A residential door is not something that needs to be replaced very often. In fact, most people only need to replace their residential garage doors about twice during their lifetimes. But when you do need to get a new garage door, a lot of thought and care needs to be put into the process of selecting the right one.
Your garage door becomes a statement and the most visible feature of your home. It can improve your home’s overall appearance and even add to its value. Choosing the right door will create a positive impression of your home.
As in any home project, deciding on the garage door’s design, material, and cost need to be part of the thought process. These are just a few things to keep in mind while shopping for the right residential door.
Designing Your Garage Door
The design of the garage door plays a huge role for homeowners. It can take up to one-third of your home’s front architecture. That means its appearance is important because it can make or break the look of your home.
There are many different designs available, and they include:
- Side Hinged Garage Doors
- Swing Out Garage Doors
- Roll-Up Garage Doors
- Tilt Up/Tilt Down Garage Doors
- Single or Double Bay Garage Doors
You can see what will look the best for your home by using an app called Garage Door Designer. This technology allows you to impose a picture of a garage door you are considering purchasing onto a photo of your home. This is a great way to make a more informed decision, and in a way, it allows you to “try before you buy.”
Garage doors come in a variety of styles, such as:
- Raised Panel
- Carriage Style
- Modern
- Contemporary
You can also choose your paint color or a stain to get the perfect one that will complement the door and your home.
Would you like a garage door with or without windows? If you would like your new garage to have some natural light, windows make a great addition. Also, there is no need to worry about privacy if you choose a door with windows. Non-transparent windows are available, and you will still get the benefit of that natural light.
What Type of Material Should the Door be Made From?
The type of material you choose is a personal one that is based on your taste and how you want the outside of your home to look.
A wooden-style door is a great choice that can add to the general appearance of your home. Most buyers who like a classic look tend to choose this option because it lends a natural look and adds the charm of having real wood.
Having a natural wood garage door may require more maintenance regularly ‒ once a year or every few years. Although wood might have higher maintenance needs, its natural beauty will be worth it in the end.
If you’re looking for a garage door that doesn’t need quite as much maintenance, fiberglass is a great option. Fiberglass will still give you the look and beauty of wood, and these doors require much less maintenance.
There are other materials that are available for garage doors, such as steel, vinyl, and aluminum. These materials are all low maintenance and very durable. They may need only some occasional maintenance cleaning and touching up to keep them looking their best.
If you choose one of these alternative materials, be sure to consider your area’s moisture levels and insulation needs. Both can affect the longevity of the door and protect everything that is inside your garage.
Cost of Residential Garage Doors
Please keep in mind that the cost will vary depending on the garage door you choose for your home. Most experts agree that your garage door’s price should be about 1% of your home value. Prices for garage doors can be anywhere from $250 up to $5,000 or more. It just depends on what you want for your home.
Selecting the Right Residential Door for your Home
Residential doors offer varying benefits and features depending on their design and style. Some are known for their beauty, while others are known for their performance and low maintenance requirements.
There are many options available to you, so choosing the best one for your home can be quite a challenge. At Overhead Door Company of Yakima™, we’re happy to help you choose the best one based on the qualities that are most important to you. We are confident that we can help you find a residential door that beautifully complements your home.