​Here are several reasons clean gutters may still have trouble during a Central Ohio rainstorm.

1. The Blockage May Be Inside the Downspout

A clear gutter does not necessarily mean a clear downspout.

Leaves and debris can collect at the outlet or lodge inside an elbow, where they are difficult to see from the ground. Water entering the gutter then has nowhere to go quickly enough and begins to back up.

One useful observation is whether water is coming out of the downspout while the gutter above it overflows. Little or no discharge may suggest a blockage, although a professional inspection is needed to identify the cause.

Downspouts connected to underground piping require additional attention. A restriction farther along that drainage route can affect the system even when the exposed downspout is clear.  Tree root infiltration and other blockages are common and can cause major problems that need to be addressed through a line inspection.

2. The Gutter May Not Be Draining Toward the Outlet

Gutters need to direct water toward their outlets without low spots that trap it along the way.

A sagging section, loose hanger or incorrect slope can allow water to collect in one area. During heavier rain, that area may overflow while another part of the gutter has unused capacity.

Standing water can also collect sediment and make it easier for debris to accumulate again. Clearing the leaves will not correct the underlying drainage problem.

The solution may involve adjusting the gutter, repairing its supports or replacing a damaged section. The condition of the fascia supporting the gutter should also be checked before simply adding new fasteners.  If water has gotten in behind the fascia metal through a roof leak or another route, the wood fascia boards might be rotted and will need to be replaced to provide a sturdy mounting surface for the gutters.

3. Too Much Water May Be Reaching One Location

Roof runoff does not always arrive evenly along the gutter.

A roof valley can concentrate water into a relatively small area. Multiple roof surfaces may feed one gutter run, and a long section may depend on too few outlets or downspouts.

In those situations, gutter size is only part of the evaluation. Outlet size, downspout capacity and placement all matter. Moving to a larger gutter without addressing a bottleneck elsewhere may leave the problem unresolved.

Water that shoots past the gutter during rain also deserves attention. Roof configuration and gutter positioning should be examined before assuming the gutter simply needs another cleaning.

4. Water Behind the Gutter Is a Different Problem

Take a close look at where the water is escaping.

Water spilling over the front edge suggests a different issue than water running between the back of the gutter and the fascia. Water dripping from a joint may be a leak rather than an overflow.

Runoff behind the gutter can involve the relationship between the roof edge (shingles and drip edge), flashing, and gutter placement. The water needs a continuous path from the roof into the gutter rather than an opportunity to reach the wood behind it.

An inspection should identify that path. Applying sealant to a visible gap without understanding how water gets there may not provide a lasting repair.

5. Follow the Water Beyond the Downspout

A gutter system can collect water successfully and still create problems if the downspout releases it beside the foundation.
Look for pooling, soil erosion, or water flowing back toward the house. Extensions, discharge locations and the slope of the ground should be considered together. Water should be directed to an appropriate location without creating problems for walkways or neighboring property.

Gutters cannot solve every basement moisture problem, but managing roof runoff is an important part of protecting the area around the foundation.

6. Leaf Protection Does Not Fix Every Drainage Issue

Gutter protection may help reduce the amount of debris entering a system, but it cannot correct improper slope, failing supports, or inadequate drainage capacity.

It also needs to be selected and installed for the roof and gutter configuration. Maintenance requirements vary by product, and no system should be assumed to eliminate every future inspection or cleaning need.

Address existing overflow problems before choosing gutter protection. That gives the new product a properly functioning system to work with.

Watch Safely, Then Address the Cause

During ordinary rain, observing from a sheltered location at ground level can provide useful information. Note where water spills, whether the downspouts discharge and where water travels afterward. Keep things safe – avoid ladders, roof access, and outdoor inspection during thunderstorms.

Best Door & Window helps homeowners in Bellefontaine, Marysville, Delaware and surrounding communities with seamless gutters and gutter protection options. If your clean gutters still overflow, our team can evaluate the system and explain appropriate improvements. Give us a call today at 937-593-3667 to get started.

For homeowners in Bellefontaine, Marysville, Delaware and surrounding communities, here are several ways to approach a brighter home without overlooking comfort, privacy or practicality.

1. Start with the Room, Not the Product

Before choosing a window style, consider why the room feels dark.

Is the glass blocked by heavy curtains, furniture or overgrown landscaping? Does a deep porch or roof overhang shade the opening? Is the room large enough that daylight reaches only the area beside the window?

