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Find the Perfect Fit: How to Select the Ideal Commercial Door for Your Business Space

Commercial Doors for Your Business Space.

Choosing the perfect commercial door can feel like a challenging task. For your store, warehouse, or factory, you want the right aesthetic, the right material, and the right level of protection.

Moreover, your business can’t fully operate until you have the right doors in place, both aesthetically and for security purposes. So, if you’re trying to determine which commercial door is best for your establishment, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’ll cover the essential factors to consider when selecting a commercial door. With this information, you can make an informed decision, get the doors installed, and have your business ready for its grand opening.

Sounds interesting? Keep reading to learn more!

How Commercial Door Differ from Residential Door

It might be tempting to think that any door will do, but commercial needs are quite different from residential ones. The size is one obvious difference: commercial doors often need to be larger than residential doors. However, their use is also significantly different.

For instance, if you’re selecting a door for a restaurant kitchen, you need one that can handle frequent use and withstand the high levels of humidity and temperature changes common in such environments. It also needs to be easy to clean and resistant to spills and splashes, ensuring it maintains the hygiene standards required in a food preparation area.

Most commercial doors are thicker than residential ones and have insulation to maintain energy efficiency. If you have a temperature-controlled building, you’ll want to ensure that heat or cool air isn’t escaping through the door. 

You’ll also need a door that resists dents and bending in case there’s a collision. The hardware needs to be more durable, as does the lift function on a commercial door. Essentially, these doors must endure heavy, frequent use over many years.

Choosing the Best Commercial Door Style

It depends on the nature of your business what type of commercial door you need. Here are a few common commercial door types:

Fire Doors: Fire doors are essential for any business. They provide an exit in case of fire and help prevent the fire from spreading. Consider installing doors that automatically close when a fire alarm goes off to help contain the fire.

Garage Doors: An overhead garage door is necessary for warehouses and any business with a loading dock. If your company needs a large door opening for any reason, a garage door is a good fit. Options include steel roll-up doors and sectional doors, available in various sizes to meet your business’s needs. Insulated options are ideal if temperature control is important for showrooms or spaces where visibility matters; consider a see-through, full-visibility garage door to let in light and showcase your products.

High-Speed Doors: If you have a lot of traffic going in and out, a high-speed door can enhance efficiency. They help prevent temperature loss by minimising the time for outside air to enter and can reduce the transfer of dirt from outside to inside.

Storefront Doors: For retail spaces, storefront doors come in many styles and are crucial as they’re one of the first things customers see. These doors need to be attractive and durable, withstanding hundreds of openings and closings each day. They should also be easy to repair in case of damage or wear and tear.

Other Commercial Doors: There are specialty commercial doors for specific uses, and choosing the right ones can greatly enhance your business’s functionality. 

For example, If your business operates in a noisy environment or requires sound isolation, such as a recording studio, conference room, or theatre, soundproof doors are essential. These doors are designed to block out noise and provide a quiet, controlled environment inside. They are constructed with multiple layers of materials that absorb and dampen sound, ensuring minimal sound transmission.

Similarly, for businesses that require enhanced security, such as banks, government buildings, or high-risk retail locations, bullet-resistant doors are a critical choice. These doors are designed to withstand ballistic impacts and provide a higher level of protection against potential threats. They are made from materials like reinforced steel and specialised glass, offering both safety and peace of mind.

Choosing the Best Commercial Door Material

Commercial door come in a few common materials, each with its benefits:

Steel Doors: Known for strength and durability, steel doors require little maintenance and are easy to insulate.

Aluminium Doors: These have a modern, appealing look and come in various colours and textures. However, they dent easily under pressure.

Glass Doors: These doors are more durable than they might seem, resisting dents and providing a sleek, attractive look for showrooms. However, they can shatter under significant force.

Fibreglass Doors: Limited in insulation but resistant to salt air corrosion, these doors can be painted or come in different finishes, including faux wood.

Explore Our Collection of Commercial Garage Doors

If you need a new commercial overhead door, look no further. At Harbour Door, we offer a wide selection of commercial doors from top brands. Our inventory includes:

  • Parkade
  • Overhead Sectional Door
  • Rolling Steel
  • Counter Shutter
  • Fire Door

Our team will help you navigate through our options and choose the best commercial door based on your business’s needs, style, and budget.

Ready to Get Started? Let Us Help You Choose Your Next Commercial Garage Door

Since our founding in 1986, our family-owned and operated business has assisted countless companies throughout Victoria and the surrounding area. Our experienced team knows the ins and outs of choosing the right commercial door and understands the specific details of residential garage operators as well.

