If your garage door is shaking, squeaking or not level, it might be time to invest in a new one. Garage doors aren’t one size fits all, so it’s wise to think about what you want and need before you install one. Once you install the door, it will be a prominent part of your home for years. For this reason, you also want to consider how you want it to look.
Security!
Security in the most important feature for most homeowners. Some garage doors have openers that are equipped with rolling-code technology. With this feature, the security code changes each time someone uses the remote. This helps prevent unwanted people stealing your garage door opener code. With more than a billion combinations, this is prevented.
Safety!
If your garage is a high traffic area, or if you have children or pets, installing a garage door opener with safety sensors is a must! If the sensor detects an object or person in the path of the door while it is closing, it will either stop or reverse directions. This became an industry standard in 1993.
The Stuff You’re Made Of
Garage doors come in wood, steel, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass and more.
- People who want visual appeal often opt for wood. However, wood will require the most maintenance.
- Steel is the most common and least expensive of the materials.
- Fiberglass is durable, but this material is prone to cracks when it is exposed to extremely cold climates.
- Aluminum resists corrosion and rust and will work well in a region where moisture is an issue.
- Vinyl is a relatively new garage door material. It is durable and offers low maintenance.
Motor Matters
Pay attention to the horsepower ratings on the garage door opener. The horsepower across models will range. If you are buying a heavy garage door, consider a motor with a higher horsepower. If the door is lightweight, opting for a motor with a high horsepower rating may be too much.
You’ve Got the Look
Do you want a garage door that blends with the style of your home and the ambiance of the neighborhood? Do you want windows in the door, or would you prefer a solid door panel? Garage doors come in different styles, so take your time choosing one that you like.
Paying the Cost
Cost may not be the only factor in choosing your garage door, but it will definitely be at the top of the list. An salesman can help you put together a package that gives you many of the features you want while working within your budget.
Convenience
Considering adding a smart phone kit or wireless keypad to your garage door opener to increase your convenience.
A garage door is an important addition to your home that you’ll use daily for years to come. By considering the things above, you are sure to get a door that’s durable, beautiful and functional.
