Your garage door works hard daily, providing security, curb appeal, and convenience. But like any part of your home, it won’t last forever. While many issues can be solved with a simple repair, there comes a time when replacement is the more innovative and safer option. Knowing the signs that it’s time for a new garage door can save you from ongoing frustrations and costly repairs.

Frequent Breakdowns and Repairs

If you schedule service calls often, the costs can quickly add up. Frequent issues like worn-out springs, broken cables, or unresponsive openers may indicate a door that’s simply past its prime. At this stage, replacing your garage door is usually more cost-effective than continuing repairs.

Visible Damage or Warping

Over time, garage doors can develop dents, cracks, or warping, especially if they’re exposed to the elements. Significant cosmetic damage not only impacts your home’s appearance but can also weaken the door’s structural integrity. If your door no longer opens and closes smoothly due to physical damage, it’s time to consider a replacement.

Safety and Security Concerns

Modern garage doors have advanced safety features like auto-reverse systems and motion sensors. If your current door lacks these protections—or if its locking mechanisms no longer provide peace of mind—it may be time to upgrade to a more secure option.

Rising Energy Bills

Older garage doors often have poor insulation or worn weatherstripping, allowing heat to escape in the winter and seep in during the summer. If your garage affects your home’s energy efficiency, installing a new insulated garage door can make a noticeable difference in comfort and savings.

Outdated Appearance

Your garage door makes up a large portion of your home’s exterior. If it looks dated or no longer complements your home’s style, replacing it is an easy way to boost curb appeal and increase resale value.

Why Choose Fireside Home Solutions?

Whether you're lubricating parts, replacing worn hardware, or upgrading your system, Fireside Home Solutions offers trusted, local expertise for homeowners in the Seattle and Portland areas. We provide full-service maintenance, repairs, and installations tailored to your needs. From programming your opener to complete system overhauls, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to learn more about our garage door solutions or to schedule your next tune-up.

Garage door openers have come a long way from simple lift mechanisms, now offering homeowners a wide range of options to match their lifestyle and priorities. From ultra-quiet designs to smart technology integration, today’s openers provide both convenience and enhanced security. Understanding the main types of garage door openers can help you choose the right model for your home.

Explore Fireside Home Solution’s range of innovative and high-performing garage door openers, designed to support a variety of needs and homes. If you have any questions or want to talk with a representative, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you find the perfect solution for your home.

Chain-Drive Openers

Chain-drive openers use a metal chain to lift and lower the garage door. They are known for their durability and strength, making them an excellent choice for heavier doors. While these models are often louder than other options, they’re reliable, cost-effective, and built to last.

Belt-Drive Openers

Belt-drive openers operate similarly to chain drives but use a reinforced belt instead of a chain. This results in much quieter performance, making them ideal for homes with attached garages or living spaces near the garage. Belt drives are smooth, low-maintenance, and combine quiet operation with dependable functionality.

Screw-Drive Openers

Screw-drive openers use a threaded steel rod to move the trolley that opens and closes the garage door. They have fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance and consistent performance. These openers offer fast operation and work well in moderate climates.

Wall-Mount (Jackshaft) Openers

Wall-mount openers are installed beside the garage door rather than overhead, freeing up ceiling space for storage or lighting. They’re quiet and space-efficient and often come with advanced features like battery backup and smartphone control. This style is a popular choice for modern and custom garages.

Smart Garage Door

Smart garage door openers integrate Wi-Fi technology, allowing you to control and monitor your garage door from your smartphone. These openers can send alerts if your door is left open, integrate with home automation systems, and offer voice control through compatible devices.

Features Available with Fireside Home Solutions Openers

At Fireside Home Solutions, you’ll find garage door openers designed to fit a variety of needs, whether your priority is quiet operation, advanced control, or enhanced safety. Our quiet garage door openers minimize noise and vibration for smooth performance. Smartphone-controlled models give you the ability to open, close, and monitor your garage from anywhere, while video-enabled openers let you see real-time footage of your garage for added security. Many of our openers also feature auto-reverse safety systems and motion detection sensors to help protect your home and family.

