How to Detect Garage Door Scams

A garage door is an important household fixture. It allows you to conveniently enter and exit your home while providing a barrier against intruders and the elements. However, like all pieces of equipment, it breaks down on occasion — and when this happens, chances are that you’ll want to have it fixed as quickly as possible.

Sadly, there are scammers out there who, taking advantage of customers’ desperation and ignorance about garage doors, will grossly overcharge for simple, inexpensive repairs. Read our guide to learn about common tricks that garage door scammers use, ways to recognize these swindlers and how to find a trustworthy garage door company.

Types of Garage Door Scams

Garage door scammers commonly run their business from national call centers, where they send out their “technicians” to the customers’ homes. Here are some common tricks they use to rob unsuspecting customers of their money:

1. The Rebuild Package Scam

One garage door repair scam that homeowners encounter is being told that they need a complete garage door replacement when a simple repair would suffice.

Broken garage doors are typically due to a malfunctioning of one of the following parts:

• The lock button is on.
• The electric eye is misaligned.
• The remote control is broken.
• The motor has burned out.
• The chain is broken.

The first two problems are easy fixes that anyone could handle, but most homeowners, knowing very little about garage door repairs, just start searching for a garage door repair company. Desperate to have their door fixed before it gets dark, they contact the first company with a “garage door repair” ad that they come across — which sometimes ends up being a scammer.

A common scam scenario is that the repairman will perform an inspection and tell the customers that they need to completely replace their garage door system. To sound more convincing, they may fabricate some details, such as saying that new rollers, cables, torsion springs and bearing brackets are needed.

In reality, the issue is a simple problem, such as an electronic eye that is not aligned properly and just needs a slight adjustment. This repair usually takes less than a minute and costs no more than $75, but victims of this scam may pay over $400 to replace their functioning garage door.

2. The Lifetime Guarantee Scam

A lifetime guarantee for your garage door may sound like a great deal, but it can actually be another sign of a scam. This is because scammers use a trick — the technicians will install a cheap, unreliable part — often springs — that they know will fail. When it breaks down, which is sure to happen quickly, you will naturally call on them to repair it. The company will then come and replace the component with another cheap part and charge an exorbitant fee for their service. The part they replaced will break again soon, meaning you’ll be calling on them again in the near future.

Many people assume a lifetime guarantee means they won’t be charged for anything ever again, and scammers take advantage of people who make this assumption.

3. The Unidentified Technician Scam

Some companies will post ads for their business as if their own in-house employees will be handling the repairs. Then, they subcontract the task to an unlicensed independent contractor who cannot be contacted if something goes wrong.

It is fairly common to hire subcontractors in the construction industry. Building a pool, for example, requires subcontractors to divide up all the work. One team does the excavation, one team lays the foundation and another one is in charge of the finishing work. This is not always broken down for the customer.

This is also the case with many garage door businesses. When it comes to more complicated projects, sometimes tasks must be subcontracted to multiple teams. One professional may be more experienced in working with garage door springs, for example, while another one has more experience replacing the door itself. This is a common practice, and scammers often use it to their advantage.

Scammers will often subcontract the work to another party without telling you or providing you with any information about the subcontractor. Then, they will take all the money for themselves.

How to Recognize a Garage Door Scam

Many customers end up getting scammed because they are desperate to have their door fixed quickly and fail to recognize many of the warning signs of garage door scams. Here are some of the most common red flags to look out for:

