Welcome to another blog post dedicated to our lovely Indianapolis residents and those beyond! Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that might not seem thrilling at first glance, but trust us, it’s a game-changer for your home and commercial garages – High Lift Garage Doors.

Why Indianapolis, you ask? Indianapolis, known as the “Crossroads of America,” is not just famous for its world-class sports events, beautiful parks, and rich history. It’s a city that appreciates innovation, efficiency, and practicality in every sphere of life, including home improvement and architectural design. And this is where the concept of high-lift garage doors steps in, brilliantly merging aesthetics with functionality and offering benefits far beyond what a typical garage door can offer.

And who better to guide you through this transformative journey than Affordable Garage Doors? With our years of experience and commitment to providing quality services in Indianapolis and its surroundings, we’re here to help you understand why high-lift garage doors could be the perfect fit for your home or business.

Join us as we delve into the world of high-lift garage doors, explore their numerous benefits, and reveal how Affordable Garage Doors can help you optimize your garage space and improve the convenience and value of your property in Indianapolis.

What is High Lift Garage Doors mean?

High-lift garage doors are a specific system designed to operate uniquely compared to standard garage doors. The term “high lift” refers to converting a standard, low-headroom garage door track to a higher-positioned one.

In a traditional garage door setup, the door opens horizontally along the ceiling of your garage. However, with a high lift garage door system, the door is made to open vertically to a greater extent and then curve back horizontally. This setup allows the garage door to rest closer to the ceiling when open, maximizing the vertical space within your garage.

High-lift garage doors are often chosen when there is a need to maximize the vertical space in a garage, such as accommodating taller vehicles or installing car lifts. They are also beneficial in warehouses or commercial settings where maximizing space for storage or large machinery is essential.

Ultimately, the main goal of a high-lift garage door is to increase the usable space within your garage, providing you with more room to utilize as you see fit.

Types of High Lift Garage Doors

High-lift garage doors, like traditional garage doors, can come in various designs, shapes, and materials. However, the types of high lift doors are usually categorized based on the material used and the design or operating mechanism. Here are some popular styles:

Sectional High Lift Garage Doors

These doors are divided into sections or panels, hinged together. As the door opens or closes, the panels slide up or down the tracks and curve around the corner, moving from vertical to horizontal. This is the most common type of high lift door and can be made with various materials such as steel, aluminum, wood, or even glass.

Roll-Up High Lift Garage Doors

Roll-up doors are primarily used in commercial settings by coiling around a drum above the door opening. High-lift versions of these doors lift higher into the ceiling area, making them perfect for environments needing maximum floor and wall space.

Sliding High Lift Garage Doors

These are less common in residential settings but can be seen in commercial or industrial applications. They slide to the side and up along the wall when opened, providing high lift capabilities and conserving significant space.

Regarding the materials used, here are some common types:

Steel High Lift Garage Doors

Steel doors are the most common due to their durability, strength, and low maintenance. They can be insulated to provide thermal efficiency.

Aluminum High Lift Garage Doors

Lighter than steel, aluminum doors are resistant to rust and corrosion, making them durable. They can also come in contemporary designs with full-view glass panels.

Wood High Lift Garage Doors

Wooden doors offer a traditional and elegant aesthetic. While they require more maintenance, they can be custom-crafted to fit any architectural style.

Glass High Lift Garage Doors

A more modern option, glass doors let natural light into the garage and provide a sleek, contemporary look. They’re often combined with aluminum frames for strength and durability.

Each type of high-lift garage door has its benefits and considerations, so choosing one that best suits your specific needs, preferences, and building architecture is essential.

Benefits of Installing a High Lift Door

The benefits of installing a high lift garage door are manifold, appealing to homeowners and business owners who wish to make the most of their available space. Here’s a rundown of some key advantages:

Maximizing Vertical Space

The most apparent benefit of a high lift garage door is the extra vertical space it provides. It allows the door to open closer to the ceiling, freeing up overhead room that you can use for storage, a car lift, or even to accommodate taller vehicles.

Versatility

High lift doors can serve various purposes, from residential garages needing to house large vehicles or recreational equipment to commercial buildings looking to maximize storage or operational space.

Enhanced Aesthetics

High-lift doors can significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of your garage. They come in various styles and materials to suit your home or building’s architectural style.

Increased Property Value

As a practical and stylish upgrade, a high lift garage door can boost the value of your property. This can be a significant advantage if you plan to sell your property.

Safety and Security

High-lift garage doors can enhance the safety and security of your property. They are often sturdier and more secure than traditional garage doors, making it more challenging for potential intruders to gain access.

