Understanding Garage Doors | Sovereign Construction

Understanding Garage Doors

Garage doors come in a variety of styles and designs that range from basic white to a color that complements the rest of your home’s exterior. A door can have different numbers of raised panels or be made to resemble barn doors. Garage door extras include windows, decorative hardware, remote entry button, and outside keypad. If you are thinking of replacing an old or broken garage door, you would do well to understand the basics about garage doors so you can select the best door for your home.

Today’s garage doors can be made from vinyl, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, PVC material, and wood, and doors come either insulated or uninsulated. Similar to the R-value of the insulation on the walls and ceilings inside your home that indicate the level of insulation against hot and cold temperature extremes (higher R-value means higher insulation), the same applies to the insulation level of garage doors. Function-wise, garage doors can open vertically (i.e., up-and-down) or horizontally, with the panels sliding from left to right.

Garage doors can also come with windows which, in addition to adding a decorative look, function by letting in light. Windows, too, can be insulated or uninsulated – some glass windows are even shatterproof. And, if you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes, it is good to know that some door types hold up better against strong winds and storms than others. One component all garage doors should have is weather stripping along the sides and bottom to keep out rain and block wind drafts. The exterior frame around the garage door opening should also have weather stripping so you have full protection against the elements when it aligns with the weather stripping on the door.

Garage door hardware includes door tracks (attached to the ceiling of the garage) and the door rollers on the side of the door that slide along the tracks when opening and closing the door. Hinges and springs are other hardware components that facilitate door movement. Most homeowners install automatic/motorized door openers so the person driving in or out of the garage needs only to push a button on a remote and the door opens or closes.

The cost to install a new or replacement single garage door can range from about $750 to $2,000 or more, which typically includes the cost of the door, the installation, and the removal of the old door. Of course your cost will be higher if you need additional work such as enlarging the door opening. If you are only replacing the door, you might be able to reuse existing hardware, such as the tracks. Factors that go into the price include:

  • Size of the door – single versus two-car
  • The door itself, which is determined based upon insulation level, the design of the door (for example, how many panels), and the windows
  • The tracks and other associated hardware
  • The type of garage door opener and electrical needs
  • Exterior keypad installation, if you will be using a keypad
  • Labor

Other considerations when installing a new garage door include permits that may be required and adherence to homeowner association rules.
When choosing the best garage door for your needs, take into account not just your budget, but also the climate where you live and a design that complements the overall look of your home. Remember, too, that with proper care, your garage door can last 30 years or more.

If you are looking to install a new or replacement garage door, it is usually best to speak to a professional. A pro can give you guidance on the best type of door for your home and provide a price quote for installing the door.
Steve Rush is owner of Sovereign Construction Services, a full-service home construction and remodeling company. He has years of experience in home building and renovating services. Steve is available for consultation on any type of home renovating project you have in mind. Call Steve today at 610-639-2986.