By combining performance, durability, and the latest technology, Fireside Home Solutions makes it easy to find a garage door opener that delivers both convenience and peace of mind. Visit one of our showrooms or contact us today to explore the latest models and see which opener is right for your home.

When the cold months arrive, your garage often becomes the first line of defense against harsh weather. A little preparation now can help protect your vehicles, tools, and stored belongings while keeping your garage functional all winter long. From sealing drafts to checking your garage door system, these simple steps can make a big difference.

Clear and Organize Your Space

Start by decluttering. Removing unnecessary items not only frees up room for your car but also helps you spot potential problem areas like water leaks or pests. Store tools, lawn equipment, and seasonal items neatly on shelves or hooks to keep the floor clear and safe.

Seal Out the Cold

Inspect your garage for drafts, particularly around windows, doors, and the garage door itself. Weatherstripping or a fresh bottom seal on the garage door can block cold air, snow, and pests. If you notice cracks in the walls or foundation, seal them to prevent moisture intrusion.

Check Your Garage Door System

Your garage door works harder in the winter, so now is the time to ensure it’s in top condition. Inspect the tracks for debris, test the opener, and listen for unusual noises. Cold weather can stiffen lubricants, so apply a winter-rated lubricant to the hinges, rollers, and springs.

Maintain Adequate Lighting and Safety

Shorter days mean less natural light. Replace dim or burned-out bulbs so your garage stays bright and safe. Test the safety sensors on your garage door opener to ensure they’re functioning correctly, as poor visibility and icy conditions can increase accident risks.

Fireside’s Garage Door Services

Keeping your garage door in reliable working order is essential for winter readiness. Fireside Home Solutions offers professional care from certified technicians who can handle everything from opener repairs and spring replacements to full door installations. We also provide preventative maintenance plans and thorough inspections to help prevent costly surprises. With showrooms in Portland, Bellevue, Auburn, and Spokane, and service across the Pacific Northwest, we make it easy to choose the right garage door and keep it performing year-round. Schedule garage door service online, or contact us today with any questions.

Over time, the bottom seal on your garage door can wear out, crack, or flatten—letting in water, pests, and cold air. Replacing this rubber seal is a simple yet essential way to protect your garage from the elements and keep your home more energy-efficient. Here’s a quick guide on how to replace a garage door bottom seal, plus when it’s smart to call in the pros.

Step-by-Step: Replacing Your Garage Door Bottom Seal

1. Inspect the Old Seal: Open your garage door and check the condition of the bottom seal. If it’s brittle, torn, or missing sections, it’s time for a replacement.
2. Remove the Old Seal: Most garage doors use a slide-in or push-in seal. Gently pull it out from the track at the bottom of the door. If it’s stuck, use a screwdriver or utility knife to help loosen it. Be careful not to damage the metal track.
3. Clean the Bottom Track: Wipe down the track thoroughly to remove debris, dirt, and any seal remnants. A clean surface ensures the new seal slides in smoothly and sits flush.
4. Install the New Seal: Measure and cut your new seal to the correct length. Slide or press the new seal into the track, starting at one end and working your way across. Some seals may require a bit of soapy water to make installation easier.
5. Test the Seal: Close the garage door and check for any gaps. The seal should sit evenly along the floor with no visible light coming through underneath.

Professional Garage Door Care in the Pacific Northwest

While a DIY seal replacement might sound simple, every garage door system is different. If your track is damaged, your door isn’t closing evenly, or you’re unsure which seal type to buy, professional service is your best option. Fireside Home Solutions offers expert garage door maintenance and repair, including seal replacement and weatherproofing.

Schedule service with our garage door specialists to ensure a secure, tight seal that protects your home year-round, or contact us today to learn more about our garage door solutions.