Sometimes, cleaning the glass or changing a window covering makes a worthwhile difference. Other situations call for a different window configuration or an additional opening.

Notice when you most want daylight, too. A breakfast area used in the morning has different needs than a family room used in the afternoon. The direction the opening faces and the shade outside should help guide the project.

2. Compare Glass Area Along with Window Style

Two windows that fit the same opening may not provide the same amount of visible glass. Frame profiles, sash dimensions and the arrangement of individual units all affect how much of the opening is glass.

A picture window can provide an uninterrupted view without an operating sash. Pairing a fixed center window with operating windows on either side may offer a useful combination of daylight, views and ventilation.

Casement, sliding and double-hung windows each have their own advantages. Rather than assuming one style is always brighter, compare the actual dimensions and glass area of the products being considered.

Grids also influence the appearance of the view. They can complement a traditional home, while fewer divided areas may create a more open visual effect. The right choice depends on your home’s architecture and your preferences.

3. Understand the Glass Ratings

Glass selection affects more than insulation. One useful rating is visible transmittance, often abbreviated VT, which describes how much visible light passes through a window. A higher rating generally means more daylight passes through the rated product.

That rating is different from U-factor, which measures heat transfer, and solar heat gain coefficient, which describes how much solar heat enters through the window.

The goal is to choose a combination that suits the room. Maximum light is not always the best answer if it also creates uncomfortable glare at a desk or television.

Low-E glass options vary, so ask how the specific glass package balances daylight and energy performance. Comparing the whole-window ratings helps you make a more informed decision than relying on a description such as “energy-efficient glass.”

4. Look Beyond the Windows

An exterior door can be another opportunity to bring daylight into a home.

Entry doors are available with glass in a range of sizes and designs. Sidelights beside the door or a transom above it may also be options where the opening and structure permit. Decorative or textured glass can offer a balance of daylight and privacy, although the degree of privacy varies by design and lighting conditions.

At the back of the home, a patio door can connect an interior room visually with a deck, patio or yard. Sliding and swinging designs have different space requirements, so consider furniture placement and traffic flow along with the view.

For any door with glass, discuss both privacy and security needs before making a selection.

5. Know When a Bigger Opening Becomes a Bigger Project

Replacing a window within its existing opening is different from widening that opening, adding sidelights or converting a window into a patio door.

Changes can involve structural framing, electrical wiring, interior trim and exterior finishes. Permit requirements and other considerations need to be evaluated for the specific project.

That does not mean a larger opening is the wrong choice. It means the design and installation plan should be considered together, with a clear understanding of the work involved.

Plan for Light and Comfort Together

A brighter home starts with thoughtful choices about the opening, the glass, and the way you use the room. October is a useful time to notice where your home could benefit from more daylight and begin exploring improvements.

Best Door & Window has helped Central Ohio homeowners improve their homes since 1994. If you are considering replacement windows, an entry door, or a patio door, our team can help you compare options for your space. Call 937-593-3667.

​But when the problem occurs at a particular time of day, there is another possibility worth investigating: sunlight interfering with the opener’s safety sensors (also called photo cells or eyes).
 
1. Start with the Safety Sensors
 
Most modern residential garage door openers use photoelectric safety sensors near the bottom of the door opening. One sends an invisible beam across the opening, and the other receives it.  If that beam is interrupted while the door is closing, the opener should stop and reverse. If the opener cannot detect the beam before closing, it may refuse to close at all.
 
This helps protect people, pets and belongings in the doorway. The sensors are an important part of the system, and a closing problem should be investigated rather than worked around.
 
An interrupted beam does not always mean something large is sitting in the opening. A dirty lens, disturbed sensor bracket or wiring problem can also affect operation.
 
2. How Can Sunlight Cause a Problem?
 
Direct sunlight shining into the receiving sensor can interfere with its ability to detect the beam. The opener may respond as though the doorway is obstructed, even when the path appears clear.
As the sun’s position changes throughout the day and across the seasons, the light reaching your garage changes, too. During the transition into fall, a sensor may receive direct sunlight at a time when it did not earlier in the summer.
 
Whether this affects your door depends on the direction the garage faces, surrounding shade, and the sensor installation. It is not a problem every garage will experience.
 
