-
Behind the Doors- Stories, tips, and innovations in garage doors.
Your Garage. Your Style. Your Story.
Author
Hello, I’m Rob, and I’ve been in the Garage Door industry for over 25 years. Throughout my career, I’ve always believed that the more knowledge you have, the better decisions you can make — “Knowledge is power.” Understanding the significant investment a garage door represents, I started this blog to help keep consumers informed and empowered. With so many options available, it’s crucial to know what to look for and the right questions to ask. My goal is to provide valuable insights that will help you navigate everything from garage door installation to repairs, ensuring you make the best choices for your home.
-
Hello world!
How to Choose a Garage Door Company Near You: 7 Questions to Ask Before You Book
Hiring the right garage door company matters. Here’s a checklist to make sure you hire pros who are reliable, affordable, and local to the GTA.
When your garage door stops working or you’re finally ready for that home upgrade, it’s tempting to search “garage door companies near me” and go with the first one that pops up.
But not all companies are created equal. Some are just resellers. Others show up, take a deposit, and vanish. And a few are honest, hard-working pros who stand behind their work.
At Direct Overhead Doors, we’ve heard all the horror stories. That’s why we created this simple 7-question checklist to help you feel confident hiring someone local and trustworthy—whether it’s us or someone else.
âś… 1. Are they truly local or just paying to look local?
Some big companies use ads to look like they’re nearby, but they’re based out of province or subcontract work to whoever’s available.
👉 Ask: Do you have a physical presence or team based in the GTA? Read their customers reviews.
✅2. Do they have real reviews from real people—going back more than just a few months?
Google reviews don’t lie. Look for consistent 5-star feedback that mentions names, specific installs, and outstanding service—not just vague “great job” comments from generic profiles.
But here’s something most people miss: check how far back the reviews go. If a company has hundreds of reviews but they all started in the last year, that’s a red flag. A long-standing company should have reviews dating back several years, showing a track record of reliable work and returning customers.👉 Tip: Sort by Oldest reviews to see how long they’ve been in the game.
👉 Bonus Tip: Check their Google review link here or ask for photos of completed jobs.
âś… 3. Do they offer free estimates?
You should never pay for a quote or feel pressured. A trustworthy company will come by, take a look, and give you honest recommendations—no strings attached.
👉 Ask: Do you charge for quotes or site visits?
âś… 4. Are they transparent with pricing?
Pricing should be clear—what’s included, what’s not, and how long your quote is valid. Watch out for “lowball” offers that come with hidden fees later.
👉 Ask: Can I see a sample breakdown of a recent quote?
âś… 5. What brands and materials do they work with?
The quality of the door matters just as much as the installer. Ask what brands they carry and if they’ll walk you through the pros and cons based on your budget and home style.
👉 Ask: Do you carry insulated doors, and can I choose from different panel styles?
âś… 6. Do they require a deposit?
This one’s tricky. Some jobs do require deposits for custom work, but for standard doors and openers, a no-deposit policy means they trust their work—and their customers.
👉 Ask: What’s your deposit policy?
âś… 7. Can you see examples of their work?
A good company is proud of what they do. Whether it’s Instagram, their website, or a before-and-after reel, you should be able to see the work for yourself.
👉 Ask: Where can I see photos or videos of past jobs?
🚪 Bottom line:
The right garage door company doesn’t just sell you a door. They guide you through the process, help you pick what’s best for your home, and make sure the job gets done right—with no drama.
If you’re in the GTA and looking for honest service, no-pressure quotes, and garage doors installed by people who care, we’re here to help.
-
-
If you live in Brampton, your garage door isn’t just about function—it’s one of the first things people see. Whether you’re upgrading for style, fixing a broken panel, or looking for better insulation, choosing the right garage door can boost your home’s value and save you headaches down the road.
🎨 1. Style That Matches Your Home
From classic carriage doors to sleek modern panels, your garage door should match the personality of your home. Brampton homes range from older subdivisions to newer custom builds, so take a walk around your neighborhood for inspiration—or check out our before-and-after gallery of recent Brampton installs.
âś… Pro Tip: Black, taupe, and sandstone are the most requested colours in Brampton this year. Want something unique? Ask us about custom window layouts.
đź’° 2. Budget Without Sacrificing Quality
You don’t need to sacrifice durability or design to stay within budget. Whether you’re looking for a standard replacement or a custom upgrade, there are a range of garage door options that balance affordability and long-term value.
We’ll help you choose materials and insulation levels that make sense for your home and your wallet—no upselling, just honest advice from a local, family-owned team.
âś… Pro Tip: Investing in a well-insulated, low-maintenance door now can save you from costly repairs and energy loss later.
🛡️ 3. Safety & Durability Matter More Than Ever
Break-ins through garage doors are on the rise in the GTA. We recommend:
- Reinforced hardware
- Smart garage door openers
- Regular maintenance (including lubricating hinges and springs)
Check out the latest transformation we did in Brampton. From old Green Wood doors- to the perfect Black Carriage
đź“ž Call to Action (Local + Trust-Building):
Ready to upgrade your Brampton home with a new garage door? We’re family-owned, local, and proud to serve this community. Reach out for a free quote—text us a photo of your garage and we’ll recommend the best fit for your budget and style.
-
Guide to washing your garage door
Your garage door is not just a functional element of your home; it’s also a prominent feature that contributes to your property’s curb appeal. Over time, exposure to the outdoor elements can leave your garage door looking dull and dirty. Fortunately, giving it a thorough wash can breathe new life into its appearance. Here’s a step by step guide on how to wash your garage door and enhance its appearance!
1. Gather Your Supplies:
Before you start, gather the necessary supplies You will need a bucket, mild detergent or car wash soap, a soft sponge or brush, a garden hose (do not use a pressure washer) and a ladder if your garage is tall.
2. Inspect The Surface:
Begin by inspecting your garage door for any visible damage or loose paint. Addressing these issues before washing ensures a more effective cleaning result.
3. Remove Cobwebs And Debris:
Use a broom or a brush to sweep away cobwebs, dust, and any loose debris from the surface of your garage door. Doing this will help prevent scratching your door during washing.
4. Mix A Cleaning Solution:
In a bucket mix a solution of mild detergent or car wash soap with water. Avoid using harsh chemicals as they can damage the paint or finish of your garage door.
5. Start Washing From Top To Bottom:
Dip your sponge or brush into the soapy water and begin washing the entire surface of your garage door from top to bottom. Pay special attention to areas that have accumulated grime or stains.
6. Rinse With A Garden Hose:
Once you have scrubbed down the entire surface, rinse your garage door with a garden hose. Ensure that all soap residue is washed away leaving behind a clean and streak free finish.
7. Dry With A Soft Cloth:
After rinsing , use a soft cloth to dry your garage door. This will help prevent water spots and ensure a polished look.
8. Wax For Extra Protection:If you want to provide additional protection to your garage door apply a coat of automotive wax. This can help shield the surface from the elements and maintain its shine.
9. Regular Maintenance:
Make a habit of washing your garage door periodically to keep it looking its best. Regular maintenance not only enhances the curb appeal of your home but it also contributes to the longevity of the garage door!
Leave a Reply