Is your garage door sagging, malfunctioning more often than not, or just looking a little worse for the wear? If it is, then it may be the time to replace it with a new garage door that is easier to operate and maintain, as well as easy on the eyes.
A new garage door can provide you with many benefits such as increased safety and security – not to mention increased curb appeal. Refreshing your property’s overall appearance also carries the added benefit of increasing your home’s value. Who wouldn’t like that?
In terms of new garage doors, however, one size doesn’t necessarily fit all. Door options are extensive – from materials and styles to colors and add-ons’ there’s a lot to choose from. You’ll find that steel and wood doors are by far the most favorite options among homeowners.
With so many options available, it can be hard to choose one, to spend your hard-earned money on; especially when it’s a purchase you don’t intend on making very often. And don’t forget the garage door opener!
As garage door professionals with over 48 years of experience, we understand just how stressful shopping for a new garage door can be, which is why we’ve put together the following buying guide to ensure you don’t make a purchase you’ll instantly regret.
New Garage Door Material Choices
Wood – A classic beauty beloved for generations. Easily customizable, and with a natural beauty all its own, it can easily provide you with that WOW factor. The downside? Wood is easily susceptible to warping, splintering, and require consistent care.
Steel – Strong, relatively inexpensive, and virtually maintenance free. Want the look of wood without all the maintenance? Opt for a state-of-the-art steel door that imitates the look of wood. Steel doors come in several styles including insulated for increased energy efficiency.
Aluminum – These doors enjoy many of same advantages as steel garage doors including affordability, durability, and wood-grain embossing. They are extremely popular among homeowners due to they’re being lightweight and rust free. The downside? Aluminum is easily dented so be careful.
How to Choose Your New Door
- Determining Size and Shape
It’s important to determine the proper size and shape of your door’s opening prior to embarking on your shopping journey. Luckily, garage doors are built in a variety of sizes, and shapes for you to select from. A professional garage door technician can provide you with this information.
- Understanding Your Performance Requirements
How many times, on average, do you currently open and close your garage door? Two, three, four, or more? You should carefully examine your performance needs and how long you want to ensure that performance prior to shopping. Also important; consider your weather elements.
- Budgetary Constraints
You should always take into account how much you can afford to spend on a new garage door. Due to an incredibly broad range of styles and qualities, prices can range from the low $400’s, into the thousands. These figures don’t include tax (if applicable) or installation costs.
Professional Door Installation
Professional installation is the only way to go! Installing a garage door requires two people, several hours, and state-of-the-art tools that only a professional garage door installer possess. Due to the complexity involved, as well as the door’s weight (150+ pounds), this can be a very dangerous job.