Buying a garage door is not something that a lot of homeowners do often. That is why it can be overwhelming when making a purchasing decision. There are a lot of manufacturers and there is also the dilemma of getting the right technician for the job. It is imperative that you’re doing research on how to approach the process to avoid any issues down the line. Here are some tips that might come in handy when looking for a new garage door for your home.
How Much Does a Garage Door Cost?
This will probably be the first question you ask yourself before going out to look for a new door. There is no blanket cost when it comes to a garage door and it will depend on a myriad of factors. There are different types of garage doors you can look at and some of them include:
Aluminum Garage Door: If you’re looking for a rust-resistant solution, aluminum might be your best bet. It is also ideal for areas that experience a humid climate. It costs around $1500 on average for a 16-by-7 double floor.
Steel Garage Door: With this option, you get a wide variety of colors, insulation and different price options. It is usually recommended if you’re on a budget and you still don’t want to compromise on quality. The cost can range from $650 to $3500 for a 16-by-7 double floor. The higher the quality, the more expensive it gets.
Wood Garage Door: It will be rare to get the distinct look that wood finishing offers for garage doors. Most of these doors are made from moisture-resistant material. There is also room for flexibility when it comes to incorporating different designs. Wood garage doors may require extra maintenance depending on the climate of a particular area. The average cost is from $1200 to $4000. Wood could be seen as an expensive alternative but the aesthetics it brings forth is unrivaled.
Composite: This is a durable and inexpensive alternative for a garage door. It looks like real wood and offers more durability without breaking the bank. You don’t have to worry about rotting as it is moisture resistant. It can also be stained or painted since it is insulated. The cost is from $1200 to $2200 which is fair compared to what you will be getting.
Do You Need to Buy an Insulated Garage Door?
The majority of garages are heated. Even so, they could still affect the energy efficiency in the home. There have been drastic improvements in the construction materials used for garage doors in the last decade or so. There is better insulation which means that you won’t be losing unnecessary heat through the garage door. The modern-day garage door provides a tougher façade which keeps the elements out. That is why it is recommended that you go for a sealed door when shopping for a new garage door. This is particularly important if the garage door is attached to the main house, which is the design found in most homes.
Safety Factor
This is another important consideration that a lot of people tend to overlook. You might be living in an area that is prone to hurricanes and you will need a garage door that can withstand the elements. It should be noted that garage doors are susceptible to wind damage because of their size. That is why it is crucial that you’re looking for a solution with heavier gauge tracking and additional bracing just to be safe. In case you’re shopping for a new door, you should be on the lookout for models that are “storm steady”.
Additional Information
It is understandable to be worried since you’ve never bought a garage door before. A good garage door company should also include an opener in the sale. You should not be buying from another manufacturer. You should also make sure you’re asking for the installation cost when buying the garage door. You could reach out to Metro Garage Door Repair if you’re looking for a holistic solution for all your garage door problems.
Make sure you’re doing your research before hiring the installation company. A good number of garage problems are caused by poor installation. You will have wasted your money when you work with a shoddy company. Ask for references for past work and make sure that the company has a physical location in your locality. It is the only way of ensuring that you’re working with a reputable company.
