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How Often Garage Door Maintenance Is Really Needed

Knowing how often garage door maintenance is needed helps avoid surprise repairs and keeps your home safe. Here’s how often you should be checking it.

If you’re like me, you probably don’t think about your garage door that much—until something goes wrong.

One day, it squeaks a little. The next day, it won’t close properly. That’s usually when panic sets in.

But here’s the thing: regular maintenance can save you from all that stress.

Let’s talk about how often garage door maintenance should be done and why it matters more than you think.

First, Why Garage Door Maintenance Even Matters

I used to skip maintenance stuff. I thought, “If it’s not broken, why touch it?”

That way of thinking costs me a lot of time.

I had to replace a garage door spring during the holidays when money was tight.

I could’ve avoided it with a simple check-up earlier in the year. So yeah, I learned the hard way.

Here’s why you should care:

Safety: A weak or broken spring can crash your door down without warning.
Money-saving: Small issues caught early cost way less than big repairs.
Longevity: A little care keeps your garage door working for years longer.

Even Consumer Reports backs this up. They say regular maintenance is one of the best ways to extend the life of your home systems.

So, How Often Garage Door Maintenance Should Happen?

This is the part most people get wrong.

Twice a year is the general rule. Once in the spring and again in the fall.

But—(and here’s where most of us mess up)—if you use your garage door more than 3 times a day, you might need to check it every 3 to 4 months instead.

Let’s break it down:

Light use (1–2 times a day): Check twice a year
Moderate use (3–4 times a day): Check every 3–4 months
Heavy use (5+ times a day): Check every 2 months

If you’re not sure how much you use yours, just think about how often you leave the house. School drop-offs? Grocery runs? Work? Those count.

What You Should Be Checking

When it’s time for maintenance, don’t panic. You don’t have to take the whole thing apart.

Start with these simple checks:

1. Visual Inspection

Look for:

Rust on the springs or tracks
Loose bolts or hinges
Cracks in the door panels
Frayed cables

2. Listen

Strange sounds like grinding, screeching, or popping are red flags.

3. Balance Test

Disconnect the opener and try lifting the door manually. If it’s heavy or uneven, the springs may be off.

4. Lubrication

Use a silicone-based spray on moving parts like:

Rollers
Hinges
Tracks
Springs

Skip the WD-40. It’s not made for this kind of thing. Bob Vila’s website explains the right way to lubricate a garage door if you’re unsure.

5. Test Safety Features

Put a small block (like a piece of wood) under the door and try closing it. The door should go back up when it touches it. That’s your auto-reverse working.

When It’s Time to Call a Pro

Here’s the part I used to ignore… until my DIY repair turned into a broken garage door.

Some things are best left to the pros, like:

Spring replacement
Cable adjustments
Opener motor issues

If you’re looking for help, a good place to start is checking for garage door repair near me.

A trusted local company can spot problems you might miss and fix them fast.

I once tried tightening a spring myself and it snapped back—luckily, no one was hurt. Don’t take that chance.

How to Tell Your Garage Door Needs Help

Not sure if something’s off? Watch for these signs:

Slow movement: Takes longer to open or close than usual
Shaking: Door wobbles as it moves
Noise: Loud bangs, squeaks, or grinding
Remote issues: Delayed response or no response at all

If any of this sounds familiar, don’t wait. Regular maintenance may not fix it, and you could be heading toward a full garage door repair.

Where You Live Might Matter Too

If you live in a place with rough weather, like super cold winters or crazy hot summers, you might need to check your garage door more often.

In areas like Texas, where heat can mess with electronics and humidity can cause rust, local care makes a difference.

That’s why companies like garage door repair prosper, and garage door repair Celina stays busy year-round.

I spoke to someone from Prosper once, and they told me most of their emergency calls happen after storms. Wind, water, and power surges all mess with the systems.

What I Learned (The Hard Way)

Like I said earlier, I didn’t always take care of my garage door. I thought I was saving money. But skipping maintenance cost me way more later.

