There are over 70 million single-family garage doors in the United States and even more in multi-family homes.
Our garage doors see a lot of use, but they are often left to the wayside and forgotten about until something goes wrong. Taking care of your garage door will help you make sure it lasts for as long as possible.
Are you in need of a new garage door? If your current door is past garage door repair and you need to replace it, there are some simple things that you should know to make sure you are choosing the right door for your home.
Keep reading to get our three tips about buying new garage doors that will help you make the best decision.
Table of Contents
Find One That Matches Your Style
There are several types of garage doors for the home, including:
- Tudor
- Contemporary
- Ranch
- Mediterranean
- Farmhouse
- Craftsman
- Colonial
You may want to determine what type of home you have already and try to match your door to it. If you already like the style of your current door, go with that style and try to find one that is a little more updated to make sure it is safe and practical for use.
Pay Attention to the Layers
If you can find a door that has four or five layers, you’ll have better garage door insulation overall. The door itself will also be quieter when it opens and closes.
While a one-layer door is fine, you won’t be able to protect the items within your garage as well. If you have a living space above the garage, that space is going to be a lot colder (or hotter in the warm months) without the insulation in the garage.
Some people find that a four or five-layer door is too expensive, so three-layer doors the best middle-ground option for those that want to get a quality door and still save some money.
Measure Your Door
Before you start shopping for a new door, it’s crucial that you know what size your current door is. You can measure the door from the inside when it is down for the most accurate measurements.
A stock garage door is 7-8 feet tall and 8-16 feet wide. If you have anything else, you probably have a semi-custom or custom door.
Is it dangerous to try using an old track when you want to replace the door? Truthfully, because your new door may not fit or it may be too heavy, you should always use a new rack when you get a new door. These systems work together and if they don’t match, they will both wear out much faster than they should.
After you measure the door, you can find a different door and track combination to install.
Upgrade Your Garage Doors Today
Finding better garage doors for your home doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it might be a fun time to start hunting for a new look for the front of your home!
Are you looking for more home improvement tips? If so, be sure to take a look at our Home Improvement section, and learn some more ways to make sure that your home shines.