Garage doors can be a big investment, but if you are thinking about selling your home or just wanting to add some character, replacing your old garage door is the perfect solution. Although garage doors can be expensive, they can also add significant value and curb appeal to your home that will prove to be a wise decision in later years. The process of choosing a new garage door can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are 10 great tips to make the right choice when it comes to garage door replacement:
1. Choosing Wood, Steel or Aluminum
When picking a new garage door, it is important to determine the type of material you want to choose. Ask yourself: how long do you want your garage door to last, how much maintenance do you want to put into it and what is your price range? While the beauty of a wood door is hard to resist, remember that it requires new paint or finish every few years and costs significantly higher than steel or aluminum. Steel and aluminum garage doors are relatively maintenance-free, but do not provide as much insulation as other materials.
2. Choosing the Correct Style
If you want a garage that complements your home, be sure to pick a garage door that coordinates with the overall look and feel of your home. You do not want to pair a contemporary styled garage door with a traditionally styled home. In order to match the exterior of your home, you might need to consider custom painting to get the exact shade you want. One of the standard colors provided might go perfectly with your home. But if it doesn’t, don’t settle! Remember, you have to look at the garage door every day, so choose something that appeals to you.
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3. Consider Your Climate
Your geographic location is vital when choosing a garage door replacement. Metal doors are more durable when it comes to rough weather. If you live in a windy location, be sure you purchase a wind-rated door. Most wind damage is entered through garage doors. If you are in a location that is prone to hurricanes, choose a garage door with a warranty and low cost on maintenance. There are also options for doors that resist corrosion. This is something to look into if you have a significant amount of salt in the air. Your local garage door company will help you determine the best fit for weather conditions.
4. Use Online Tools
There are many different online tools that allow you to upload a picture of your home, and let you virtually see what different garage doors would look like on your home. This is a very useful tool for deciding how a certain door will look best with the exterior of your home.
SEE: 7 Easy Curb Appeal Ideas Anyone Can Do
5. Ask a Friend
Before making a final decision, drive around and look at what you like and dislike about your neighbor’s garage doors. If you can think of a friend’s garage door that you love, then ask for their opinion and their likes and dislikes about their garage. The ultimate decision is up to you, but it doesn’t hurt to hear honest opinions first.
6. Examine the Different Types
Garage doors come in four types: swing out, swing up, roll up or side to side. These are usually just a personal preference – they all do their job – but it is whatever is visually appealing for the owner. If you have less space on your driveway, consider staying away from garage doors that swing out.
SEE: Garage Mudrooms
7. What is the Function of Your Garage?
If your garage doubles as a workspace or laundry area, pick a garage door with good insulation qualities. If you need a well-insulated garage door, consider a garage with seals between each section to keep cold air outside. Also, look for doors with bottom seals, as they can make a world of difference when it comes to insulation.
8. Importance of Windows and Window Panels
There are many benefits to having windows on your garage door. Windows let in natural light which makes for a more pleasant environment. Windows generally create more curb appeal if you choose the correct style that fits your home. It also adds no extra work for you if you are already replacing your garage door.
SEE ALSO: Ways You Could Convert Your Garage Into a Fun New Space
9. Factor-in Maintenance Costs
When deciding how much you want to spend on a garage door it is critical to factor-in the amount of money you are going spend on maintenance after the purchase. Some homeowners think that once the purchase has been made, they are done spending money on the garage door. This is not true! Just like anything else in your home, it requires upkeep. Choosing the right garage door company will help the upkeep remain easy.
10. Have Fun!
Although picking a new garage door is not the most thrilling task on your to-do-list, it can still be fun to plan and execute the project in order to enjoy the final product. Get in touch with your creative side and make your home a work of art with your unique garage door replacement decision.
