How to choose the right garage door

Inspiration

BY Lisa Cooper

Published: 07 June 2023 Updated: 07 November 2024

Inspiration
Tags: Garage doors

Your garage door is more than just an entry point; it's a statement of style, a protector of valuables, and a gateway to countless possibilities. Whether you're storing your car, or want to convert your garage for another use, such as creating a workshop, or transforming the space into a home gym, the right garage door can make all the difference. Let's explore the essential aspects of choosing the perfect garage door and how it can elevate your home’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Understanding your space

When thinking about your garage, it's important to consider your specific needs for the space. If you primarily use it for parking your car, you may want to focus on durability and security features. However, if your garage doubles as a workspace, home gym, or extra living area, insulation becomes a top priority. Choosing the right door will depend on how much time you spend in the garage and what activities are taking place there.

Security matters

A garage door is a critical component of your home’s security. Modern garage doors are available with advanced security features to give you peace of mind. Look for doors with robust locking mechanisms such as electronic-only entry, that can only be overridden from inside the garage, exclusive locking systems rather than generic padlocks, or those that meet Police preferred specification. Think about the sturdiness of the construction of both door and tracking system, with steel or aluminium end plates and fluted axles for the greatest strength.

Large traditional brick house with apex windows and double internal garage with dark brown roller door that matches the front door.

Opening mechanism and space

The way your garage door opens can impact the available space inside and outside your garage. There are several types of opening mechanisms to consider. Traditional styles include uo-and-over doors that swing outwards and then lift up, requiring space in front of the garage; side-hinged doors that open outwards like traditional doors, offering easy pedestrian access.
We offer the following two styles, as they offer improved security, durability and ease of use when compared to those above:
• Roller Doors: These roll up into a compact space above the opening, ideal for garages with limited headroom.
• Sectional Doors: These consist of several horizontal panels that slide up and overhead, suitable for short driveways.
Consider the layout of your driveway and the interior space to choose the most convenient and space-efficient option.

Keep the warmth inside

Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining temperature control and energy efficiency, especially if your garage doubles as a workspace or connects directly to your home. Insulated garage doors typically come with different levels of insulation, measured by their R-value, which indicates thermal resistance. Higher R-values offer better insulation, with options ranging from R-6 for basic insulation to R-20 for maximum efficiency. The insulation materials commonly used are polystyrene or polyurethane, with polyurethane providing better coverage and higher R-values. Lathe thickness in insulated doors can vary, with double or triple-layer construction, which is also a contributing factor. Standard lathe thicknesses are typically around 1 3/8 inches for basic insulation, while more energy-efficient doors feature thicker insulation at 2 inches or more, creating a sturdy and temperature-regulated barrier.

Large contemporary two-tone house with apex windows, integral garage with light brown garage door matching front door.

Style and aesthetic appeal

Your garage door significantly contributes to your home's kerb appeal. With numerous designs, materials, and finishes available, you can choose a door that complements your architecture and personal style. From classic wood designs to sleek, modern aluminium or steel options, plus a wide range of colour options, there’s a perfect match for every home, whether you choose to co-ordinate with your front door, adjacent window frames, facias, guttering or even the driveway itself.

TS 2023 ELECTRIC GARAGE DOORS PROFESSIONAL 78 ANTHRACITE GREY SMOOTH 01 (1)

In summary

Choosing the right garage door involves careful consideration of several factors, including insulation, security, size, opening mechanism, and control options. By understanding your specific needs and preferences, you can select a door that not only enhances your home's functionality but also elevates its overall appearance. Explore the range of options available and transform your garage into a versatile, stylish, and secure space with the perfect garage door.