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Sheet metal garage doors, particularly steel and aluminum, have the cheapest materials and installation. Experienced homeowners may cut and shape the metal themselves; however, you can buy prefabricated metal from a hardware store or pay a metal fabricator to shape the metal to your specifications. Steel and aluminum garage doors can cost as little as $500 and go up to $3,000.

Garage door sensors should be installed on each side of the door, typically six inches off of the ground. The sensors communicate through an infrared beam, so they need to face each other directly for the system to work properly. Make sure they’re level and aligned, and keep the area around them clear. If they’re too high or out of alignment, your garage door won’t function properly.

No, there should not be a gap between your garage door and the floor. Gaps can make your garage less energy efficient, leading to higher energy bills. They also create an entry point for pests like rodents and insects, as well as rain and melted snow, which can lead to foundation damage or mold issues.

If you have a gap under your garage door, potential causes include an uneven garage floor or worn-out weather stripping. To fix it, you can try several solutions:

• Replace the weather stripping: The seal at the bottom of the door may need to be replaced.

• Adjust the garage door: You may be able to adjust the closing position on your garage door opener to eliminate the gap.

• Inspect the floor: If the concrete floor has shifted or is uneven, it may need to be repaired to create a level surface.

If these solutions do not resolve the issue, it is best to call a garage door repair specialist to inspect the door and floor.

The best options for lubricating a garage door are silicone- or lithium-based lubricants made specifically for this purpose. These products are designed to deeply penetrate the door's components, such as hinges and springs, providing long-lasting protection against wear and tear. A silicone-based lubricant is an excellent choice as it also prevents rust and corrosion and performs well in extreme heat and cold.

It is important to avoid certain products. Do not use heavy, oil-based lubricants or standard grease, as they can attract dust, dirt, and other debris that may get caught in the tracks. You should also avoid using WD-40, as it can strip away any existing lubrication.

You can typically find appropriate garage door lubricants online or at a local hardware store for less than $10.