Timing provides a useful clue. A door that consistently refuses to close on sunny afternoons, but works after the sun moves, deserves a closer look at the receiving sensor. That pattern suggests sunlight interference, but it does not prove it.
 
3. What Can You Check Safely?
 
Keep people and pets away from the door, and avoid standing beneath it while troubleshooting.
First, look for anything crossing the sensor path. Storage containers, garden tools, leaves and other items can interrupt the beam. Even something that seems outside the doorway may extend into its path.
 
With the door stationary, inspect the sensor lenses for dust, dirt or cobwebs. Gently clean them with a soft cloth according to the manufacturer’s instructions, taking care not to move the brackets.
 
Next, observe the indicator lights. A light that is off or flickering may provide useful information, but colors and diagnostic signals vary by brand and model. Check your opener’s manual before drawing a conclusion.
 
Finally, note when the problem occurs. Record the time, weather conditions, whether sunlight is hitting a sensor and any flashing lights or error codes. A photo or short video taken from a safe location can help a technician evaluate an intermittent issue.
 
4. The Solution Depends on the Cause
 
For confirmed sunlight interference, a technician may recommend a compatible manufacturer-approved sun shield or a change in sensor placement within the manufacturer’s installation requirements.
 
Other problems may require alignment, bracket repairs, wiring repairs, or replacement sensors. If the sensors are working correctly, the technician can investigate other causes of reversal or closing failure.
 
A door that binds, moves unevenly or makes unusual mechanical noises needs a broader inspection. Replacing the opener without identifying the cause may leave the original problem unresolved.
 
5. Keep the Safety System Working
 
Do not disconnect, bypass or relocate the sensors above the manufacturer’s permitted height to make the door close. Do not increase closing force to try to overcome a sensor problem. These actions do not address the cause and can compromise safe operation.
 
If basic cleaning and clearing the doorway do not resolve the issue, schedule professional service. If the door closes despite an interrupted sensor beam, stop using the opener and have the safety system inspected.
 
Solve the Problem Before Your Next Busy Morning
 
A garage door that works only some of the time needs attention, even if it eventually closes. Identifying the pattern can help distinguish a relatively simple sensor issue from a larger repair need.
 
Best Door & Window provides garage door and opener service in Bellefontaine and surrounding Central Ohio communities. If your garage door refuses to close, reverses unexpectedly, or behaves differently at certain times of day, call 937-593-3667 or click here to schedule service.

A storm door can provide an extra layer of weather protection while allowing you to enjoy daylight and fresh air when conditions are right. However, it is not the best solution for every entrance, and it cannot correct every problem with an existing entry door.
 
Before adding one to your home in Bellefontaine, Marysville, Delaware or the surrounding area, here are a few things to consider.
 
1. What Can a Storm Door Do for Your Home?
 
A storm door is a second exterior door installed in front of your main entry door. Depending on the design, it may include a large glass panel, a screen, or a combination of the two.
 
For an exposed entrance, it can help shield the main door from wind-driven rain and snow. With the entry door open during pleasant weather, a glass storm door lets daylight into the home, while a screened opening provides ventilation.
 
That flexibility is especially useful during Ohio’s transition from summer to fall. You may want fresh air on a mild afternoon and a closed glass panel when the temperature drops that evening.
 
A properly fitted storm door may also improve comfort at the entrance. The benefit depends on the condition of the main door, the storm door’s fit, and the exposure of the opening (i.e., whether the door is under a covered area). It is better to evaluate those factors than assume every installation will produce a significant reduction in heating costs.
 
2. When Should the Entry Door Come First?
 
If your front door is drafty, difficult to latch or showing signs of deterioration, start by identifying the cause.
 
Worn weatherstripping, a poorly adjusted threshold or a door that is out of alignment may need repair. A damaged door slab, deteriorated frame or persistent water intrusion may call for a more substantial solution.
 
Adding a storm door does not repair those underlying issues. It should complement a functioning entry door rather than become the only thing keeping weather outside.  While a storm door is generally less costly than a new entry door, which can be an attractive potential “fix” to the main entry door’s problems, it won’t help in the long term and won’t solve the most significant problems.
 
For homeowners with a newer, well-sealed entry door beneath a sheltered porch, the main reasons to add a storm door may be daylight, ventilation and convenience. Those are worthwhile benefits, but they are different from fixing a failing entrance.
 
