With so many types of garage door to choose from, purchasing a new door can be an arduous task. It is important to make the right choice as this will be a long term investment, possibly adding value and saleability to your home. Consider the reasons behind the need for a new garage door. Is it to replace one that is in poor state of repair or to modernise the exterior of your home; it could even be to accommodate a new vehicle. Whatever the reason, here are some tips which may help you decide:

Vehicle size

Consider the size of your current vehicle and then measure the garage opening. A new door may reduce the space available to get your car or van into the garage, especially if you change style or material used for the frame. Also, look to the future when you may have a new vehicle; is it likely to be a larger vehicle or will you downsize? Even if you don’t have a vehicle right now and just use the garage for storage space or as a utility room, you may decide to have a vehicle in the future so the size of the door is important.

Insulation

It is possible to have your garage door insulated. Ask your supplier about insulation but don’t expect to stop all the draughts as garage doors are rarely a perfectly square shape which fits to flush to the floor and ceiling.

Framing

Consider whether the frame needs to be replaced when you replace your garage door. If it is made of timber and is rotten in places, replacing the frame while having the door fitted is advisable, or you may have to have the frame replaced at a later date. If you are having wooden garage doors, you will want to have a frame which is made of the same type of wood, so that it all looks the same. If you are having a GRP (fibreglass) frame, make sure the measurements are accurate as GRP can’t be cut back. You could ask the supplier to double check all measurements of the door and frame so that you can be satisfied that they will fit, especially if you are having a garage door specially made to fit your garage.

Remote controlled doors

Decide whether you will want an automatic remote controlled door as the type you choose may not be suitable. Even if you don’t want a remotely controlled door right now, you may change your mind in the future so consider whether your garage door would be compatible. You could also consider whether you want a hand held remote control or a digi-pad for added security.

Added extras

Consider the final price of your garage door to make sure that all the extras are included. Garage door installation may not be included in the total price. A reputable company will provide a quotation for the supply and fitting of a garage door, including any extras so that you don’t get any nasty surprises.

Choosing a new garage door for your home is a complex task, with many factors to consider. As you will be making a considerable investment, it is important that you choose the right door for your home and circumstances so that it will last for many years. However, with so many types of garage door styles, materials and colours to choose from, it is hard to know where to start.

Budgeting

One of the main considerations when choosing garage doors is the cost, especially if you have to stay within a budget. The price of a garage door will be dependent on the size and material, in addition to some other factors. For instance, timber garage doors are typically more expensive than steel or fibreglass doors. It is also possible to buy a garage door made of GRP (fibreglass) or steel which has a timber effect finish at a much lower cost. Other contributing factors to price will include insulation, any special sizes and glazing, which will add to the total price of the garage door. A reputable supplier of garage doors will be able to provide advice along with a reasonable price. Generally, steel doors are the lowest priced with timber garage doors being the most expensive.

Materials

The material you choose is another important factor. There are five main types of material used in the construction of garage doors; steel, aluminium, fibreglass, PVC and timber. If you decide to have a timber garage door, the price will vary according to the type of timber. If you are looking for a strong garage door for a reasonable price with very little maintenance, steel garage doors are often a great choice. Fibreglass is also very strong and versatile; making it an ideal candidate for your garage door material. There may be other factors to consider when you choose your garage door, as you may have to consider planning regulations in your area or the exterior of your home and surrounding homes to make sure your choice enhances the area’s aesthetic value.

Locality is also a consideration. Living near the coast may cause problems for anyone with a steel door as exposure to saltwater can cause a weathering effect. Fibreglass or PVC would be a better option in this case. You may like the idea of a timber door but if you won’t have the time to maintain it correctly, a fibreglass door with a timber effect may be a better choice.

Mechanism

The mechanism of the garage door will depend on the size and shape of your garage, internally and externally. A roller door may be the best option for limited space, while side hinged garage doors may be better if you have a low ceiling. Prior to purchasing your garage door, consider whether you want an automatic door or a manually operated door. This could affect your choice, although most garage doors can be automated. Talk to the supplier before making a purchase to ensure that you have considered all options.

