Buying a garage door can be a complicated process if you go in blindly without a plan. Since a garage door isn’t something that homeowners buy very often, you likely aren’t completely familiar with the process. In order to avoid chaos and confusion, here’s a helpful guide on how to buy a garage door for your home.
Determine A Budget
The very first step you’ll want to take is to set a budget. How much do you feel comfortable spending?
Keep in mind that a new garage door isn’t an expense, it’s an investment. The average ROI on a new garage door at resale is 83.7%. So setting your budget too low and resorting to using low quality products or having a non-professional install it to save money right now may end up costing you in the long run.
At the same time, you want to set a budget that’s reasonable and comfortable for you.
Choose Your Style
Here’s where the fun starts to kick in. Choosing the garage door that you want.
There are various styles of garage doors available. The goal is to pick a style that goes well with the overall look of your home’s exterior. Some of the more popular styles of garage door are:
Carriage House
- Historic charm
- Overhead operation
- Customizable Designs
Traditional
- Many options for color and insulation
- The option for decorative windows
Contemporary
- Sleek and modern design
- Several options for frame color and glass
Select A Material
Many homeowners aren’t aware of the different options available for garage door material. You’re not limited to just one option. Some choices you have for your garage door material are:
Natural Wood
- Unlimited design options and wood species
- Choose to paint or stain
- Handcrafted to your specifications
Steel
- Flush or raised panel designs
- Durable and energy efficient
Composite/Faux Wood
- The look of wood without the upkeep
- Doesn’t warp, rot, split or crack
- Designs are customizable
- Can paint or stain
- Energy efficient
Aluminum & Glass
- Commercial rust-resistant frame
- Glass options to control light and give you privacy
Insulated or Uninsulated
Most garages aren’t heated. However, your garage door can affect the energy efficiency of your home. An insulated garage door will help seal up your garage and protect it against the weather.
If your garage is attached to your home, it’s recommended that you buy an insulated door. If there’s a room above the garage it’ll help keep the noise down as well as lower your utility bills.
DIY Installation or Professional Installation
Installing a garage door may seem like a simple task, but often times DIY jobs quickly turn into nightmares. Most of the times, it’s best to hire a professional garage door installation company. That way you’re guaranteed that everything is setup properly and you’re able to save yourself the headache of having to do it yourself.
Get An Estimate
The last step will be to get estimates. Only work with reputable companies that you feel comfortable with. Get a few different estimates and go with the one you feel most confident in.
Remember that price alone shouldn’t determine which company you go with. Workmanship, customer service and reputation should all be considered along with the estimate itself.
If you’re in the Northern Virginia, DC, or Maryland area and are contemplating buying a garage door, contact Affordable Door today!