3. Which Style Fits the Way You Use Your Door?
 
Full-view storm doors feature a large glass area that shows off the entry door and brings in plenty of daylight. Some designs require switching between a glass panel and a screen as the seasons change, so consider where you would store the unused panel.
 
Other models have retractable screens that are available when you open the ventilating glass section. These can be convenient for homeowners who want to change between glass and screen without handling a separate panel.
 
Partial-view designs combine smaller glass areas with a solid lower section. Depending on the model, this may suit a busy entrance where appearance, ventilation and everyday use all matter.
 
Think about the door you actually use most. A front entrance chosen mainly for curb appeal may call for different features than a back door used frequently by children, guests and pets.
 
4. Sun Exposure and Clearance Matter
 
One often-overlooked consideration is direct sunlight. Heat can build up in the space between a glass storm door and the main entry door. Before choosing a model, check the entry-door manufacturer’s guidance and warranty requirements, particularly for an entrance that receives strong afternoon sun.
 
Glass options such as low-e coatings and ventilation should be evaluated for the specific opening. No single feature makes every storm door suitable for every exposure.
 
Physical fit matters, too. The storm door needs adequate mounting space, and its handle and closer must clear the main door’s hardware. Steps, railings and porch layouts can affect how far the door opens and how comfortably people can enter.
 
These details are good reasons to have the entrance measured before buying.
 
5. Make the Decision Before Cold Weather Arrives
 
A storm door can be a useful fall improvement when it matches your entrance and your daily routine. The best choice starts with a few simple questions: Is the main door in good condition?
 
Do you want more daylight or ventilation? How exposed is the entrance? Will the new door have
room to operate properly?
 
Best Door & Window has helped Central Ohio homeowners improve their homes since 1994. If you are considering a storm door, or wondering whether your entry door needs attention first,our team can help evaluate the opening and explain your options. Contact us at 937-593-3667 or visit bestdoor.com to get started.

1. Drafts Around Windows and Doors
If you can feel outside air around a window or exterior door, don’t wait until January to investigate it.

Drafts can result from worn weatherstripping, deteriorated caulking, improper adjustment or installation issues. In older windows and doors, they may also indicate that the product itself is reaching the end of its useful life.

Not every draft requires replacement, but fall is a good time to determine where the problem is coming from.

2. Fog or Moisture Between Window Glass
Condensation on the inside surface of a window isn’t necessarily a window failure. Moisture or fogging between the panes of insulated glass, however, is another matter.

This usually indicates that the seal around the insulated glass unit has failed. Once that seal is compromised, the window loses some of its insulating performance.

While this issue does not necessarily mean the entire window needs to be replaced, it is definitely an area of concern. If the window is still covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, this glass unit issue could be covered as well. If the rest of the window is in good condition, we recommend contacting the manufacturer to inquire about warranty coverage.

3. Cracked, Loose or Damaged Siding
Walk around your home and look for siding that is cracked, loose, warped or missing.

Siding isn’t just decorative. It is part of the system that helps protect the structure underneath from Ohio’s wind, rain, snow and changing temperatures. Damaged areas should be investigated before winter weather makes the problem worse.

4. Roofing That Doesn’t Look Quite Right
You don’t need to climb onto your roof to perform a basic inspection. From the ground, look for missing, lifted or damaged shingles and areas that appear noticeably different from the surrounding roof.

Also pay attention to flashings and areas around roof penetrations (e.g., pipes and chimneys) that can be seen safely from the ground.

Fall is a much better time to identify a potential roofing issue than after water starts showing up inside your home.

5. Gutters That Aren’t Draining Properly
Central Ohio’s falling leaves can quickly fill gutters and downspouts.

Watch what happens during a good rain. Water spilling over the front of a gutter, leaking behind it or pooling near the house can indicate a problem.

Gutters and downspouts perform an important job: moving water away from areas where it can cause damage. Make sure they are clear, secure and directing water where it should go before freezing weather arrives.

6. A Garage Door That Isn’t Sealing Properly
Take a look around the perimeter of your garage door when it is closed. Can you see daylight underneath or around the sides?

A worn bottom seal or perimeter weatherseal can allow cold air, water, debris and even pests into the garage. You should also pay attention to unusual noises, jerky operation or a door that doesn’t appear to close evenly.

Those are good reasons to have the garage door inspected before winter.

7. Exterior Caulking That Is Cracked or Missing
Caulking around windows, doors and other exterior openings doesn’t last forever.

