Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Why should I use a professional garage door dealer/installer?
A. At Total Access Door Systems, we believe that the installation of a garage door is
not a do-it-yourself job. A garage door is the largest moving object in your home and because of the large number of small parts, installation of a garage door is highly technical. Connecting the springs can be particularly dangerous and proper installation is critical to the performance of your door.
Professional garage door dealer/installers can typically install a door in a few hours and are careful to make sure safety requirements are met. Installations by most homeowners typically span several days and cause much frustration. In addition, incorrect installation can void certain warranties, so we recommend a professional handle the job for you. One of the other services a professional garage door dealer/installer can provide is the disposal of your old door, if you are replacing a door.

Q. Is 25 gauge steel thicker than 24 gauge steel?
A. No. When comparing strengths of steel, remember, the lower the gauge number,
the thicker (and stronger) the steel.

Q. Why should I choose an insulated door if my garage is not insulated?
A. A garage door opening is very large. Insulated doors will help to reduce the transfer
of heat or cold air into your garage. This is important for a number of reasons:
1) If your garage is attached to your home, air in the garage can travel through the doorway to your living area.
2) If you use your garage as a workshop, your comfort will be a top priority.
3) If your garage is below another room in your home, air can travel through the ceiling of the garage into the floor of the room above. An insulated door will keep temperatures in the garage fairly stable to reduce the temperature fluctuation in the room above.
4) An insulated door is generally quieter and has a more attractive interior than a non-insulated door.

Q. I want to replace my old door, but don't know how to dispose of my old one. Will my Installer take care of that?
A. Most garage door dealers will haul your old door away after the new door is installed  for a small fee. Total Access will haul away your old door at no charge.

Q. What are the benefits of a steel door versus a wood door?
A. Steel doors may require less maintenance than a wood door. Steel doors arepre-painted with a factory-applied baked-on coating. We recommend an annual cleaning of the exterior of the door with a common household detergent and warm water at least one time per year. Wood doors are unfinished and need to be primed and painted or stained on all six sides of the door upon delivery. We recommend a visual inspection of the paint or stain finish on wood doors one time per year to confirm if another finish application is necessary.