Most people don't even think about their automatic garage door opener not working during a power outage. Read tips to avoid getting "locked-in" your garage. [Read more...]

A timely review of garage door hurricane safety tips. [Read more...]

Take a tour with Clopay of the Cool Energy House during the 2012 International Builders' Show in Florida last week. [Read more...]

The first named tropical storm of the year, Arlene, is expected to make landfall tomorrow on the eastern shores of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center said. And while forecasters say Arlene is not likely to threaten the U.S. coast, it’s an opportune reminder to homeowners in hurricane prone regions to prepare in advance to make sure your home is secure if a storm hits. [Read more...]

Hurricane Earl is barreling toward the Eastern Seaboard Thursday with winds swirling at around 145 mph. Forecasters issued watches and warnings along the Atlantic coast for most of North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and part of Massachusetts, alerting residents that hurricane and tropical storm conditions were possible within 36 to 48 hours. [Read more...]

The adoption of the International Building Code (IBC) in most states means wind load is no longer an issue exclusive to Florida and other hurricane hot spots. [Read more...]

It’s hard to believe that the official start of the 2010 hurricane season is just two weeks away. The forecast team at Colorado State University is predicting above-average storm activity in the Atlantic basin between June 1 and Nov. 30 with eight expected to be hurricanes and four developing into major hurricanes (Saffir/Simpson category 3-4-5) with sustained winds of 111 mph or greater. [Read more...]

Characteristics of an eco-friendly garage door [Read more...]

Lifestyle. If you have children or use the garage as a workshop, opt for an insulated, heave gauge steel door that isn’t going to dent every time a ball or bike hits it. This type of door will also help keep the space a comfortable temperature. Upkeep. Maintenance is another consideration. Every door needs regular check-ups to maximize its life and reliability. Steel doors are very durable and virtually maintenance free, but some people prefer the warmth and character of wood and the limitless design options. Depending on the climate and exposure, wood doors will need to be painted or stained every few years. “Green Factor.” Sustainability is a key element of green building, and, with a life cycle of between 15 and 20 years, an investment in a durable garage door that can withstand the rigors of daily use is money well spent for a home and the environment. Look for galvanized torsion springs, which look better and last 50% longer than the industry’s standard oil-tempered springs, heavy gauge steel to ensure a quality appearance, dent resistance and quiet operation, a hot dipped galvanized coating topped with a baked-on paint finish that resists fading and peeling, and environmentally safe, CFC-free insulation that is bonded on both sides of the door panel for improved strength and energy efficiency. Building Code Requirements. If you live in a coastal region or high wind area you may need a reinforced door as specified by the local building code authority. Because of their size, garage doors are more susceptible to wind damage than other exterior openings- especially two-car garage doors. Unless you have a tested, reinforced door installed, high winds can force it out of the opening, putting your home and property at risk.