Here’s what I do now:

Set reminders twice a year
Keep a can of silicone spray in the garage
Watch and listen for early signs
Call pros when it’s outside my skill level

If you keep it simple, maintenance doesn’t have to be a big job. Ten minutes here and there beats being stuck with a stuck garage door.

If you are unsure, check out This Old House’s simple garage maintenance guide. It’s written for homeowners, not experts.

Quick Recap: When and What to Check

Let’s sum it all up so you don’t have to scroll back:

How often garage door maintenance should be done:

Light use: Every 6 months
Medium use: Every 3–4 months
Heavy use: Every 2 months

What to look at:

Visual damage
Noises
Balance
Lubrication
Safety sensors

When to call a pro:

Springs
Cables
Motor issues

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your garage door isn’t just about avoiding repair bills. It’s about keeping your home safe, your family protected, and your routine running smoothly.

I used to ignore it, and I paid the price.

So, if you’re still wondering how often garage door maintenance is needed, the real answer is before something breaks.

It doesn’t take much time. But skipping it? That can get expensive.

Don’t wait for the loud bang in the middle of the night. Give your garage door the love it deserves.

And if you’re ever unsure, a quick search for a garage door repair near me might just save you from a big headache later.

Lifestyle

What Percentage Do Accident Lawyers Take?

If you’re asking what percentage do accident lawyers take, this guide explains how accident lawyer fees work in plain language so you know what to expect.

If you’re reading this, you or someone close to you probably got hurt in an accident.

Maybe it was a car crash, a bike wreck, or even something more serious.

Either way, now you’re trying to figure out how much hiring a lawyer will cost.

You’re not alone. A lot of people get stressed thinking lawyers are super expensive or have hidden fees.

So, let’s clear that up plainly with honest info so you don’t feel lost or taken advantage of.

The big question is: what percentage do accident lawyers take?

Let’s walk through it together.

First Things First: Most Accident Lawyers Work on Contingency

This is good news. A contingency fee just means you don’t pay your lawyer up front.

Instead, they only get paid if they win your case.

And if they don’t win? You usually owe them nothing.

Sounds fair, right? It takes a load off because you’re probably already dealing with hospital bills, lost wages, and stress.

So, What’s the Percentage?

Most accident lawyers take 33% to 40% of the settlement or money awarded. That’s before any other costs get taken out.

Here’s how that usually works:

Before court (settled out of court): The lawyer might take 33%.
After going to court: The percentage often goes up to 40%, because going to trial takes a lot more work, time, and money.

Let’s say you win $90,000 in your case:

If it settles early, the lawyer takes around $30,000 (33%).
If it goes to trial and you still win $90,000, the lawyer might take $36,000 (40%).

The rest goes to you. Of course, this is before other costs like court fees or medical record fees get subtracted, which we’ll talk about next.

Wait, What Other Costs?

I get it. You hear, “Lawyer takes 33%,” and then someone else says, “Oh, but that’s not all.”

Here’s what’s true: accident cases come with extra case costs, like:

Getting copies of police or medical records
Paying expert witnesses
Filing fees with the court
Travel and mailing costs

Some law firms take these costs out of your part after the settlement.

Others might subtract it before they take their percentage. Always ask them how they do it before signing anything.

If a lawyer won’t clearly explain their fee structure, that’s a red flag. Keep looking.

Why That Percentage Actually Makes Sense

I know 33% to 40% can sound like a lot. Trust me, I used to think the same thing.

But when I actually sat down with someone who had been through a bad accident, it changed how I saw things.

They said this:
“I would’ve gotten nothing if I didn’t have a lawyer. The insurance company lowballed me hard. My lawyer got me five times more than what they first offered.”

So even after the lawyer took their cut, she still walked away with way more than she would’ve gotten on her own.

That stuck with me.

Want Help from a Real Local Lawyer?

If you live in Mississippi and need someone you can actually talk to face-to-face, a personal injury attorney Oxford, MS is a good place to start.

These attorneys deal with cases like:

Car accidents
Slip and falls
Truck wrecks
Dog bites

And they don’t just treat you like a number. Local lawyers are more likely to understand the courts, judges, and even the local insurance adjusters. That matters.

