Locksmith is Suing Google - But is it His Poor Customer Service That's the Problem?

Google, Yellowbook and Ziplocal, well known websites dedicated to providing local listings to consumers, are under attack by Mark Baldino, owner of Baldino’s Lock and Key Service in Virginia. Baldino is claiming that these sites knowingly put up false locksmith ads above his own in order to make business owners pay more for advertising to be above these “fake” listings. The locksmith is suing Google under the pretense of racketeering, i.e. creating a condition to profiteer from refusing to remove fraudulent locksmith listings. Baldino states that he has lost a third of his customers over the last six years — an $8.4 million decrease in revenue — due in part to Google, Yellowbook and Ziplocal’s refusal to remove the listings that often appear higher in search results than his own. But what does that say for Baldino? A locksmith company making $8.4 million dollars in six years – that, to me, sounds like more of a scam rather than Google, Yellowbook and Ziplocal trying to drive revenue up by placing fake ads. Not only would these companies not benefit from falsely advertising to consumers, it would likely damage their reputation in the online community – something I can guarantee they do not want to happen.

So is he taking his criticism of these businesses too far? Baldino’s Lock and Key Servicehas 17 locations in D.C., VA, and MD. When you Google a locksmith in any of the cities they serve, Baldino’s is always on the maps – sometimes the only locksmith company on the map. So where exactly are these “fake” listings he is claiming that have stolen $8.4 million dollars from him? Many locksmith companies are mobile – meaning they come to your location to serve you. Most people who need a locksmith have usually locked themselves out of their car, home or business and require immediate attention that going to an actual store could not provide. Having a physical store is not required to be on Google Maps – only a mailing address to ensure that it is in fact not a fake address just designed to place above organic search results. There are many professions and services that may not have a home base – plumbers, electricians, cable repair companies, and roofing companies to name a few. These companies are designed to service customers at their location, not at the companies. Baldino’s lawsuit is borne purely of selfish and unreasonable motives – he wants to monopolize the locksmith industry on the east coast and not allow other companies that may not have the money to have 17 store locations be able to post their services on Google Maps and other local map resources.

With an average rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars on Yelp, and consumer comments ranging from “rude, incompetent, poor customer service, poor communication with wholesaler, poor quality control.” to “being repeatedly talked down to as a customer prompted me to record the attitude problem that exists at this establishment.  The manager (Chris) was surly, arrogant, and lacked any customer service skills”, it may not be Google’s fault after all that he has lost so much business in the last 6 years. The complaints on Yelp outweigh the positive reviews by 50% – 6 good reviews vs. 12 bad ones. And this is only for one of their locations – I’m sure a more detailed look into this would find their other locations just as lacking in the customer service department. One loyal customer from McLean, VA, had been using Baldino’s service for almost 10 years when she decided to write a review on Yelp stating “I suppose they have enough business not to need to politely serve long time loyal customers so I will be taking my business elsewhere. “

With terrible customer service and outrageous prices, Mark Baldino may want to retract his lawsuit and rethink his customer service approach.

http://locallocksmithportlandoregon.com/locksmith-is-suing-google/

Step by step tutorial on how to build a pallet garden

step by step directions!

Foods That Don't Need Refrigeration (and we bet you didn't know!)

 While keeping fruits, vegetables and other assorted foods in the fridge might seem like a no brainer, chances are you are putting something in there that doesn't belong. Refrigerators are essential to this day and age, and can help keep weeks of food fresh and ready for consumption. So what could possibly be wrong about keeping everything in there? Refrigerating certain foods can actually make them lose their vitamins and minerals, cause bruising, or make the rotting process speed up. It also contributes to food waste; the United States alone wastes almost 40% of the food we buy. Not only is that number enough to feed 25 million Americans per year, it is completely avoidable by storing food properly. We've compiled a list of foods that should not be refrigerated:

1. Cucumbers
I know right? I definitely used to refrigerate my cucumbers the minute I brought them home from the store. As it turns out, cucumbers are sensitive to temperatures below 50°F and may develop "chilling injuries" including water-soaked areas, pitting, and accelerated decay. If you absolutely want to refrigerate your cucumbers, limit it to 1-3 days and eat them as soon as possible. Also, cucumbers are highly sensitive to ethylene and should be kept away from bananas, melons, and tomatoes.

2. Tomatoes
While this is common knowledge, some people like to eat their tomatoes cold, especially me! I find the texture weird when eating a cold salad with warm tomatoes. But why is this wonderful fruit not supposed to be in the fridge? It's because of the volatiles in the tomato - the flavor of a tomato is a result of an interaction between sugars, acids, and multiple volatile compounds. Refrigerating tomatoes causes its volatiles begin to break down. Volatiles associated with green and grassy notes were those hardest hit, which explains why refrigerated tomatoes lack that fresh-picked flavor.While you should not refrigerate fresh tomatoes, DEFINITELY put cut tomatoes in the fridge.

3. Winter Squash
These hardy vegetables in all of its glorious varieties should be stored in the pantry or on the counter for maximum taste, texture, and length of freshness. They should not be stored in the fridge because the humidity causes the squash to deteriorate rapidly. When stored outside of the fridge they can last about a month or more, depending on the temperature of your home.

4. Melons
Melons have a naturally hard rind on the outside that keeps bugs and other pesky problems from entering the fruit. So why should you not refrigerate it? It's because these fruits continue to ripen after being picked, and premature refrigeration will cause them to lose flavor and develop a mealy texture, just like tomatoes! Once they are fully ripe though, go ahead and throw them in the fridge if you're not ready to eat it so the ripening process slows.

5. Avocado
When you purchase avocado from the store it is usually stone hard, right? That's because avocados take a long time to ripen - up to two weeks depending on your storage method. Placing them in the fridge causes time to basically stop - i.e. the fruit will not ripen due to the cold atmosphere. The best way to store them? In a brown paper bag for about 3 days. 

6. Basil
Basil is just like coffee; it loves to absorb the smells around them. When placed in the fridge, the odors will get into the basil, causing the taste to change irreversibly. They will also become soggy and practically unusable. Store them in a dry, air tight container for maximum freshness.

7. Coffee
 As I mentioned above, just like fresh herbs, coffee should not be refrigerated or frozen. This is because it causes condensation, which can lead to mold as well as changing the flavor of your coffee. As with everything else on this list, store on the counter or pantry for maximum freshness and flavor.