Power outages can strike at the most inconvenient times—right when you're rushing out for work or returning home with groceries. If you find your garage door unresponsive during a power failure, don’t panic. Most garage doors come equipped with a manual release mechanism that allows you to safely open and close them without electricity. Here's how to do it in a few simple steps.

Step-by-Step Guide: Manually Open Your Garage Door

Ensure Safety FirstBefore attempting anything, make sure your garage door is fully closed. If it’s stuck open, be cautious—garage doors are heavy, and a sudden shift could cause injury. If you're unsure about the door’s position or stability, it's best to wait for professional help.

1. Locate the Emergency Release Cord

Find the red cord hanging from the garage door opener rail. This is the emergency release handle, typically located in the center of the garage. Pulling this cord disengages the door from the motor, allowing manual operation.

2. Disengage the Opener

Firmly pull the red cord downward. You might hear a click—this signals that the door has been disconnected from the opener.

3. Lift the Door Manually

With the opener disengaged, grasp the door handles and lift slowly and steadily. Most garage doors should move with relative ease if the springs are in good condition. Don’t force the door—if it’s too heavy or stuck, it may indicate a broken spring or track misalignment.

4. Secure the Door in the Open Position

If you need the door to remain open for an extended period, use locking pliers or a clamp on the track to prevent it from falling. Never leave the door unsupported.

5. Reconnect Once Power is Restored

When the electricity comes back, pull the red cord toward the door to re-engage the opener. Then press the opener button to check if everything is working properly.

Turn to Fireside Home Solutions for Professional Garage Door Service

Manual garage door operation is a useful skill during emergencies, but if you experience resistance, unusual noise, or difficulty lifting the door, professional service may be necessary. Fireside Home Solutions can help ensure your garage door system is safe, secure, and ready for any situation. Schedule service with us to inspect or repair your garage door today. Contact us to learn more about our garage door solutions or to schedule your next tune-up.

A garage door that won’t open is more than an inconvenience—it can be a serious disruption to your day. Whether you’re trying to head out for work or return home after errands, being stuck on either side of a stubborn garage door is frustrating. The good news? Most causes are easy to diagnose—and with expert help from Fireside Home Solutions, just as easy to fix.

Here are six of the most common reasons your garage door might not be opening, and how professional garage door service can restore your peace of mind.

1. Dead Remote or Wall Console Batteries

Before jumping to conclusions, check the simplest fix first: the batteries. If your garage door opener remote or wall-mounted control panel isn’t responding, fresh batteries might be all you need. Still nothing? The problem could be with your wiring or the opener unit itself.

Fireside’s technicians can quickly test and replace your components to get everything working again—no guesswork involved.

2. Misaligned or Blocked Photo Eye Sensors

Modern garage doors include safety sensors—also known as photo eyes—at the bottom of the tracks. These sensors detect obstacles in the door's path. If they’re dirty, misaligned, or blocked by debris, the system will not let the door close or open.

Our service team knows exactly how to align sensors properly and shield them from sunlight or dust, restoring full functionality and safety.

3. Broken Springs or Cables

Garage door springs do the heavy lifting behind the scenes. If one breaks, you’ll often hear a loud bang, and your door may not budge. The same goes for snapped or frayed lift cables. These parts wear out with use and should only be handled by a professional.

Fireside Home Solutions can safely replace springs and cables, recalibrate your system, and ensure balanced, smooth operation.

4. Disconnected or Manual Release Pulled

Sometimes, the fix is surprisingly simple. Your garage door opener has a manual release cord (usually red) for use during power outages. If it’s been pulled accidentally, your opener won’t engage the door.

A quick inspection from our team can verify the issue and reconnect everything correctly to restore automatic function.

5. Electrical or Power Supply Issues

If your opener is unresponsive and your lights are out too, you might be dealing with a tripped breaker, unplugged opener, or electrical fault. It’s also possible that the opener’s circuit board has failed, especially in older units.

Our certified service pros can test your opener’s power supply, inspect the wiring, and recommend upgrades if needed.