Over time, exposure to sunlight and changing temperatures can cause it to shrink, crack or separate. Those seemingly small gaps can provide pathways for air and moisture.
Fall is a good time to inspect these areas and determine what needs attention.

Don’t Wait for Winter to Find the Problem
Ohio weather puts the exterior of a home through a lot over the course of a year. The transition from summer to fall provides a valuable opportunity to find small problems before cold temperatures, snow and ice arrive.

Take 15 or 20 minutes and walk around your house. Look at your windows, doors, siding, roof, gutters and garage door. You may find nothing more than a few routine maintenance items or you may spot a problem that is much easier to address now than in the middle of winter.

Best Door & Window has been helping Central Ohio homeowners with exterior home improvement projects since 1994. If your fall inspection reveals something that needs more than routine maintenance, our team can help you evaluate your options and determine the appropriate next steps.

​1. Warmer Exterior Colors
While the black, gray, and white color combinations certainly haven’t disappeared, warmer exterior colors are becoming increasingly popular.

Beige, cream, warm white, brown and other earth-inspired colors can give a home a softer appearance while still providing a clean, updated look.

These colors can work especially well with many of the ranch, farmhouse and transitional-style homes found throughout Central Ohio.

2. More Interest in Fiberglass Entry Doors
The front door remains one of the easiest places to make a significant visual change to a home’s exterior.

Fiberglass entry doors continue to grow in popularity because they can combine energy efficiency and relatively low maintenance with a wide variety of colors, glass options and wood-grain appearances.

For Ohio homeowners, fiberglass also offers an attractive alternative to traditional wood doors without requiring the same level of maintenance and the susceptibility to rot.

And homeowners don’t necessarily have to play it safe with color. A contrasting front door can become a focal point against an otherwise neutral exterior.

3. Mixing Siding Styles and Textures
Replacing siding doesn’t have to mean covering the entire house with one color and one siding profile.

One increasingly popular approach is combining different materials, profiles or textures to create architectural interest.

For example, traditional horizontal siding can be combined with vertical or board-and-batten-style accents on gables. Stone or stone-look accents can also be used around entryways or other architectural features to provide attractive contrast elements.

The goal isn’t to make the exterior busy. Used selectively, contrasting materials can highlight the home’s architecture and give it a more customized appearance.

4. Homeowners Are Thinking About Durability, Not Just Appearance
Curb appeal will always matter, but homeowners are also paying closer attention to how exterior products perform over time.

That means considering questions such as:

• How much maintenance will this product require?
• How well will it handle Ohio weather?
• Is it energy efficient?
• How long should it last?
• What kind of warranty is available?

That mindset is influencing choices involving windows, entry doors, siding, roofing, garage doors and other exterior products.

A remodeling project should make your home look better, but choosing the right products can also make it easier to maintain and more comfortable for years to come.

5. Outdoor Living Continues to Expand
The backyard is increasingly being treated as another living area rather than simply unused space behind the house.

Composite decks, patio enclosures, retractable awnings and other outdoor-living improvements can create spaces for relaxing, entertaining and spending more time outside.

For Central Ohio homeowners, products that provide shade or some protection from the elements can be particularly useful because our weather doesn’t always cooperate with outdoor plans.

Trends Are Inspiration, Not Rules
The best exterior remodeling projects aren’t necessarily the ones that follow every current trend.

Your home’s architecture, neighborhood, budget and personal preferences should ultimately drive the decisions you make. A design that looks great on one house may not be right for another.

Current trends can, however, provide a useful starting point.

Whether you’re considering new siding, replacement windows, an entry door, garage door, roof, gutters, composite deck or another exterior project, think about how the individual improvement will work with the rest of your home.

At Best Door & Window, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Central Ohio improve their homes since 1994. Our goal isn’t simply to sell a particular product or follow the latest trend. We strive to help homeowners select exterior improvements that look right, perform well, and provide lasting value.

Whether you're building a new home or replacing an aging garage door, here's why an insulated garage door deserves serious consideration.

More Than Just a Door
A garage door is opened and closed thousands of times over its lifetime. It protects your vehicles, tools, and belongings while serving as one of the most visible features of your home's exterior because of its size.

An insulated garage door does everything a standard garage door does, but with additional benefits that many homeowners don't realize until after it's installed.

Improved Comfort Throughout the Year
Anyone who has stepped into an attached garage during an Ohio winter knows how cold it can become. Likewise, garages can feel like ovens during the peak of summer.