8. Peanut Butter
While you don't absolutely have to store peanut butter in the pantry, storing it in the fridge causes the oils to freeze up, making the consistency of the p.b. hard and virtually impossible to spread. It can also change the color and flavor, making it aesthetically unpleasing.Though, if you're the type to eat all natural foods, definitely refrigerate it as it does not have the preserving agents as many other brands do.

9. Spices
If you're like me, you have a TON of spices that seem to take up an entire cabinet or two. While putting them in the fridge or freezer to save room might seem like a good idea, don't! Once again the humid environment of a refrigerator is detrimental to the flavor of spices, and since most can be safely stored for years without refrigeration, there's no benefit to cold storage at all.

10. Honey
This one is obvious - to me, anyway. Honey is its own natural preservative, one of the oldest known to man. When refrigerated, honey becomes cloudy, loses its anti-oxidant properties, and will crystallize, making the process of getting it out almost unbearable. Honey can last almost indefinitely when stored in a dark, dry place.

11. Farm Fresh Eggs
Now I know what you're thinking - but we've been told since we were little to store eggs in the fridge! Well, that logic is partially right. In the US we're told to refrigerate them to reduce the risk of salmonella, but if you think about where your industry eggs are coming from - i.e. big corporations that mass feed chickens, the chances of salmonella are drastically higher than those from local, farm fresh eggs. Store farm fresh eggs at room temperature if you plan to eat them within 7-10 days. Local eggs are the freshest and will keep the longest. Otherwise, store eggs in the fridge to be safe.

12. Cheese
Yep! Cheese is one of the many foods that typically don't need to be refrigerated. The earliest evidence of cheese making dates back to 5,500 BCE. Mechanical refrigeration has been around for maybe 160 years.Cheese tastes best when it is served at room temperature, so it's perfectly fine to leave wedges on the counter. To give you an even shorter explanation: It's all about butterfat.  Butterfat holds a lot of the flavor, and butterfat is solid when cold and unctuous at room temperature. You want it unctuous.


13. Tuna in a pouch
While you may store your canned tuna in the pantry, what about vacuum sealed pouches? These are sealed just like canned tuna, and will do better when stored in a cool, dry place to retain texture and flavor. Depending on the type of tuna (such as tuna in oil) definitely don't store them in the fridge because - you guessed it - the oil will become cloudy and the consistency will be off.


14. Chocolate
While chocolate doesn't like air and sunlight as some other foods, it definitely doesn't like being in the fridge either. Chocolate in the fridge or freezer will build up condensation when warming up, causing it to lose flavor, texture, and color. The cocoa butter in chocolate also sucks up odors faster than a dry sponge sucks up water. Store chocolate in a cool, dry area where the temperature stays between 68-72 degrees.


15. Lemons and Limes
Citrus fruits like lemons and limes can suffer from chill damage, causing the internal structure of the fruits to become more bitter, harder, and contain less vitamins. Store lemons, limes, and other citrus fruits on the counter away from bananas to maintain freshness and consistency.


The next time you come home from the grocery store, make sure you keep these tips in mind to avoid food waste!
http://sacramentocagaragedoorrepair.com/news/foods-that-dont-need-refrigeration/

it causes condensation and changes the flavor. Goes for beans and grounds. Keep in airtight container in pantry.  - See more at: http://www.mythirtyspot.com/2013/03/15-things-you-should-not-refrigerate.html/#sthash.hn0pELcl.dpuf

it causes condensation and changes the flavor. Goes for beans and grounds. Keep in airtight container in pantry.  - See more at: http://www.mythirtyspot.com/2013/03/15-things-you-should-not-refrigerate.html/#sthash.hn0pELcl.dpuf

Mercedes and Mario Kart Combined: A Good or Bad Thing?

Video gamers of all ages can appreciate Nintendo’s Mario series, and with Mario Kart being one of the most popular games across their platforms, it seems like a win-win for their soon to be released Mario Kart 8. So why have they partnered with Mercedes, a luxury vehicle company? While it may be that gamers want something more realistic than their standard go-kart style cars, the question begs another; is this just another marketing scheme? This past June Nintendo announced a quarterly loss despite the fact that the Wii U sales had tripled. The company’s overall operating loss of 9.47 billion yen (roughly $93 million U.S.) means there will be a lot of pressure on Nintendo’s holiday quarter to impress and help the company make up its sales targets.
The release of Mario Kart 8 DLC, which is only on the Wii U platform, launches in the US in November 2014 and includes 6 new characters (including Link from The Legend of Zelda!), 8 new vehicles, and 16 new tracks. What does Mercedes have to do with it? They are partnering with Mercedes to promote the automaker’s new GLA crossover, and will hopefully help Nintendo’s $93 million dollar loss not seem so dreary. So what does this mean for consumers? Besides the urge to go out and spend $31,300 and up on a 2015 benz, it might mean the start of a whole new marketing strategy: placing ads and campaigns where they don’t belong.
So, is this partnership a good idea? According to Mercedes-Benz CEO Kintaro Ueno, the campaign has exceeded the company’s expectations.“[The commercial] was quite a talking point, bringing a lot of people to the showroom,” Mercedes-Benz Japan president and chief executive officer Kintaro Ueno commented. “This is a new market segment for us, but it has exceeded our expectations. I can say that it’s going well.” While this may be good news for Mercedes, I’m having a difficult time seeing how this will benefit Nintendo and future games from the company.

http://autolocksmithseattlewa.com/nintendo-and-mercedes-combine/

Gas Prices Are Lowering, But Will It Stay?

While gas prices nationally have lowered by almost 20 cents in the last month, I don't recommend going out to buy that new gas guzzler just yet. Over the past 4 years gas prices have continued to fluctuate, with prices being considerably lower in the fall and winter months than in spring or summer. According to the US Energy Information Administration, the current national average cost for a gallon of gasoline is $3.299. That's down about a nickel from the previous week and around seven cents lower than this time last year. But is this just a trend, or can we expect it to stay?

With 13% of our crude oil coming from Saudi Arabia, it may not just be a blip. According to Reuters speaking to unnamed OPEC insiders, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait say they don't want to reduce their own production, and a possible solution is to lower oil to $90 or as low as $80 per barrel for as long as a year or two. This is good news for automobile owners across the country, as that would make further expensive investments in drilling less attractive in the US and maintain the Gulf's market share. However, this may just be a tactic by Saudi Arabia to take advantage of the rest of the OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries). 