• There are no logos or other identifying marks: If your repairman drives an unmarked van, has no uniform or anything else to identify his company, this is a likely sign of a scammer. Most garage repair companies proudly display their logos.
• They give false names: Scammers that do display names will often use multiple, generic or confusing names. Check to see if your repair service’s brand name is consistent across their site, in advertisements, in phone greetings, on vehicles, uniforms and paperwork.
• The company claims to have acquired another company: If the company name they provide over the phone is different from the name you found in the ad, they will commonly explain that this is because they bought the other company. This is most likely the sign of a scam.
• They hide information about their company: If the company is hesitant or unclear about providing any information about themselves, this should raise suspicion. Legitimate garage door companies will not hide information from you regarding who they are, their location, and how you can reach them. They want it to be easy for you to contact them and develop a lasting relationship.
• They’re located far away: If the service company tells you that their office is far from where you live, this is also a red flag. The company you hire should be located close enough that you could easily visit their office and even ask to speak to the owner.
• They charge exceptionally high prices: Before searching for a technician in your area, look around online and get an idea of what a repair or installation typically costs. If a price seems exorbitant, ask the company why. If they can’t explain, search for another company.
• They charge exceptionally low prices: Garage doors cost a particular amount, and the installation costs a particular amount. If a price seems unrealistically low for a repair, this is also a sign of a scammer, and chances are that they’re using cheap materials and the repair will not last very long.
• They give an overall charge without having seen the door: If your repairman charges you before even knowing your situation, it is likely to be a scam. A legitimate garage door repair company will instead tell you their rates, including their hourly rate, the rate of labors and what they charge for travel. They will not provide an overall cost until they have assessed your situation.
• They ask for money in advance: Requesting to be paid in advance is never done by professional garage door repair companies, but scammers will occasionally request it — and then may never show up for the repair.
• They request you pay in cash: Requesting to be paid in cash is another warning sign, as some dishonest servicemen may later claim that you never paid them at all.

Tips for Avoiding Scams and Finding a Reputable Garage Door Company

To avoid scammers and find a reputable garage door repair service, follow these steps:

1. Educate yourself about garage doors.

The first step you should take to avoid scams is to educate yourself about how garage doors work, including the name and function of each part. One way to learn about this is by chatting with a technician when he or she installs your garage door system. If this isn’t possible, do some online research and see if you can diagnose your problem. If you happen to know that the motor is functioning properly, for example, but your technician tells you that you need to replace your entire system, you’ll know you’re dealing with a scammer.

2. Research companies.

When searching for a company, resist the temptation of going with the first one you find. Instead, do some in-depth research:

• Check for reviews. Ask friends and family for referrals, and search Yelp and social media sites for local companies with good reviews. Make sure that the reviews are genuine and not forged. You can also check out reviews from theBetter Business Bureau.
• Confirm their physical address. Make sure the company has an actual address and try to locate it on Google Maps. You should also verify that the phone number is real. Looking for photos of the business and owners is another good idea. Make sure that the pictures were not stolen from another website.
• Look for associations and accreditations. A company is more likely to be legitimate if it’s associated with reputable organizations. Look for the“IDA” logo, which means the company is part of the International Door Association. Members of this organization agree to adhere to a code that prohibits unethical activities. Search for the “IDEA Accreditation” as well. This is the only independent, third-party credential for businesses that install and repair garage doors. Companies that have been accredited have proven they know the practices and safety procedures of the industry.
• Look for social media presence. Confirm whether the company has a page on Facebook or other social media. Do other websites mention the company?

3. Call the companies.

If the company is legitimate, you should be able to call them between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. If they answer, here are some good questions to ask:

• What is your physical address?
• Do all your employees have operating licenses?
• Is your company bonded?
• Do your vehicles display your company’s name or do you use subcontractors?
• Does your company have liability insurance coverage?
• Do your employees have accident insurance?

“Bonded” means that if the company does a poor job or abandons the project, you are protected financially.

Liability insurance covers their liability while they’re on the job, meaning that if a technician gets injured at your home, you won’t be liable.

4. Examine and question the technician.

When the technician comes to your home, make sure to do the following things:

1. See if the repairman’s vehicle has a company logo. Does it match the name of the company you found online?
2. Check if the repairman is wearing a uniform with the company’s name on it. Does he or she have a nametag?
3. Make sure to request a written estimate. This way you’ll get an idea of what you have to spend up front.
4. Ask to see a service agreement. Sometimes, what companies tell you can be completely different from what is written in your contract or service agreement. If a technician says something is covered, but there is no mention of it in the agreement, then they are not legally obligated to fulfill that promise. Although this is clearly unethical, no legal action can be taken against this.
5. If a part needs to be replaced, ask the technician why. They should be able to give you a detailed answer. If they tell you that your garage door may collapse if a certain component isn’t replaced, they may be trying to scare you into buying unnecessary parts.
6. Have the repairman explain the function of the part.
7. If they offer a warranty, make sure that the labor is included.
8. If the labor is included, ask to see the warranty in writing.
9. Request a detailed invoice that shows all the components that have been replaced. Make sure you the company didn’t double-charge you for any items. There should also be an explanation of the fees and some warranty options included.

