Garage Doors Newcastle have become an important design element for many homes. Depending on the type of door chosen, they can also increase home value and provide energy efficiency.
The most common garage doors are steel. They are easy to maintain and offer a variety of color options. A popular option is a wood composite door that offers increased moisture resistance while still looking natural.
When purchasing a new garage door, durability should be a major consideration. A durable garage door can withstand everything from dents to scratches, and it may resist warping or rotting as well. It also provides a good barrier against intruders and offers security and peace of mind for homeowners. Some of the most durable garage doors are made of steel and aluminum, which can last 20-30 years without requiring much maintenance. They can also be repainted or gel stained to achieve different design styles.
A garage door’s durability can be influenced by its materials and how it is assembled. For example, metal doors tend to be stronger than wooden ones and are better at retaining color, although they do not offer as many aesthetic options. Wood garage doors are often painted or stained to preserve their appearance and protect against rot and weather damage. They can also be sanded and repainted for renewed beauty.
Another popular option is fiberglass, which can be molded into the desired style and does not dent easily. It is also less expensive than a wood door but requires regular sanding to maintain its luster and does not rust. Its only drawback is that it does not provide as much insulation as a wooden or steel garage door.
Regardless of the material you choose, it is important to check for wear and tear regularly. For example, a garage door opener that is not properly installed or a pull cord that is frayed can result in injury and property damage. It is also important to keep your garage door in good condition by lubricating its moving parts. This includes the tracks, hinges and spring wire. A garage door that is not properly lubricated can shorten its torsion spring life and cause problems like noisy operation and difficulty opening or closing the door.
A more durable door will be less prone to breakage and rusting, so it’s worth paying extra for a premium model. The cost can add up, but it will likely pay off in the long run when it comes to lower maintenance and repair costs.
Energy efficiency
The garage door plays a vital role in determining your home’s energy efficiency. Non-insulated or minimally insulated doors allow heat to escape in the winter and warm air to enter during the summer, forcing HVAC systems to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures. This increases energy consumption and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-efficient garage doors help you cut down on your utility bills and make your home more environmentally friendly.
The material of your garage door is another factor that determines its energy efficiency. Traditional metal doors may be durable and low-maintenance, but they conduct heat more readily than insulated options. For better energy-efficiency, choose a wood composite or fiberglass garage door with good insulation properties and less maintenance requirements.
When choosing a garage door, consider its R-value and U-value ratings. R-values indicate how well an insulating material resists heat transfer. A higher R-value indicates greater thermal efficiency. Some manufacturers advertise high R-values for their products, but these values usually apply only to certain central sections of the door and may not account for gaps and other factors that reduce energy efficiency.
Another way to improve your garage door’s energy efficiency is to use reflective films. These films are applied to the surface of your garage door and help reflect sunlight, lowering the amount of heat that enters the space. You can buy a roll of these reflective films online or at most hardware stores.
You can also upgrade your current garage door with new weather stripping and a threshold barrier that prevents air leakage. This is an inexpensive and simple fix that can help you save money on your utility bills while reducing your home’s carbon footprint. Many homeowners prefer to undertake these upgrades themselves as DIY projects, but it’s always best to hire a professional for complex upgrades that require installing an insulated garage door or replacing worn weather stripping. They will ensure the proper installation and insulation and help you select the best energy-saving options.
Aesthetics
Whether you opt for the clean lines and simple beauty of ‘Sleek Minimalism’ or the classic charm of ‘Contemporary Charm’, your garage door is more than just a functional entryway. It is also a key design element of your home and can be used to elevate your curb appeal. From smart add-ons to enhanced security features, modern garage doors are becoming more than just practical entryways.
Wood garage doors are a timeless, stylish option that enhances any architectural style of home. They can be stained, painted or carved, offering a wide range of customization options. However, some homeowners may prefer the durability of steel garage doors. These are made with textured surfaces, which provide a unique aesthetic and camouflage scratches, dents and other signs of wear and tear that may occur over time.
Contemporary garage doors are a popular choice because they pair well with geometric designs and minimalist aesthetics. They are often designed with a combination of metal and glass, providing a sleek, modern appearance. The windows can be tinted or frosted, which allows natural light to enter the garage while preserving privacy.
Another style that pairs well with a variety of architectural styles is the carriage house garage door. This combines traditional aesthetics with the convenience of modern functionality by incorporating a crossbeam design and large window panes that allow ample natural light to enter the garage. These doors are ideal for homes with a rustic or country aesthetic, but can be incorporated into homes of any style.
For a more dramatic aesthetic, opt for a two-tone garage door. This style incorporates different colors or finishes on different sections of the garage door to create a visually appealing contrast and add depth to the home’s facade. This trend is especially popular for homeowners who want to highlight their personal style or match their home’s paint color.
Lastly, homeowners can customize their garage doors further by adding windows or decorative hardware. These additions can allow natural light to enter the garage and make it a more livable space for working or recreational activities.
Security
Garage doors serve as a point of entry into homes, so it’s important to take security measures seriously. This includes physical upgrades, internal safety precautions, and technological enhancements. These strategies will help reduce the risk of break-ins and protect your valuables.
Keeping your garage door closed and locked is the first step to secure this entrance into your home. It’s also a good idea to store dangerous products or materials out of reach of kids and pets. This could include fertilizers, pesticides, gasoline, oil and other automobile fluids, cleaning products, and any other hazardous chemicals or materials. Keeping these items in the garage can put your family at risk of accidental exposure and can increase the potential for theft.
If you have a traditional up and over garage door, it is possible to reinforce the lock with a manual deadbolt to provide additional security. This is an effective deterrent to intruders as it requires a key or tool to unlock, unlike padlocks or slide bolts which can be picked and tampered with.
Another way to improve your garage’s security is by installing motion sensor lights around the perimeter of your home and the garage. These lights automatically turn on when movement is detected, illuminating the area and discouraging intruders from approaching your property. If you don’t want to install lighting, you can add an alarm that activates when motion is detected in the vicinity of your garage.
You can also add a smart opener that allows you to operate your garage door from an app on your smartphone. This feature is particularly useful when you’re on the go and can’t get to your garage before you leave. The keychain remotes you keep for your car and garage are easy targets for thieves, so it’s a good idea to hide them or use special locks to prevent them from being used to gain access to your home.
Taking the time to upgrade your garage door can significantly enhance your home’s security. Consult with a local contractor about the options available for your specific needs. They can help you select the right type of garage door and incorporate upgrades that meet your specific security concerns.