 Saudi Arabia may be willing to lower production, but they don't want to be the only ones doing it. According to Reuters, Venezuela is one example of a place that is refusing to turn down the taps and wants to keep things at over $100 a barrel. While the US only gets 9% of its petroleum from Venezuela, this can cause other petroleum importers to follow suit. By letting prices slip briefly, Saudi Arabia could sustain the lower revenues until other members decide to reduce pumping with them, which would then cause the cost per barrel to rise again.

Based on the previous 4 years graph of gas price fluctuation, I wouldn't count on these low prices staying for long.

http://autolocksmithseattlewa.com/gas-prices/

Thinking of Buying a New Truck? Here Are 2014's Winners.

When most of us think of Texas, we think cowboys, boots, and trucks. And we're not far off: Ford Motor Company has recently won 8 awards in this year's Texas Auto Writers Association's annual Truck Rodeo. Stepping up their game and remodeling their signature F-150 into an aluminum body instead of metal has gained them the prestigious award of Truck of Texas, ending the Ram 1500's two-year winning streak. Ford went on to win another 7 awards, including best full size pickup, best luxury pickup, and best truck line of Texas. While it wasn't a complete wash out with Jeep winning 5 awards, Ford definitely dominated this year's Truck Rodeo. Some runners up included Chrysler and Lincoln, winning awards for best SUV and CUV, respectively. So what makes the 2015 Ford F-150 Texas's truck of the year? According to Ford's website, it is "Because now and in the coming years, your truck will have to be stronger, more productive and more efficient, because the jobs keep getting harder and gas prices are rising. So we turned to high-strength, military-grade,^* aluminum alloy for our body and bed. We developed new technologies. We rethought conventional assumptions and charted the future of tough. As always, we did what was right, not what was easy. Which is why the all-new F-150 is designed to deliver more towing and hauling capability than the previous generation."

Whether you're a Ford or a Dodge person, it definitely seems that Ford is taking the lead in the truck industry, and fast. Below is a list of all of the awards and their winners.

Compact CUV: 2015 Honda CR-V Touring
Midsize CUV: 2015 Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium
Fullsize CUV: 2015 Kia Sedona SX
Luxury CUV: 2015 Lincoln MKC
Compact SUV: 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk
Midsize SUV: 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland 4x4
Fullsize SUV: 2015 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD
Compact Luxury SUV: 2015 Range Rover Evoque 5-Door
Midsize Luxury SUV: 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit EcoDiesel 4x4
Fullsize Luxury SUV: 2015 GMC Yukon Denali
Off-Road SUV: 2015 Jeep Wrangler
Midsize Pickup Truck: 2015 Chevrolet Colorado Crew Cab
Fullsize Pickup Truck: 2015 Ford F-150 King Ranch
Luxury Pickup Truck: 2015 Ford F-150 Platinum
Heavy Duty Pickup Truck: 2015 Ram 2500 Laramie Longhorn
Off-Road Pickup Truck: 2015 Ram Power Wagon
Commercial Vehicle: 2015 Ford Transit 250
Best Powertrain: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel Engine
Best Connectivity: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles' Uconnect Access
Best Technology: 2015 Ford F-150 King Ranch high-strength military-grade aluminum body
CUV of Texas: 2015 Lincoln MKC
SUV of Texas: 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Truck of Texas: 2015 Ford F-150
Truck Line of Texas: Ford 

http://autolocksmithportlandor.com/new-trucks-in-2014/

Do You Want to Revamp Your Home? Try These Easy Tricks

Since many of us work the 9-5 grind, it can be difficult to find the time to update your home without spending all weekend doing so. There are many tips and tricks that can help improve your homes image without breaking the bank, and most can be done anywhere between 30 minutes to 1/2 a days worth of work. Updating even the smallest things can have a major impact on the look of your home, as well as help by saving you money on your bills. Here are a few things you can do to make your home more appealing to the eye:

1. Add a Kitchen Back Splash
Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, it is important to make sure it reflects your taste and style. Adding a kitchen back splash is easy as well as cost efficient, and can add to the value of your home. Prices can vary depending on the type of tile as well as the length of the wall, but generally will cost less than $100 and can be installed in about 4 hours. A tile back splash adds a colorful customized accent to your kitchen, and you can choose from a host of decorative tiles.
2. Make Your Entrance Inviting
The front of your house is what people notice, so why not add a little color to your home? By painting the door a bold color and adding a few plants around the entrance, you can change the curb appeal of your home in as little as an hour. This not only gives your guests a lasting impression, it will make you feel better about your home as well. For even more appeal, add some designer hardware to your door.
3. Add New Lighting to Your Dining Area
Dress up your eating area by adding a fresh light fixture. Replacing your existing light fixture is the cheapest and easiest option; simply disconnect the power and connect the wires to your new lamp.
4. Create an Outdoor Escape
With flagstone readily available at your local hardware store, you can transform your dreary backyard into a tiny patio paradise in a weekend- no mortar required. Add potted plants and a small bistro set to amplify the patio and flagstone.
5. Update Your Hardware
Most factory issue handles are not the best looking, and can be easily changed with nothing more than a screwdriver. Look for designs that compliment your style as well as your home. Handles on your drawers and cabinets can be replaced in as little as 30 minutes.
Use these easy tricks to update your home at little cost to you!

http://garagedoorrepairpdx.org/5-easy-home-improvement-ideas/

Not Enough Space for a Garden? Try These 5 Hacker Ideas

If you live in an apartment or a condo, chances are you do not have an area big enough to even consider planting a garden. With food costs skyrocketing and fresh veggies and fruit becoming more scarce in today’s eat-on-the-go lifestyle, it can be hard to find healthy food without having to search around. For residents looking to flourish in a small area and join the grow-your-food movement, we’ve created a list of space-saving ideas to help you grow your own food, no matter how little your place is.
1. Container Plants
Many edibles have trailing growth habits that allow them to cascade beautifully over the edge of containers. This type of garden works well on balconies and porches. Strawberries, tomatoes, radishes and hot peppers thrive in containers, as well as herbs and lettuces. For a complete list of plants that do well in containers, visit http://www.container-gardening-for-food.com/Growing-vegetables-in-containers.html
2. Wall Brackets and Trellises
Wall brackets and trellises allow the plants to grow upward instead of out, giving your home more room while adding style and filling up empty wall space. There are many plants that would do well growing upward, including grapes, beans, peas, and gourds.
3. Window Boxes
Strategically place window boxes on different sides of the house to grow sun-tolerant and shade-tolerant plants. Window planters are ideal for herb gardens. Consider using a kitchen window if possible, so you can grab a bunch of cilantro, basil or rosemary while cooking.
4. Dwarf Varieties
Many plant breeders have created multiple smaller plant breeds optimal for growing in small spaces.  These dwarf varieties come in many different types, such as beans, beets, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, cucumber, onions, potatoes and more. These work well in both containers and trellises.
5. Pallets
Pallets have many different uses, so why not for a garden? Pallets give you the ability to separate different varieties of plants and can be either hung up, turned into shelves, or laid on the ground. For ides on a pallet garden, check out http://lifeonthebalcony.com