6. Damaged or Off-Track Door

A garage door that’s come off its track or has bent panels may not open at all—or worse, could get stuck halfway. Forcing the system can cause further damage and create safety hazards.

Fireside’s repair services include full track realignment, panel replacement, and expert maintenance to ensure long-term durability and safety.

Don’t Let a Garage Door Malfunction Slow You Down

No matter the cause, Fireside Home Solutions is here to help with reliable, responsive garage door service across the Pacific Northwest. From battery replacements to spring repairs and full system inspections, our expert technicians are trained to diagnose issues quickly and provide lasting solutions. We service all major brands and offer emergency repairs, too.

Schedule your garage door service today.

Trust Fireside to keep your garage door running smoothly—because when life doesn’t slow down, neither should your garage.

Why Choose Fireside Home Solutions?

Whether you're lubricating parts, replacing worn hardware, or upgrading your system, Fireside Home Solutions offers trusted, local expertise for homeowners in the Seattle and Portland areas. We provide full-service maintenance, repairs, and installations tailored to your needs. From programming your opener to complete system overhauls, we’ve got you covered.
Contact us today to learn more about our garage door solutions or to schedule your next tune-up.

Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entrances in your home, but when it starts squeaking, grinding, or operating sluggishly, it’s time to give it the care it deserves. If you're searching for how to lubricate a garage door or how to grease a garage door, you’re in the right place. Routine lubrication extends the lifespan of your door, ensures quiet operation, and prevents costly repairs down the line. Here’s a quick, effective guide to help you maintain your garage door like a pro—and when to know it's time to call in one.

Step-by-Step: How to Lubricate Your Garage Door

1. Gather Your Supplies: Use a high-quality silicone-based or lithium-based lubricant designed specifically for garage doors. Avoid WD-40—it’s a cleaner, not a long-lasting lubricant.

2. Close the Garage Door: For safety and full access to moving parts, ensure the door is fully closed and disconnected from the opener.

3. Clean Moving Components: Wipe down tracks, hinges, rollers, and springs with a clean cloth to remove dust and old residue. This ensures the new lubricant adheres properly.

4. Apply Lubricant to Key Areas:

• Hinges: Spray where they pivot to keep movement smooth.
• Rollers: Apply to the ball bearings inside metal rollers (avoid plastic rollers).
• Springs: Coat torsion springs to reduce noise and prevent rust.
• Bearing Plates and Pulleys: Spray these to reduce friction.
• Locks and Arm Bar: A light spray helps prevent rust and sticking.

5. Test Operation: Open and close the garage door several times to work the lubricant into the components and ensure everything moves freely.

The Benefits of Regular Lubrication

Consistent maintenance not only eliminates annoying noises—it also prevents wear and tear on expensive components. For homeowners wondering how to grease a garage door properly, remember that lubrication should be done every six months. If you live in a particularly dusty or humid environment, quarterly checks are ideal.

When to Call in a Professional

While DIY maintenance helps, some issues—like worn-out rollers, frayed cables, or balance problems—are best handled by the experts. If your door still makes noise after lubrication or doesn’t move smoothly, don’t hesitate to get help. Fireside Home Solutions offers professional garage door servicing that ensures every part is inspected, adjusted, and operating safely.

Schedule your professional garage door service today to keep your door operating like new.

Why Choose Fireside Home Solutions?

Whether you're lubricating parts, replacing worn hardware, or upgrading your system, Fireside Home Solutions offers trusted, local expertise for homeowners in the Seattle and Portland areas. We provide full-service maintenance, repairs, and installations tailored to your needs. From programming your opener to complete system overhauls, we’ve got you covered.

Contact us today to learn more about our garage door solutions or to schedule your next tune-up.

A fireplace is a cozy and efficient way to warm your home, but are you getting the most heat from it? Whether you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace, optimizing its performance can enhance efficiency, reduce heat loss, and keep your home warmer for longer. If you’re wondering how to get the most heat from a fireplace, follow these expert tips to ensure you’re maximizing warmth and efficiency.