Although many scams involve lifetime warranties, not all lifetime warranties are scams. If you have any doubts about a warranty offered to you, check it out on the manufacturer’s site.

Contact Oregon City Garage Door Today

If you live in or around Portland, Ore., and are in need of any garage door services, look no further than Oregon City Garage Door. For 25 years we have provided garage door installation, replacement, repair and maintenance services to the greater Portland area. If your repair is urgent, we will be at your door quickly with everything needed to make a quality repair.

We offer a wide selection of sturdy, attractive garage doors, including steel, wood and aluminum. These doors come in a variety of styles, including carriage house-style, classical traditional and modern, and are available in many colors so you can easily match them with your home’s exterior.

To complement your garage door purchase, we also offer LiftMaster® garage door openers. These cutting-edge devices operate smoothly and quietly and allow you to operate the doors from anywhere you can get a WiFi connection. These devices will also notify you whenever your door is opened or closed.

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, call us at 503-632-3070 or fill out our contact form. Our professional consultants will be happy to speak with you and assist you in choosing a door based on your budget, needs and style preferences.

5 Tools Every Man Should Have In His Garage

Five Tools Every Man Should Have In His Garage

Whether you’re 25 or 75, having a properly kitted out toolbox is not only convenient, it might as well be a necessity. With the right tools, you can do almost anything, from building a cabinet to fixing your adorable niece’s old bike. You can also save yourself time and money by getting the job done yourself, and revel in the satisfaction knowing that you are equipped to take on any handy problem life might throw at you. Building up a properly outfitted tool kit can be expensive and overwhelming if you don’t know where to start, so here are the 5 pieces you need to get you well on your way to becoming the ultimate Mr. Fix It.

Claw Hammer

This one is a pretty obvious choice, because hammers are extremely useful for decorating, repairing, building, and even small demolition jobs. A solid 16 ounce hammer is a good starter hammer as it’s heavy enough to get the job done but not heavy enough to weigh you down during a project. Go for a hammer with a long lasting synthetic handle as wooden ones are easily broken.

Phillips Screwdriver

A Phillips head screwdriver has a four star point at its end that fits into the corresponding screw’s shallow, cross-shaped depression. This allows you to apply more torque than you could with a flathead screwdriver, for instance. Phillips screws have basically replaced flathead screws, so make sure you have a good set of them in varying sizes.

Flathead Screwdriver

A flathead screwdriver has a single blade that fits into the single slot of a flathead screw. Your dad probably had a few of these when you were growing up. As mentioned above, even though they’ve been largely replaced by the Phillips screwdriver, flatheads are still great for prying, nudging and scraping things if needs be.

Crescent Wrench

The crescent wrench is an adjustable wrench with a sliding jaw that changes the width of the wrench. So you can use the same tool on different size nuts and bolts. It’s essentially like having 50 wrenches in one and will probably be the tool that you get the most use out of in your kit. For this reason, it’s important that you don’t skimp on quality, so don’t be afraid to go for a higher priced model.

Vice Grip Pliers

These guys are your extra set of hands, as they can lock into place right where you need them most. They are also incredibly versatile tools that can be used as pliers, a pipe wrench, an adjustable wrench, wire cutters, a ratchet, or a clamp. Standard 5-10WR pliers are a good starter model for most stuff around the house and garage.

Things To Remember When Buying Your Tools

Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to the essentials. Be honest with yourself about what you really think you’ll need, and consider renting bigger items you might only use once or twice. Most of all, be patient. Building a good toolbox takes time.

Oregon City Garage Door is here to help you with all of your garage door needs. To schedule service, repair, or installation, fill out our online form or give us a call at 503-632-3070 today!