http://garagedoorrepairsatlantaga.com/home-grown-food-small-spaces/

Don’t Be Scammed by a Locksmith

Questions You Need To Ask When Having A Locksmith Perform Work

At one time or another, most of us – if not all – have locked ourselves out of our car or home. While frustrating, this is remedied quite easily by calling a reputable locksmith. But how do you know if a locksmith is reputable or if it is a scam? Professional locksmiths will have many defining features that a scam, or fake, locksmith would not, such as:

1. The ability to deduce the problem and fix it within a reasonable time.
2. A clearly marked vehicle with the companies name.
3. A license, if required by the state.
4. Professional invoices with the company logo

These are just some of the ways to tell if the person before you is a genuine locksmith.

Let’s say your locksmith meets all of these requirements. What’s next? There are still stories that float around about being charged outrageous prices for very little work. For example, in January 2011, a woman came home from work at 2 am in Brooklyn, NY. Though she had her keys, the key refused to open the lock, and having no other options, she called a locksmith. The locksmith arrived, looking and acting professional, and was able to drill out the broken cylinder and get her into her home in about 20 minutes. After a few minutes, he arrived back at her door with an itemized bill totaling $613 dollars. Anyone in their right mind would understand that this was not only outrageously priced, it was almost criminal to charge this much for almost no work at all. So what did she do wrong?

The number one issue people do not seem to grasp is before any contractor – whether it be a locksmith, plumber, or anything else – begins any work, you should have the cost in writing. While it is possible that other issues can arise during service, such as a previous bad lock installation or missing parts – generally a professional locksmith will give you an itemized receipt with an agreed amount prior to performing any work. So what can you do to make sure you won’t be scammed by a locksmith?

1. First find their address on their ad or website. Try to find on Google and other directory listings customer reviews.
2. Don’t wait till you need them before calling them; call them simply to learn a few things: 1) Where are their technicians based? 2) Are they licensed? 3) What is the registered name of the business? If at this point you don’t get good vibes from them, end the transaction. Otherwise, then ask about their preliminary cost estimate. An unbelievably low quote (like $20) probably means a scam or hidden costs.
3. If they answer your phone call with a generic name such as “locksmith services,” be suspicious. If they can’t give a specific business name, move on.
4. When it’s time to hire a locksmith, inform the dispatcher you need to see the technician’s certification and ID, and that you would like a written estimate prior to the service.
5. Before having them come out, make sure you get information about any extra charges such as for mileage, service call minimums or emergency hours.
6. Check the locksmith’s vehicle; it should be marked, and get the license number.
7. Ask to see his locksmith license. The following states require locksmiths to be licensed: Alabama, California, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Washington, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas.
8. If the locksmith insists on cash, this may mean a scam.
9. If the technician won’t give a written estimate before starting the job, end the transaction.
10. If the onsite estimate doesn’t match the phone estimate, do not permit the job to be performed.
11. If he says, “The lock needs to be drilled out,” ask why, because a professional locksmith should have the skills and tools to unlock just about any door. Sometimes a cylinder will be broken, or if you have a “Smart Key Lock”, and it will need to be drilled, but generally this is not the case.
12. Don’t pay until you’re satisfied with the job.

These are just a few helpful tips to make sure you’re not going to be scammed by a locksmith.

http://autolocksmithseattlewa.com/dont-be-scammed-by-a-locksmith/

Carrying A Concealed Weapon? You Might Want A Heavy Duty Handgun Safe

AMSEC’s NEW PS1210HD is a heavy duty handgun safe

With the second amendment coming into close scrutiny these days, people are stocking up on their firearms. While it can be good practice to own a gun, it can be deadly in the wrong hands. So how do you prevent a child, a stranger, or a burglar from using it against you or someone else? AMSEC, a leader in the safe industry, has developed a new, quick-access gun safe that can be carried in your car or stored in your home. These practical safes come with many safety features, including a massive 3/16 steel door with two solid steel dead bars and gas piston for easy opening. The strong, pry-resistant locking bolt on this handgun safe makes it virtually impossible to break in to, and the locking mechanism is protected by steel housing, making it impervious to punch attacks. Its high strength, 10 gauge solid steel body is heavy duty and comes with a welded and concealed continuous hinge for maximum protection.


The charcoal gray textured finish with chrome hardware is a beautiful combination of strength and class, and its chrome handle is heavy duty to ensure it never breaks. It comes with push button mechanical locking device for quick and easy access, but provides the right amount of strength to keep everyone who does not know the code out and away from your firearm. Four pre-drilled bolt down holes make it easy to install in your home or car, and further help to guarantee that the safe will not be stolen. Protective, high density pluck foam-lined interior provides a soft yet stable housing environment.
The PS1210HD handgun safe is built in the U.S.A. and provides unparalleled security and protection for your handguns and other valuables. It does not require a battery or keys to open the lock, and you can reset your own combination in the lock and change it at a moments notice. The handgun safe measures at 10.25″ x 12.5″ x 4.25″ and weighs 24 pounds, perfect for keeping almost any type of handgun you may own.
These high security gun safes sell for about $199, and are a great way of keeping your home and vehicle safe.

http://autolocksmithseattlewa.com/ps1210hd-handgun-safe/

Is your car on the 2013 list of most stolen?

