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Buying and installing a garage door is once in a lifetime experience for most homeowners. It is highly recommended to do all the possible research before choosing a garage door for your home. Your efforts will be worth the investment in the end!
Think of this as an opportunity to crank up the curb appeal of your home. The investment is going to stay with you for the coming years so it will be a long time investment for you.
Most of us rarely pay attention to overlook the functionality of the simple door. Other than the aesthetics, it keeps your vehicles and home safe. There are multiple factors of your home security depends upon and the garage doors of your home are one of them.
Following is a list of 9 important things to consider before you buy a garage door for your home.
1. Budget Limits
If you venture into the market without setting your budget limits, you may spend more than you can afford. It is best to sit down and calculate the budget you can afford.
when you are buying a door, Check online resources to get an idea of market prices. You may also visit the stores to look at the available options. keeping your budget in mind and Just hire the best professional garage door installer in your area within the set budget, But never go to cheap and non-professional garage door contractors as poor installation may damage even the best of the doors.
2. House Design
Think about your house façade. Is it a traditional building, contemporary or modern? Whatever may be the house design, there is a garage door style that fits perfectly well.
Modern software tools allow you to check the possible garage doors online. All you have to do is take a picture of your house front, pick the door type you are considering and it will be edited in. It gives you a real-time picture and making a decision becomes a lot easier.
3. Door Size
The next big question is the door size. You need to take an accurate measurement of your existing garage door. Single-car garages generally require a door about 8-9 feet wide and 7-8 feet high. The dimensions can vary according to your garage. Measure the framed opening minus the stop molding, to get accurate measurements on your own.
Rough Opening Width = (Single frame - Nominal Door Width) + 11/4"
Rough Opening Height = Nominal Height + (1" Net Hight + 13/16")
You can always request reliable garage door professionals to provide you with on-site estimates and measurements. Before providing cost estimates, most garage door-selling companies provide an on-site evaluation request facility.
4. Door Design
When you search for garage door types and designs, the number of options is overwhelming. One of the most popular garage door designs includes a side-hinged and swing-out door. It is very much similar to the standard doors in our houses.
The most popular garage door design is the sectional garage door. It is made up of four to five panels that are connected with hinges. The door is raised and opened vertically. When the sectional door is fully retracted, the panels are adjusted in the space above the door.
5. Garage Door Style
The information about garage door styles comes in handy when you are looking for a particular house design. The doors are generally categorized as carriage style, modern, contemporary, and raised panel garage doors. Raised panel garage doors feature floating panels of door material that are encased in rail and stile frames.
Carriage-style doors are generally made up of wood and have the design of swing-out and side-hinged doors. The door generally features intricate woodwork on the façade.
If you have modern homes, look for sleek, striking, and seamless designs. Modern garaged doors are minimalistic in design but are equipped with the latest technology.
6. Garage Door Material
When it comes to garage door materials, there is a wide variety of options. The most popular being wood, metal, and composite wood. Each of these materials offers certain benefits but not without challenges.
Traditional homes feature wood doors
Homeowners looking for luxurious house exteriors buy wood doors. The pristine warm look of wood is great for aesthetic appeal. Challenges are the upfront costs and maintenance.
If you are looking for durable, and lightweight garage doors aluminum is the best option. Discuss your requirements with garage door professionals to choose the best option.
7. Insulation Or Energy Efficiency
Don’t forget to ask about the insulation provided by the garage door. Choose the doors with high R values so you can enjoy energy-efficient homes.
8. Door Hardware
The door hardware plays a huge role in its final look and functionality. Check all the available options before choosing one.
9. Garage Door Technology
Whenever possible, look for the latest garage door technology. Modern doors are much more safe and easy to operate than older versions. It will make your garage door opener more efficient, and safer for you and your vehicle as well.