A Buyer’s Guide to Choosing a New Garage Door
Are you updating an existing property or choosing a new garage door for a new build? The team at Tri-Lakes Garage Doors has you covered with this comprehensive buyer’s guide.
The Evolution of Garage Doors
The history of garage doors dates back to the early 20th century, when the first automobile garages were being built. Before the invention of the automobile, garages did not exist in their current form. Instead, small sheds or outbuildings were used for storage or as workshops.
The earliest garage doors were made of wood and consisted of a single panel that swung outward to open. These doors were heavy and cumbersome to operate, and required a large amount of space in front of the garage to open and close.
Advancements in Garage Door Technology
In the 1920s, the first overhead garage doors were introduced. These doors consisted of multiple horizontal panels that were hinged together and moved along a track system, allowing the door to be lifted and out of the way. This design allowed for greater convenience and ease of use, as well as better use of space in front of the garage.
Garage door technology continued to evolve with the introduction of automatic garage door openers in the 1950s. The use of remote controls allowed for even greater convenience and ease of use.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Garage Door
Over time, garage door materials also evolved. In addition to wood, doors began being manufactured from steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and composites - each with their own advantages in terms of strength, durability, and aesthetics. Since the garage door often takes up a large portion of your home's front façade, it plays a crucial role in shaping the first impression and visual appeal of the property.
- Appearance - The style of the garage door can greatly impact the overall appearance of the house. For example, a modern, minimalist garage door may complement a contemporary home but clash with the aesthetics of a traditional home.
- Color - The color options of your garage door can either blend in with the rest of the house or provide a bold contrast, depending on what you want to achieve.
- Materials - The materials used to make the garage door can also influence the overall aesthetic of the home. For example, a wood garage door can add warmth and character, while a steel door can create a sleek and modern look.
- Accents - Many garage doors have additional accents, such as windows or decorative hardware that can enhance the appearance of the door and add interest to your home's exterior.
A well-chosen garage door can greatly improve the appearance of your home, while a poorly chosen door can detract from its curb appeal. Selecting a garage door that complements the style and architecture of your home creates an appealing cohesion.
Functional Roles of Garage Doors
Garage doors also play a crucial role in the functionality of your home:
- Your garage door provides security by keeping your vehicle and other belongings safe from theft. A properly functioning garage door with a good lock or keypad entry system acts as an additional layer of security to your home.
- Living in an area with extreme weather conditions – like Colorado! – makes a garage door an important component of protecting your car, tools, and other items from the elements, such as rain, snow, and hail.
- A well-insulated garage door helps to regulate the temperature inside the garage, which can affect the temperature in the rest of your home. This, in turn, increases your home's energy efficiency and reduces your energy bills.
- Add convenience to your daily routine with an automated garage door that allows you to easily access and store your vehicle and other belongings. Open and close the door without leaving your car.
- An aesthetically pleasing garage door can improve the overall appearance of your home, while a damaged or unsightly garage door can detract from it.
Impact of Garage Doors on Home Safety and Structural Integrity
While a door itself does not provide structural support for a house, a poorly functioning garage door, or one that is damaged or not properly installed, can indirectly compromise the structural integrity of your home by contributing to issues such as water intrusion, wind damage, and security breaches:
- Water intrusion: If a garage door is not properly sealed, it can allow water to enter the garage, causing damage to the foundation or walls of your dwelling.
- Wind resistance: In areas prone to high winds, a garage door that is not properly installed or reinforced will be vulnerable to blowing out and compromising the structural integrity of your home.
- Security: An improperly functioning garage door provides easier access to the rest of your house, making it more vulnerable to theft or vandalism.
Things to Consider When Buying a New Garage Door
Ask yourself, “Which garage door should I choose?”
Then you’re in the right place! Here are four main factors to take into account when you want to buy a new garage door that is right for your dwelling, meets your needs, and fits your garage door budget.
Garage Door Style Considerations
Consider the architectural style of your home when selecting a garage door design. Options include traditional, contemporary, carriage house, and more.
Choosing the Right Material
Material: Garage doors are available in a variety of materials, such as wood, steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the aesthetic, maintenance requirements, and durability you are looking for, there is a material suitable for you.
Improving Functionality with Extras
Extras. In Colorado, choose insulated garage doors with high R-values to ensure maximum insulation - regulating the temperature inside your garage and increasing energy efficiency of your home. If security is a priority for you, then look for garage doors with robust locking mechanisms, pinch-resistant panels, safety sensors, and tamper-resistant hardware.