We’ll help you make an informed decision and provide the maintenance and repair services needed to keep your new door operating smoothly year-round. If you have any questions or are ready to get started, we can provide you with an estimate before any installation work begins. Just fill out our online contact form and we’ll be in touch with you soon.

Conclusion: Research Goes a Long Way When Choosing Commercial Doors

Choosing the right commercial door involves understanding your business’s unique needs, the benefits of each door type, and the environment in which your business operates. By following this guide, you can make an informed decision that enhances the functionality, security, and appearance of your business.

If you’re looking for commercial door services in Victoria or the surrounding area, get in touch with our team at Harbour Door. We offer full-scale commercial door services, including sales and service for Residential Garage Doors, Commercial Overhead Doors, Parkade Doors, Electric Operators, and both Residential and Commercial Gate Systems, including residential gate operators. Our expertise also extends to replacing older garage doors, especially those needing low-headroom tracks or other specialized hardware.

Get in touch with us today to get started, explore our range of services, and learn more about our values and what we offer.

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Harbour Door: Pioneers in Garage Doors, Gate Systems, Commercial Parkade and Overhead Doors

Pioneers in Garage Doors, Gate Systems, Commercial Parkade and Overhead Doors

Doors are more than just entryways; they protect our homes and businesses. In a world where your garage and parkade doors stand as the unwavering guardians, every detail, from the nuts and bolts to the effortless maintenance, plays a crucial role. A high-quality overhead door installation doesn’t just enhance your property’s appearance; it strengthens your haven and secures your valuable assets.

The landscape of garage door technology has evolved dramatically. No longer are you limited to manually lifting a heavy door; garage door opener installation has made access as easy as pushing a button. Innovations in garage door operators and intelligent garage door parts have transformed the industry, offering unprecedented convenience and security. This blog will discuss Victoria’s go-to brand for Garage Doors, Gate Systems, and Parkade and Overhead Doors.

Introducing Harbour Door

We at Harbour Door are your trusted partner in all things related to parkade doors, garage doors and gate systems. We’ve been doing it right for over 35 years, and that’s not just a tagline—it’s a promise. Since we opened our doors in 1986, we’ve been committed to providing top-notch garage door service to the Victoria community. Our longevity speaks volumes, and we’re proud to say that we’ve showcased our work in countless Victoria homes over the years.

Our team is a blend of fully trained technicians and installers, equipped with well-stocked vehicles to meet your service and installation needs. We’re available 24/7 for emergency services because we understand that life doesn’t always go as planned.

Why Choose Harbour Door?

At Harbour Door, we offer various services beyond garage door installation or garage door replacement. We’ve covered you, from garage door parts to garage door maintenance. And it’s not just about garage doors; we’re also experts in gate systems.

We’re a family-maintained business with a staff of 19, and we’re active members of various esteemed organizations like the Victoria Construction Association, International Door Association, Canadian Door Institute, Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce, and the Better Business Bureau.

We value your time and have dedicated personnel for service scheduling, transmitter, and digital entry programming. Forget about automated systems or voice mails; when you call us, you reach someone in person who understands your needs.

Range of Services Offered

Garage Doors

Regarding garage doors, we at Harbour Door are your ultimate garage door supplier in Victoria, BC. With over 35 years of experience, we’ve seen and installed it all! From sleek modern designs to classic wooden finishes, our range of residential garage doors is second to none. We offer many options designed to meet your unique needs and style preferences.

But we don’t just stop at supplying doors; we offer comprehensive garage door installation services. Our team of skilled technicians ensures that your garage door is installed with precision and care. And for those who love the convenience of technology, our garage door opener installation service is a game-changer. With just a click, you can open or close your garage door without leaving the comfort of your vehicle.

Gates

Ah, the gates! The first impression of your home or business. We offer a wide variety of gate systems that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you are looking for something robust and secure or elegant and inviting, we’ve got you covered. Our gates are designed to complement the architecture and design of your property, making them the perfect finishing touch.

We also offer specialized products like sliding barn door accessories, adding that extra flair to your property. And let’s remember our gate automation, the unsung hero that makes the magic happen. They ensure that your gate opens and closes smoothly every single time.

Overhead, Parkade and Rolling Steel Doors

For all your Commercial property needs, Harbour Door is your ultimate parkade and overhead door supplier in Victoria, BC. We offer many options designed to meet your unique needs and style preferences, and our team of skilled technicians ensures that your product is installed with precision and care.

