Before buying something, you want to ensure that what you’re getting is worth your money, right? You would want to get something that gives you the best value - good quality, highly effective and efficient, and satisfies your need. You would want a product that’s not underrated and has a long lifespan. This is true regardless of what item you are about to purchase, including one of the most neglected objects in your home – the garage door.

Homeowners often take for granted the importance of their garage doors. As long as it functions as expected and looks good, they’re all right with buying whatever is available or what is offered to them. Sometimes, they base their choices on what they see in other homes – perhaps a friend’s or relative’s. However, what works for some homeowners may not work for others. There are always several significant factors to consider.

The only way to ensure that you’re getting your money’s worth is to choose good quality garage doors. It may take time, and you may have to exert extra effort, but it will all pay off. You can ask for assistance from your provider or follow tips on what factors are essential for making the right choice when purchasing a new garage door.

Factors You Should Consider When Buying a Garage Door

Choosing the right garage door is not just about looks or physical characteristics; it also means picking a product that answers your needs. Here are some essential factors and tips that you should consider before completing your purchase:

As much as possible, do not order online.

Nowadays, you can find practically everything you need online. So, it’s not surprising for you to consider getting one from an online retailer. While it’s already considered a normal practice, there are still some things that should be done offline, such as getting the details of the garage door. If this is done virtually, your options of communicating with the provider or sales representative are limited to focusing the camera on the door or sending a video of it.

If you compare this with the provider being there in the garage with you, examining the garage door and taking note of its size, type, shape, side clearance, and other vital aspects, you’ll realize the vast difference between the two. Conducting product checks physically is better than doing it virtually.

So, as much as possible, have the provider visit your home and physically check out the garage door. This way, you’ll be able to work out several options for the new one that you will be purchasing.

Determine the type of door you need.

Not all garage doors are created the same way. You have to know which type you have and if it is ideal for your circumstances. For example, if you have a fiberglass garage door but realize that you live in an area with extremely cold weather, you’ll have to consider this when choosing a new one. Here are your options:

●      Fiberglass – Fiberglass garage doors are some of the most durable, but they are also sensitive to extreme cold weather and can easily crack.

●      Wood – Wood garage doors are ideal for homeowners who value visual or curb appeal. They are also probably the most difficult to maintain.

●      Aluminum – If your area is constantly exposed to moisture, an aluminum garage door is ideal because it is resistant to rust and corrosion.

●      Steel – Steel garage doors are the most common option for most homeowners. They’re also the most affordable.

●      Vinyl – If you prefer garage doors that are easy to maintain but still guarantee durability, vinyl garage doors are the best choice.

What is your budget?

One of the things you should consider when choosing the right type of garage door is your budget. How much are you willing to spend? How much can you afford to spend? Choosing a wood garage door over a steel one may involve more money than you can afford, so these two factors have to go hand-in-hand. The best thing to do is determine your budget and do your best to stick with it.

In some areas, getting a new garage door can cost you a minimum of $600 and a maximum of over $3,000. However, you can ask your provider for suggestions on how to bring down costs. Most of them already include the installation fee in the total cost, but it is always better to ask your provider.

The most affordable garage door types are aluminum, steel, and wood. Fiberglass and vinyl are more expensive. Some providers will suggest installing a steel garage door and then applying wood stain on it if the homeowner wants to achieve the aesthetics of a wooden garage door. 

You must have the whole garage door replaced and not just a part of it.

Your garage door and home-style should match.

This is another aspect you need to consider (and may affect your budget). If you want your garage door to complement your home’s total look, you must choose a garage door that matches its style. For example, if your house is all-wood, steel or aluminum garage door would contradict your home’s style or theme and curb appeal.

 

Ask your contractor to show you perspectives on how your home will look using different garage doors. This will help determine which one best answers the aesthetic effect you are trying to achieve.

Don’t forget the safety features.

The overall quality of a garage door includes safety features, so be sure to keep this in mind when buying one. Here are some examples you might want to consider:

 

●      In case of a power outage, you can still use your garage if it has manual control features.

●      Child and pet protectors are also essential safety features.

●      Your child (and pet) will also be safe if your garage door has safety reverse sensors. This device ensures that there is nothing or no one under the door when it is about to close.

●      Protection from unwelcome outside forces (such as burglars) is easier if your garage door has an outside motion detector.

●      You may also want to go for garage doors with fingers-free features. This will prevent your child’s fingers from being jammed or stuck into the door’s railing.

Check the garage door’s insulation.

The right insulation for your garage door can help keep energy costs down. Ask for professional advice on which insulation type is ideal for your garage door and home. The R-value refers to the insulation rating, and you should be mindful of this. Choose insulation with a higher R-value if you want efficient insulation (especially during the cold winter months or on stormy days).

These are just some things you should keep in mind before or while buying a new garage door. Considering these factors and suggestions will help you choose the right door for your garage.

Guest Contributor: Evan Taylor