How to Purchase a Garage Door: The Complete Guide for Homeowners

Almost 92% of US households have access to at least one car, so a garage is an important part of your home’s curb appeal. It helps if your garage is private so you don’t have to worry about theft, which means garage doors are equally as important as garages themselves.

You can make the door look good with paint and other details, but there are times when you need to purchase a garage door because your current one is too old and worn out. The installation will be worth it because it’s guaranteed to make your garage look better than ever.

Here’s what to keep in mind when you purchase a garage door so that you get the best value for your money.

Types of Garage Doors

Roll-up doors are the most popular, and they’re also the cheapest option. They roll up into an overhead track and can be opened manually or with an electric motor.

The downside is that you won’t get to customize your door after it’s installed. Consider how well your chosen design will complement the architecture of your home because you won’t have much freedom to change it later on.

Tilt-up doors are similar to roll-up models but feature an automatic system that tilts the panels up when someone approaches. You’ll have easy access to your garage without having to open or close anything yourself.

Sectional garage door styles consist of several panels that swing open like standard doors. These doors can be designed to open vertically or horizontally.

Garage Door Materials

The most common material for a garage door is steel, but you can also choose from wood or aluminum. Steel is the most durable, so you’ll get years of use out of your new garage door before needing to replace it again.

Wooden doors are beautiful, but they’re costly because they require more maintenance. You’ll need to regularly stain or varnish them if you want them looking good as new after each season passes by.

Aluminum doors have become popular recently because they cost less than steel while still being strong enough not to bend during temperature changes like wood.

You can find more information here to help you decide which door is best for you. It’s best to let the pros help you make decisions about how best to complement your home’s design with a new garage installation.

Do You Need a New Garage Door?

If you’re not sure if your garage door needs to be replaced, look at the condition of the door. Pay special attention to signs of damage or wear on the rails and rollers. If any parts are bent or broken, that’s a sign that it may be time for a new door.

Also, consider how old your garage door is. Garage doors that are older than a decade tend to have issues with their hydraulics, which can make them difficult to open and close. If you notice that your garage door is having trouble staying in place or gets stuck halfway up or down, it’s time for a new one.

Purchase a Garage Door That Compliments Your Home

When you purchase a garage door, make sure it’s a good fit for your home’s exterior design. For example, if you have a Colonial-style home, tilt-up doors with decorative molding might be best. You can also opt for a traditional style that has sleek lines and no embellishments.

But if you really want to take your home’s design over the top, check out our real estate section for tips on ways to upgrade your home so that your neighbors will be green with envy.