But What If the Case Is Something Different?

Not every accident is about cars or trucks. Some cases need lawyers with more specific experience.

Here’s how to tell who you might need:

If your doctor messed up and it caused serious harm → Call a medical malpractice attorney Oxford, MS.
If you got hit while riding your bike → Look for a bicycle accident attorney Oxford, MS.
If a driver caused your crash and the insurance is fighting you → A car accident attorney Oxford, MS can help.

All of them usually work on contingency, too. And they’ll still be clear about what percentage do accident lawyers take.

Can You Negotiate the Lawyer’s Cut?

Yes, sometimes. Especially if:

Your case is pretty simple.
You have solid proof (like videos, police reports, or photos).
You’re bringing a case that could lead to a big payout.

Some lawyers are open to lowering their cut from 40% to maybe 30%. Just ask politely. And get everything in writing.

Don’t feel bad for asking questions. You’re the one hiring them. This is your case, your pain, and your future.

What If I Can’t Afford a Lawyer?

I get this fear a lot. But remember, with contingency fees, you don’t pay unless you win.

Still, not every lawyer is the same. Some might charge extra for small stuff.

Others might give you a free consultation and only take on the case if they think you’ll win.

If you’re unsure, check out this helpful guide from the American Bar Association that explains how to find legal help even if money is tight.

You can also look into Legal Aid in your state. They offer free help for people with low income.

What Should I Ask Before Hiring a Lawyer?

Here’s a short list to help you stay in control:

What percentage do you take if we settle?
What percentage if we go to trial?
Will I owe anything if we don’t win?
Are there other case costs? When are those taken out?
Have you handled cases like mine before?

A good lawyer will answer all of that clearly. If they talk in circles, walk away.

Don’t Be Embarrassed. I’ve Been There Too.

I remember when a close buddy got hurt in a wreck. He was too embarrassed to call a lawyer because he didn’t want to look greedy or make a big deal out of it.

But months later, his pain got worse. His bills piled up. And the insurance company ghosted him. When he finally got help, the lawyer said, “I wish you had come in sooner. It would’ve made things easier.”

That stuck with me, too.

So, if you’re reading this and still unsure, let me say this: you deserve to understand your rights. You deserve to get help. You’re not overreacting.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a lawyer after an accident doesn’t have to be scary or confusing. Most work on contingency, so they only get paid if you win.

And if you’re still asking what percentage do accident lawyers take, remember this:

33% to 40% is the usual fee.
Extra costs may apply (so ask upfront).
You can negotiate in some cases.
Local help like a personal injury attorney Oxford, MS can make a big difference.

No one expects to get hurt. But if you are, don’t stay stuck.

You’re allowed to ask questions, demand answers, and take your time picking the right lawyer.

Just make sure whoever you choose treats you like a real person—not just a paycheck.

Lifestyle

When Should You Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney for Help

“If your loved one died due to neglect, timing matters. Find out when it’s smart to call a wrongful death attorney and why it matters.”

Losing someone suddenly is a punch to the gut. And when that loss is tied to someone else’s mistake, a drunk driver, a distracted nurse, or a faulty product, it’s more than grief. It’s confusion, frustration, and a deep, gnawing sense of injustice.

In moments like these, you’re not just dealing with emotions. You’re navigating hospital bills, funeral costs, unanswered questions, and sometimes, silence from the ones responsible. So, the big question comes up: when is it the right time to hire a Wrongful death attorney El Paso, TX?

If you’ve found yourself searching for a Personal injury attorney El Paso, TX, you might already be in that fog of decision-making. Chances are you’re standing at that exact crossroads right now, grieving, angry, and wondering what to do next.

Let’s clear it up because this isn’t just about lawsuits. It’s about peace, answers, and making sure your family isn’t left to pick up the pieces alone.

What Counts as a Wrongful Death?

Wrongful death happens when a person dies because another person or company was careless, reckless, or made a terrible choice that could’ve been avoided. It’s not just about freak accidents. It’s about preventable loss. Tragedies that didn’t have to happen.

