Garage Doors: Making The Right Choice For Your Home

While often taken for granted, garage doors are a big part of a home's exterior. They may make up a good 40% of the outside surface of a house, a large part of what is seen. Because of it's correlation with curb appeal, when choosing a new door it can be easy to forget the practical side of selection.

With so many features available, different colors, designs materials and accent pieces, it's easy to get caught up in the aesthetics. However, it's best to consider both factors when shopping for a door. Here is an overview of some of the more practical features of them.

Room usage

If the garage is used as a work room, laundry room or other type of space, comfort will be of importance. Insulated entrances can help keep the temperature regulated and the space more comfortable. It will also keep the space quieter. Insulation should also be a consideration with any attached garage, in which case air can travel through the doorway into living spaces adjacent and above.

Another advantage of insulated entrances is that it is possible that they will qualify for the Energy Tax Credit if they meet specific criteria.

If the garage is used as a work shop or studio or something where natural light might be desirable, consider adding window features. Modern door manufacturers can add window features that are highly rated for both security and for low energy usage. Additionally, windows are a great way to add customization and style to doors.

Space available

If you have a large two or three car servicing places, consider getting double o. These have several advantages. Double doors help keep outside air out as only one needs to be open at a time. This also ensures that a backup door option is available in the event of mechanical failure.

Weather

As previously mentioned, in extremely hot or cold environments, a well insulated door is going to be desirable for reducing energy used on interior air heating or cooling. There are also other weather related considerations to make when choosing garage doors. Steel doors are prone to rust in wet climates.

Wooden ones are subject to cracking and splitting. If the house is in a hurricane prone location, you will want to work select a door that is engineered to meet building codes for high winds. Your garage doors retailer can work with you to select best material for the climate in the area where you reside.