skilled technicians. Experienced techs who stay up-to-date on the latest technology and components mean your home is in competent hands. A company that invests in training its staff is one that sets the standard for garage door repair near you.

Making the Final Decision: Tips and Tricks

To find the best garage door repair company in your area, follow these tips.

  • Get multiple estimates. Call at least three companies to look at your garage door system before choosing one. You’ll better understand the market rates and find the best value.
  • Read customer reviews. Remember that sometimes reviews are biased or don’t tell the whole story, so ask your friends, family, and colleagues for their recommendations.
  • Compare warranties. A company that offers a warranty on both their work and the products they use is one that cares about your satisfaction.

Tracker Door Systems Meets the Mark For Garage Door Repair Near You

If you live in the Kansas City area, including Leavenworth, Lansing, Eudora, or De Soto, and need garage door repair, contact Tracker Door Systems for an estimate by calling (913) 585-3100 or sending us a message online. We look forward to embodying the green flags we’ve described as we help you with your door system.

For a complete list of the areas we serve, please visit our Areas We Serve page.

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Modern Garage Doors: Smart Features For Your Home’s Security and Convenience https://trackerdoor.com/modern-garage-doors-smart-features-security-convenience/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=modern-garage-doors-smart-features-security-convenience Sun, 02 Jun 2024 02:22:48 +0000 https://trackerdoor.com/?p=3335 In the face of a power outage or emergency, knowing how to manually secure your garage door is crucial. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to lock, unlock, and manually open your garage door, ensuring it remains secure against potential intruders and environmental hazards. Learn practical tips to maintain and prepare your garage door for any unexpected situation.

The post Modern Garage Doors: Smart Features For Your Home’s Security and Convenience appeared first on Tracker Door Systems.

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Woman controlling a smart home system with a smartphone while sitting on a couch.

Today’s Overhead Doors Have Come a Long Way During the Past Few Decades!

Modern garage doors have come a long way from simple, manual doors that required physical effort to open and close. With advancements in technology, modern garage doors now include features that not only enhance the security of your home but also provide convenience and style.

5 Smart Features of Garage Doors

Upgrading your garage doors gets you several benefits that elevate how you live in your home and improve its curb appeal.

1. Elevating Home Security With Advanced Technology

When it comes to protecting your home, modern garage doors are on the front line, offering advanced security technologies that keep your home safe and secure.

Imagine being able to oversee your garage’s security because instead of garage door opener remotes that are easily lost, you use your smartphone. Using your phone, you can control access to your garage, keeping your possessions and family members safe.

If you do opt for a garage door opener with a remote, rolling code technology is much safer than it was in the past. Today, every garage door opener remote is unique and harder for criminals to duplicate. When paired with motion sensor lights that illuminate your driveway upon detecting movement, this technology is a powerful deterrent against intruders.

2. Enhancing Convenience With Smart Connectivity Features

Picture this: You’re running late for work, coffee in one hand and your briefcase in the other. With just a quick tap on your smartphone app, your garage door obediently opens, allowing you to dash out without missing a beat. This level of convenience extends beyond just your hectic mornings. Whether you’re nestled comfortably on your couch or halfway around the globe, the power to control your garage door is always at your fingertips.

Gone are the days of fumbling with traditional garage door opener remotes. Now, modern systems empower you with the ability to schedule door movements, monitor door activity, and even receive alerts directly on your mobile device. This smart connectivity not only simplifies your daily routine but also enhances the functionality of your home. Imagine being able to let in guests or package deliveries or double-check that you did, in fact, close your garage door when you left the house with just a swipe on your phone, no matter where you are.

Your replacement garage door operator can even connect to other smart home devices you already use to create a cohesive and intelligent system. Embracing this suite of smart features makes your garage door so much more than an entry point.

3. Keyless Locks Can’t Be Picked

Keyless locks that open with a keypad have been around for quite a while. A more modern device uses a fingerprint reader to unlock and open your garage door.

The most advantageous feature of these types of locks is that they cannot be conventionally picked because they have no keyhole. When paired with smartphone connectivity, you’ll receive alerts any time someone tries and fails to open your garage door using its keyless lock, so you can take appropriate actions to keep your home secure.

4. Save Money With Added Energy Efficiency

Compared to dated garage doors from the 1990s or even the early 2000s, modern garage doors are far more energy efficient because they often come pre-equipped with insulation features that help reduce your home’s energy consumption. When less heated or conditioned air escapes through your garage, your home’s HVAC system won’t have to work overtime to keep up.

Today’s insulated garage doors still look sleek and stylish because the insulation is neatly hidden within the door panels themselves. You don’t have to give up aesthetics in exchange for the money savings that comes with energy efficiency.

Bonus: Insulated garage doors can also significantly dampen outdoor noises, so your home is more serene inside.

5. Modern Garage Doors Amp Up the Aesthetics

Today’s garage doors are a testament to how form meets function. Although you can still select a simple white steel door, garage door manufacturers like CHI Overhead Door, Amarr, and Midland offer many designs that enhance and harmonize with your home’s architecture and your style preferences.

Make a super-modern statement with a glass garage door, or add a warm texture with a wood-look one. The choice of materials is just the beginning. You can also choose from colors, finishes, and hardware to stand out or blend in with your home’s exterior.

Upgrade Your Garage Door Today with Tracker Door

For homeowners in Leavenworth, Lansing, Eudora, and De Soto, modern garage door solutions are available to elevate your home’s style and security.

Today’s homeowners are looking for more than just form and function; they’re looking to add something truly beautiful to their homes. A replacement garage door is a great way to achieve it.

For a complete list of the areas we serve, please visit our Areas We Serve page.

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