Understanding Garage Door Costs
Cost: Prices vary greatly, depending on the garage door features, style, and material you select. Be mindful of your budget but remember that you get what you pay for, and a high-quality garage door adds value to your home.
Signs That it’s Time to Replace Your Garage Door
Do you have a sneaky suspicion that it’s time to replace the doors to your garage? Don’t put off updating your garage door if you notice any of these signs:
- Aging – especially if the garage doors are older than 30 years as this is their approximate lifespan.
- Damage such as dents, cracks, or warping not only looks unappealing, but it may interfere with the proper (and safe) functioning of your garage door. Improve the curb appeal of your home exterior – for yourself or for potential buyers – with custom doors.
- Excessive noisiness is often due to worn or damaged components, such as springs or rollers. If your garage door is not opening or closing smoothly or has a malfunctioning safety feature, it's time to consider replacing it.
- Increased energy bills indicate energy loss from your house. Replacing an old garage door with a newer, more energy-efficient model can help save you money in the long run.
The 4 Most Popular Custom Garage Doors
The sky's the limit when it comes to types of custom garage doors! There are many different garage doors to choose from. That said, four designs stand out as current favorites:
Carriage House Style Doors
Carriage house style doors have a traditional, rustic look with a swing-out appearance, similar to barn doors. They can be made of various materials like wood, steel, or aluminum to accommodate your needs.
Contemporary Style Doors
Contemporary style doors are sleek, modern designs that are often made with aluminum and/ or glass. Despite their minimalist aesthetic, they often stand out as features thanks to their bold colors.
Raised Panel Doors
Raised panel doors consist of raised rectangular panels that add depth and texture to the door's appearance. This classic look can be made of wood or steel.
Custom Wood Doors
Custom wood doors add a unique and luxurious look to any garage. These doors can be made of various types of wood, and often feature ornate designs, such as carved panels or intricate detailing.
3 Tips to Select a Garage Door for Your New Home
Choosing a garage door for your new home is exciting. Here are three tips to help you make the right choice:
- The garage doors should complement the style of your home. If, for example, your residence has a contemporary design, a sleek and minimalist garage door is the best fit. On the other hand, a classic or carriage-style garage door is better suited to a more traditional house.
- Use the color and finish of garage doors to maximize your property’s curb appeal and desired aesthetic.
- Windows add a decorative touch to your garage doors. Not only can this enhance the overall appearance of your home, but it also lets in natural light that is helpful if you use the space for hobbies or as a workshop.
Why Hire a Professional to Install a Garage Door?
Stop Googling, “How to install garage doors”! There are several reasons why choosing a professional for garage door installation is the best choice:
Safety
Garage doors are heavy and can be dangerous if not installed properly. A garage door professional has the necessary training, equipment and skills to safely install your garage door and ensure that it operates smoothly and safely.
Expertise
Garage door professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess your specific needs and recommend the right type of garage door for your home. They can also provide guidance on maintenance and repair to ensure your door functions correctly for years to come.
Timesaving
Having the necessary tools, equipment, and professionalism ensures an efficient garage door installation.
Warranty
Many garage door manufacturers require professional installation to validate the warranty.
Cost-effective
While hiring a company may seem expensive, it can save you money in the long run. A professional installation ensures that your garage door is installed correctly, reducing the risk of any damage or problems.
Standard Garage Doors vs Custom Garage Doors
When it comes to choosing a garage door, you may find yourself asking, “Should I buy a standard garage door, or should I buy a custom garage door?” To help you decide, here are the key differences between the two:
Standard Garage Doors
Standard garage doors are pre-made and available in a range of sizes and styles. They are manufactured to meet common garage door dimensions and are:
- Cost-effective
- Readily available
- Available in a variety of styles, colors, and materials, so you have a range of options to choose from.
Custom Garage Doors
Custom garage doors are made to order and are designed to meet your specific needs and preferences. They are built to your exact specifications and can be tailored to your home's architecture and style. They are:
- Unique, one-of-a-kind designs.
- Made to fit your garage's exact dimensions, ensuring a perfect fit.
- Crafted from high-quality materials and built to last, providing you with a long-term investment.
Choose Tri-Lakes Garage Doors for Your New Garage Door
Locally owned and operated in Monument, Colorado, the team at Tri-Lakes Garage Doors can help with all your overhead garage door needs. Find out why our customers continue to refer us to their family, friends, and neighbors. Contact us to request a quote or for trusted advice about choosing a new garage door.