While an insulated garage door won't turn your garage into a heated living space, it helps moderate temperature swings by reducing the amount of outside air that transfers through the door.

This can make a noticeable difference if:

• Your garage is attached to your home.
• There is a bedroom or bonus room above the garage.
• You use your garage as a workshop or hobby space.
• Your laundry room or mudroom connects directly to the garage.
• You frequently enter your home through the garage.

By reducing extreme temperatures in the garage, adjacent rooms often feel more comfortable as well.

Better Energy Efficiency
If your garage shares one or more walls with your home's living space, improving the thermal performance of the garage door can help reduce unwanted heat transfer.

While every home is different, homeowners often notice:

• Fewer drafts entering from the garage.
• More consistent indoor temperatures.
• Reduced strain on heating and cooling systems.

An insulated garage door works alongside your home's insulation to create a more energy-efficient building envelope.

A Quieter Garage Door
One of the first things homeowners notice after upgrading to an insulated garage door is how much quieter it operates.

Insulated doors are typically constructed with multiple layers of steel surrounding a layer of insulating material. This added rigidity helps reduce vibration as the door moves.

The result is:

• Less rattling.
• Smoother operation.
• Reduced road noise entering the garage.
• A quieter experience for rooms located above or beside the garage.

When paired with a modern garage door opener, the difference can be dramatic.

Increased Strength and Durability
Not all garage doors are built the same.

Many insulated garage doors feature a multi-layer construction that is stronger and more resistant to dents than basic single-layer steel doors.

This added strength helps the door withstand:

• Everyday bumps and impacts.
• Strong Ohio windstorms.
• Seasonal expansion and contraction.
• Years of regular use.

A more rigid door also places less stress on the garage door system, helping promote smooth and reliable operation over time.

Improved Curb Appeal
For many holes, the garage door accounts for a significant portion of the front exterior.

Replacing an outdated garage door with a modern insulated model can dramatically improve your home's appearance.

Today's insulated garage doors are available in a wide variety of:

• Traditional raised-panel designs
• Contemporary flush styles
• Carriage house designs
• Window configurations
• Color options
• Woodgrain finishes

Choosing a style that complements your home's architecture can instantly boost curb appeal.

Understanding Garage Door Insulation
You may hear garage doors described by their R-value, which measures how well a material resists heat transfer.

In general:

• Higher R-values provide better insulating performance.
• Multi-layer doors typically outperform single-layer doors.
• The overall construction of the door is just as important as the insulation itself.

A professional can help you determine which insulation level makes the most sense based on how you use your garage and your home's design.

Is an Insulated Garage Door Worth the Investment?
For many homeowners, the answer is yes.

If you plan to stay in your home for several years, the added comfort, quieter operation, improved durability, and enhanced appearance often make the upgrade worthwhile.

You may especially benefit from an insulated garage door if you:

• Have an attached garage.
• Spend time working in your garage.
• Store temperature-sensitive items.
• Have living space above the garage.
• Want to improve your home's energy efficiency.
• Are replacing a garage door that's more than 10-15 years old.

Why Late Summer Is a Great Time to Upgrade
As we move through July and into the fall season, many homeowners begin preparing their homes for colder weather.

Scheduling a garage door replacement before the fall rush offers several advantages:

• More scheduling flexibility.
• Time to choose the right style and color.
• Installation before freezing temperatures arrive.
• Improved comfort heading into winter.

Planning ahead also helps avoid the seasonal rush that often occurs as homeowners prepare their homes before the holidays.

Trust the Professionals
A garage door is one of the largest and heaviest moving systems in your home. Proper installation is essential for safe operation, long-term performance, and manufacturer warranty coverage.

At Best Door & Window, we help homeowners throughout Central Ohio select garage doors that match their home's style, budget, and performance needs. Whether you're looking for a traditional steel door, a carriage house design, or a premium insulated model, our team can help you compare your options and choose a door that will provide years of dependable service and a strong return on your investment.

If you're considering replacing your garage door, we'd be happy to answer your questions, provide a free estimate, and help you determine whether an insulated garage door is the right investment for your home. Contact us today!

Why Plan Now?
Many exterior renovation products are custom-manufactured specifically for your home. Unlike products sitting on a shelf at a home improvement store, replacement windows, entry doors, garage doors, and siding materials often require several weeks to be manufactured and delivered.