Top Cars Stolen in 2013

The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) just released its yearly report on the top 10 vehicles that were stolen in 2013, and the results are not looking good for those who have a mid-range priced car. Most cars after 1995 have a transponder system, or better known as a FOB system. The transponder system (transmitter + responder) allows the key to “talk” to the computer inside the vehicle, which in turn allows the key holder to turn on the car. If multiple attempts are made to turn an ignition with a non programmed key, the computer will freeze the car, requiring it to be restarted by a locksmith.
This safety feature is standard in most new cars, but it seems that thieves are figuring out a way around the security. So what can you do? Besides installing an annoyingly loud car alarm, you can call Portland Auto Locksmith and discuss options to add more security to your vehicle. Higher end vehicles such as Lexus, Audi, and BMW have a more sophisticated security feature, including laser cut keys. Laser cut keys are very different from normal keys and are much, much harder to break into as a result.
The most stolen cars in the nation in 2013 were:
1. Honda Accord (53,995)
2. Honda Civic (45,001)
3. Chevrolet Pickup (Full Size) (27,809)
4. Ford Pickup (Full Size) (26,494)
5. Toyota Camry (14,420)
6. Dodge Pickup (Full Size) (11,347)
7. Dodge Caravan (10,911)
8. Jeep Cherokee/Grand Cherokee (9,272)
9. Toyota Corolla (9,010)
10.Nissan Altima  (8,892)
But, that’s not all. Although some of these may be older models, the similarity between the list of older models vs. 2013 models were strikingly similar:
Top 8 2013 models stolen in the calendar year of 2013 (in order of most to least):
1. Nissan Altima (810)
2. Ford Fusion (793)
3. Ford Pickup Full Size (775)
4. Toyota Corolla (669)
5. Chevrolet Impala (654)
6. Hyundai Elantra (541)
7. Dodge Charger (536)
8. Chevrolet Malibu (529)
So why are mid range, older models being targeted? Because they are easier to break into and piece off. It is commonly believed that thieves are able to rewire or dismantle the transponder system, allowing the car to be turned on with almost any key. Because these cars only have a transponder security system, and not the extra security features of the newer, higher end models, they become a more efficient means of stripping parts to sell. While this news may sound depressing, not all is lost.
There are many security systems on the market today that can save you from becoming a victim of vehicle theft, including:
The Viper Responder 5901 is a popular new device that will send a text message to the user anytime the vehicle is started, door has been opened, or is unlocked, while the Python 872 Responder LE has hidden GhostLight LEDs, 2,000-foot range, two-way communication between the car and the device (which allows a consumer to monitor his or her car in case of a suspected break-in), remote start feature, and built-in turbo timer for customers who have turbocharged vehicles that need a cooling off period. These are just two of the many new security systems on the market today.
In conclusion, if you have one of these model cars, you might want to consider adding a little more security just to be safe.

http://autolocksmithportlandor.com/top-cars-stolen-in-2013/ 

Rx Safes Can Help Reduce Teen Medication Abuse

Teens today are constantly finding new ways to get “high”, and the rising statics of prescription drug abuse is a clear indication that this is not going to end anytime soon. Vicodin, Oxycodone, Oxicotin, Valium, and Xanex are just some of the problem drugs that teens are partial to. 52 Million people in the US, over the age of 12, have used prescription drugs non-medically in their lifetime. This alarming number is only amplified by the fact that since 2010, enough prescription painkillers were prescribed to medicate every American adult every 4 hours for 1 month. While parents try to keep their kids from, say, smoking marijuana or doing cocaine, prescription drugs are more readily available and can have long lasting side effects, such as addiction, dopamine depletion, bi-polar disorders, paranoid schizophrenia, and more. During a study in 2010, scientists asked teens why they preferred prescription pills, and broke it down into 12 reasons:

1. 62%: Easy to get from parent’s medicine cabinets
2. 52%: Available everywhere
3. 51%: They are not illegal drugs
4. 50%: Easy to get through other people’s prescriptions
5. 49%: Can claim to have prescription if caught
6. 43%: They are cheap
7. 35%: Safer to use than illegal drugs
8. 33%: Less shame attached to using
9. 32%: Easy to purchase over the internet
10. 32%: Fewer side effects than street drugs
11. 25%: Can be used as study aids
12. 21%: Parents don’t care as much if caught

So what can you do as a parent or guardian to help curb this rising epidemic? Install a Rx safe! Rx Safes, Inc. has recently won a bid from the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs Control. The company has received a purchase order issued by the Bureau for 500 units of the Rx DrugSAFE, which will be given to at risk families in the state. “Prescription drug abuse is a formidable foe in Oklahoma and we are fighting it on several fronts.  The lock-boxes are critical tools to be used in households around our state to diminish the availability of prescription drugs to unwanted end users.  We have vulnerable populations in Oklahoma, primarily the elderly who are targets of thieves seeking prescriptions.  These boxes will help ensure the drugs will not be taken from the intended patient.  Every component helps in our plight against prescription drug abuse,” stated Darrell Weaver, OBN Director. These safes are fingerprint accessed, and will only allow the prescribed user to access the safe, keeping kids and teens alike far away from the accessibility of prescription drugs.
The RxDrugSafe starts at only $199, and holds up to 12 prescription bottles. It is made from 17 gauge steel, and has a mountable bracket for you to install it wherever you would like. The RxDrugSafe Pro will be released soon, allowing the user instant access through their fingerprint and will hold up to 40 prescription bottles. Both models can come with backup keys, which are designed to prevent the lock from being picked and unable to be duplicated.
No matter how many prescriptions you may have or how safe you think they are, a determined teen will try to find a way around any lesser security measures. Order a RxDrugSafe today and keep your medicine and family safe.

http://autolocksmithportlandor.com/rx-safes-can-help-reduce-teen-medication-abuse/

Arrow’s Revolution Line is Revolutionary

The latest from Arrow Lock & Door Hardware in their Revolution line is a cutting edge touchscreen deadbolt. This little tidbit is a high-security voice programming lock that’s also voice prompted and has a motorized bolt. With voice activated controls to get with a key pad, this neat little piece of hardware renders keys not necessary. Although if something were to go wrong with it, there is a fail-safe key for it. There is a language select mode, volume setting, user and master code programming. Definitely something on the higher end of security for the consumer market. Next year we’re going to have those home locks that requires a finger print ID scan to entry; something out of back to the future!

