5 Top Tips for Buying a New Garage Door You’ll Love

Garage doors can last up to 30 years before they need to be replaced, so buying a new one isn’t a decision to take lightly. The right garage door makes a big difference on your home’s façade and curb appeal, not to mention its functionality for your day-to-day convenience.

Here are 5 tips to consider when buying a new garage door or replacing your old one.

“You should consider your home’s style and architecture, the budget you’re working with, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with.”

1. Choose the Right Garage Door Type

When you’re deciding on a new garage door, you have to consider what material you want for your home. There are numerous options on the market, all with their pros and cons. You should consider your home’s style and architecture, the budget you’re working with, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with.

Here are your options for a garage door material:

Wood Garage Doors

Wood garage doors are beautiful, strong, and come in a variety of styles, designs, and colors to suit your home. They’re also a classic choice that’s less likely to go out of style than some other options.

There are several downsides to wood garage doors, however. They weigh more than lightweight metal options and tend to be more expensive to purchase and install. These doors are susceptible to warping and bowing as well, especially if exposed to high humidity. You will need to refinish your garage door regularly to keep it attractive and sturdy.

Steel Garage Doors

Steel garage doors are versatile and come in a variety of styles and price points. They’re strong, durable, and beautiful, even with options that look like natural wood without the high maintenance.

That versatility is great, but it also means that you have options on both ends of the price and quality spectrum. It’s essential to make sure that you’re working with a professional garage door installation company that can help you determine the quality you can get within your budget.

Aluminum Garage Doors

Aluminum garage doors have a reputation for being sleek and modern. You can also get aluminum garage doors with glass panels that allow a lot of light into the space. This is great if you use your garage for other purposes, such as a workshop.

Unfortunately, aluminum doors are not as sturdy as other options. They dent easily and may not hold up in areas with violent storms that cause debris to hit them. If you have kids who play or ride bikes in the driveway, consider the abuse your door will take – aluminum may not be ideal.

Glass Garage Doors

Glass garage doors are one of the hottest trends. They have a modern and stylish appearance and allow a ton of light to enter your garage, not to mention adding to your home’s curb appeal. Glass pairs perfectly with an industrial or artistic aesthetic.

Having glass garage doors is like having floor-to-ceiling windows, however, so it can be difficult to control your garage’s temperature. Make sure to consider what you keep in your garage and how much you’re willing to pay in utility bills.

Vinyl Garage Doors

Vinyl garage doors are a cost-effective option that’s durable and long lasting. They’re also convenient, since vinyl is made from a composite of different materials that’s easy to repair and touch up. There’s no risk of rust, either, and vinyl is resistant to splitting and splintering.

Vinyl garage doors lack insulation, however, so they require insulation for temperature control. You have to make a good decision on your garage door’s colors as well, since you’re stuck with it for however long the doors last.

2. Choose the Right Garage Door Opener

Higher-end garage doors often have an automatic garage door opener, but some budget-friendly options may not. Garage door openers are a convenient tool to have, so it’s worth considering when you’re choosing a door to get everything installed at once.

3. Consider Your Security Needs

Garage door openers automatically lock when the door is in the down position, but that may not be enough to stop a determined intruder. Consider adding extra security features with your new doors, such as a smart garage door opener or a locking handle, which attaches to the door frame on the inside.

4. Plan for Curb Appeal

Your garage door plays a big role in your home’s curb appeal. You should look for garage doors that complement your home’s color, yard, and overall look. It’s best to work with a professional garage door contractor in Austin to help you choose the right design for your home.

5. Pick a Door Within Your Price Range

Your new garage door cost can vary widely based on the materials, styles, size, and garage door opener options you choose, often falling between $600 and $3,700. If you’re looking for an affordable garage door, it’s best to work with a standard steel, wood, or aluminum door and opener, while a bigger budget can mean more luxurious options like glass, composite, or vinyl.

Find Your New Garage Door with Help from a Garage Door Contractor in Austin

If it’s time for a new garage door, Austin’s Greater Garage Doors can help. As a professional garage door contractor in Pflugerville and Austin areas, we offer garage door installation, replacement, and repair. Contact us today to see what we can do for you!