By the time September arrives, many contractors are already scheduling projects well into the fall. Waiting until cooler weather arrives may mean your project won't be completed until winter, or even the following spring.

Starting the process now gives you more flexibility, better scheduling options, and more time to make informed decisions.

Time to Make the Right Decisions
Planning ahead also means you won't feel rushed.

Instead of making quick decisions because winter is around the corner, you'll have time to:

• Compare different products and features
• Choose colors that complement your home
• Evaluate energy-efficient options
• Review financing if needed
• Schedule your installation around vacations, school activities, or holiday plans

Home improvements are significant investments. Taking time to make informed decisions often leads to better long-term satisfaction.

Which Projects Should You Consider?

Replacement Windows
If you've noticed drafts, rising utility bills, windows that are difficult to operate, or fogging between the panes of glass, your windows may be nearing the end of their useful life. Replacing them before winter can improve comfort and reduce energy loss during Ohio's colder months.

Entry Doors
Your front door is one of the first things visitors notice. Beyond improving curb appeal, a properly installed entry door can improve security, eliminate drafts, and help lower heating costs.

Garage Doors
Garage doors are one of the largest moving components of your home. If your door is noisy, unreliable, or lacks insulation, replacing it before winter can improve both convenience and energy efficiency.

Siding
Damaged or aging siding can allow moisture to penetrate your home's exterior. Addressing these issues before winter helps protect your investment and keeps your home looking its best.

Roofing
Even small roofing problems can become larger, and more expensive, after months of rain, snow, and freezing temperatures. Summer is an excellent time to have your roof evaluated if it's showing signs of wear.

Gutters and Leaf Guards
Properly functioning gutters help direct water away from your home's foundation. Cleaning, repairing, or replacing gutters before fall leaves begin to accumulate can prevent costly water damage. Further, the addition of new leaf guards to your gutters can be a huge benefit, as it helps keep your gutters free from the leaves and debris that cause clogs and damage.

Is Your Home Ready for Fall?
Ask yourself these questions:

• Are your windows drafty or difficult to open?
• Is your garage door becoming louder or less reliable? Does it have insulation?
• Does your front door stick or let in air?
• Is your siding faded, cracked, or loose?
• Have you noticed missing shingles or signs of roof wear?
• Do your gutters overflow during heavy rain? Are you tired of climbing a ladder to clean leaves out of your gutters?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, now is an excellent time to begin planning.

Don't Wait for the First Cold Snap
Every year, many homeowners wait until temperatures begin to drop before calling about home improvement projects. By then, contractor schedules are often filling quickly, and product lead times may extend further into the season.

Starting the conversation in July doesn't mean your project has to begin immediately; it simply gives you more options and helps ensure your improvements are completed before winter weather arrives.

At Best Door & Window, we're happy to answer your questions, provide honest recommendations, and help you determine the best timing for your project. Whether you're considering replacement windows, a new garage door, entry door, siding, roofing, or gutters, planning ahead is one of the smartest investments you can make in your home. Contact us today!

How Lightning Damages Garage Door Openers
A direct lightning strike isn't necessary to cause damage.

When lightning strikes nearby power lines, utility equipment, or even the ground near your home, it can create a powerful electrical surge that travels through:

• Household electrical wiring
• Garage circuits
• Low-voltage control wires
• Internet and communication lines

These sudden voltage spikes can overwhelm sensitive electronic components inside garage door openers.

Common Components That Can Be Damaged
Today's garage door openers contain circuit boards and electronic controls that are far more advanced than older systems.

Lightning-related surges may damage:

• Logic boards
• Wi-Fi modules
• Safety sensors
• Wall control stations
• Remote receiver systems
• Battery backup systems

In some cases, the opener may stop working completely. In others, homeowners may notice intermittent problems that appear days or weeks after the storm.

Warning Signs of Lightning Damage
After a severe thunderstorm, homeowners should watch for symptoms such as:

• Garage door will not open or close
• Wall button stops functioning
• Remote controls no longer work
• Safety sensors flash or malfunction
• Opener lights behave erratically
• Wi-Fi connectivity suddenly disappears
• Burnt electrical smell near the opener

These signs may indicate surge-related damage that requires professional diagnosis.

Why Newer Openers Can Be More Vulnerable
While modern garage door openers offer tremendous convenience through smartphone controls, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced safety features, they also contain more electronic components than older systems.

