Things You Should Know Before Buying a New Garage Door (Part 1)

If you are thinking about purchasing a new garage door, there are many factors to take into consideration before buying. Be sure to do your research as garage doors come in many shapes and sizes. Remember, after your garage door is installed, it will be a focal point of your home for years to come. However, it is important to remember that the look of your new door isn't the only factor to take into consideration.

Cost
While cost shouldn't be the only detail in choosing your new door, it should play a part in planning your budget. Speaking with a knowledgeable outside source on garages and discussing what features you want will be a helpful step in developing a package that will fit your family's needs.

Motor Speed
Depending on the type of garage door you are purchasing, you will want to pay attention to the motor speed of your garage door opener, as motor speeds vary between garage door models. For heavier garage doors, you will want a motor with higher horsepower. If your door is lightweight, you will want a lower horsepower motor. Our team at Overhead Door Company of Metro Milwaukee™ will be able to answer questions and give recommendations to best suit your needs.

Aesthetic
What is your garage door style? Do you want a door that blends in with the style of your home, or do you want something that stands out a bit and sets your house apart, potentially upping your curb appeal? There are many other factors to consider as well, such as windows, material (wood, steel,  vinyl, just to name a few). Garage doors come in many aesthetically pleasing styles; it is important to do your research and take your time so you end up with a garage door that enhances the beauty of your home.

Material
As mentioned above, garage doors come in a variety of materials; wood, steel, aluminum, vinyl, fiberglass being the most common materials. The material you choose for your garage door will help to determine the aesthetic of your home. 

If you are looking for visual appeal, a wood door may be exactly what you want. Keep in mind that wood requires the most upkeep. Fiberglass, while being strong, is prone to cracking when used in cold climates (such as Wisconsin 6 months out of the year). It is best to discuss using this material with a professional if you are considering it. Steel is commonly used, durable in the harsh Wisconsin winters, and is also the least expensive of all the materials. Aluminum is known for resisting rust and corrosion. This is a great material to consider working with if you live in an area where mother nature (rain, snow, heavy winds, etc...) may be an issue.

A relatively new material that many are using for garage doors is vinyl. This material is low maintenance, easy to clean, comes in a variety of colors, and is very durable. While any of these materials will work well, it is important to take into consideration your family's needs, budget, and lifestyle.

The Convenience Factor
When having your new garage door installed, you may want to include a smartphone kit or a wireless keypad. This will not only make opening your garage door extremely easy and increase convenience, but it will also add an extra layer of security and protect your family from intruders.

If you have any questions or would like to set up a consultation for a free estimate for a home or business, contact one of our expert professionals servicing the areas of Kenosha, Racine, Milwaukee, Waukesha, and all of Southern Wisconsin. Be sure to inquire about our extra security and safety features if you have children or pets! We look forward to working with you.