Electronic Features

• Stand-alone touchscreen access locking device
• Interactive voice-guided programming
• Tri-lingual, English/Spanish/French
• High tech look and feel
• Volume levels - High, Low (Default), Silent
• Easy to use, install and program
• Users: 25 users; add/delete individual users
• Battery life - one year
• Deadbolt Motor - Motorized bolt in and out
• Privacy feature

Mechanical Features

• Weather Resistant
• Key Override - Uses standard Arrow® cylinders available CS Schlage C keyways.  Also available in Small Format Interchangeable Core Prep, call if you need SFIC 
• BHMA/ANSI A156.36, Grade 2
• Install lock and latch with only 5 screws
• Field Reversible - Fits left and right swing doors
• Manual Retraction - Inside Thumbturn, clutched motor assembly

Specs

• Certifications:  ANSI A117.1 Accessibility Code. ANSI/BHMA A156.36, Grade 2
• Door Prep:  Standard Prep; 2-1/8" through hole, 1" bore hole for latch
• Backset:  Adjustable 2-3/8" or 2-3/4"
• Door Thickness:  1-3/8" and 2-1/4" thick doors; 1-3/8" requires a special thin door gasket
• Keying - Standard Cylinder or SFIC Prep
• Latch: Stainless Steel with 1/2" throw standard. Latch housing is steel, zinc dichromate finish for corrosion resistance
• Strikes: Stainless steel. ANSI A156.115
• Warranty: 1 year electronic, lifetime mechanical and finish, with receipt for residential use. 1 year electronic and 3 mechanical and finish for commercial applications.

 These locks are perfect for everyone and offer the best safety insurance on the market today.

http://autolocksmithportlandor.com/look-ma-no-keys/

Classica Two-Tone Colors Offer More Choices For Doors

 Is your house a solid color, but the trimming is a different color? While this looks good and can add to the value of your home, chances are the garage door only matches one, if any, of the colors on the outside of your home. In order to give its customers more variety, Amarr is now offering two toned paint jobs on their Classica line. With 42 combinations to choose from, they have guaranteed that almost anyone can have a door that matches their home.

There are six base colors to choose from: true white, almond, wicker tan, sandtone, terratone and dark brown. The panel area is then painted with one of eight color options: true white, almond, wicker tan, sandtone, terratone and dark brown, hunter green, and grey. The wide variety of colors makes it easy for consumers to customize their door to their home, and provides a unique look for the Classica garage door. Classica doors are made from low maintenance steel, but give the appearance of a wood door for home owners that want the carriage style door without the hassle of real wood.
Amarr’s Classica doors come in three constructions: Classica 1000, Classica 2000, and Classica 3000. The lowest priced door of the line, the Classica 1000 is a single layer steel door that are durable, reliable, and low maintenance. Looking for something a little more insulated? The Classica 2000 is double-layer door provides durable, low maintenance features, plus a layer of vinyl-coated insulation for increased thermal properties and quieter operation. For the toughest, most energy-efficient steel door, a Classica 3000 triple-layer door includes the ultimate in thermal properties, plus a layer of steel for a finished interior look and added durability.
Whichever door you prefer, you are able to customize the look and style of the faux carriage door with 42 color options to choose from. These doors are only available through Amarr.com, and vary in price depending on style, window selection, and model.
When it comes to variety in garage doors, Amarr is one of the top industry leaders, and provides beautiful garage doors at affordable prices.

http://garagedoorrepairpdx.org/classica-garage-door/

A Troubleshooting Guide to Garage Door Opener Problems

Garage door openers come in all different shapes and sizes, but almost all of them have the same parts that will fail at one time or another. Calling a garage door company can get expensive, and may suggest you replace your opener without really looking for the problem.
So what can you do to avoid costly repairs or having to replace the opener? There are 6 problems that can be easily and identified by someone with little or no experience when it comes to garage door openers. While these may help remedy your problem, you should not attempt to replace anything electrical as this can cause serious injury or even death.
PROBLEM #1: The remote doesn’t work.

TROUBLESHOOT: If the door opens and closes fine when you use the wall switch, there’s a problem with the remote control. Make sure you are holding the remote within range of the garage door opener and that the motor units antenna is hanging down. Replace the batteries in the device if necessary and check that it has been correctly programmed. Still not working? You might need to purchase a new remote; make sure that it is compatible with your opener, or select a universal model.
PROBLEM #2: The remote works, but the door still does not move.
TROUBLESHOOT: When the garage door opener does not work with either the remote or the wall switch, look at the lights. If they’re not on, the unit is not receiving power. Verify that the motor unit is connected. See whether the outlet is working and check the circuit breaker, fuse or ground fault circuit interrupter to determine whether you have an electrical problem on your hands. If none of these work, it is most likely time to replace your opener.
PROBLEM #3: The door either doesn’t close fully or reverses as soon as it hits the floor.
TROUBLESHOOT: Have a look at the close limit switch. The garage door opener limit switch tells the motor that lifts and lowers the garage door when to stop running, and may need adjustment. Incorrectly set limit switches may prevent your garage door from closing completely or opening all the way. If this doesn’t solve the problem, try manually raising and lowering your garage door to make sure that it is binding.
PROBLEM #4: The door opens and closes all the way, but the opener’s motor continues to run.
TROUBLESHOOT: Once again, this probably means that the close limit switch requires adjustment. Try moving it away from or towards the opener.
PROBLEM #5: The door reverses before it even touches the floor.
TROUBLESHOOT: Check whether there is any obstruction blocking the doors smooth closure. If not, try adjusting the close force. This also could be a limit switch malfunction, as they can also cause the opener to reverse or pull back up when you attempt to close it, which can seem like a malfunction or that someone else is using a garage door opener remote that is on the same frequency as yours. This is actually caused by a safety mechanism meant to protect people from being hit and having the door close on them. Resetting the limit switch will stop your garage door from behaving erratically.
PROBLEM #6: The opener stops in the middle of operation or fails to engage at all.
TROUBLESHOOT: As of 1993, garage door openers come equipped with a pair of sensor beams. These increase safety but may sometimes cause performance problems. Ensure that both beam lights are on (one red and one green) and that nothing is interfering with their function. This could be one of several things: improper alignment of the sensors, a physical object between them, or grime or moisture on their surface.

http://garagedoorrepairpdx.org/garage-door-opener/

Artisan’s New Faux Wood Doors Are Turning Heads

Do you want a wood garage door, but don’t want to worry about the high cost or the routine maintenance? Artisan has recently introduced its new Quartet garage door line These beautiful doors give the look of the highest quality wood, but are actually 1/2″ thick and 5″ wide faux wood overlays attached to steel models for  long lasting, low maintenance beauty and design. These cost effective doors are also energy efficient, and can be stained in Golden Oak, Dark Oak, and Cherry, or painted in Almond, Bronze, Brown, Charcoal, Green, Taupe, White and Window Gray. These doors come in Swing, Bar and Trifold styles to offer maximum flexibility with minimal cost to the consumer. These beautiful doors come with a 1 3/8″ polyurethane steel base with a natural looking Oak finish to give the appearance of a real oak door. Matching stained or a solid faux composite of Quarter Sawn Oak overlays are added to the steel door to give the look of a carriage-house design.