I am talking about situations like:

Car accidents caused by drunk drivers, texting drivers, or someone blowing through a red light
In medical malpractice, a surgeon makes a fatal error, a nurse misses a critical symptom, or a misdiagnosis delays life-saving treatment.
Dangerous working conditions, especially when employers cut corners on safety
Defective products or machinery that should’ve never made it to market
Neglect or abuse in nursing homes, where the most vulnerable are left without care
Criminal acts like assault, manslaughter, or domestic violence that escalate to fatal outcomes

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in a report, ranks accidental injuries as the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and tucked inside that stat are thousands of wrongful death cases. Lives that were cut short not by chance but by someone else’s failure to act responsibly.

The heartbreaking part? Most of these families never see justice. They never get honest answers. They’re left in the dark, shouldering emotional trauma and financial fallout alone because they didn’t know they had a legal right to fight back.

That’s what wrongful death law is really about. Not just money. But accountability. Clarity. A voice for the ones who can’t speak anymore.

The Purpose of a Wrongful Death Claim

When you’re deep in grief, filing a legal claim might feel cold, even pointless. A lot of people think, “What’s the use? It won’t bring them back.” And they’re right, it won’t.

But here’s what it can do and why it matters more than most people realize. Filing a wrongful death claim won’t undo the loss, but it can:

Hold the responsible party accountable so they can’t just walk away untouched
Cover funeral and burial fees, which can easily run into thousands of dollars
Replace lost income or support, especially if the person who passed away was the breadwinner of their family
Pay for emotional pain and suffering because grief isn’t just a feeling; it’s a wound that changes everything
Help fund future needs, like college tuition for the children they left behind or care for elderly parents who relied on them.

This claim isn’t about revenge; it’s about relief. It’s protecting what’s left of your family, your stability, and your future. It’s about standing up and saying, “This mattered. Their life mattered.”

And a reasonable wrongful death attorney doesn’t just shuffle papers and chase a payout. They become your voice. Your guard dog. The one who steps in when you’re too exhausted to fight and makes sure your family doesn’t carry the weight of someone else’s mistake alone.

So, When Should You Hire a Wrongful Death Attorney?

You don’t need to wait until things fall apart. In fact, the sooner, the better. Here are clear signs that it’s time to bring in a professional:

1. You Suspect Someone Else Was at Fault

This is the biggest green light. If your loved one passed away in a situation that feels “off” or avoidable, say, a routine procedure gone wrong or a driver that ran a red light, you need someone who can investigate.

Wrongful death attorneys know how to collect evidence, talk to witnesses, subpoena records, and get to the bottom of things fast.

2. There Are Medical or Police Reports Involved

Anytime there’s a death involving law enforcement, EMS, or hospital records, you have documents that can support your case, but only if you know how to use them.

An experienced attorney knows how to read between the lines of autopsy results, police findings, toxicology reports, and more.

3. You’re Facing Pushback from Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters are educated to minimize payouts, even in tragedy. They’ll play nice, but their goal is to protect their bottom line, not you.

A wrongful death attorney shields you from manipulative tactics and ensures you don’t accept a lowball offer when you deserve far more.

In fact, based on a report by the Insurance Research Council, injury victims who hire an attorney receive settlements 3.5x higher on average than those who don’t.

4. You’re Unsure What the Law Says

Every state has its wrongful death laws, who can file, how long you have (called the statute of limitations), and what damages you’re entitled to.

In Texas, for example, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of death, and only certain family members (spouse, parents, or children) can file. Miss that window, and your case is gone for good.

A lawyer helps you act fast, follow the rules, and avoid legal landmines that could tank your case.

5. You’re Emotionally Overwhelmed

Grief messes with your ability to focus, decide, and advocate for yourself. That’s not a flaw. That’s being human.

Hiring a wrongful death attorney means handing off the burden. You let someone else handle the paperwork, the calls, and the negotiations while you take care of your family.

