Getting The Right Type Of Door For Your Garage
Not all people use a garage for the same things. Some people use it just to park a car, some use it as a workshop and still others use it as a recreation room or even turn it into spare living space. Unless you plan on removing the garage door and building a wall where it was, you should purchase and install a garage door that fits the use of the area. Here are a few things to look for when searching for the correct door.
Insulation
If you are merely parking your car in the garage, it is not necessary to have the door insulated. It would not hurt anything to install an insulated door, but you can save money if you go with one that is not insulated. However, if you are going to be using the room for any other reason, you should look at doors that will keep your comfortable while in the garage and not allow for the passage of air. Working or playing in an overly hot or cold garage is no fun.
Windows
It is always a good idea to have some type of window in a garage door. If you use the area for parking, being able to look out before opening the door late at night is a safety feature. When you use the area as a workshop or living area, windows let in natural light so you can see better. You can have small windows across the middle of the door for looking out, or have many panels in the door made of glass to allow for more sunlight.
How the Door Opens
A door that rolls up into the roof of the garage is best when you need to move vehicles in and out. It also saves on opening space as the large door does not swing out into the drive in any way. This type of door can also be used for a workshop, giving you ample room for bringing in materials you need. If you have turned your garage into a rec room or a family room, you may want to have double doors that swing open. This way, you can use it as a regular entry and even the children will not have trouble getting in and out.
Just because the garage was originally intended to house vehicles does not mean it will stay that way. You should match the type of door it has to its use. There is no reason to keep a heavy door that has to be lifted or swung up to get in and out of a dark, uncomfortable room where you will be spending time. For more information, talk to a local supplier (such as Howard's Overhead Doors Inc.).