Photo credit: Kevin Wolf via Unsplash
A garage door is one of the essential parts of your garage. It not only offers security but also acts as a design statement for the entire property. However, before constructing a garage, or deciding to give the existing one a facelift, it’s imperative to determine the style, shape, or size of your garage opening. This will give you an idea of the required width.
1. Types of garage doors
Some examples of garage doors are; retractable, canopy style, Roller doors, sectional and side hinged doors. Each of these is different and unique in performance and services.
Retractable doors: These doors swing outwards, up and back into e ceiling of the garage. To make you unable park vehicles close to it, the pivot points are located at the top.
Therefore, always ensure that there's enough room available on your driveway. The installation of this kind of door is simple. Further, they are the easiest to automate with a suitable opener.
Canopy doors: A canopy door opens by swinging outwards and then slides upwards into the garage ceiling. This, therefore, leaves a third of the door outside the garage. Since the pivot points of the canopy door are located downwards, the security of the door is enhanced. Canopy doors are easy to install since no tracks are required inside the garage and the entire door mounts to the roof frame. These doors are available in Princess auto in timber or steel.
Sectional doors: The door is made of many separate panels hinged horizontally, but they fit the rear surface of your garage brickwork. When opened, it rises vertically upwards then back into the space of the ceiling. These doors provide better security and protection against harsh weather since most of them are assembled in insulation.
Roller doors: Roller doors roll up into the garage ceiling as a single curtain and are fitted to the garage rear surface of the front brickwork. They roll vertically upwards and provide security as well as protection. Most of them are made of aluminum or steel, but some are insulated. The installation is easy though professional installation is required for a smooth and quiet operation.
Side hinge doors: These are made of steel, timber or GRP and open outwards with a traditional look. However, they require appropriate clearance during the opening, and their security is exceptional if the bolts are used at the top and bottom of the door.
2. Choosing the best material for your garage door
No garage lives permanently; therefore, there's a time when it'll rattle and shrill.
Material Options:
There are four popular options; these are wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and timber. Wood is a preferred material for individuals who wish to complement their traditional architectural styles. However, it's more costly to purchase or maintain.
On the other hand, steel is famous for its durability and low upkeep requirements. However, aluminum is the best alternative to steel in case you're on a tight budget. Aluminum is lighter and more vulnerable to damage, for instance, dents, unlike steel.
Fiberglass is an excellent option for coast residents where damage due to salty water is typical. Also, the material is resistant to dent and a weak insulator.
3. Selecting a garage door firm
In case you're confused on the best company, seek reviews from friends and loved ones or search online for a reputable firm.
Experience
Old companies are more experienced and should be trusted. However, do price comparisons between various options to pick a cost-efficient firm.
Future repairs
Enquire whether the firm offers a lifetime guarantee on the door. For instance, if you require some repairs, they should be in a position to do so.
Customer service
The staff must be friendly and competent enough to handle issues
Your garage door should provide excellent security. Therefore, hiring professionals will assist you in achieving peace of mind since they will take care of all your garage door related issues.