Service & Repairs

We understand that a garage door or gate concerns aesthetics, functionality, and longevity. That’s why we offer top-notch garage door service and maintenance to keep your systems running smoothly. Our maintenance programs for Residential Garage Doors, Commercial Overhead Doors, Strata Townhouse Garage Doors, and Gates will ensure your current system is routinely inspected and serviced. Our technicians are fully trained and come with well-stocked vehicles, ready to tackle any issue you may have.

Got an emergency? Don’t worry! We provide 24-hour emergency service. Whether it’s garage door repair in Victoria or a malfunctioning gate system, we’ve got you covered.

Personalized Service

At Harbour Door, we believe in the power of personal touch. We have a dedicated team for service scheduling, transmitter, and digital entry programming. When you call us, you’re not just another number but a valued member of the Harbour Door family. Our team works closely with you to understand your design, colour, and style preferences, ensuring your garage door installation or replacement is tailored to your unique needs.

We get it; nobody likes talking to a machine. That’s why you’ll speak directly to a human when you call Harbour Door for garage door service or parts. No voice mail, no automated systems—just honest, genuine customer service. Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about garage doors; it’s about building lasting relationships.

At Harbour Door, our commitment to quality and service extends beyond garage door installation, garage door replacement, and garage door repair in Victoria. It’s about being a part of something bigger—a community of industry professionals who uphold the highest standards in everything they do.

Victoria Construction Association

We’re proud members of the Victoria Construction Association, an organization that brings together businesses in the construction industry. This membership lets us stay updated on the latest trends and technologies, ensuring we offer the best garage door parts and door operators.

International Door Association

Being a part of the International Door Association gives us access to a global network of garage door suppliers and service providers. This helps us maintain our garage door service and maintenance standards in Victoria, BC.

Canadian Door Institute

Our affiliation with the Canadian Door Institute provides valuable insights into the Canadian market. It helps us tailor our services to meet the unique needs of our local customers, whether it’s garage door opener installation or any other garage door service.

Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce

As active Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce members, we are deeply rooted in our local community. This enables us to better understand our client’s specific needs in Victoria, offering more personalized garage door services.

Better Business Bureau

Our association with the Better Business Bureau is a testament to our commitment to transparency and ethical business practices. We’re not just a garage door supplier; we’re a trusted partner you can rely on.

Our active memberships in these organizations are not just badges on our wall; they promise quality, reliability, and community engagement.

Warranty and Customer Support

Regarding garage door installation, replacement, or even garage door parts, we understand that quality and reliability are non-negotiable. We’re thrilled to offer an extended 3-year warranty on most residential doors and garage door operators. You read that right: three years of peace of mind, knowing we stand firmly behind our products.

Our commitment doesn’t end with our products; we fully support all manufacturers’ warranties. If you encounter any garage door opener installation or garage door repair issues in Victoria, BC, our team of experts is just a phone call away.

Conclusion

At Harbour Door, we exemplify quality and reliability in garage doors and gate systems. With 35 years of experience, we’ve mastered the art of garage door installation, garage door opener installation, and garage door replacement. Serving Victoria, BC, we provide 24-hour emergency service and free estimates, ensuring that your garage door repair in Victoria is as smooth as possible.

Got Questions?

Speak with our experts at (250) 383-1606 or drop us an email at info@harbourdoor.com

Get your Estimate Today!

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Preventing Fires In Your Garage

preventing-fires-in-your-garage
preventing-fires-in-your-garageFor many people, a garage is a multi-purpose space, not just a parking space for a car. In a garage you will often find electrical panels, garbage cans, work stations with a variety of tools and batteries. Items that simply don’t have another home, due to a lack of storage space, will commonly be found in the garage as well. From a safety perspective, this means that there are a number of potential causes for fire. Here are the annual garage fire statistics, from the US.
  • 6600 home garage fires
  • 30 deaths
  • 400 injuries
  • US$457 million in property loss
  • 93% occurring in one and two family homes

Reference

Are you aware that the leading cause of home garage fires is electrical malfunction? Most commonly the problems are shorts in the wiring, damaged wiring and overloaded outlets.

How To Keep Your Garage Safe

  • Do not store combustible items such as gasoline, oil, propane, paints & varnishes in your garage. Whenever you can, store these in a shed away from your home.
  • If you have appliances in your garage, keep flammable items away.
  • Many people charge batteries for power tools in their garage. Have only one charging pack plugged into an outlet.
  • Do not use an extension cord with a battery charging pack.
If you are able to improve your garage fire safety by renovating, here are the recommendations:
  • Install a 20 minute rated fire door, self closing and self latching, between the garage and home.
  • If you have a room above the garage, make sure the garage ceiling has been drywalled.
  • If you have a wall attaching the garage to your home, also ensure that the garage wall is drywalled.
  • If you have attic access from your garage, use an attic hatch cover.
  • Have a smoke detector properly installed
We want to help keep you safe. If you have any questions regarding safety concerns with your garage, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Common causes of garage fires include electrical faults, such as faulty wiring or overloaded circuits, flammable materials like gasoline or propane, and improperly stored chemicals. Additionally, heat sources like space heaters and hot equipment can also pose a fire risk if not used carefully.

