How to Choose the Right Style and Functionality of Your Garage Door

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The most important aspect of the garage door is its insulation, known as the door’s R-value. The R-value is a rating that describes how well the door provides insulation and resistance to heat and cold air flows. The higher the R-value is, the better the insulation. If your garage is used for a work space it will be very hot or very cold at times if your garage door is not insulated sufficiently. In moderate climates an R-value of 3 is recommended. In cold climates an R-value of 10 is recommended. Consider your demographics and its typical weather trends when choosing your R-value. A higher R-value can decrease your energy bills in both moderate and cold climates by preventing cooling or heating of the house by the garage common walls.

Now, some people only want functionality, so it is appropriate to start with that goal. But, keep in mind your garage door takes up as much as one third of the front of your house. Shouldn’t it reflect your personality then? There are many options of color, material, windows, and decoration to choose from and often they won’t break the bank. The styles of garage doors are endless. The garage door style should compliment your house’s style. First decide on your panels. Garage doors have flush panels, raised rectangular panels, and raised square panels. If you are unsure of what the panels might look like on your house drive around the neighborhood and see how it fits on other houses. Next choose the material of your garage door. Wooden doors are beautiful and come in two specialty styles, the carriage door and the barn door. They have the appearance of vintage swinging doors, but actually open like a conventional garage door. They can be pricey and high maintenance though. In that case, steel doors are an excellent choice since they are less expensive and relatively low maintenance.

So, now you should have a clear picture of the type of garage door you need. The next decision to make is the color. Since the overhead door should complement the house, It is typical to paint the garage door the color of the house’s trim. The color of your overhead door can do more than compliment your house though. Dark colors absorb heat and over time can cause your garage door to bow from heat damage. It’s your overhead door and of course you can paint it any color you want, but remember non-traditional door colors might be trendy or appealing at the time, but you may get tired of it later. And if you might want to sell your house now or in the future, the color might not be universally appreciated. It could make it more difficult to sell your house.

Your overhead door will be with you for a long time possibly. Make sure that you know what you’re getting and get what you need. In the end it’s your money and you don’t want to have to replace your door twice because you got the wrong one the first time or worse, have to live with a garage door you hate. Be informed and be happy instead.