Month: September 2021

The moving parts and pieces of garage doors can wear out over time. Reviewing the common issues that lead to a damaged garage door can help you monitor your door. Here, we discuss three of the most frequent causes of damage to garage doors.

You can learn more about issues related to garage doors when you call Long View Lighting in Woodstock, GA, at 770-790-3511.

Broken Springs and Cables

Your garage door uses a number of springs and cables to raise and lower itself. Investigating the causes of a damaged garage door frequently leads you right back to these cables and springs. When springs break, they snap and often fall to the floor.

The cables pull your garage door directly each time you open or close the door. These cables get more brittle as they age, and they may eventually snap. You can assess your cables for evidence of damage. Replacing the cables before they snap can help you prevent additional damage.

You can also replace garage door springs, even after they break and fall to the ground. Taking this step can help you get your garage door working again.

A Misaligned Garage Track

Garage doors move on a track that directs them up and down. Over time, these tracks can shift due to continual usage. Some property owners ignore the misalignment at first because the garage door still works.

However, the track will only move further out of position over time. Eventually, it can run into other parts of the garage mechanism, causing additional damage. Regular garage door maintenance can extend the life of your track.

You can also reach out to the professionals if you notice the track shifting position. They can step in to repair or replace a damaged garage door track.

Worn Out Hardware

Garage door systems rely on lots of pieces of hardware to function properly. Each time you raise your garage door, the system draws on hinges and bolts. Time can impact the function of these metallic parts. They can wear away with continued use or even develop an issue with rust.

You can take steps to prevent this kind of issue by:

• Inspecting the hardware regularly
• Tightening loose bolts
• Lubricating moving parts

Make sure that you use an oil-based lubricant when taking care of your garage door hardware. Taking these steps can help prolong the life of your garage door. You may also catch any more serious issues as they develop.

Get Help with a Damaged Garage Door

Do you have a damaged garage door? You can review the common causes of these issues with a garage door repair service in Woodstock, GA. Reach out to Long View Lighting to learn more about options to repair or maintain your garage door. You can get started when you call 770-790-3511.

The average electrical outlet sees a lot of use. Over time, they can get loose, break, or stop working entirely. If you have an old or damaged outlet, you might be tempted to try to replace it yourself. The affordability and availability of outlets lead more than a few homeowners to wonder, “Do you need a licensed electrician to replace an outlet?” 

In most cases, that depends on the type of outlet and how you define “need.” Legally, most residential outlet installation projects don’t require a license (though some may require a permit). However, there are other risks and considerations to keep in mind.

The Risks of DIY Outlet Replacement

There are plenty of household projects you can complete yourself, especially with the popularity of YouTube tutorials—but most electrical work should be left to a professional due to the risk of electrical shock and fire.

Shock Accidents

The majority of residential electrical outlets are on a 110-volt or 220-volt circuit. While this is not usually enough to cause serious injury, it can lead to burns, numbness, tingling, painful muscle contractions, and even heart palpitations. 

Some of this risk can be avoided by taking proper safety precautions, such as turning off the circuit breaker, but the right equipment also helps, and many homeowners don’t have everything necessary to complete projects like these safely.

Electrical Fires

Electrical malfunctions are the second most common cause of house fires in the US and account for 13% of all structure fires. The risk of DIY outlet installation or replacement extends far beyond the installation itself. Mistakes can create a far higher fire risk, putting you and your family in danger.

Inefficiency

Finally, while this point pales in comparison to safety concerns, an improperly installed outlet can also greatly increase your electricity bill. For example, using the wrong amperage can lead to increased resistance, which will lead to more power draw. Fluctuating power levels may also damage your electronics or appliances, leading to inefficiency, the need for repairs, or even premature replacement.

Need a Licensed Electrician in Woodstock, GA?

In short, do you need a licensed electrician to replace an outlet? Not necessarily if it’s a residential outlet. Can you install an electrical outlet yourself? Maybe, depending on your aptitude and the tools you have available.  But should you replace an electrical outlet yourself? Probably not. 

At the very least, consider consulting a professional before working on your electrical systems. Electrical work can be dangerous, but improperly installed wiring is an even more significant risk. If you need an outlet replaced or installed, reach out to the electricians of Long View Lighting. Call (770) 790-3511 today.