Winterizing Your Garage Door

Winterizing Your Garage Door

With the cold, the hail, and the snow, winters can be a brutal time for the health of your house, and that includes your garage door. If your door is not properly sealed, cold air will rush in, chilling your entire garage and possibly affecting the warmth of your home. Depending on how cold it gets, this could potentially harm your car or other valuables. A little bit of prep to winterize your garage door now could save you lots of money and time by preventing costly door repairs come spring. Plus, it isn’t too difficult or time-consuming if you follow these simple steps:

Check and Replace Batteries

Cold weather causes the chemical reactions in batteries to proceed slowly, so a battery that works fine in the fall and spring may simply cease working during the winter. That’s why it’s important to check the batteries in your remote opener as well as your garage door keypad if you have one.

Lubricate Metal Parts

All metal parts in your garage door should be regularly lubricated throughout the year, especially the rollers. It is very important to do so, though, during the winter because the cold weather can freeze oil and dirt to the door tracks preventing it from being able to raise and lower. If possible, a specifically produced lubricant for garage doors should be used. As a last resort, WD-40 should generally get the job done as well. All greasers should be avoided, and the lubricant should be used sparingly because you want the wheels to turn, not slide.

Check the Springs

Inspecting the springs is also often times referred to as checking the counterbalance system. First, disconnect the garage door from its opener, then manually open and close the door a few times. If the door sticks or won’t move, it still requires further lubrication and you should revisit the last step. Once you’ve tested the door manually, raise or lower it until it’s halfway open, then let go. If the springs are working correctly, the door should be held in place. If it opens or closes very slowly, that’s OK too. But if your door slams open or shut when you release it, then your counterbalance system is off and you should contact a professional at Oregon City Garage Door to have it checked out and fixed.

Check the Automatic Reversal Mechanism

This is an important safety component, and all new garage doors are required to have them. If you have an extremely old door that did not come equipped with one, we highly recommend that you have one installed. If yours is not working, try cleaning the sensor eye. If the problem persists, that usually means that the two sensor eyes need to be aligned. If that still doesn’t fix it, contact a professional at Oregon City Garage Door to have it quickly and professionally fixed.

Insulate Your Garage Door

Insulating your garage door is probably the biggest key to keeping the cold of winter out of your garage. First, choose the insulation that best fits your type of garage door:

• For flat garage doors without panels, foam board or reflective insulation typically works best. These insulations can also easily be attached with a simple adhesive.
• For wooden frame-and-panel doors, you’re going to want to cut and fit rigid insulation into the recesses between the frames.
• For steel doors, you can really use any type of insulation, but Batt insulation, made out of flexible fiberglass, is typically the easiest to work with.

With whatever insulation you choose, simply follow the instructions for how best to attach it to your garage door. Most insulation can be doubled up upon if you are looking for extra protection from the elements.

If you have questions about whether your garage door is ready for winter or if you would like to schedule service, fill out our online contact form or give us a call at 503-632-3070.

Top 7 Easy Home Updates

Top Seven Easy Home Updates

Our living spaces should be a comfortable reflection of our personalities and personal tastes. However, if you’ve been living in the same house for awhile, chances are that your decor scheme might need a little freshening up. A revitalized home environment is a great way to boost your mood and keep you from feeling stagnant, but not everyone can afford to do a full-scale home makeover whenever the mood strikes. However, here are a few easy home updates you can do that don’t cost as much as a remodel, but still provide a big enough change to make the space feel different.

1. New Light Fixtures

Nothing dates a room faster than tacky, old-fashioned light fixtures. Shine a little light on your living space by changing up your lampshades or overhead lighting for a whole new look. Lighting is one of the easiest ways to alter the ambiance of a space, so play around with different bulbs and fixtures to create the perfect mood.

2. Modern Door Hardware

Old and rusty door hardware might not seem noticeable, but you’d be surprised at how the simple act of changing up the fixtures can spruce up a room. Replace broken and outdated door knobs and knockers with modern, classic pieces for a practical room refresh.

3. Fresh Table Linens

The easiest way to overhaul your dining room is not by replacing your dining furniture, it’s changing your table cloth and linens. Adding a vibrant color or patterned cloth can instantly brighten up the area and make it seem more modern and appealing. Check out interior design magazines for your table-scape inspiration or try mixing prints and textures to create a decor scheme that showcases your unique personality.