Reduced Noise

If your garage doubles as a workshop or recreational area, a high lift door can help reduce noise transfer to the rest of your home or building.

Remember, while high lift garage doors provide many benefits, they require expert installation and may not suit every garage configuration. It’s essential to consult with a reputable garage door installation company like Affordable Garage Doors to ensure that a high lift door is the right solution for your needs.

Installation Process for a High Lift Garage Door

Installing a high lift garage door is a specialized task requiring experienced professionals due to its complexity and potential safety risks. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Consultation and Measurement: The process begins with a consultation, during which your needs and requirements are discussed. The garage space is measured accurately to determine the appropriate door size, lift conversion kit, and the amount of high lift you need.
2. Selection of Door Type and Design: You choose the style, material, and type of garage door you want based on your aesthetic preference, budget, and functional needs.
3. Removal of Old Door (if applicable): If you’re replacing an old garage door, it must be removed safely, including the springs, tracks, and opener.
4. Installation of New Tracks and Springs: The high lift conversion requires installing new tracks that extend higher up into the garage. High-lift springs, cables, and drums are also installed to accommodate the new track layout.
5. Installation of Door Panels: The door panels are installed one at a time. The sections are connected with hinges, and rollers are attached for sectional doors. The rollers are then guided into the tracks.
6. Installation of Garage Door Opener: A high lift garage door requires a specific type of opener – a side-mounted or jackshaft garage door opener. This is installed on the wall beside the door and connected to the door with a torsion bar.
7. Testing and Adjustment: The door’s balance and operation are tested after installation. Adjustments are made as needed to ensure smooth and safe operation. The opener’s settings are also calibrated and tested.
8. Final Check and Cleanup: The installation team performs a last check, ensuring everything works properly. They also explain how to operate the door, provide maintenance tips, and clean the work area.

It’s important to note that the exact process can vary based on the specific door type, the configuration of the garage, and the professional installing the door. Installing a high lift door is not a

DIY job and should always be left to professionals to ensure it is done correctly and safely. Always consult with a reputable garage door installation company, like Affordable Garage Doors, to ensure you get the best service and results.

Common Maintenance Tips for High Lift Garage Doors

Proper maintenance of your high lift garage door is essential to ensure its longevity, optimal performance, and safety. Here are some common maintenance tips:

1. Regular Inspection: It’s essential to regularly inspect your garage door for signs of wear or damage. This includes checking the springs, cables, rollers, and other hardware components. If you notice any issues, contact a professional garage door service to have them addressed.
2. Lubrication: Regular lubrication of moving parts is vital to prevent friction and wear. Use a high-quality silicone or lithium spray to lubricate the rollers, hinges, springs, and tracks every few months or as your garage door manufacturer recommends.
3. Cleaning: Keep the tracks clean and free from dust and debris that can affect smooth operation. Wipe the door surfaces regularly to keep them clean and prevent corrosion or decay, especially if your door is made from steel or wood.
4. Checking the Balance: Your garage door should remain stationary halfway open. If it doesn’t, there could be an issue with the springs or cables, and a professional should be called to adjust them.
5. Test Safety Features: Regularly test the auto-reverse safety feature of your garage door opener to ensure it is working correctly. This feature is designed to reverse the door if it encounters an object while closing.
6. Professional Servicing: Even with regular maintenance, having your garage door professionally serviced at least once a year is a good idea. The technicians can spot potential issues and carry out necessary repairs or replacements before they lead to significant problems.

Remember, high-lift garage doors have unique mechanisms and heavier springs due to their high-lifting nature. Therefore, never attempt to repair or replace any parts as it could lead to serious injury. Always contact a professional garage door service, like Affordable Garage Doors, to handle any maintenance or repairs.

Need High-Lift Garage Door Installed?

As we conclude this exploration of the versatile, space-saving world of high-lift garage doors, it’s clear that this modern innovation is more than just a trendy option. It’s an investment in maximizing your garage space, enhancing aesthetics, and boosting your property’s value. However, the benefits of these doors can only be fully realized with professional installation, maintenance, and repairs.

This is where Affordable Garage Doors come into play. As one of the most trusted garage door companies in Indianapolis, we’re committed to providing high-quality garage doors, excellent customer service, and professional expertise. Whether it’s choosing the right high lift door to suit your needs, expert installation, or providing reliable maintenance services, we’ve got you covered.

If you’re ready to elevate your garage experience, don’t hesitate to contact us at (317)-372-5337 or visit our website to explore our garage door services. While there, remember to check out our other informative guides and tips to help you make the most of your garage space. With Affordable Garage Doors, a smoother, safer, and more efficient garage is just a call away!