Do I have to have sensors on my garage door?

• <div><p>If you <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-open-garage-door-manually.htm">open your garage manually</a>, you don’t need sensors. If you have an automatic garage door opener, sensors are required by law. The <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/07/13/2018-14909/safety-standard-for-automatic-residential-garage-door-operators">federal law UL 325</a> mandates that all residential garage door openers in the U.S. must include sensors. Designed to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of entrapment, the sensors should be able to reverse the motion of the garage door within two seconds of detecting an obstruction. The sensors are there to keep you, your family, and your belongings safe from a door that might otherwise come down too hard or too fast. </p></div>

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Q: How long does a garage door last?

• <div><p>It's not uncommon for a <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/why-you-should-replace-your-garage-door.htm">garage door to last</a> 15 to 30 years. Of course, you shouldn't rule out replacing a visibly damaged or compromised door just because it's on the newer side. If a garage door was recently damaged by a car, replacement may be the best option for getting ahead of the issue before rot and rust kick in. Other telltale signs that it's time to look into replacing your garage door include visible sagging, cracking, rot, and damaged wood.</p></div>

Q: How do I plan and budget for a garage remodel?

• <div><p>Start by assessing your needs, setting a realistic budget, creating design plans, and selecting materials. Consulting professionals for advice can streamline the process.</p></div>

Q: Can I use a torch to melt the ice in front of my garage door?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s possible to use a torch to melt ice on your garage door, but we don&rsquo;t recommend it. It&rsquo;s very easy to bring the flame too close to the door, which can melt the weather stripping or even the garage door itself. You&rsquo;ll melt ice quickly with a torch, but the damage you&rsquo;re likely to cause can end up costing you a few hundred dollars to fix, which isn&rsquo;t worth it. Instead, we recommend pouring hot water over the frozen area or using a less intense heat source, like a hair dryer or space heater.</p></div>

Q: Do I have to have sensors on my garage door?

• <div><p>If you <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-open-garage-door-manually.htm">open your garage manually</a>, you don&rsquo;t need sensors. If you have an automatic garage door opener, sensors are required by law. The <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2018/07/13/2018-14909/safety-standard-for-automatic-residential-garage-door-operators">federal law UL 325</a> mandates that all residential garage door openers in the U.S. must include sensors. Designed to prevent accidents and reduce the risk of entrapment, the sensors should be able to reverse the motion of the garage door within two seconds of detecting an obstruction. The sensors are there to keep you, your family, and your belongings safe from a door that might otherwise come down too hard or too fast. </p></div>

Q: What is the best thing to lubricate a garage door with?

• <div><p>The best lubricant for garage door components such as hinges and springs is a lithium- or silicone-based lube made specifically for garage doors. You can find this online or at a hardware store for less than<b> $10</b>. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Garage Door Service pros in Athens, PA

*The Angi rating for Garage Door Service companies in Athens, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Garage Door Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Garage Door Service companies in Athens, PA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Garage Door Service needs.

Last update on November 02, 2025

Reviewed in November 2023
They came in examined my garage door and told me the best way they could fix it and quoted me a price. The repairmen were very curious and knowledgeable. I had them repair the door but I think they were too expensive. They said when I called them if they did the job they would take the 30...
Lockout Locksmith LLC
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Reviewed in December 2022
They were prompt and very personable. They worked great together. They left our garage cleaner than when they started. Garage doors look great.
Baker Garage Door
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Reviewed in October 2019
Like the owner is very professional. Cleaned up the site after the job was completed. Installation was perfect, this is the best fitting and quietest garage door I've had.
Access Door Systems, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2018
I called in to ask for service. They had a technician out early the next morning. He didn’t have the part at the time but returned when he did. The office staff and technician were very helpful and professional. I’ll certainly be using them for all future garage door needs.
INSTALLATION SERVICES INC
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Reviewed in February 2017
Had them do two jobs in the past 2 months. Excellent on both. Installed a smart door lock and fixed a nuisance screen door in one trip, later came back and installed new drainage pipe. Always available, very flexible, and patient. And of course the work is top-notch.
Banko & Son Remodeling LLC
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Reviewed in November 2015
Excellent! Our house was built 50 years ago and this company built the new garage with a style and materials that made the new construction look as if it had been built when the house was. They took time to build a quality structure with no short cuts. We are VERY pleased!
D&R Quality Builders Inc
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Reviewed in September 2015
At first it went great bought 4 doors and six windows from him his response time and punctuality where spot on. Keeped having problems with one of the sliding glass doors he never did get that fixed after repeated callings. But i tried him again on the service upgrade for my house being he is...
MIRABELLA WINDOW & DOOR/Clear Choice Windows Pgh
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Reviewed in May 2012
They did a very good job. They were on time, and finished the job in one day. I think their price was fair, because we got a really nice door, and it works really well. They were able to give us a discount, which was nice. They made us aware of the sale that was going on for the better door....
Sears - Uniontown Mall
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L3 Construction

L3 Construction

J Phelps General Contracting

J Phelps General Contracting

American Home Guard Home Warranty - PA

American Home Guard Home Warranty - PA

Raker Builders Co

Raker Builders Co

Trijor

Trijor

Lowry's Restoration Services

Lowry's Restoration Services

S and B Remodel

S and B Remodel

s&b construction & remodeling partnership

s&b construction & remodeling partnership

Quick Opener Motor Repair Newell 724-426-4550

Quick Opener Motor Repair Newell 724-426-4550

David Walter Builder LLC

David Walter Builder LLC

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