4. New Bathroom Accessories

Buying new towels, a rug, a shower curtain or replacing your existing bathroom fixtures is almost as good as a full bathroom remodel. By matching your accessories like soap dispensers, fixtures and even towels, you’ll create a whole new room for a fraction of the cost.

5. Unusual Accent Furniture

Adding a new rug or chair to a room is an easy way to pull a space together without spending a lot of money. Choose something in a bold pattern or color to draw the eye and create interest. If you’re not sure if you can afford to buy new furniture right now, don’t worry. Make an adventure of it by scouring estate sales and flea markets. Thrifting is a fun way to find a great but affordable piece.

6. New Garage Hardware

Since it’s really a part of the house per say, you’d be forgiven for neglecting the state of your garage. Old garage doors with dated designs can really make your home look shabby. Try replacing your current garage door with a new and more modern version. It’s a quick and practical way to improve the value of your property and boost curb appeal at the same time.

7. Lush Plants

Bring the outdoors indoors and create an earthy paradise by adding a houseplant or two. One of the biggest trends in interior design right now are terrariums made with easy to care for succulent plants. They look modern and interesting but don’t require a lot of maintenance. They’re also are safe for all kinds of pets and grow well in almost any climate.

If you’re looking to spruce up your garage door, give the experts at Oregon City Garage Door a call at 503-632-3070! You can also fill out our online contact form and someone will reach out to you.

4 Awesome Celebrity Garages

Four Awesome Celebrity Garages

Think about the first thing you would buy if you became rich and famous. It’s probably a car, or several cars, right? Well, when you’re incredibly wealthy with more than a few valuable vehicles in your possession, you don’t just want to park your car collection in any old garage. It’s not uncommon for celebrities to turn their garages in multi-million dollar showrooms, and since it’s always fun to see how the other half lives, we’ve found some of the most extravagant ones.

Jay Leno’s Garage

How many people can say that their garages are so nice, they could charge an admission fee and give the proceeds to charity? This late night show host is well known for his affinity for collecting rare cars and motorcycles, housing them in the 17000 square foot garage of his Southern California home. The space takes up two buildings and includes both a machine and fabrication shop, as well as a fully equipped kitchen. The garage is usually closed to the public, but recently Leno offered to give guests a personalized guided tour of his garage for a fee. 215 exclusive guests were offered tickets at $100 each, with all proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Arthritis Alliance.

Ralph Lauren’s D.A.D. Garage

The D.A.D garage gets its name from the initials of Ralph Lauren’s three children, David, Andrew and Dylan. It’s a fitting moniker, as this garage is something of the ultimate dad retreat. It houses all 60 of Lauren’s priceless vehicles and is just as stylish and comfortable as his fashion designs. The two-floor museum-like garage display the cars on white stainless steel counters under bright halogen lamps, with shiny black floors and white walls. This color scheme helps highlight the features of the cars. Not far from the stylish display area, you’ll find a small living area that includes an office, a library and a workshop.

John Travolta’s Garage

Shrouded in secrecy, it’s hard to know exactly what megastar John Travolta’s garage is worth. But here’s what we do know. This car lover’s paradise is located in his Jumbolair estate and the garage’s facilities can accommodate a Gulftsteam jet and a Boeing 707, as well as all the support vehicles needed for both of them. It also has parking space for another 15 vehicles. Don’t forget about the 1.4-mile runway leading to the garage. If that’s not lavish, we don’t know what is.

Jerry Seinfeld’s Garage

Three blocks away from his beautiful Central Park West home, Jerry Seinfeld stows his collection of 46 Porsches in a hideaway in plain sight. His garage is tucked away into a Manhattan side street and obscured by a nondescript facade. Should you be visiting this secret Seinfeld car cave, you’ll need to take an elevator down to the subterranean garage. The space takes up three whole stories and houses his entire collection of Porsches. It also includes an 844-square-foot living space that has its own fully equipped club room, complete with a billiard room.

Contact Oregon City Garage Door

Get started on your own dream garage with a new garage door from Oregon City Garage Door! Our experts will help you find the perfect door to match your style and home. If you would like to learn more, give us a call at 503-632-3070 or fill out our online form today.