Choosing the best garage doors for your home can be a difficult choice and one which most homeowners underestimate the importance of. However, getting it right can have many benefits because these doors can enhance your home’s appeal when you make the right choice. Garage doors are a notable feature of your home’s exterior. They not only serve a practical purpose, but they are also key in establishing your home’s character. There are so many options on the market so finding the ideal garage doors that align with your architectural style can be challenging. Below are a few tips to help you choose the best garage doors for your home.
Know Your Home’s Design
Garage door roller ultra 77 in light beige from Thomas Sanderson
Understanding your home’s design is crucial for choosing the best garage doors for your home. This is mostly a combination of several elements. Choosing a garage door that complements the architecture significantly enhances its appeal. You should consider the following architectural styles as they influence garage door selection.
- Modern or contemporary homes: These properties feature clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist design. For this style, you should consider garage doors with sleek surfaces and innovative materials. Doors made from glass, aluminium or wood work well for these properties.
- Traditional homes: Colonial and Victorian homes often exude timeless elegance. Garage doors with classic designs are best suited to these homes. Raised panel doors made from steel or wood with intricate detailing can enhance the charm of a more traditional home.
- Cottages: These homes embrace a warm and inviting atmosphere. Their architectural style features earthy tones and natural materials. Wooden door options are best suited for this style.
Knowing your home’s design is the foundation of choosing a perfect garage door. It is important that your door’s design, material, and colour align with your home’s overall aesthetic.
Choose the Right Material
Mid rib sectional golden oak garage door from Thomas Sanderson
Your preferred door material influences the aesthetics and durability of the door. Different materials offer unique benefits, and you should understand their characteristics. For instance, wood is a classic option for various reasons. Garage doors made from wood can be customised with different paints to match the exterior colour of your home. However, they do require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best.
Steel is another common option due to its durability. Steel doors can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide excellent security. You can also insulate them for better energy efficiency, keeping your garage comfortable all year round. Unfortunately, they are prone to rusting if not properly maintained.
Homeowners also have the option of aluminium and fibreglass doors.
Choose the Right Size
Fumed Oak up-and-over garage door from Urban Front
You will also want to make sure you choose the right size garage door for your home. Common garage door sizes are usually 6-10ft wide for a single garage suitable for one standard-sized car and 14-16ft wide for a double garage that can accommodate two standard-sized cars. They are usually 7ft tall. If you are hoping to store a camper van or motor home in the garage you will require larger doors that are usually 8ft tall and 16ft wide.
If common garage door sizes won’t work for your home you may want to opt for a bespoke garage door that will meet your requirements.
Focus on Colour and Finish
Garage door roller professional 77 in agate grey from Thomas Sanderson
Colour is also crucial when choosing a new garage door for your home. A good colour combination creates a cohesive look and highlights architectural features. You should begin by selecting a colour based on your home’s exterior scheme. Garage doors should match your home’s overall palette. They should enhance rather than clash with your home’s exterior.
Conversely, the finish should enhance the door’s texture and visual appeal. Smooth finishes lend a contemporary look, while wood-grain finishes provide warmth and add character. You should consider various stains that highlight the natural grains of wooden doors.
Choosing the perfect garage door shouldn’t necessarily be daunting. Understanding your home’s architectural style and picking the right materials and colour are the basics.