When you're in the market for a new garage door, it's vital that you choose one that looks attractive and which increases the kerb appeal of your home. A poor-quality garage door can actually detract from the home's exterior, especially if it doesn't complement your house's style or seems very cheap and utilitarian. However, other than its appearance, there are some important details that you'll want to keep in mind when choosing a new garage door; note a few of those here, so you're sure to find the best choice for your property's garage.
Speed of opening
When choosing a door and its opener, note the speed of its operation. Some steel or solid wood doors may take several seconds, if not even a full minute, to open, simply because they're so heavy that the chains or springs operating them need to work slowly. A solid-panel swing-out door can also take longer to open, since the chains and springs are working against its weight every time it swings outward. A lightweight roller door can often open much faster, reducing your wait time to get in or out of the garage every day.
Features of the remote
When choosing the opener for your new door, note the features offered by its remote. Today's remotes can monitor the door and alert you to it being opened, or they can automatically close the door if it remains open for a certain amount of time, in case you forget to close it after driving off. Be sure you note the many features offered by a garage door's remote, as it should work to keep the garage secure, not just open and close it for you.
Ease of maintenance
A wood door will need consistent repainting and fresh coats of sealant; as said, heavier doors put more stress on chains and springs, so those pieces will need to be checked regularly for worn areas or too much slack. The hinges behind the sections of a sectional door will also need to be checked for a build-up of dust, oil, and debris, and also cleaned and tightened as needed. Steel doors are usually coated to avoid corrosion, but will still need to be checked for potential rust, so it can be sanded away before it spreads. Be sure you understand the needed maintenance of your new garage door over the years so you can know what to expect by way of work and repairs for the choice you make.
