A Homeowner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Garage Door

For the longest time, the garage has been the place not only for the car but for all the other knick and knacks which haven’t found their place in the house yet. Oftentimes, this part of the home is neglected and it sometimes ends up in a state of disarray. It is not an uncommon sight to see a chaotic garage with its doors almost crumbling into a complete jumble of disorder. Choosing the right type of garage door is an important thing in maintaining the tidiness and well-being of any garage.

Garage doors are typically classified into five main types, each one suited to fulfill a different type of need from the owner.

1. Retractable garage doors are generally those that upon opening swing outwards and then ascend into the ceiling of the garage. This type of door is perhaps the easiest to operate since automation is relatively easy to do. One disadvantage however is that parking can’t be done too close to the door as opening the door might result in damage to the car. Also, installing this type of door means that the homeowner should have a large space as opening and closing it needs an ample amount of space.

2. Sectional garage doors are almost similar to retractable type in mechanism and in its function. What sets sectional garage doors apart from retractable ones are the panels. This type of door makes use of separate panels instead of one whole block. The panels are attached to each other horizontally. An advantage of using this type of door is the ease by which one can install it since it usually comes in a kit. Automation is also relatively easy.

3. Canopy garage door works in the same way as the sectional type and the retractable type in that it also swings outwards during opening before sliding up into the ceiling. However, the entire door does not rise up into the ceiling. A portion, usually one-third, of the door is left outside leaving more room for the car inside the garage. Perhaps the most significant advantage of this type of door is the fact that it provides the maximum security especially since it is sold in a variety of materials. Assembly is also easy.

4. Roller garage door is similar to a curtain because it is able to roll up into the ceiling. It does not swing thus it is advantageous to homeowners who have smaller garage spaces. It can be automated as well like the other types.

5. Side hinge doors are the most traditional looking doors available for the garage. Similar to sectional garage doors, this type opens outward. However, instead of ascending into the ceiling, it opens outwards completely thus not making it a great choice for homeowners with shorter driveways.

The most important thing to remember in choosing the right type of door for a garage is space and function. Each type of door is specialized to fit whatever size of space a homeowner has for the garage. All one needs is to make the right choice.

Author Bio: William I. Neil is an architect, providing home improvement information and business directory listing about sectional garage doors also categories,e.g. garage door hardware

Category: Home Management
Keywords: sectional garage doors, garage doors, garage door, garage, door

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