The more electronics an opener contains, the greater the potential exposure to voltage spikes caused by lightning activity.

This doesn't mean homeowners should avoid smart openers—it simply highlights the importance of proper surge protection.

How to Protect Your Garage Door Opener
Several steps can help reduce the risk of lightning-related damage:

Install Surge Protection
Whole-home surge protectors installed at the electrical panel can provide protection against major voltage spikes.

Use Quality Garage Door Openers
Professionally installed opener systems often include higher-quality electronics and components designed for long-term reliability.

Inspect After Major Storms
If your garage door behaves unusually after a thunderstorm, don't ignore it. Small electrical issues can worsen over time.

Replace Aging Openers
Older openers may be more susceptible to electrical failures due to worn components and outdated electronics.


When Repair Isn't Enough
In some cases, a lightning-related surge may destroy the opener's main circuit board. Depending on the age of the unit and the availability of replacement parts, replacing the opener may be more cost-effective than repairing it.

Many homeowners choose to upgrade to newer systems that offer:

• Quieter operation
• Smartphone control
• Enhanced safety features
• Battery backup options
• Improved reliability

Protect Your Home's Largest Moving System
Your garage door opener is one of the hardest-working systems in your home. During Ohio's active summer storm season, protecting that investment is important.

If your opener has stopped working after a thunderstorm or is showing unusual behavior, a professional inspection can help determine whether lightning-related electrical damage is the cause and identify the best path forward. At Best Door & Window, we specialize in helping customers assess garage door opener problems and recommending the right solution for you. Contact us today.

Ideal Weather Conditions for Installation
Summer generally provides more predictable weather patterns than spring or fall. Longer daylight hours and drier conditions allow installation crews to work more efficiently and minimize project delays caused by rain or temperature fluctuations.

These favorable conditions can help ensure proper installation and allow your project to move smoothly from start to finish.

Improve Energy Efficiency During Peak Cooling Season
Older siding can allow unwanted heat and moisture to penetrate your home's exterior. When combined with deteriorated house wrap and rotting substrate or insufficient insulation, this can make your air conditioning system work harder than necessary.

Modern siding systems (including new house wrap and replacing rotting wood) often provide improved insulation and enhanced weather resistance, helping homeowners:

• Reduce energy loss
• Improve indoor comfort
• Lower cooling costs
• Increase overall energy efficiency

In fact, insulated siding is available to help boost performance and improve the return on investment of a siding project. Many homeowners notice a difference in comfort almost immediately after replacing aging siding.

Identify and Address Hidden Damage
Siding problems are often easier to spot during the summer months. Warping, fading, loose panels, and moisture damage become more visible when exposed to heat and sunlight.

A siding replacement project can also uncover hidden issues such as:

• Water infiltration
• Rotten wood sheathing
• Insect damage
• Mold and mildew
• Structural deterioration

Addressing these problems now can help prevent much more expensive repairs in the future and protect your home and family.

Boost Curb Appeal During Outdoor Entertaining Season
Summer is when many homeowners spend the most time outdoors. Family gatherings, graduation parties, cookouts, and neighborhood events naturally draw attention to your home's exterior.

New siding can dramatically improve:

• Curb appeal
• Property value
• Neighborhood appearance
• Pride of ownership

Whether you plan to stay in your home for years or eventually sell, updated siding creates a strong first impression.

Prepare for Fall and Winter Weather
Ohio homeowners know that fall and winter weather can arrive quickly. Replacing siding during the summer gives your home added protection before:

• Heavy rains
• Falling temperatures
• Ice and snow
• Winter windstorms

By completing exterior improvements now, you can enter the colder months with confidence that your home is properly protected.

Signs It May Be Time to Replace Your Siding
You may want to consider a siding inspection if you notice:

• Cracked or broken panels
• Fading or discoloration
• Warping or buckling
• Increased energy bills
• Frequent repainting needs
• Moisture or mold issues
• Loose or missing sections
• Insect infestations

Invest in Your Home This Summer
Siding replacement is one of the most effective ways to improve your home's appearance, efficiency, and protection. With favorable installation conditions, immediate comfort benefits, and enhanced curb appeal, summer remains one of the best times of year to tackle this important exterior improvement project. At Best Door & Window, we offer a wide range of high-quality, beautiful siding options for any budget and style. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and estimate.