In wrongful death cases, you want someone who’s not just experienced in personal injury but someone who knows how to handle grief-sensitive cases with tact, urgency, and grit.

I recommend Chavez Law Firm. Their network and professionalism have earned them a reputation as one of the best in the industry, so don’t overlook a referral from them.

What a Wrongful Death Attorney Will Actually Do

Here’s what happens when you bring one in:

Initial Case Evaluation: They’ll assess if you have a valid claim
Investigation: They gather documents, expert testimony, and evidence
Filing the Claim: They handle all legal paperwork and filings
Negotiation: They deal with insurance companies and opposing counsel
Trial (if needed): If a fair settlement isn’t reached, they’ll take it to court

And through it all, a solid attorney keeps you updated, empowered, and heard.

Now, if you’re thinking of calling a wrongful death attorney, here’s what to bring:

The death certificate
Medical or accident records
Police reports (if available)
Insurance information
Any bills or costs you’ve already incurred
A timeline of what happened

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just share what you have. The attorney will guide you from there.

Time isn’t just emotional; it’s legal. Every day you wait is a day that evidence disappears, witnesses forget, and your window to act gets smaller.

You don’t have to file a lawsuit tomorrow, but getting legal advice early protects your options and strengthens your case.

Conclusion

The truth is, no amount of money can bring your loved one back. But a wrongful death claim can stop the ripple effect of that loss from devastating everything else in its path, especially when it comes to your family’s financial future.

It’s making sure your family doesn’t suffer twice: once from the loss and again from the burden of medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income.

If you’re feeling a gut instinct that something’s not right, if you’re questioning whether someone else’s actions played a part in your loss, don’t ignore it.

Trust yourself, reach out for help, ask the tough questions, and don’t let fear or doubt stop you from getting the support your family deserves.

The right attorney isn’t just someone who knows the law. They’re someone who understands the pain you’re going through and fights relentlessly on your behalf, not just to win a case but to help your family heal, rebuild, and find a way forward.

You deserve justice, and you deserve peace.

Health

Is a lower GI and a colonoscopy the same thing?

Is a lower GI and a colonoscopy the same thing? Here’s a simple breakdown so you know what each test does and which one you may actually need.

Let me guess—you had a doctor’s appointment, and now you’ve been told you need a “lower GI.”

Or maybe it was a colonoscopy. Or both.

You nodded like you understood, but now you’re sitting at home thinking… Is a lower GI and a colonoscopy the same thing?

You’re not alone.

Most people mix them up. And honestly, I used to do the same thing until I had to help a family member go through it.

So, let’s talk about it like regular people. I’ll break down what each one is, why they’re done, how they feel, and which one your doctor might suggest for you.

What Is a Lower GI Test?

A lower GI test, also called a barium enema, is an X-ray test of your large intestine. That includes your colon and rectum.

Here’s how it works:

A tube is placed into your rectum.
Liquid barium is pushed into your colon.
Barium helps the colon show up clearly on X-ray pictures.
Then, several X-rays are taken as the barium moves through.

Yeah, I know. It doesn’t sound fun. And trust me, it’s not something you do for laughs.

But it can help doctors check for things like:

Polyps (small growths)
Inflammation
Narrow spots
Tumors

It’s kind of like looking at a road map of your colon with special glasses.

What Is a Colonoscopy?

Now, let’s talk about colonoscopy. If someone says you’re getting a colonoscopy, here’s what that really means:

You’ll be given medicine to make you sleepy (sometimes all the way asleep).
A doctor uses a long, thin tube that has a camera on it.
The tube goes into your rectum and through your colon.
The camera projects live video to a screen.
The doctor checks for anything strange—like bleeding, swelling, or polyps.

Here’s the big difference: During a colonoscopy, doctors can actually remove things like polyps or take a sample right away.

That’s something a lower GI test can’t do.

And for those asking about colonoscopy Riverdale, most local hospitals or clinics offer this test—just call ahead and ask what days they do them and if you need a referral.

So, Is a Lower GI and a Colonoscopy the Same Thing?

Nope. They are not the same thing.