To prevent electrical fires, ensure all wiring is up to code and not damaged. Avoid overloading circuits by not plugging too many devices into one outlet. Use a licensed electrician to handle any electrical upgrades or repairs, and regularly inspect your electrical systems for signs of wear or problems.

Store flammable materials in their original containers with labels intact and keep them in a well-ventilated area away from heat sources. Use metal cabinets with self-closing doors designed for flammable substances. Ensure these materials are kept away from any ignition sources and out of reach of children.

Yes, installing a smoke detector in your garage is a good idea. It can help alert you to smoke and potential fires early on. Ensure it’s a model rated for garages, as some detectors are designed to handle the dust and fumes commonly found in these areas.

It would help if you inspected your garage for fire hazards at least once a season or every three to four months. Look for signs of electrical issues, proper storage of flammable materials, and general cleanliness. Regular inspections can help catch potential problems before they become serious hazards.

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Keeping Your Garage Door Quiet

lubricate garage door parts

Older, noisier components and degradation over time will cause your garage door to gradually get noisier. If you are annoyed at the squeaking and squawking sounds your door makes when it’s in operation you can do a few things yourself to reduce this. If that fails or you are not comfortable making some minor adjustments to your door opener system, feel free to give us a call and we can have a service technician take a look.

Need help with your noisy garage door? Contact Us today to schedule a service with Harbour Door Services!

Examine

Examine the door and track hardware. Replace any nuts and bolts that are worn out due to wear and tear. Tighten any that have loosened up over time. Be careful not to over-tighten.

Lubricate Hardware

Hinges and torsion springs can generate a lot of noise when they have not been regularly lubricated. Lubricate all moving metal parts including hinges, rollers, tracks and springs. It is highly recommended to use a garage door lubricant spray as it penetrates the moving parts and does not attract dust.lubricate garage door parts

Check Tracks and Rollers

The rollers should easily roll through the tracks,¦not slide. If you have some rollers that are worn out and not rolling properly, they should be replaced. Newer nylon rollers are quieter than older steel rollers. You can call us and have a service tech do this (highly recommended) or you can unbolt the roller/hinge from the door and tilt out the roller, replacing it with a new one. Also check for proper track alignment.

rollers
Steel vs. nylon rollers

Lubricate Chain

If you have a chain-drive door opener, check that the chain is taut and lubricate with spray lubrication as needed. If you have a belt-drive opener, it does not require lubrication.

Isolate Noise

Noise will transfer from the opener into the home (mechanical vibration). If you’re not quite ready to replace an old opener, you can isolate this vibration by adding rubber spacers between the motor and the metal braces which attach to the ceiling.isolate vibration

If you have any questions about making your garage door opener quieter or safer, please contact us!

If your garage door is making noise, it could be for several reasons. Common causes include dry or worn-out rollers, loose hardware, or a lack of lubrication. Sometimes, the noise might be caused by a misaligned track or issues with the door springs. Identifying the specific type of noise can help solve the problem.

Lubricate your garage door every 6 to 12 months. Regular lubrication helps keep the door running smoothly and prevents noisy operation. If you notice any squeaks or stiffness before this timeframe, it might be worth applying lubricant sooner.

Yes, you can often fix a noisy garage door yourself by checking and applying lubricant to the moving parts, tightening any loose screws or bolts, and inspecting for any obvious wear and tear. However, if you’re unsure about the cause of the noise or if the problem seems complex, it might be best to consult a professional.

Silicone-based lubricants or white lithium grease are ideal for garage doors. These lubricants help reduce friction and keep the door operating quietly without attracting dust and dirt.

You might need to replace the rollers if you notice excessive noise, if they’re visibly damaged, or if the door moves unevenly or slowly. If the rollers are worn out or broken, they can affect the door’s performance and safety, so it’s a good idea to have them inspected and replaced if necessary.

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Inspecting Your Garage Doors

garage door hardware
garage door inspection

In previous articles, we discussed ways to make the exterior of your home look nicer, for your own enjoyment and/or to improve the appearance of your home for resale. We looked at garage doors and the 2 options of replacement or re-finishing. How do we really know if our older garage doors are still in decent and safe condition?

