Types of Garage Doors: Which One Is Right for You?

When choosing a garage door product for any home or building, you have a huge number of options available. From various materials to different styles, finishes, and more, how do you choose the right type of garage door for your needs?

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re proud 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 offices in Salt Lake City, St. George, and Boise allow us optimal coverage of both areas, with a garage door gallery that’s unmatched in the region. Here are some of the common functions and aesthetic goals clients have when choosing a garage door, plus the common types of garage doors and a basic garage door buyer’s guide that includes themes like style, material, customization options, and more.

Common Functional and Aesthetic Garage Door Goals

When choosing a garage door, home or building owners tend to have both aesthetic and functional priorities.

Functional Garage Door Priorities

Many clients want their garage doors to fulfill certain functions. These include:

• Security: People keep valuable items in garages, so security is a top concern. Durable materials and advanced locking systems can provide peace of mind.
• Durability: Garage doors bear the brunt of severe weather conditions like high winds and heavy rains. That’s why durability is often a key consideration for buyers.
• Energy efficiency: Modern garage doors are more energy-efficient than ever before, thanks to improved insulation technology. This helps regulate temperatures inside the garage, which may prove helpful if you use this space as an additional living area or workshop.

Aesthetic Garage Door Properties

On the flip side, there are also aesthetic properties that come into play when choosing a garage door. These include:

• Curb appeal: Your garage door is one of the first things visitors see when they arrive at your home. A stylish, well-maintained garage door can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal and make a good impression on prospective buyers if you plan to sell in the future.
• Matching home style: Your garage door should complement the overall style of your home. A modern glass and metal door may look out of place on a traditional colonial-style house, while a classic wooden door might not mesh well with a sleek contemporary design.
• Color choices: Garage doors come in various colors, so you can choose one that matches or contrasts with your home’s exterior. Consider factors such as the color of your siding, trim, and front door when making your selection.
• Window options: Adding windows to your garage door can bring in natural light and enhance the appearance of your home. You can choose from different window designs and placement options to create a unique look for your garage.

Common Garage Door Materials

Material is a key factor when considering different types of garage doors. Here are some of the most common materials:

• Steel: Steel doors are durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient. They come in a variety of colors and styles to match your home’s exterior.
• Wood: For a classic and traditional look, wood garage doors are a popular option. They can be stained or painted to fit your style preference.
• Aluminum: Lightweight but strong, aluminum garage doors offer a modern and sleek appearance. They also come in various color options.
• Fiberglass: Similar to steel, fiberglass doors are low-maintenance and energy-efficient. They can mimic the look of real wood without the maintenance needs.
• Vinyl: Another low-maintenance option, vinyl garage doors are resistant to dents and cracks. They can also withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Wood composite: This option combines the beauty of wood with the durability of steel. It is made from recycled wood fibers and resin, making it environmentally friendly as well.

Overall, when choosing a garage door material, consider factors such as durability, maintenance needs, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal. Don’t forget to also consider your budget and the climate in which you live.

Common Garage Door Styles

Here are some common garage door styles to consider:

• Traditional raised panel: This is the most common style and features a series of rectangular panels with raised edges. It is versatile and can complement many different home styles.
• Carriage house: This style mimics the look of old carriage house doors with its rustic charm and swing-out design. It is usually made from wood or metal.
• Contemporary: For a more modern look, opt for sleek, minimalistic designs with clean lines and large windows.
• Glass panel: These doors feature large windows, allowing natural light into your garage space. They come in various styles such as flush, recessed, or raised glass panels.

This is far from an exhaustive list of garage door styles, as there are many more options available to suit your personal taste and the architectural style of your home. Whichever style you choose, make sure it complements the overall aesthetic of your home.

Customization and Climate Considerations

When choosing a garage door, it’s important to consider customization options and how they may speak to your local climate. Some doors come with insulation options, which can help regulate temperature and reduce energy costs. This is especially beneficial if you use your garage as a workspace or storage area.

Additionally, customizing your garage door with different colors, materials, and hardware can enhance the curb appeal of your home. You can also choose from various window designs and decorative accents to add a touch of personalization to your garage door.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re proud to offer the best garage door services around Utah and Idaho. Contact us today for help with choosing the ideal garage door type from our extensive garage door gallery!