Let’s lay it out clearly:

Lower GI Test	Colonoscopy
Uses X-rays and barium	Uses a camera on a flexible tube
Shows images of the colon	Shows live video of the inside
Can’t remove polyps	Can remove polyps and take samples
Usually done if colonoscopy isn’t an option	Often, the first choice if symptoms are serious

Some doctors still use the lower GI test if you can’t have a colonoscopy for some reason (like if you’re allergic to anesthesia or very sensitive to scopes).

But most of the time, a colonoscopy gives more information in one go.

When Do You Need Either Test?

Doctors might ask you to get one of these tests if:

You have bleeding from your bottom
You’ve had changes in your poop for more than a few weeks
You have long-term stomach pain
Your family has a history of colon cancer

If your doctor suggests it, don’t panic. They’re just trying to catch any problems early before they turn serious.

Which One Is More Common?

These days, colonoscopy is more common. That’s because it:

Shows clearer pictures
Can treat problems during the test
Catches early signs of cancer

However, in places where a colonoscopy isn’t available or for people who can’t go under anesthesia, a lower GI test is still used.

One thing I’ve learned? Always ask your doctor why they’re choosing one test over the other.

You deserve to know what’s going on.

Can I Just Skip These Tests?

Look, I get it. Nobody is excited to prep for one of these tests. Drinking that prep liquid is a struggle. Going to the bathroom every five minutes is not fun.

But skipping the test is worse. Colon cancer doesn’t show a lot of symptoms at first. That’s why catching it early is so important. Both tests can help spot it before it gets bad.

So yeah, it’s a bit of a pain—but it’s worth it.

How Do You Prepare for These Tests?

No matter which one you get, you’ll need to clean out your colon first. That means:

Drinking a special liquid that makes you poop a lot
Eating only clear foods the day before (like broth and Jell-O)
Stopping some medicines if your doctor says so

Follow the directions carefully. If your colon isn’t clean, they might have to redo the test—and nobody wants that.

Who Do You See for These Tests?

You’ll need to see a gastroenterologist for either of these tests. This is a doctor who treats problems with your stomach and intestines.

If you’re looking for one nearby, a quick online search for gastroenterologist near me will usually bring up clinics and hospitals in your area.

What Happens After the Test?

After a colonoscopy, you might feel:

Gassy or bloated (because air was put into your colon)
A little sleepy (from the medicine)
Tired for the rest of the day

You’ll need someone to drive you home.

After a lower GI, you might:

Feel bloated or crampy
Need to go to the bathroom more
See white poop (from the barium)

These go away in a day or two. But if you feel really sick or see blood, call your doctor.

Are There Risks?

Any test has small risks. But these ones are pretty safe when done by trained doctors.

Possible risks for colonoscopy:

Bleeding (especially if polyps are removed)
A small tear in the colon (rare)
Reaction to the sleep medicine

Possible risks for lower GI:

Constipation from the barium
Allergic reaction (very rare)
Bowel perforation (super rare)

Again, these are rare. Doctors do these tests every day.

For more peace of mind, here’s a good Mayo Clinic article on colonoscopy risks.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you’re given the choice, go with a colonoscopy. It gives more info, and you can deal with problems right away.

But don’t feel bad if you end up doing a lower GI. Some people just can’t do colonoscopies for health reasons. You’re still doing the right thing by getting checked.

No matter which test you go for, you’re being smart about your health. And that’s what really matters.

Final Thoughts

So now you know the answer to the big question: Is a lower GI and a colonoscopy the same thing? Nope. Not even close.

They may sound alike, and they both look at the colon, but they do it in totally different ways.

One is like taking a picture. The other is like recording a video—and being able to fix things while filming.

And hey, I know this stuff isn’t fun to talk about. But being honest? I wish more people talked about it.

Too many folks skip these tests out of fear or embarrassment. And sometimes, that costs them big time.

So don’t wait. Talk to your doctor. Ask questions. And if they say you need one of these tests, just do it.

You’ll feel better knowing you’re staying on top of your health.