Choosing the right garage door for your home can be a daunting and even overwhelming task, considering all the styles, materials, and types of garage doors available on the market today. For one thing, it’s only natural if you’re looking for a garage door that will not only perform its primary function but will also boost your home’s curb appeal. And all these, of course, without breaking the bank.
However, there is also a set of factors you need to consider to ensure that your garage door will not only impress your neighbors but will also be durable in the long run. In the article below, you will find the essential information on choosing a garage door that will serve you for years.
Apart from setting your budget and deciding on the material, you also need to determine the size of your future garage door, consider styles that will match your home, and decide on the desired garage door features. Then, you only need to contact your local garage door repairs service to schedule careful garage door installation and discuss its maintenance. Keep reading to find out more about choosing the right garage door for your needs.
Determine the Budget
Determining the budget for your garage door is the first step to a successful shopping process. You can do this by first calculating the cost of the new garage door itself, then including the installation, and factoring in other costs that you might incur during the installation process, e.g., roof repair, removal of the existing garage door, and other factors.
You should also include the cost of repairing or replacing the garage door opener. Remember that garage door openers have a lifespan of up to 20 years, so you need to consider this when calculating your upfront costs.
Identify Your Needs and Desires
The next thing you need to do is identify your needs and desires. What are you looking for in a garage door? What features do you want? Is it more important for you to get a low-cost solution or something that will truly last for years? Keep in mind that choosing an affordable product is not always the best option since some of these are prone to damage and malfunctions.
Consider how long you plan on living in your home before deciding on a garage door material. This will determine the type of garage door to use. For instance, if you plan on staying in your home for at least five years, a steel or fiberglass garage door is a good choice. On the other hand, if you plan to sell your home in the near future, you might as well save money and choose an aluminum garage door.
Select the Material
The material of your garage door will also affect its durability and lifespan.
The most common materials used for garage doors are wood, steel, fiberglass, and aluminum. Each of these has its own advantages and disadvantages. For instance, wood is a classic material that provides a natural look to your home. However, it also requires more maintenance than the others and is prone to damage from the elements.
Steel is a durable material that can last for years with proper care. However, it is also one of the most expensive options. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is a lightweight material that is resistant to damage from the elements. However, it is not as durable as steel and is more expensive than aluminum.
Consider the Style
Your garage door style will also affect its lifespan and durability. The most popular styles include the traditional swing-open doors, roll-up doors, and sliding doors.
Swing-open doors are the most common type of garage door. They are easy to operate and can be made from different materials. However, they take up more space than other types of doors.
Roll-up doors are more expensive than swing-open doors, but they are more durable and take up less space.
Sliding doors are the most expensive type of garage door, but they offer the best convenience since you don’t have to open them manually.
Consider Other Features
There are other features to consider when choosing a garage door. One of these is the number of panels in your door, which will affect its weight and durability. Another important thing is whether you want your garage door with windows. If you do, then you will also need to consider the size of the windows and how they will affect the overall look of your garage door.
Also, you should think about garage door insulation. This is one of the most important features since it will affect your garage’s or even the whole house’s energy efficiency and how much you’re spending on electricity.
Get a Professional Opinion
Once you know what you want in a garage door, it’s time to get a professional opinion. It’s advised to get estimates from your local garage door installation companies. You can also check online reviews to see which company is highly recommended by their clients. Another thing you can do is ask friends or family members if they have installed garage doors in the past.
Final Thoughts
You have learned the essential steps in choosing a garage door that will serve you for years. It is only natural to be overwhelmed with all the options available on the market today. But with the proper preparation, you are sure to get the best garage door for your needs.
Don’t forget to prepare your budget, identify your needs and desires, and choose the suitable material for your garage door. After that, you can start considering the style of your garage door and its features. You can also seek expert opinions before deciding on a manufacturer.
When you find a company that meets all your criteria, don’t forget to ask for references and check their online reviews. Once you find a good company, you can schedule an appointment and get a free quote. Good luck!
