Garage doors cost an average of $1,104 with installation. Investing in a new door can improve the curb appeal, safety, and energy efficiency of your home. When buying a garage door, it’s important to understand the basics of how they work and what features you should look for in a door.
Keep reading for tips on garage door installation and selection.
1. Consider Safety and Security
When looking at garage doors, safety and security are two of the most important considerations. A strong, sturdy door reduces the chances of someone breaking into your home through the garage.
Another safety factor is weather resistance, especially if you live in an area with special weather concerns. Areas that often deal with high winds or hurricanes need garage doors that can withstand those forces.
2. Look at the Materials and Insulation
When choosing a door, consider the durability of various material options. Garage door maintenance can also vary based on the type of material used in the door.
Aluminum doors work well in humid areas since the material resists rust. Steel is a common garage door material, but choose a thicker gauge to prevent dents.
Wood requires more garage door maintenance than other materials. While made to hold up to weather elements, the wood will still need to be refinished regularly. Composite wood is a low-maintenance alternative that still gives you the wood look.
Once you decide on your material, consider whether or not the door is well insulated. Even if your garage isn’t climate controlled, you can still benefit from an insulated garage door.
The insulation keeps your garage from getting as cold in the winter and as hot in the summer. When your garage is attached to your home, that insulating bonus can help keep your home warmer or cooler, depending on the season.
3. Plan for Other Components
When installing a garage door, it’s a good time to replace other components as well. Plan for a new garage door opener, especially if yours is older. An outdated garage door opener that doesn’t work properly can be hard on your new garage door.
Many newer garage door openers and systems allow you to use an app to control your garage door. This eliminates the need to carry a separate garage door remote. You can also check on whether or not your door is open and control it from anywhere, even when you’re not home.
You can also increase security with an opener that has rolling-code technology. This means that each time you use the remote, the code changes to keep it from getting hacked.
4. Fit the Style to Your Home
The style of the garage door should fit your home to boost curb appeal. A carriage-style door with lots of detailing looks out of place on a sleek, minimalist, ultra-modern home, for example. Look at the different types of garage doors to find a style that works with your home, and use an online visualizer to help.
Color is another design factor to help the garage door work with your home. Neutral colors work best so they don’t detract from the overall look. You can also decide if you want windows in the garage door.
Follow Our Tips for Buying a Garage Door
When buying a garage door, knowing the options can help you pick one that works well for you. Looks are important, but finding a quality door that lasts is even more important. Check our article archives for more useful information about homes.
