Evolution of Garage Doors: From Manual to Automated

Many of our most important modern products can trace their evolution back decades or even centuries, and the garage door is a great example. While today’s garage doors feature numerous automated and even smart features, their predecessors were much simpler in nature – and understanding this history can be both entertaining and practically useful.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re here to serve as your one-stop shop for all things garage doors, entry doors, exterior doors, Pella windows and more around Utah and Idaho. Our locations in Salt Lake City, St. George and Boise alike allow us to deliver unmatched services in each of these areas, including a robust selection of garage door repair, garage door installation and other garage door services. We’re also students of history; here’s a look at how modern garage doors came to be, and how they’ve gone from manual components to highly automated systems over the decades since their invention.

C.G. Johnson and The Invention of the Garage Door

The invention of the modern garage door traces back to 1921, where C.G. Johnson and partner Owen Dautrick formed a company that would eventually be known as the Overhead Door Corporation. They pioneered the first upward-lifting garage door in that same year, which revolutionized the way people entered and exited their garages.

At the time, most garages were simply used as carriage houses or storage spaces for vehicles and equipment. However, with the rise of automobiles in the early 20th century, there was a need for better ways to protect them from weather elements and theft. This is where Johnson’s innovative garage door design came into play.

Explosion in Popularity

Over the next couple decades, Johnson’s invention skyrocketed in popularity among vehicle manufacturers and owners alike. More and more homes and buildings began being built with garage spaces and garage doors attached to them, particularly as vehicle use expanded after World War II.

By the 1960s, garage doors were quite common and manufacturers were constantly innovating to improve their designs, materials, and functionality. Garage doors were no longer just a simple way to protect vehicles, but also an important aspect of the overall aesthetic of a home or building.

Upgrading Materials

By the 1970s, garage doors were so popular that their manufacturers were looking for upgraded materials beyond the traditional wood that had typically been used. Options like steel, aluminum, fiberglass and others began to enter the market. These materials were chosen not just for their durability, but also for their aesthetic appeal and customization options.

And over the next couple decades, these materials would come to dominate the landscape. Steel, in particular, became the most commonly used material for garage doors due to its strength, reduced maintenance needs, and lower cost compared to other materials.

But as technology continues to advance, so do the options available for garage door materials. Today, homeowners can choose from a wide range of materials that offer durability, customization options, and improved energy efficiency.

One such option is vinyl garage doors. These doors are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is a type of plastic that is known for its robustness and resistance to damage. Vinyl garage doors come in a variety of colors and styles, making them a popular choice among homeowners looking to add curb appeal to their home.

Automated Features

As we’ve moved into the 21st century, technology has advanced and become an integral part of our daily lives. This evolution has also impacted garage doors, with many manufacturers now offering automated features for convenience and added security.

One popular feature is remote control operation. With the click of a button, homeowners can open and close their garage doors without having to manually lift or lower them. This is especially helpful during inclement weather or when returning home late at night. By eliminating the need for physical exertion, remote control operation has made garage doors more accessible and user-friendly.

These remotes began inside garages themselves, but now exist for cars and keychains as well. Some cars even have built-in garage door openers, making it even easier to access the garage.

Modern “Smart” Features

Finally, over the last couple decades, garage door technology has continued to advance with the times. The introduction of “smart” features has allowed for even more convenience and control over garage doors.

One popular feature is the ability to open and close the garage door remotely using a smartphone app. This means you can operate your garage door from anywhere, not just within range of a remote control. This is particularly useful if you forget to close your garage after leaving home or if you need to let someone into your garage while you’re away.

Another smart feature is the integration with home automation systems. With this, you can schedule your garage door to open and close at specific times or integrate it with other smart devices in your home.

As you can see, the garage door has gone through quite an evolution over the century-plus since its modern invention. At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re cognizant of the history of our products – and also here to serve as modern garage door specialists for any need around Utah and Idaho. Contact us today for garage door repair, garage door replacement or any related garage door service!