Getting a new garage door can be a daunting task for many homeowners, especially if it is your first time. It is a significant investment that will have an impact on the home's appearance and character. If you plan to sell your home or simply want to improve the curb appeal, changing your old overhead garage door is an excellent choice. Getting a garage door replacement can make your home stand out and can help you get a good return on your investment when it comes time to sell.
But how do you go about doing it? What should you be on the lookout for? Before getting a garage door installation, consider these tips to make an informed decision.
Know the Types of Garage Doors
Steel is the most common garage door material. Steel doors can be insulated to make them more energy-efficient than wood doors, and they are also less expensive and require less maintenance. Aluminum garage doors are usually the cheapest and lightest, but they are also the most prone to dents. On the other hand, it has the advantage of being resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a good choice for coastal areas. Natural wood doors require repainting every few years, and they are more expensive than steel or aluminum doors. However, the warmth and elegance that wood garage doors can provide to a home can enhance the curb appeal and aesthetic.
Insulation
It is a good idea to choose an insulated garage door if your garage is close to any type of living space, such as a bedroom or living room. It can help keep those rooms more comfortable, especially if you live in a climate with harsh winter or summer temperatures. Not only that, but insulated doors are usually quieter to operate, which is a big bonus if your bedroom is adjacent to or above the garage. Do you have a garage that is separate from your house? If that is the case, a non-insulated door will generally suffice as long as you are not in an area with frigid winters.
Look at Various Garage Door Styles
The three most common garage door styles are raised-panel, carriage house, and contemporary. Check examples of each to see which one best matches the style of your home, as the garage door you choose will have a significant impact on the appearance and feel of your home. It is also a good idea to look at their material composition and maintenance requirements.
Consider the Uses of Your Garage
Will you utilize your garage to store your car or as a living space? You can choose a door that best matches your needs based on how you want to use this space. It will also help you in determining the R-value of the insulation required for your garage door. The greater the R-value, the better your door's thermal efficiency. In the winter, a door with a high R-value will keep heat inside, and in the summer, it will keep cool air inside.
If you expect to spend a lot of time in your garage, a garage door with a higher R-value is a good choice. A well-insulated garage door is also necessary if there is a living space next to or above the garage.
Now that you know what to look for when getting a custom garage door, who can you hire to install it? Palms Garage Doors offers free estimates for their services, serving the Greater Bay Area from San Francisco to San Jose and up to Oakland. When it comes time to install your garage door, look no further than Palms Garage Doors.