Garage doors are an essential part of many homes. They provide protection for cars, bikes, family heirlooms and other valuable items. They also provide privacy and security.

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The type of garage door you choose will impact the look, performance and maintenance requirements of your home. There are a wide variety of styles, materials and features available to suit your budget and lifestyle. The five most common types of residential garage doors are:

Traditional overhead garage doors are side-hinged and open and close from a hinge on each of the jambs. They are available in a range of colors and finishes, including wood-grain steel. Many of these doors offer a high level of insulation to help keep your garage at a comfortable temperature while reducing energy costs.

Sectional garage doors, the most popular in the country, are made from panel sections that connect with hinges. When they open and close, wheels at the edge of each section roll inside vertical tracks on either side of the garage door opening and curved tracks above them. This allows the garage door to sit flat against the ceiling when fully open and in line with the walls when closed.

Contemporary or modern garage doors are sleek and minimalist in appearance. They often emphasize windows and doors with minimal framing, and they are a great choice for modern or mid-century homes. Steel, aluminum and glass are frequently used in these types of garage doors.

Older or heritage-style garage doors have a more classic design with fewer embellishments. They are available in wood and steel, with or without insulation. These doors complement most home styles, from traditional to rustic to craftsman.

Swing-style garage doors are like a pair of large French doors that swing outward from the sides of your garage. They are available in a wide range of wood species, and they can be stained or painted to match your home’s trim and architectural details. They can be more expensive than sectional garage doors, and they require more clearance for operation because they hinge at the bottom and have one joint.

Roll-up garage doors, also known as “tilt up” or “overhead sectional” garage doors, are an excellent choice for homes with limited headroom. They run along horizontal tracks on the floor and ceiling, so they don’t require the overhead space of sectional garage doors. They are available in metal and wood, and some models have built-in retractable motors for automated operation without the need for a ceiling-mounted operator.

Materials

Garage doors are available in a wide range of materials that provide a multitude of aesthetic options. Steel is the most popular material for residential garage doors because of its durability and security benefits, as well as its cost-effectiveness. Steel garage doors can be fitted with insulation to improve their energy efficiency and regulate garage temperatures. Steel is a low-maintenance material that holds up well to harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds or heavy rains, but it can be vulnerable to corrosion in coastal regions.

Aluminum garage doors are popular for their modern aesthetics and streamlined designs. These doors are typically insulated with polyurethane to increase their R-value and improve thermal efficiency. They also have a greater strength-to-weight ratio than steel, so they require less strain on their operating mechanisms and are easier to lift manually. However, aluminum is more susceptible to corrosion than steel, especially in highly salty environments.

Fiberglass is a durable material that resists corrosion and can be customized with an array of finishes. It is a good choice for coastal regions because it is more resistant to humidity than steel. Like aluminum, fiberglass is lightweight and puts less strain on the operating system. It is also not as durable or as impact-resistant as steel, so it may be more susceptible to denting and damage.

Vinyl garage doors are affordable, low-maintenance and offer a variety of color choices to complement any home design aesthetic. These doors are insulated and provide effective protection against drafts, moisture and pests. They hold up well in hot and cold climates, but they can become brittle when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time.

Wood garage doors are a beautiful option for homeowners seeking a traditional design. These doors come in a variety of styles and can be field-stained on-site to achieve the desired look. They are expensive but durable and provide exceptional curb appeal. Wood garage doors are heavier than steel or aluminum and can be difficult to operate manually, especially if they are large.

Many garage doors are fitted with a torsion spring counterbalance system. These springs stretch and contract to support the weight of the door, which is assisted by a system of pulleys and cables that run parallel to the tracks. The springs can be made of steel, nylon or durable plastic. The type of spring that is chosen depends on the climate, door size and other factors.

Styles

Depending on your taste and home style, you can choose from a wide variety of garage door styles. Some emphasize curb appeal, while others provide a modern aesthetic. Still others complement architectural elements that are unique to your home.

Traditional garage doors often feature windows and decorative hardware, such as strap hinges or ring pulls. They are available in a range of materials, including steel and wood. Many of these doors are also insulated for added energy efficiency.

Carriage house style garage doors offer a distinctive look that emulates the swinging barn-door design of carriage houses. They’re ideal for homeowners who want a blend of history and sophistication, adding an elegant accent to the exterior of their home.

These garage doors slide to one side when open, making them a great option for those with limited headroom in their garage. They are available in a wide array of colors to match your home’s exterior and can be customized with windows and hardware.

Contemporary garage doors prioritize clean lines and sleek surfaces for a sophisticated aesthetic that coordinates with a wide variety of home styles. These doors are offered in a range of materials, and some even include aluminum frame designs that let in plenty of natural light.

Sliding garage doors are an excellent choice for those with a limited budget or who prefer to use the space in their garage for other purposes. They roll on a track from side to side, and they’re available in an array of widths to suit your garage.

Wood-look garage doors offer the beauty of real wood in a low-maintenance option. They’re available in a wide range of species, including mahogany, cypress, and walnut. They are insulated for added durability, and they reduce street noise and vibration when opening and closing.

Wood modern garage doors are designed to fit a broad range of home styles. They’re made of horizontal wood planks and available in a range of color options to coordinate with your home’s exterior. They’re available in a range of thicknesses, and you can customize them with window configurations, insulation, and decorative hardware.

Installation

The garage door is a large, complicated piece of machinery, and it’s important to install it correctly. Hiring professionals ensures that the process runs smoothly and prevents damage. Homeowners can prepare for installation by moving vehicles, removing tools and decor, and clearing the floor to give installers space to maneuver. It’s also helpful to know the specific features of a new garage door before making a decision.

Many homeowners choose a new garage door for its aesthetic appeal or energy efficiency benefits. Steel doors offer durability and low maintenance, while wood adds warmth and classic style. Before you commit to a design, however, it’s important to consider the climate of your area, your maintenance preferences, and energy efficiency needs.

Insulated garage doors can save you money on utility bills, while weather stripping and a properly sealed bottom edge help prevent air leaks. A good way to determine the insulating value of a garage door is by looking at its R-value. High R-values indicate excellent insulation.

Some garage door openers offer smart functionality, such as automatic shut-off and a built-in battery backup. While these features can be beneficial, they can also increase the cost of the garage door. It’s important to talk with the DBM Team about any additional features you’re interested in before they begin work on your door.

Once the professionals are ready to install your new garage door, they will lay out the exterior panel of the new door on a workbench or sawhorses. They’ll then use lag screws to attach the hinges and brackets to the garage door frame. They will then mount the carriage tube to the power unit, and the door’s sensors and safety systems will be installed.

If you’re thinking about selling your home in the future, a new garage door may boost its curb appeal and improve your property’s overall value. In addition, a modern garage door is easier to maintain than older models, which can save you time and money. However, it’s essential to hire a professional for all installations and repairs. Hiring a professional will also help you avoid costly mistakes that can lead to damage or injury.