The doors come with a standard R12 insulation, heavy duty torsion springs that provide a smoother, quieter opening experience, and industry standard tracks for installation. The window grilles are also color or stained matched on both sides to match the door, and all of the Quartet doors come with a limited lifetime warranty against rusting through the steel base. The paint and the hardware that comes standard with the door are both under warranty for 5 years, so you have the peace of mind knowing your door will work perfectly for its lifetime.
Artisan is known for its custom garage door work, and they have a full line of real wood, faux wood, and glass garage doors that give a style and elegance to your home unmatched by almost all of their competitors. To make your garage look even more beautiful, you also have the option to add some of their decorative hardware to the hinges and handles. These elegant additions will make anyone look at your garage and say “wow!”
Check out Artisan’s full line of custom, glass, wood, and faux wood garage doors to find your perfect door today!

http://garagedoorrepairsatlantaga.com/artisan-introduces-new-quartet-garage-doors/

How To Prevent Your Home From Being Burglarized

Thieves are getting more and more clever these days, and garages are no exception to this rule. In Jacksonville, Fl, Sgt. Shannon Hartley said that in the last 12 months there have been 142 burglaries in which the thief entered through the garage. How are they doing this you ask? Simple. Every garage system has an emergency release in it, so that if the power were to cut out you would still be able to manually open and close the door. This lever is usually located just inside the door, and can be reached with a coat hanger, allowing them to release the mechanism and ultimately enter the garage. In a video found on YouTube, it took only 6 seconds for a man to reach the lever and open the door. This alarming number is increased by the fact that this does not only happen in Florida, but in every state in the country. A FBI report in 2012 stated that every 1 in 36 homes will be broken into this year, resulting in  an average loss of $2,230 per break in (totaling $4.7 billion in property losses). While major cities will undoubtedly have a higher crime rate, they also have a higher property crime rate. According to the FBI’s crime statistic rankings of U.S. cities with a population of 250,000 or more, here are the burglary stats by city on cases per 100,000 people for the 2011 calendar year:

Cities with the Highest Property Crime Rates (includes Burglary, Larceny-theft, Motor Vehicle Theft)

1. New York, NY – 140,457
2. Chicago, IL – 112,466
3. Houston, TX – 107,678
4. Los Angeles, CA – 87,478
5. San Antonio, TX – 82,668
6. Phoenix, AZ – 60,934
7. Philadelphia, PA – 56,997
8. Dallas, TX – 54,300
9. Indianapolis, IN – 46,898
10. Las Vegas, NV – 46,427

So how do you prevent your home from becoming a victim of burglary? There are many methods, including adding a lock to the latch, such as the Elocksys Garage Door Lock. This nifty lock prevents burglars from being able to open the latch while giving you the security and comfort knowing your home is safe. While this option can be expensive, it is one of the best locks available on the market today. Not looking to spend that much? Zip ties will do the trick as well, but remember, zip ties can be broken or cut, and may not be the best option. Whatever you choose, make sure your home is safe, locked, and protected from intruders.

http://garagedoorrepairsatlantaga.com/protect-yourself-from-garage-burglary-and-break-ins/

New Powder Coating Designs For Commercial Rolling Doors

Cookson Company and Cornell Iron Works have recently introduced a new way to get your

company’s name out into the world: powder coating your steel rolling door. This revolutionary process allows a business owner to place imagery and graphic designs on all parts of the door, including the guides, coil boxes, counter shutters and brackets. Using a unique powder coating process, these companies are able to bake a variety of different images onto the coiling steel door, including logos, branding, or product advertising to be displayed for everyone to see. Looking for something a little cleaner? You can also request a “faux” finish, such as wood grain, brick or marble. These designs can also be applied to perforated doors, allowing ventilation and visibility while keeping the style and integrity of the design. Powder coating is also available for other doors besides a rolling door, including closed fire doors, standard service doors, insulated doors and even shutters.
These beautiful designs are able to stand up to high-cycle use, and can be tailored to any custom design, logo, product, or brand that your company would like to promote. The company has taken its first order recently: a metal shutter closing a counter between a board room and a service kitchen. The architect was concerned that the aesthetics of a metal shutter would throw off the look of the room, since the rest of the boardroom has a very high end design. The company was able to create a wood grain finish to the shutter and the guides, giving the shutter the appearance of real wood and ultimately completing the look and design of the room.
From stadiums to interior openings, these gorgeous designs will transform a building necessity into a work of art or branding tool. Compared to vinyl graphics, which can also be applied to coiling metal doors, powder coated graphics are much more durable and longer lasting, giving you more for your money. Cookson and Cornell are the leading rolling door manufacturers with facilities in Phoenix, AZ, Gastonia, NC and Mountain Top, PA. Since 1828, the companies that comprise CIW Enterprises, Inc. have consistently demonstrated their commitment to developing design solutions to meet the real needs of the market. When seeking quality, performance, reliability or solving specific design challenges, architects and building owners rely on Cornell and Cookson’s history of innovation.
http://garagedoorsrepairphoenix.com/powder-coating-designs/

Man Finds A 1955 Overhead Door Opener Still Working

Overhead Door Co. is known for its superior products and service, and this story is a perfect example
of the quality of workmanship you can expect from this company. In 2012, a man bought a 1955 lakeside home in Columbia, Conn. While doing the renovations that come with restoring an older home, he discovered a 1955 era Overhead Door Model E Ultronic door opener in the garage that was still working. Made of steel and weighing close to 50 pounds, this opener was considered top of the line in those days. Featuring both a chain drive and a belt drive, this opener was designed to ensure long-term durability.
Though it still worked, Michael Matthews, the owner of the home, decided it was too loud for it’s location directly beneath the master bedroom and decided to contact Overhead to see if they might want it for their showroom. “I love old machinery, so when I saw this old opener I was just fascinated.” Matthews went on to state that “We’re renovating the entire house, but I thought it would be a shame to just throw it away.” Overhead Door’s Senior Vice President of Sales was quick to return Matthews’ call, and in exchange for the old opener offered him one of Overhead’s newest and most advanced openers, the belt driven Destiny 1200, which was swapped out by the Overhead Door Company of Hartford, established in 1953. Glenn Wandy, a sales representative at Hartford Overhead Door, went on to say that because of the age of the opener and the time the company was established in Hartford, it is entirely possible that they installed the original door opener. “Providing superior service for Overhead Door products , even decades after a sale, is one of the reasons we are the garage door sales and service leader in Connecticut. Helping Mr. Matthews with this terrific project was never even a question.”
This is just one example of the many, many fantastic stories that show Overhead Door is one of the best companies in the garage door industry. Providing excellent products, customer service, and great prices is just part of what makes a company great. The commitment and dedication shown here is a one of the many ways this company constantly provides the perfect semblance of support for its customers.
http://garagedoorsrepairphoenix.com/overhead-door-opener/