Once you have decided to purchase a new garage door for your home, you may be surprised to discover just how much choice is available. Various styles, materials, colours and designs are on offer, with different styles and materials varying in price. A reputable garage door supplier will provide information of the most suitable materials or type of garage doors, but you also have to consider how the door will affect the appearance of your home. A large portion of your home front is represented by the garage door, which is why your final choice is crucial.

Prior to visiting a garage door supplier, take a good look at your home from the outside. Consider the windows and doors, their design and materials, so that you can select a garage door which enhances any existing features. For instance, wood panels on your house may be enhanced by a garage door which is made of wood.

Try to choose a garage door which resembles the windows of your home. If you have Georgian windows, you will want a garage door which is similar in style. The material used for the door will also be important. If you have uPVC windows, you may want the garage door to be similar.

Take inspiration

Before taking the plunge and going to a garage door specialist, walk around the area where you live and look at other garage doors. Consider whether they complement the house or whether another style would have had greater impact. If you see any garage doors which you like and believe may be suitable for your home, write down the description or even take a photo, with the owner’s permission of course.

Ask questions

When you do find a reputable supplier of garage doors, ask lots of questions. Use this opportunity to ask about garage door fitting, prices of various types of doors, the measuring of a garage door and about the materials used. A reputable supplier will be happy to answer any questions in a confident, knowledgeable manner. When you obtain a quote for a new garage door, make sure that you know exactly what is included in the price and anything that isn’t.

Patience is essential

When you are looking at various designs of garage doors, colours and materials take your time and consider whether the door you prefer is suitable for your home and situation. You may be looking for extra security or a garage door which needs very little maintenance, in which case your choice of door may not be suitable. The manufacturer’s warranty is also important as you are making a large purchase for your home that will be expected to last for many years. There is a wide variety of garage doors available and making the right choice can be difficult. Consider all aspects of your home and lifestyle before making a decision. Remote control garage doors are another consideration, especially if you want to be able to drive straight into your garage without braving the elements. Garage doors are a big investment, so be sure to choose carefully.

Selecting the right garage door for your house requires careful consideration. There are many factors to bear in mind, including price, the style of the door, the mechanism of the garage door and various security aspects. The security of a garage door is especially important if you can enter your home via the garage. Prices of garage doors vary enormously, along with standards of quality. It’s always worth seeking advice from a professional company; this way you can be sure that you have made the best decision for your home.

Which type of garage door

The type of garage door you choose depends largely on the size of your garage, as some types require more room to operate than others. You will also have to consider whether you want an automated garage door or manually operated one. If you think you may have difficulty operating a manual door in the future, perhaps as a result of illness or age, an automated door can make life easier. Garage doors are supplied in four main types; roller garage doors, sectional doors, up and over doors and doors with a side hinge. The type of door may also depend on the vehicle that will be parked inside the garage, as larger vehicles, like 4x4s and vans, will probably require more room.

Some garage doors are available as insulated or non-insulated, which may affect your decision. This may depend on whether your home is accessed through the garage and which materials you may store inside. Whether you use the garage to park a vehicle or as a working environment will also have an effect. An increasing number of home owners are utilising their garage space as an extra room; if you are included, this may dictate your choice further. Windows, for example, are available as part of many options.

Choosing the right material

There are three main types of material which will be used in the construction of garage doors. These include steel, GRP (fibreglass) and timber. It is just as important to select the right type of material for your door as choosing the door itself. If you are a busy person and don’t have the time to maintain a door, cleaning and painting it, choose a GRP door which will be virtually maintenance-free. Many GRP garage doors are available in wood grain colours or plain white; whichever suits your home. If you are especially security conscious, steel garage doors will offer maximum protection.

Timber doors are versatile and many types of wood are available, although prices will vary according to timber type. The price is another factor when choosing a garage door, as this will be a major purchase for your home. Although garage doors made of cheap materials are generally not recommended, it is possible to purchase discounted garage doors which are of an exceptionally high standard. A guarantee should always be available, along with advice when choosing and making your final purchase. Advice for supply and installation should also be provided as correct fitting is essential for maximum benefit.