Your garage door is likely the largest moving part of your home. There are many mechanical components and it might be a bit overwhelming to understand and assess the functional and safety related characteristics of your garage doors.

In Victoria you are encouraged to call us anytime for a professional inspection.

The Main Things to Examine in a Garage Door Inspection:

Garage Door Panels

cracked garage door panels

We’ve all seen saggy or cracked garage doors that belong to someone else. Inspect your garage door panels for signs of cracking, loose pieces, gaps, etc.

Manual Release Handle

garage door manual release handle

This is the handle that hangs from your automatic door opener. With the door down, pull the handle and ensure that it releases the automatic opener. You should now be able to open the door by hand.

Door Balance

Close the door and disconnect the automatic door opener by pulling the manual release. This enables you to lift your door by hand. Carefully lift the door and notice if it rolls smoothly and easily, without any resistance or strange noises. After you lift the door to the top position it should remain there. If the door is difficult to raise and lower or does not stay in the fully open position, there are safety issues which should be addressed by a professional (that’s us.)

Spring and Hardware

garage door hardware

Stand inside your garage with the door closed. Take a flashlight and carefully inspect the hardware, including cables, springs, rollers, pulleys and mounting hardware. Inspect for wear and tear, including fraying of cables, broken springs or loose fitting mounting hardware. You can also notice the sound of the door as it operates. If there are strange noises, it may indicate a hardware issue that should be addressed.

Spring Containment

broken garage door spring

If a spring breaks, the force could send pieces of metal flying at a high velocity. To prevent this from happening, springs need to be contained. If you have a torsion spring above your door, it will already be mounted on a shaft, providing containment. If you have extension springs at the side of the door, ensure you have a containment cable that runs along the center of the spring.

Contact Safety Reverse

Garage doors are designed to reverse if they contact an object while closing. To test this, place a 2×4 piece of wood flat under the center of the door and press the door close button. When the door reaches the 2×4, it should immediately stop and reverse to its fully open position.

Non-Contact Safety Reverse

garage door sensor

Most doors installed since the early 1990s have a photoelectric eye (sensor) system. You can test it by waving an object, such as a broom or piece of cardboard in front of one of the sensors, while the door is closing. The door should immediately stop and reverse to its fully open position.

Frequency of Inspection

There is a wide range of thought regarding how often you should inspect your garage doors. If you have newer doors (5 years or newer), then an annual inspection is sufficient. It’s safe to say that the older your doors are, the more often they should be inspected. If you have 20+ year old garage doors, then a monthly inspection may be warranted.

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3 Types of Contemporary Garage Doors

Clopay Aluminum and Glass Garage Door

A garage door may represent up to 40% of the facade of your home. If you have a modern home, it’s important to choose a contemporary style that fits well with the home’s style and architecture. Contemporary garage doors are known for their clean lines and can be customized to suit the style of your home.

The 3 most common types of contemporary garage doors are aluminum and glass, steel, and wood. Which type of door is best suited for you? What are the distinguishing features of each type?

Let’s take a look.

Aluminum and Glass

Clopay Aluminum and Glass Garage Door
Clopay Aluminum and Glass Garage Door

Transform the look of your home with aluminum and glass garage doors while you allow natural sunlight into your garage space. You can choose the colour of aluminum and the level of glass transparency. Also, there are options for the placement of aluminum panels to suit your privacy needs.

Features

  • Visually clean, sleek and modern
  • Low maintenance
  • Many aluminum colour options
  • Window options for the amount of light transmission and privacy

 Steel

Steel Garage Door
Clopay Steel Garage Door

Steel garage doors are a great complement for contemporary homes. Available in many colours, they also have a variety of options which have varying thermal ratings. Steel doors are available in flush or grooved panels and are protected with a multi-layer coating system that prevents rust.

Features

  • Visually clean, sleek and modern
  • Variety of thermal/insulation options
  • Many colour options, even a faux wood grain!
  • Rustproof coating

 Wood

Custom Wood Door
Custom Wood Door

Yes, wood can also be used in contemporary garage doors. A major benefit of wood is that you can have a completely custom look designed. Using a variety of wood types and finishes, a completely unique look can be crafted for you.

Features

  • Completely custom appearance
  • Custom window design
  • Variety of thermal/insulation options
  • Many stain or paint options

 Which type of door do I choose?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question but there are a few thoughts to consider. Do you want low maintenance? Then perhaps aluminum or steel is a better choice. Do you want to allow a lot of natural light into your garage? Aluminum/glass is best for that. Do you want a completely customized look? Wood can be fully customized to match your design vision.

Either way, a new contemporary garage door for your home will be beautiful, practical and add value to your home.