Have you ever wondered what kind of door you might need for your garage to be outside? Spoiler alert! Your garage door can’t really be outside because, well, it’s a part of your house! But what you actually might want is a special kind of door that’s sturdy and weather resistant, so it feels like it could be outside. Before we go any further, let’s take a look at some terms we will be using in our discussion:
Garage door: This is the big door on your garage where you park your car. It’s usually pretty big, so it can fit cars and bikes and all kinds of stuff.
Weather resistant: This means that something can stand up to different types of weather, like rain, sun, wind, snow, and so on.
Material: The stuff something is made of. Like, a wooden door is made of wood material, and a steel door is made out of steel material.
Insulation: This is a special kind of stuff that keeps heat in and cold out. You might have it in your walls or roof to keep your house warm.
Swing out doors: These are doors that open outward, swing from the side. Like the door to your bedroom, for example.
Roll up doors: These are doors that roll upwards when you’re openning them.
So, if your garage is going to face a lot of different weather and you want it to stay nice and protected, you might want a door made from a weather resistant material. You might also want it to be insulated to keep your garage warm and your bills down. And lastly, you can choose if you want a swing out door or a roll up door depending on your preference. But remember, always ask a grown-up for help when making big decisions like this!
Choosing the right type of garage door
When it comes to choosing a door for your garage that faces outside, there are several important factors to consider. The type of door you pick will undoubtedly have an impact on the overall security, aesthetics, and functionality of your garage. Let’s delve into this issue and find possible solutions to help you find the perfect door for your garage.
Important terms explained
Before we proceed, here are some important terms you will encounter in this guide and what they mean:
- Sectional Garage Doors: These are doors made up of panel sections that are connected with hinges.
- Roll-Up Garage Doors: These are usually used in commercial settings but can also be ideal for residential homes with limited ceiling space.
- Slide to the Side Garage Doors: These doors operate just like they sound, they bend to one side of the garage.
- Side-Hinged Garage Doors: These resemble large barn doors as they swing outwards when opened.
- Tilt-Up/Up and Over Canopy Garage Doors: These doors are made from one solid piece and tilt up into the garage’s overhead space when opened.
- Tilt-Up/Up and Over Retractable Garage Doors: Functionally similar to the canopy garage doors, but these retract fully into the garage.
Factors to consider when selecting an outdoor garage door
1. Material
Choosing the right material is crucial as it determines the door’s durability, maintenance, and appearance. Popular materials include:
| Wood | Attractive, Customizable | Requires regular maintenance |
| Steel | Durable, Low Maintenance | Can dent or rust |
| Aluminum | Lightweight, Resistant to rust | Can dent easily |
| Vinyl | Resistant to denting, Low maintenance | Limited customization options |
| Fiberglass | Resistant to denting and breaking, Excellent insulator | Can fade from weather exposure |
2. Style
The style of your garage door should complement your home’s architecture. For instance, a modern garage door might look out of place on a traditional style home.
3. Security
Security is a crucial factor. You’ll want to ensure the door you choose can resist attempts of break-ins to keep your garage and home secure.
4. Installation Process
The level of complexity when installing different types of garage doors can vary. Considering your skill level or whether you would need professional help, can also influence your choice.
5. Budget
Your budget will likely play a significant role in your decision. Prices can range dramatically based on the type, material, and installation costs of the door.
Quotes from experts
“The most important features of your garage door, other than its operational mechanism, is its size and material makeup.” – Homeadvisor.com
“Your decision should be based on use, size, style, features, warranty, safety, and security.” – Angie’s list
By considering the factors above and weighing your options carefully, you’ll be able to select a garage door that not only complements your home’s style but provides the functionality and security you need.
Q: What type of door do I need for my exterior garage?
A: The right type of garage door depends on your specific needs, including the dimensions of your garage and personal style preference. Three common types are sectional, roll-up, or side-hinged doors. Sectional doors are most common in the U.S. and consist of panel sections connected with hinges. Roll-up doors are made with 2″-3″ steel slat sections that roll around a drum; these are common in commercial applications. Side-hinged doors are traditional and give a classic look.
Q: What materials are best for an exterior garage door?
A: Many materials can make durable and attractive garage doors. Steel doors are the most common due to their durability and lower cost. Wood doors offer a classic look but require more maintenance. Aluminum and glass doors are modern and let in light, but they can dent easily. Fiberglass and vinyl doors resist dents and cracks, and they’re good in coastal areas since they resist salt corrosion.
Q: How do I choose the right size for my garage door?
A: Garage door sizes vary greatly. The standard sizes are 8′ x 7′ for single-car garages and 16′ x 7′ for two-car garages. You should measure the width and height of the garage door opening to ensure a proper fit. If you have a custom-built garage, you might need a custom-sized door.
Q: How should I maintain my exterior garage door?
A: Regular maintenance for your garage door depends mainly on its material: steel doors might need periodic painting, and wooden doors should stay sealed and painted. Check the hardware like springs, cables, rollers and hinges regularly, and lubricate them if they become noisy. Monitor the door’s balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway up. If it doesn’t stay there, the balance might be off, which can strain the opener.
Q: Can I install an exterior garage door myself?
A: While it’s possible to install a garage door yourself, hiring a professional is advisable due to the complexity and size of the job. An incorrect installation can lead to malfunctions, accidents, and void warranties. Professionals ensure the door operates correctly and the safety features are in place.
Q: How often should I replace my garage door?
A: A well-maintained garage door can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years, depending on the material and environmental factors. However, if your door is constantly needing repairs and is no longer efficient or safe, it might be time for a replacement.