Jury awards $21.3 million to Indy man injured in garage door accident

Recently in Indianapolis, Indiana an electrical worker is now paralyzed from the chest down due to a

negligent inspection and/or servicing on a garage door opener that opened on him causing the door to pin him between the door itself and the roof of the building.  Sometime later after being suspended in the air the motor failed causing the door to drop and in turn also drop the man fourteen feet landing head first causing the ailment.
Entrusting your garage door to inexperience personnel can make matters worse from the get-go.  Most people do not know what they’re doing nor have a general safe idea.  One wrong snip of a wire can render an expensive opener obsolete.  Or the cutting of a cable can cause a 500lb door to come crashing down.  We’ve always went be the mantra “Don’t word hard, work smart”.  Then with winding a spring if you’re not well accounted with that task, it is possible for extremities to be injured or lost.  There has been incident’s where inexperience personnel have lost fingers and hands due to improper spring installation.  There about about 50 different sized of springs and each is designed to be wound to a certain specification.  Over tightening a spring can cause it to snap with all that built up tension, it can be a very scary 1 second.
It’s always going to be best to leave this task up to the qualified well seasoned professionals.  An injured technicians is a big can of worms that that can be avoided if the proper precautions are taken.  DIY garage door repair can be one of those “bit off more than you can chew” moments.  Watching a professional perform the service on YouTube is a whole entirely different view than having it in front and doing it yourself.   Putting your faith in the hands of the professionals will be a very wise investment in the long run.
http://www.indystar.com/story/news/2014/10/08/jury-awards-million-indy-man-injured-garage-door-accident/16909343/
http://garagedoorsrepairphoenix.com/dont-let-rookies-work-doors/

Chamberlain MyQ to Integrate with Nest and Wink Home Automation Systems

Chamberlain has recently announced that its MyQ smartphone control, which allows users to control your garage door and your house lights using your smartphone, will now pair with Nest through the Nest Developer Program. The Nest thermostat control is a popular new item which allows you to set your thermostat from your phone, tablet, or computer, and gives the user the ability to turn the thermostat on and off whenever you are on your way home or leaving the house. With the “Home” and “Away” modes, the thermostat will turn on and off depending on the closing or opening of the door. These nifty devices give the user not only control over the thermostat, they also guarantee the safety of your home while away. If you need to let someone into the garage, all you have to do is simply press a button; even from thousands of miles away, the MyQ technology is able to open and close your garage, turn on lights, and with the new Nest program, you now have almost complete access to your home, no matter where you are.
This incredible technology is just the beginning. With rumors spreading about an automated smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, and the popular new Wink app, Nest is taking over the home automated system market in a hurry. These amazing devices give a home owner almost complete control over all of the important electronics in ones home, as well as giving the owner the ability to protect your home as much as possible while you’re away. Since 50% of home invasions occur through a garage, it is not only important to upgrade your systems, it is becoming essential in the age of technology.
Chamberlain MyQ technology works with many models and is readily available for almost every consumer. Prices start at about $129, but the price should not deter you from keeping your home and family safe. With the latest intuitive technology, you can guarantee the comfort and safety of your home for years to come. For more information about Chamberlain’s MyQ product, visit their website at www.chamberlain.com 
http://garagedoorrepairillinois.com/news/chamberlain-myq-integrate-nest-wink-home-automation-systems/

Clopay Reveals Color Blast Custom Paint Program for Consumers

Clopay, a leading garage door manufacturer, has recently released its Color Blast program forThe Color Blast process uses Sherwin Williams Solar Reflective Polane® paint, a professional grade, two-part polyurethane based “cool paint” that provides a durable, high-quality finish and lowers surface temperatures to reduce the damaging effects of high heat that can occur on steel doors. The paint also contains a hardener for extra protection. The color is guaranteed for 5 years, and also meets Florida’s 5 year exposure law. The paint system exceeded over 3,000 hours of salt spray and humidity testing before being introduced to customers to give you the peace of mind knowing the paint will not chip, fade, or rust.
residential and commercial consumers. With over 1,800 colors to choose from, you can now customize steel garage doors from their Avante, Gallery, and Classic residential door lines, as well as all commercial steel overhead doors. Matching window frames are offered with every residential garage door, and with so many colors available, there will definitely be something for everyone.
Clopay’s Avante collection combines aluminum and glass in sleek, modern designs. These beautiful doors come with a 2-1/8″ aluminum frame with integral reinforcing fin that provides a virtually maintenance free, long-lasting door. They come in multiple glass, frame and panel finish options to give your door a custom look. With optional insulated glass installation, attractive color matched aluminum grip handles, and a replaceable vinyl bottom weather seal with retainer help protect against the elements, this door is perfect for every location, and now comes in over 1,800 colors!
The Gallery collection includes vintage style steel garage doors with updated appeal. These garage doors come in insulated 2 or 3-layer sandwich steel construction or non-insulated 2″ steel frame construction, and have a swing-out appearance with overhead operation. These doors can also be painted to any color you choose, or you can option to have their Ultra-Grain finish added to your door. Ultra-Grain is a unique paint finish, available in medium, dark oak, and walnut wood-grains – but these colors are available on 3-layer sandwich doors only.
Clopay’s Classic garage door collection is just what it sounds like – a basic steel garage door available in 3 categories – Premium, Value Plus, and Value. The Premium door is considered their “best” classic door, and comes with 3-layer construction (Steel + Insulation + Steel), outstanding durability, energy efficiency, as well as high performance and safety. These doors come in elegant short, long and flush designs. The Value Plus line and the Value line both boast durability, energy efficiency, and high performance, but come in 2-layer and 1- layer construction, which will cause your garage to not be as insulated and protected as it could be.
No matter which line you decide to go with, Clopay has a door for everyone, and now in any color you could want!
http://garagedoorrepairillinois.com/news/clopay-introduces-color-blast-custom-paint-program/