There are various types of electric garage doors available, all with a number of benefits for you and your family. With the advances in modern technology, operating a garage door is so simple and effortless. Especially compared to the old doors which had to be manually lifted overhead, very often crashing down to the ground as you tried to close it. Today, with just the touch of a button it is possible to open and close the garage door without even getting out of the car. But how do you decide which type of electric garage door and what the benefits are?
Initially, you need to decide what the main purpose of the garage is; will you be parking the car in there, or will you use it as a playroom or an office? The intended use of the garage could dictate whether the garage door should be insulated, whether you have windows or just a plain steel door without either.
If you have a large garage with plenty of space, you may decide to install a retractable or canopy garage door. A retractable electric garage door is a one-piece garage mechanism which will retract completely into the garage. A canopy garage door is similar but overhangs slightly as it doesn’t completely recede into the garage. An electric roller door or sectional door would be ideal for someone who has limited garage space, as they both take up very little room. Electric sectional doors have hinged segments which travel along rails. Electric roller garage doors take up even less space as they don’t require rails to roll up into the roof. The only drawback is that windows and panels can’t be fitted as the doors are made up of segments which have to fit the roller.
A common misconception is that electric garage doors are expensive. However, electric doors vary in price according to the style, type and materials used. A basic steel electric garage door will suit those on a budget and can be painted in a selection of colours. There are many possibilities for those who are a little more adventurous with a larger budget, like a wooden door with elaborate carvings and panelling.
As garage doors are a large investment and can impact on the kerb appeal of your home, choose the type of door carefully. An steel door will require much less maintenance than a wooden garage door, which will need to be maintained on a regular basis. If this is neglected the door may show signs of weathering over time. If you require insulated garage doors, steel may the preferred material as it is easier to insulate than wood. However, although electric steel garage doors have many benefits, you may love the natural feel of wood, with the flexibility of style and colour.
Electric garage doors offer choice, style, simple operation and flexibility for any home. Take the time to decide which will benefit your home and family.