How do I choose a garage door?

Manufacturers are constantly looking for new solutions to improve the usability of garage doors. On the market, they are mainly divided into doors according to the way they are opened: 

• Sectional – made up of several (three to eight) panels that slide up over your head when opened on guides mounted under the ceiling. The advantage of these is that they do not take up much space, so they are suitable for short or steep driveways, but they take up a lot of space on the ceiling, which may be a disadvantage for some. They are produced in various shapes and sizes. Built in such a way that each element is mounted separately, they are characterised by high durability and reliability. They can be made of different materials and in various colours to match the facade of the house. 
• Hinged – the most popular, characterised by low price, simple construction and reliable operation. It is opened by pulling the handle upwards and closed by pulling it downwards. They are extremely easy to use, but they partially take up space in the front – they require about 1 metre of space, which is worth considering when planning a purchase.
• Swing gate – traditional, classic, made of two leaves that open outwards. It requires a lot of space, but it is very aesthetically pleasing. It works well in traditional houses.  
• Rolling – it rolls up when the door is opened. This is a convenient solution for those with limited space in front of the garage.  

Modern technologies in garage doors

It is worth mentioning that all these doors can have an electric opening and closing system, which definitely makes the consumer’s life easier. The option of opening the door with a remote control is even standard equipment. In addition, some models have photocells that prevent the door from closing if there is an object under it. There are also attempts to develop a programme that will automatically open the door before a person arrives based on the GPS signal from our mobile phone.

In addition to the operation and accessories of the door, the dimensions of the garage, the manoeuvring requirements and the dimensions must be taken into account. It is definitely important to know that a garage length of at least 3.3 metres is required when using automation. The width of the garage door is also important, as a door that is too narrow can make manoeuvring difficult and dangerous. For large cars, a higher garage door is also required, up to 2.4 metres. It is also important that the garage door matches the overall design of the house and does not detract from its appearance. 

More expensive means cheaper?

Most doors installed in houses are insulated, and there are various systems for this protection, including those that allow the escape of warm air to be reduced by means of appropriate filling.  

When choosing a garage door, you should not be too price-conscious, as lower prices almost always mean lower quality. Older models can be used for up to several years without major repairs or problems. All you have to do is take care of it, check its condition regularly and, as a last resort, call in an expert who will give you advice quickly and help you avoid costs.

Read also:

ROLLED OR SECTIONAL GARAGE DOOR?

HOW TO FIND A GOOD GARAGE DOOR?