How to Choose a Garage Door

As a homeowner, there is no shortage of home improvement projects on your to-do list. The best ones to tackle first are typically those which can provide a great return on investment and can potentially increase the resale value of your home. It comes as no surprise that replacing the garage door is one of the quickest and easiest ways to transform your curb appeal.

Like all other aspects of your exterior, you need to choose a garage door that complements the aesthetic of your home and provides you with the versatile functionality you need. We've gathered the following tips that will help you choose the right garage door for you home.

As you get ready to shop for a new garage door, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure your project is completed the way you envision it:

1. Consider All Door Styles
   Drive up and down the streets of your neighborhood, and you'll notice that there are many different garage door styles available. Gone are the days of traditional raised panels. Today, you can choose from a distinctive carriage house door to a contemporary style that appeals to a modern aesthetic. You don't need to mimic your current garage door's style if you're not fond of its appearance. Take this opportunity to find the style that fits your home and desires perfectly.
2. Factor in Pros/Cons of Materials
   After you've narrowed down a few styles, you'll now need to think about materials. Steel is often used in garage door composition, however, there are also wood, composite, and aluminum options that provide a range of benefits. Research the benefits and drawbacks of these materials, including how much maintenance they require, how durable they are, and how well they'll perform in your unique climate.
3. Look for Doors with Additional Advantages 
   Technology has come a long way in enhancing garage door design. For example, insulation and nylon rollers can dampen sound to create a quieter door. Insulated garage doors can also protect the vehicles and possessions within your garage by helping regulate internal temperature. Why settle for a loud garage door or cramped garage space when there are affordable alternatives readily available?
4. See the Finished Product Before Installation
   With advances in technology also come convenient resources that take the guesswork out of choosing the right garage door for your home. Many garage door manufacturer websites now offer exceptional tools that enable you to visualize what each specific garage door will look like on your home. Upload a photograph of your house and use their design tools to see what each style, color, hardware, and windows would look best on your exterior. Within a few minutes, you can confidently find the garage door replacement that is perfect for your home.
5. Never Install a Garage Door Yourself
   We never recommend that a homeowner try to install, replace, or repair a garage door. Although we understand that you want to stick to a budget, there are many inherent dangers in garage door operation that include the potential for severe or fatal injury. A garage door is supposed to help keep your family safe — let a professional garage door installation company make sure the job is done correctly.

Home improvement projects are exciting, and we encourage all homeowners to spruce up their exteriors to create exceptional curb appeal. Replacing your garage door is one of the best ways to transform your home and bring style, convenience, and safety to your life.

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