Choose the Right Fuel

For wood-burning fireplaces, the type of wood you use significantly impacts heat output. Hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory burn hotter and longer compared to softwoods, providing more sustained warmth. Ensure the wood is properly seasoned—meaning it has been dried for at least six months—to reduce excess moisture and improve combustion efficiency. If you use a gas fireplace, check that your burner and pilot light are working correctly to maintain steady heat output.

Keep Your Fireplace and Chimney Clean

A clean fireplace operates more efficiently. Creosote buildup in wood-burning fireplaces can block airflow and reduce heating effectiveness, while dust and debris in a gas fireplace can impact the burner’s performance. Regularly clean out ash in wood-burning fireplaces, and schedule an annual chimney sweep to ensure proper ventilation. For gas fireplaces, make sure the burner and pilot light are free of dust and soot. If your fireplace isn’t providing enough heat, a professional inspection may be needed—schedule service with Fireside Home Solutions to keep your fireplace running at peak performance.

Improve Heat Circulation

One of the best ways to generate more heat from your fireplace is by improving heat circulation in the room. Consider installing a heat-resistant fan or a blower system to help distribute warm air more effectively. Additionally, ceiling fans set to rotate clockwise at a low speed can help push warm air downward, keeping your living space comfortable. Closing doors to unused rooms can also help direct warmth where it’s needed most.

Optimize Fireplace Design and Accessories

A fireplace insert can significantly improve efficiency, capturing more heat and reducing energy loss. Glass doors help retain heat and prevent warm air from escaping up the chimney, while a fireback (a metal plate placed at the back of the fireplace) reflects heat into the room rather than allowing it to be absorbed by the masonry. For those with open fireplaces, consider a top-sealing damper to reduce drafts when the fireplace is not in use.

Reduce Heat Loss Through the Chimney

An open damper can cause significant heat loss, even when a fire isn’t burning. When using your fireplace, ensure the damper is fully open for proper ventilation, but close it once the fire has gone out to prevent warm air from escaping. If your chimney is poorly insulated, it may be drawing heat away from the fire—insulating your chimney can help make a fireplace warm more efficiently.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

If you’ve tried these methods and still feel like your fireplace isn’t producing enough heat, a professional inspection can help diagnose the issue. Fireside Home Solutions provides expert fireplace service, maintenance, and upgrades to ensure your fireplace is operating at maximum efficiency. If your fireplace isn’t performing as well as it should, schedule service today with Fireside Home Solutions to restore warmth and comfort to your home.

A well-maintained and optimized fireplace can transform your home into a warm and inviting space. By following these tips on how to get the most heat from a fireplace, you can enjoy better efficiency, increased comfort, and reduced energy costs all season long.

 

Starting a fire in your fireplace is an essential skill that can transform your living space into a cozy retreat. While it may seem straightforward, taking the proper steps ensures safety, efficiency, and a warm blaze. This guide will walk you through the process of how to start a fire in a fireplace and provide tips for keeping it going, whether you’re using a wood-burning or gas fireplace.

Step 1: Prepare Your Fireplace

Before lighting any fire, ensure your fireplace is clean and free of debris. For wood fireplaces, remove old ashes to allow for proper airflow. If you have a gas fireplace, check for dust or obstructions. Regular maintenance is crucial—visit our schedule service page to book a professional inspection and cleaning.

Step 2: Open the Damper

The damper controls airflow in your fireplace. Make sure it’s fully open to allow smoke and gases to escape up the chimney. Forgetting this step is one of the most common mistakes when building a fire in a fireplace.

Step 3: Gather Materials

To build a fire in a fireplace, you’ll need the following materials:

• Dry, seasoned firewood: Wet or unseasoned wood won’t burn effectively and produces excess smoke.
• Kindling: Small sticks or split wood that ignites easily.
• Fire starters: Use newspaper, dry pine cones, or commercially available fire starters for easy ignition.

