Did you buy a new home with an old garage door? If you’re a first-time homeowner or have no experience with this exterior upgrade, take a look at the questions to ask before you replace your door.
What Type of Material Do You Want?
Garage doors aren’t all the same. There are a variety of materials to choose from — like popular homeowner picks such as wood, glass, steel, and aluminum. If you’re not sure which type of material is right for your home’s needs, consider:
- The exterior aesthetic. What style is your home’s façade? If you have a traditional home, a contemporary steel or glass door will look out of place. But if you have an industrial, modern exterior, an ornate wood door won’t match the style.
- The life span. Do you plan to sell shortly, or is this your forever home? The average garage door has a life span of 20 to 25 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). But some materials, such as steel, may last longer than others.
- The price. An aluminum door may help you stay within a smaller home improvement budget. But if you have a bigger budget, a custom wooden door or glass creation are options to explore.
- The insulation needs. A door with a layer of insulation sandwiched in between other materials may cost more than an uninsulated model. But the addition of this material could save you more in long-term utility costs.
The door itself isn’t the only choice you need to make. Along with the material, you also need to select hardware and other aesthetic accessories.
What Type of Hardware Do You Want?
Do you want a door with a clean, sleek finish — or do you prefer noticeable hardware? When you select a door, consider:
- Hinges. Strap hinges can add a decorative accent, create an old-world style, or just add to the overall aesthetic of the décor.
- Handles. Even though you may not physically use a door handle to open your automatic garage door, this hardware option is a decorative choice some homeowners prefer.
- Windows. You don’t have to sacrifice style or accent-oriented décor for a sleek, hardware-free look. Windows (or other glass panels) can create a custom look, break up a plain front finish, or add to a contemporary type of design
If you’re not sure which type of hardware, glass, or material to choose, talk to a garage door contractor. The professional can evaluate your home’s needs and help you select the right products for your door.
What Type of Contractor Should Replace the Door?
Garage door replacement isn’t a do-it-yourself job. Between the expertise needed to correctly install a garage door and serious safety issues, a professional contractor is typically necessary for this home improvement project. As you start the contactor selection, consider:
- The contractor’s specialty. A general contractor isn’t the right professional for this job. Instead, you need a contractor with expertise in garage door and opener installation.
- The contractor’s experience. How much experience does the contractor have? More specifically, how much experience do they have with the type of door you want to install? Ask for references or to see photos of the contractor’s past work.
- The contractor’s brand affiliations. What brands is the contractor authorized to sell? If you have a preferred garage door brand, make sure the contractor sells and services models from the manufacturer.
A specialized garage door contractor should have expertise in everything from sales to installation. Choose a knowledgeable professional who can help you with each step of the replacement process.
Do you need a new garage door? Contact Raynor Door Company for more information.