There are many different types of garage doors available on the market today. But which one is right for you? Here are six common garage door types to help you make a decision.
Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional doors are the most common type of residential garage door. Composed of several horizontally-hinged panel sections, a sectional garage door can be operated manually or through automated settings, and it provides great convenience for owners to access their homes by using a remote-controlled opener.
A sectional door has two basic design choices (standard or raised panel) with various material options such as steel, aluminum, wood, vinyl, or fiberglass.
It is important to note that sectional doors need more headroom in the garage since they must open “upwards” along tracks mounted on the garage ceiling. With adequate ceiling height and installation space, these doors are relatively easy to install and maintain.
Roll-up Garage Doors
Roll-up garage doors are a convenient, space-saving choice for many homeowners. The roll-up model consists of interlocking slats with hinges that allow the panel to be rolled up like an accordion for easy access to your attached garage or storage area.
Compared to other types of garage doors, these models are an excellent option for those trying to preserve their garage ceiling space. These metal panel doors “roll” open without needing much outdoor clearance or interior workspace.
Depending on the model and size, roll-up doors can be constructed from galvanized steel, insulated steel, and aluminum.
Slide to the Side Garage Doors
Slide to the side garage doors offer an attractive and unique door-opening design. Unlike traditional overhead doors, these door designs slide open horizontally parallel to the wall. They are extremely easy to operate and resemble large barn doors.
From an engineering standpoint, they are relatively simple in construction, using two tracks and a few mechanical components to slide open the door. The garage door itself is made of reinforced panel sections that overlap when the door is closed, creating a tight seal to block out dust, drafts, and moisture.
If you’re looking for something different than the traditional garage door offerings, consider this garage door system – you may be surprised at what it can do for your curb appeal!
Side-Hinged Garage Doors
Side-hinged garage doors are a great way to give your home a classic, timeless aesthetic. These side-hinged garaged doors work like double entry doors with two side panels opening outwards in opposite directions.
It’s important to note that side-hinged styles can only open to one side and cannot be automated. While side-hinged garage doors are an excellent option for homeowners with limited ceiling space, they take up more width than sectional garage doors or canopy-style doors.
In terms of keeping the elements out, side-hinged designs offer some natural weatherproofing due to the two halves covering each other when closed. However, you may want to consider installing draught excluders on windy days for extra protection.
Two Tilt Up Garage Door Options
If you’re looking for a unique and secure garage door, tilt-up garage doors may be worth considering. Unlike other types of door designs, tilt-up garage doors tilt upwards as opposed to rolling outwards or alongside the opening.
This type of tilt-up garage design does require adequate overhead space for both sides of the door to move together—to tilt upward and then be drawn back into place—but offers a fantastic solution for homeowners who prefer a modern aesthetic.
The one-piece door offers a tight seal to allow less outdoor air to enter your garage and maximize security.
Tilt Up Canopy Garage Doors
The tilt-up canopy design draws the door up and back slightly from the opening to form a ‘canopy-like’ show over the opening. Tilt-up canopy garage doors offer several benefits, including better use of space, increased safety, and added convenience.
Tilt up Retractable Garage Doors
The tilt-up retractable design creates a sleek look and ensures that the door won’t hang over the driveway, as the canopy counterpart would. With just one handle, you can tilt the door from either side and simply slide it upwards until it’s fully retracted towards the ceiling.
Explore Garage Luxury with Puget Sound’s Overhead Door Team
Garage door technology has come a long way, and there are now more types of garage doors than ever! Overhead Door of Puget Sound can help you find the perfect garage door to fit your needs and budget.
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