As a homeowner who wants to increase the curb appeal of their home to potential buyers, or simply to breathe new life into their home for years to come, a new garage door can be the answer. Of course, it’s important to note that most homeowners will never have to replace their garage door. But depending on the age of the home, how often the garage door is used, and the preferred lifestyle of the home, there may come a time when it is necessary. To help you with the essential process of matching function with aesthetics and affordability, we’ve put together this easy garage door guide.
Choosing the Right Garage Door Style for You
You may be thinking, “It’s a garage door. How can it possibly add any style to my home?” But it’s actually not just a garage door. It’s a major part of the exterior of your home and choosing the right one can make a huge difference. Considering there are numerous possibilities such as Victorian architecture, full-view doors, carriage-house doors, and so many others, take your time to think about what works best for you. It may help to take a look around at the houses surrounding yours to see what other garage doors in the neighborhood look like.
Choosing Your Garage Door Finish
A garage door finish is what really helps give it a distinct and polished look. Many people prefer the look of natural wood because it will most likely complement your home and neighborhood. However, some people may prefer to add a color or tint to stand out. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. From natural wood stains to a bold hue, you can choose something that offers serious curb appeal. Remember to keep the climate in mind in terms of what type of finish will hold up best. A Fairmarket Contractor can make suggestions and advise you on the selection to ensure the right one is chosen.
Options for Garage Door Windows
Add a little functional character to your garage with a window addition. Windows look great while also adding a touch of natural light so you can be in the garage without fumbling for the light. Garage windows are customizable so be sure to weigh all of your options for the various designs. Because North Texas is in an area where tornadoes happen frequently, be sure you purchase impact resistant glass to withstand the high winds.
Options for an Installation
Most homeowners are always trying to save on energy costs. Yet many overlook the impact that the garage door can have on their energy bill. Because the garage is the largest entry into the home, it is also the most susceptible to energy and heat escaping. Replacing a garage door is a great time to think about insulating your door to lower energy costs and keep the home comfortable.
Material Options
Materials for your garage will depend on the style, durability, colors, finishes you choose, and maintenance it requires. There are steel garage doors which are great when you need a highly durable door, wood, for a beautiful, natural look, and aluminum for full view-style doors with a modern twist.
Wind-Resistant Garage Doors
High winds, storms, and tornados, may require you to think about a wind resistant garage door. Without it, the internal pressure could cause the walls and roof to collapse in a storm. The garage is the largest entry way into the home, so you don’t want to take your chances.
Track Options
Choosing the great track is something a Fairmarket Contractor can help you do. This is often one of the most overlooked aspects of garage door replacement. Selecting the appropriate track will allow the proper function and support the doors need to operate properly.
Understanding the Size
What size garage do you have? A single-car garage door is 7 to 8 feet high and 8 to 9 feet wide. Two car garage doors are typically 7 to 8 feet high but 16 feet wide. Some may be taller depending on what type of vehicle they are meant to accommodate. A Fairmarket Contractor can measure and assess what size garage doors you need so you get the perfect size. They could even accommodate you with custom sizing, if needed.
Know Your Budget
Besides looking great, a new garage door should be within your price range. There are numerous factors to consider when determining the cost of a garage door such as style, size, color, materials, installation, hardware, and more. Unfortunately, when it comes to garage doors, you’ll get what you pay for, meaning, if you go cheap, it’s less likely to last. Don’t be afraid to spend a little more money up front because you will save yourself hundred of dollars in replacement needs down the road. You’ll also want to match the look with the function. For example, barn or carriage house doors are attractive, but they may not be realistic for a very busy family. Garage doors can range between $1500 to $5000. Energy efficient, insulated, and quite operation extras will up the price while also adding value to your home.
Hire a Fairmarket Contractor to Install Your Garage Door
Although installing a garage door by yourself is certainly possible, unless you are an expert, there are too many risks involved to do it alone. Leave the job to a Fairmarket Contractor who has years of professional experience handling installation. In addition, a Fairmarket Contractor is so skilled at doing the work, they will be able to install the door in far less time than you would be able to do it yourself. You’ll save time, money, and frustration if you hire a Fairmarket Contractor to do the job. Give one a call today to come out for an estimate!
