Garage doors aren’t usually top of mind for homeowners—until an issue that could have been prevented with some quick maintenance makes their day go downhill, fast.
Fortunately, husband and wife team Motoi (“Mo”) and Kierstin Nishihata are standing by to help. The couple operate ProLift Garage Doors of Loveland, and they know a thing or two about garage door maintenance, repair and upgrades.
“As soon as we started this business, a torsion spring on our own garage door broke,” Mo explains. “It makes you think about how much we take garage doors for granted, especially if they’re a main access point to your house. They can be critical machines, with lots of moving parts.”
So with care and prevention in mind, here’s how it works: Kierstin and Mo dispatch a fully trained specialist to your home, who is able to quickly provide a comprehensive and no-cost multipoint inspection. Sometimes, as with spotting torsion spring issues, that simple inspection can prevent the risk of physical harm; other times, it simply contributes to a safer and more energy-efficient home.
Mo and Kierstin are quick to recall how, not long after acquiring their own ProLift franchise, it became apparent just how helpful their services could be.
“We had just completed an onboarding with our first tech when, while walking back to his truck, he noticed an older neighbor struggling with a garage door,” Kierstin remembers. “He introduced himself as a ProLift garage tech, and was able to quickly diagnose that it was an issue with the opener, which needed to be replaced.”
ProLift, which operates franchises nationwide, was a great fit for what the couple was looking for in a business model.
“First, it aligned with our values,” Mo explains. “They have a very strong mission to partner with local communities, and they actively participate in the nonprofit initiative, Kids-Lift [which supports vulnerable kids in our own community]. Additionally, we were really attracted to the business model—because it’s not just about business, it’s about doing the right thing for the community … supporting schools and other nonprofits that we can work with.”
Plus, there’s a very good reason homeowners should pay attention to garage doors, the couple explains. Kierstin shares that in Cincinnati in 2024, insulated steel garage doors were responsible for an over 150% return on investment. Nationwide, she adds, four-section galvanized and insulated steel garage door replacements are currently the No. 1 household maintenance activity that provides the most significant ROI.
And ProLift provides more than just education and support. As part of the ProLift network, they can also provide top-tier upgrades (including “brighter and quieter openers”).
“We have premium suppliers, custom color choices, and European-designed (but American-built) options,” Mo shares.
Kierstin stresses that ProLift Garage Doors of Loveland exists to assist neighbors. “Our approach is long-term. When we meet a potential customer, we want to partner with them for the duration of their home ownership journey, enabling them to learn ways they can make the most of their investment.”
Keeping Doors Open
During colder months of the year, most homeowners are accustomed to conducting routine maintenance that keeps everything running smoothly around the house. Garage door maintenance and care, Mo and Kierstin say, should be part of that routine.
Here are some of their top wintertime garage door maintenance tips:
- Check to ensure your weatherstripping is in good shape. “That’s what keeps the garage insulated and cuts down on your energy bill,” Kierstin offers.
- Clean the garage door surface. “Cleaning the surface of your garage door not only makes it look better,” Mo points out, “but it also protects against wear from severe weather.”
- Check batteries. “Wireless keypads and remotes always seem to go out at the worst time,” Kierstin says. “Check those before you find yourself stuck outside in the cold.”
ProLiftDoors.com/Loveland | 513.216.4807
It’s not just about business, it’s about doing the right thing for the community … supporting schools and other nonprofits that we can work with. - Moe