Step 4: Build the Fire

There are a few popular methods for building a fire in a fireplace, but the "log cabin" and "teepee" structures are the easiest:

• Log Cabin Style: Lay two large logs parallel to each other on the grate. Stack smaller logs perpendicular to each other, creating a square. Fill the center with kindling and a fire starter.
• Teepee Style: Arrange small pieces of wood and kindling in a cone shape over your fire starter. Add larger logs around the structure as the fire grows.

Step 5: Light the Fire

Carefully ignite the fire starter at the base of your structure using a long match or lighter. Allow the kindling to catch before adding more wood. Avoid overloading the fireplace with logs, as this can restrict airflow.

Step 6: Maintain the Fire

Once your fire is burning steadily, add logs as needed to maintain warmth. Place new logs near the burning ones to keep the airflow consistent. If you’re using a gas fireplace, adjust the flame height using the controls.

Safety Tips

• Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks from escaping.

When to Call for Service

If you’ve tried these steps and still find that your fireplace won’t stay lit or isn’t working as intended, it’s best to seek professional assistance. Fireside Home Solutions provides comprehensive service and maintenance to diagnose and repair issues with your gas fireplace. Visit our Service and Maintenance page to schedule an appointment with our expert team. Regular service keeps your fireplace functioning reliably, ensuring your home stays warm and cozy during those colder months.

Explore Our Fireplace Options

Looking to upgrade your fireplace or add one to your home? Fireside Home Solutions offers a variety of wood fireplaces and gas fireplaces to match your style and needs. Browse our fireplace collection to find the perfect fit.

Starting a fire in your fireplace doesn’t have to be daunting. With the right preparation and materials, you can enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere all season long. For more tips or to explore our fireplace solutions, contact Fireside Home Solutions today!

Gas fireplaces have become a popular choice for homeowners seeking a clean, efficient, and hassle-free way to enjoy the ambiance of a fire. However, a common question many people ask is: Can you burn wood in a gas fireplace? The short answer is no, and here’s why.

Why You Shouldn’t Burn Wood in a Gas Fireplace

Gas fireplaces are specifically designed to burn natural gas or propane, not wood. These fireplaces use sealed systems with components that are optimized for gas combustion, including burners, venting, and safety mechanisms. Introducing wood into a gas fireplace can cause several issues:

1. Safety Risks: Burning wood in a gas fireplace creates excessive heat and soot that the system wasn’t designed to handle. This can damage the fireplace components and potentially cause a fire hazard.
2. Ventilation Problems: Gas fireplaces often use direct venting systems that are not suitable for managing the smoke and debris from burning wood. This can result in smoke backing up into your home, posing serious health risks.
3. Damage to the Fireplace: The soot and ash from burning wood can clog gas burners, vents, and other essential components, leading to costly repairs or even rendering the fireplace unusable.

Are There Alternatives?

If you’re craving the charm of a wood-burning fire, there are alternatives to consider:

• Wood-Burning Fireplaces: If burning wood is a priority, a traditional wood-burning fireplace may be a better option for your home.
• Gas Log Sets: Modern gas log sets are designed to mimic the appearance of real wood while providing the convenience of gas operation.
• Electric Fireplaces: Electric models can also create the look of a wood-burning fire without the mess or maintenance.

Maintaining Your Gas Fireplace

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your gas fireplace functioning safely and efficiently. Fireside Home Solutions offers professional fireplace service to address any concerns you may have about your system. From inspecting components to cleaning vents and ensuring everything operates smoothly, our team is here to help.

If you have questions about your gas fireplace or need to schedule maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach Fireside Home Solutions at 425-747-3473 or schedule a service appointment online by visiting our Fireplace Service page.

Trust Fireside Home Solutions

At Fireside Home Solutions, we’re committed to providing expert guidance and high-quality services for all your fireplace needs. Whether you’re exploring alternatives to wood-burning fireplaces or maintaining your gas system, we’re here to help you make the most of your fireplace safely and efficiently.