Garage Door Frequently Asked Questions

Empire Garage Door & Repair answers the most common garage door questions from Brighton, MI homeowners. Get expert answers about garage door repair, installation, maintenance, and costs from Michigan’s trusted garage door professionals.

Emergency Garage Door Questions

What should I do if my garage door won’t open?

First, check if the garage door opener is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Ensure the remote batteries are working. If the door still won’t open, call Empire Garage Door at (248) 667-2325 for emergency service in Brighton, MI.

How quickly can you respond to garage door emergencies?

Empire Garage Door provides 24/7 emergency service in Brighton, Howell, and surrounding Michigan areas. We typically respond within 30-60 minutes for emergency calls.

What constitutes a garage door emergency?

Emergency situations include: door stuck open or closed, broken springs, door off track, opener malfunctioning, or any safety hazard.

Garage Door Repair Costs

How much does garage door repair cost in Michigan?

Garage door repair costs in Brighton, MI typically range from $150-$400 for most common repairs. Spring replacement costs $200-$300, opener repair ranges $150-$350, and track alignment costs $200-$400.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes, Empire Garage Door provides free estimates for all garage door services in Brighton, Howell, Livonia, and throughout Michigan.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, checks, all major credit cards, and offer financing options for larger projects.

Garage Door Installation Questions

How long does garage door installation take?

Standard garage door installation typically takes 3-4 hours. Complex installations with new openers may take 4-6 hours.

What garage door brands do you install?

Empire Garage Door installs all major brands including Clopay, Wayne Dalton, Amarr, CHI, Haas, and more. We’ll help you choose the best door for your Brighton home.

Do I need a permit for garage door installation in Michigan?

Most residential garage door replacements don’t require permits in Michigan. New construction or structural changes may require permits.

Garage Door Maintenance

How often should I service my garage door?

Empire Garage Door recommends annual maintenance for optimal performance. High-use doors may benefit from bi-annual service.

What does garage door maintenance include?

Our maintenance service includes: lubrication, spring adjustment, track cleaning, opener inspection, safety feature testing, and hardware tightening.

Can I perform garage door maintenance myself?

Homeowners can safely lubricate hinges and tracks, but spring adjustments and opener repairs should be performed by professionals for safety.

Garage Door Safety

How do I test my garage door safety features?

Test the auto-reverse by placing a 2×4 under the door. The door should reverse when it contacts the board. Also test photo-eye sensors monthly.

When should I replace my garage door?

Consider replacement if your door is over 15-20 years old, requires frequent repairs, lacks safety features, or doesn’t provide adequate insulation.

Are garage doors safe for children?

Modern garage doors have safety features, but teach children never to play under or with garage doors. Keep remotes away from children.

Garage Door Opener Questions

What type of garage door opener is best?

Chain drive openers are economical and reliable. Belt drive openers are quieter. Direct drive openers have fewer moving parts. We’ll recommend the best option for your Brighton home.