Before you can decide on what garage doors you want, you will have to first evaluate what your needs are. Garage doors can be selected based on a number of factors, including your budget, weather protection, security, safety, and design, just to name a few.
A garage door can last a long time, so you will want to make sure you invest your money on the best one. Read over the following tips and information so you are empowered to make the right decision.
Budget
Depending on how much money you are able to spend on garage doors will help narrow down your decision immediately. Because of factors like materials and installation costs, garage door prices can cover a wide spectrum.
Come to a compromise between your budget and the following options that are available. Safety is a major concern and not somewhere you want to be cheap. Also, take into consideration future savings. An insulated garage door may cost more but it will save you plenty of money on your future utility bills.
Cookson has a wide variety of options, capable of meeting most people’s budgetary concerns. This company will have what you need or they can custom design it for you.
The Weather
Because of how big they are, garage doors are at a higher risk of getting damaged due to winds. If you live in an area that is more likely to have hurricanes or tornadoes, look for garage doors that are built to last.
There’s no such thing as a windproof garage door, but some are much stronger than others. In some areas, local governments have passed laws requiring garage doors to meet specific standards. Wind-rated garage doors are more expensive but with good reason.
Stronger garage doors can withstand a reasonable amount of wind resistance. These doors are typically strengthened by having reinforced struts or upgraded springs. The material they are made out of is usually stronger and heavier than found what is found in traditional garage doors.
Additionally, high strength steel along with heavier guides, fasteners, and mechanics help create a hurricane-resistant door. These doors are so effective because they must be able to withstand large impacts, as well.
Security Needs
For any business, theft is always a huge concern. Ensure you are at your safest with garage doors that are able to help protect your property. Roll up doors provide security against unwanted intruders, as well as protection from the weather.
These doors can be ideal for industrial and commercial companies. The slats are manufactured using materials like galvanized steel, stainless steel or aluminum. Depending on your needs, you can usually find nice garage doors that are also fire-rated.
The Design
Depending on where the garage doors are located at your place of business, curb appeal could play an important role. If the doors are a main focal point, find ones that can enhance the beauty of your property.
Wooden garage doors still continue to be a classic choice. The natural beauty, easy customization, and availability make this a more practical choice for people. However, wood doesn’t last as long as other materials and requires routine maintenance.
A composite wood might be a better solution for you. The material is durable and low maintenance, providing a realistic wood look. It is also moisture-resistant, meaning it won’t split, rot, separate, shrink or crack. This insulated option can be stained or painted.
Another popular choice is steel garage doors. They provide an industrial feel while being relatively inexpensive and low maintenance. For a warmer look, you can get steel doors that have a faux wood finish. Depending on the brand, these doors can be very realistic looking.
Fiberglass and aluminum garage doors are extremely affordable and can provide a sleek, contemporary look if done properly. This lightweight option is also resistant to the effects of salt air. This is an important factor for people who live in a corrosive ocean climate.
Other Options
For further customization of your garage doors, you can have window sections added. These will help increase the amount of natural light that can get in. Choose from single or dual glazed windows depending on if your door is insulated or not.
If you will be using your garage also as a workshop, be sure to purchase doors that are insulated. This can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping your garage warm during the cold winter months. It can also help you save money on your heating and cooling bills.
Consider the return on your investment. There’s always a chance that where ever you installed those new garage doors will eventually be sold. Some doors may increase the value of your property more than others.
Besides just that, purchase garage doors that you find visually appealing. Keep in mind, though, that future owners of the property need to like them as well. The littlest factors can be a deal breaker for some. Don’t let your property sit on the market because of this.
You can also estimate the amount of garage door cycles you will need throughout the year. Each cycle consists of the door opening once and closing once. Many garage door manufacturers can let you know the expected lifespan of your particular choice. Usually, commercial garage doors can handle 300,000 cycles.
The speed of the door can also play an important role in your decision. If you have a high traffic area, being able to get your garage door opened and closed at a fast pace is crucial. Every second you wait for a door to open is a second of work time wasted.
Conclusion
As you can see, selecting a garage door for your business can be a much more difficult task than you had imagined. It’s important to take your time and consider all the different options.
Don’t try to save money when it comes to areas like wind resistance and fires. Safety is one of the most important factors when making your selection. That is why having heavy duty doors to prevent burglars from breaking in is also important.
