Things to Know Before Buying a Garage Door
You need to think about many things if you consider installing a new garage door. The type of door you install will depend on how much money you want to spend, what look you are trying to achieve, and how often the door needs maintenance.
To be sure that you buy the right garage door for your home, please keep these things in mind before making your purchase:
Beware of Wood Doors
If these doors contact water, they can warp or swell. This makes it take longer to open and close them. They also need to be painted more often than other doors because they are more likely to be damaged by the weather.
If the wood on these doors becomes warped, it is much more difficult to repair them. Wooden doors are more likely to attract termites and other insects that can cause costly damage. Steel doors are much less likely to be damaged by the environment.
They also do not need to be painted as often as wood doors, which means your garage door will look good for a longer time.
Pay a Little More for Sturdier Springs
Nine-gauge steel is better for the springs on a new garage door than low-gauge wire. Low-quality springs will sag sooner and might cause the garage door to become stuck after opening or closing it with your opener. This problem can be fixed by replacing the spring(s), but it’s inconvenient.
Think Twice About Installing Your Own Door
The springs on your garage door usually last about 20 years, but the parts you need to install it may not. If you choose to install your own door, you might replace the springs.
If the springs are low-quality and installed at the factory where your garage door was made, they might become loose or detach during installation and injure yourself or others in the process.
Always hire a professional installer unless you are confident that you can complete the job successfully on your own.
Choose Windows Wisely
Avoid windows made of glass blocks when choosing a new door for your home. These are difficult to clean and keep tidy. A neat exterior is essential when people are looking at your home.
If window cleaning is a priority for you, consider installing windows that slide up and down instead of rolling on tracks.
Use Manufacturers’ Websites to Choose a Door Design
Some homeowners make the mistake of choosing a door design based on what they see in magazines or TV advertisements.
However, these ads are not always accurate and might not look good in your home. It is better to choose a door design from the manufacturer’s website.
This way, you can see all the available designs and find one that matches your home decor. You can also find out which color stains are being offered so that the new garage door will match your home.
Buy a New Opener at the Same Time
You should buy an opener that works with your new door. You can get a garage door opener installed when you get the new door, or you can install it yourself if you feel comfortable.
Most manufacturers have systems to control your front and back doors from one keypad located inside the house. This will give you convenience and increase home security.
Upgrade Your Insulation
Insulation is important because it can make a big difference in how much energy your home uses. If you live in a cold climate, insulation can help keep the heat in winter. If you live in a hot climate, insulation can help keep the cool air in during summer.
Get an In-Person Quote
Almost always, it is cheaper to buy a door online. But before you do, make sure to get at least one quote from a local dealer. The dealer must come to your house in-person to give you the quote. That way, you will know the actual cost of the door and the installation.
What Type of Garage Door Should I Buy?
There are many different types of garage door styles to choose from. The type you choose depends on the design of your house, your budget, and your personal preferences.
This guide will help you decide which type is best for you.
Wood Garage Doors
If security is not a concern, this traditional material may be an option for you if appearance is what matters most. Wood doors tend to be more expensive than other options because they usually need replacing after installation due to water damage or structural problems related to climate conditions like excessive humidity.
This issue can be significantly reduced by applying weather stripping around the edges where moisture invades gaps between the door’s seal and frame. Some types of woods that may be used in wood garage doors are fir, cedar, redwood, cypress, or pine.
Vinyl Garage Doors
They are low-maintenance and durable. The best part is that they come pre-painted in a variety of colors so that they will match the décor of your home. One downside to vinyl models is that they can become less attractive over time.
This is especially true if they are exposed to the sun’s UV rays. However, resistant materials used in manufacturing have made vinyl one of the best options for keeping maintenance costs down while giving you many design choices that will never go out of style.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel is a durable, low-maintenance material often used for garage doors. Despite this, some homeowners are still concerned about whether steel offers more security than other door materials.
Although steel is stronger and more durable than wood or vinyl, it is not impenetrable. Steel garage door manufacturers make sure the steel is strong and durable by heat-treating it after rolling it into sheet metal.
Full View Aluminum Garage Doors
This material is quickly becoming one of the most popular choices among homeowners who want a stylish alternative that stands out among different garage entryways. Most full view aluminum doors are made using three panels with windows in each section.
This gives your new garage door an aesthetic style, like windows found in homes across America.
Keep in mind that while many people like the idea of having windows inside their garage door, this allows more sunlight inside of your garage, which can reduce the lifespan of stored items.
Wood Composite Garage Doors
It would be best to choose wood-composite doors to let natural light into your garage and still have security. These heavy-duty garage door materials look modern and are energy efficient.
You won’t have to worry about your air conditioning bills going up because you can’t park your car in the garage during the summer.
Be sure to get an installation expert to come out and look at your home before you buy this style. This is because it has so many panels going in different directions. Everything must line up correctly for them to close properly.
