How to Decide on the Right Garage Door
A garage is one of the most overlooked parts of a home. It either occupies old boxes of decorations, clothing, bikes or if you’re lucky is spacious enough to fit one vehicle. Over time without proper maintenance, a garage loses its function or is avoided altogether. The avoidance is largely due to a broken door. Without a garage door that fully operates concerns over security make it easier to neglect this useful space. If you’re in a similar predicament, we’re here to guide you in the right direction of replacing that old, faulty garage door. Here’s what you need to consider:
Material
As a starting point, you’ll want to first explore options for material. A few of the most commonly used garage door materials include timber, steel, aluminum, and GRP (glass-reinforced plastic or fiberglass). Each of these materials has advantages and disadvantages. If you’re concerned with cost, one of the most expensive in the bunch is timber, unless you go with a synthetic type of wood. While the appearance of timber is aesthetically pleasing, it can require more maintenance than a steel garage door, which is typically the most durable option. In recent years, GRP has become a popular option for homeowners who want to create a modern, sleek look. Another widely used material is aluminum because it’s affordable, durable, lightweight, and doesn’t easily erode.
Mechanism
Making sure your garage door can properly open is right in line with choosing a material. Surprisingly, how the garage door will open is largely overlooked and yet it is key to its purpose. Your garage’s mechanism will determine the amount of space that will be available for use. A roller door is one to consider if your garage is narrow, while you might get away with a counterweight if there’s enough room, also if you go with timber or fiberglass as the material.
Security
Along with material and function, taking safety precautions will ensure that anything you keep inside the garage will be safe from intruders and protected against possible damage from weather-related events like rain or a dust storm. You should also consider installing an alarm that sounds off if it’s improperly opened or someone attempts to punch in the wrong code too many times. In addition to protecting your garage against intruders, you’ll want to make sure the materials inside it are fire resistant. One of the leading causes of garage fires is electrical malfunction along with storing flammable liquids such as spray cans, paints, and other items like propane tanks. The best solution is to store these types of fire hazards far away from your home and never inside your garage.
Start Planning Your New Garage Today with R Company
Our experience in home remodeling will put you at an advantage to achieve a garage that’s useful, durable, and increases your home’s security. Contact us today to learn more about our home improvement services including replacing your garage door.