Garage Door Ideas (Ultimate Guide)
Welcome to our garage door ideas ultimate guide including the most popular types, features & pros and cons.
A garage door can significantly improve the aesthetic value of your home in so many ways. It comprises one-third of your home’s facade, so it has to be chosen well to complement the overall look of your home.
And since it is one of the most visible features in your home’s exterior, a poorly chosen garage door can create a negative impression. Like any part of your home, deciding on the design, type, material and style of such doors needs careful thought.
Below we have compiled our ultimate guide on garage doors to help you decide which one suits your home best.
Garage Door Styles
There are a variety of carport door styles that homeowners can choose from. Whether your home is traditional, rustic, modern, or contemporary, a specific style and design should match its facade.
Once you know the best type for your home, you can use one of the garage design software programs to create and visualize it. Here is an overview of the most popular garage door styles:
Raised Panel Style
The most common style is the raised panel. It has become the standard style and design of carport doors available in the market. Originally, raised door type featured floating panels encased in a rail and stile frame. Throughout the years, there have been some minor changes to its material and appearance to update its design. The more modern versions of raised-panel doors are made with fiberglass, solid, and molded to resemble the classic “rail and stile” raised-panel door.
Although fiberglass is commonly used for the newer versions of the raised panel door, you can buy this type of door in all kinds of materials such as wood, steel, or aluminum.
Carriage Style
Carriage-style carport doors derived their name from the design of doors found in old carriage houses. The original carriage-style door was around even before cars were invented and horse-drawn carriages were used as a primary mode of transportation. The carriages were stored in barns, and for them to fit, the doors used were wide and swings large enough. This inspired carriage-style carport doors – big, wide doors that swing outwards.
The original design of carriage-style doors made use of solid wood that has an intricate woodwork on the facade as an embellishment. Common designs include decorative window inserts, barn style criss-cross planks. Timeworn hardware like iron hinges and large handles complete the look of this door design.
Carriage-style doors are hinged at the sides and swing outwards so they open wide enough. Traditional carriage-style doors also swung from the center, but there have been some updates, and the newer models now feature automatic openers that fold open. Modern carriage-style doors combine the old-world charm of traditional swing doors with the efficiency of modern technology.
Although carriage-style doors have a very traditional look, they are popular for various house styles, from classic to contemporary and modern. The strong yet elegant look that this door design has is what homeowners get drawn to. Additionally, its timeless appeal is a look that will surely last for years.
Contemporary Style
Contemporary home design creates a seamless look using clean forms, strong lines, uniformity and mixed materials. To create a minimalist facade, it is important to use a door design that would flawlessly blend with the home’s exterior, and that is where contemporary garage doors are used.
The most common carport door style used for contemporary homes are slab style doors. This type of door style opens by folding up as one single panel, contrary to other designs that open into three or four horizontal panels that bend at hinges as the door raises. Slab-style doors make use of specialized automatic openers.
When it comes to materials, there is no limit for contemporary carport doors and they range from wood, steel, aluminum, composite, fiberglass and glass — it just depends on what material matches the facade of the house.
Designs for contemporary carport doors are much simpler than traditional ones. The lines are more prominent, often straight, and there are no embellishments but it may include rectangular or square glass panels on the top or sides of the door. In some cases, the whole door may come in glass panels.
Modern Style
Modern carport doors are very much similar to contemporary-style carport doors. Their designs are both sleek, striking, and seamless and feature strong, sharp lines and clean forms.
The most common design for modern carport doors usually features tempered glass panels encased in a strong, corrosion-resistant aluminum frame. Frameless carport entryways are also a hit in modern homes as they have a more seamless and clean look.
Various glass panel finishes are also used for modern carport doors. Aside from the standard clear finish, homeowners can choose from frosted or tinted glass. Mirrored glass in gray or dark bronze, opaque white or opaque black glass, and translucent black glass are other glass finishes manufacturers offer for modern carport doors.
Aluminum frames, on the other hand, are available in powder coat finish in white, black or bronze or anodized finish in bronze or black. If neutral colors do not suit your home’s facade, powder coating for aluminum frames of modern garage doors colors come in approximately 200 variations
Modern carport doors are also considered the “high tech” models since they often include smart and special features. Some glass panels have advanced light filtering features that moderate the amount of UV light that goes into your home. Another popular material used for modern carport doors is the Low E glass or Low Emissivity glass, which has a special thin metallic coating that helps reflect heat equally during summer and winter.
Garage Door Designs
Now we’ll cover the types of garage doors based on how they open. Aside from the different sizes, styles and mechanisms, carport doors can also be classified according to how they open. They may swing out, slide to the side, open upwards or roll up. They may also come in single panels or double panels or broken down into sections.
Here are the most popular types of carport door designs:
Side-Hinged and Swing-Out Designs
A side-hinged carport door is very much similar to any standard door in a house. This door design operates by swinging open and close from a hinged frame on either side of the door. It is the simplest and most old-fashioned design available for carport doors. Side-hinged doors are also known as swing-out doors because, as mentioned, they swing out to open.
Side-hinged carport doors are also very much similar to large barn doors or carriage-style doors which are made of two pieces of door, hinged at one side each, and opens from the center. These are usually made from wood and come in various styles, including glass inserts, panels, grooves, slats, transoms, etc – practically anything you can think of can be customized. Aside from wood, there are also commercial-type side hinged carport doors which are made from galvanized steel. This style has a more industrial look compared to the homey and more classic aesthetic of traditional solid wood.
Side hinged doors are highly suitable for garages with limited headroom and clear floor spaces. Since they swing out, there must be no obstruction in front of your carport door or driveway.
Sectional Design
Sectional carport doors are the most common type of carport entryways used in American homes. As its name suggests, this type of door is made up of four to five panel sections that are connected with hinges. This door opens vertically and the panels hinge back inside the carport as the door rises in order to open. Once the sectional carport door is fully retracted, the panels are gathered horizontally within the roof space or ceiling.
Sectional carport doors are a top choice for most homeowners because, unlike a one-piece door, they do not require much space for their travel arc as they open and close.
This makes sectional carport doors ideal for homes with a short driveway or limited garage space. It allows you to maximize your floor area and park your car at the door. It is also well-suited for homeowners with large vehicles.
Sectional carport doors come in a wide range of designs that match various architectural styles – from traditional to modern ones. Some include window inserts, and it can be customized into different colors. These are typically made from steel and come in insulated and non-insulated variants.
Roll-Up Design
Although more commonly found in commercial applications, roll-up doors are another garage door design which is offered for residential use. This door style is typically made with sections or slats of steel in 2 inches or 3 inches sizes. The sections roll around, forming a drum on top of the door opening. Because it’s compact when it retracts, this door design is perfect for homes with limited floor or ceiling space.
The no-frills and easy-to-operate design of roll-up doors make them preferred by homeowners. This door model is also built for heavy use, so you can expect it to last for decades. Heavy-duty roll-up doors are also classified as high-performance carport doors, and they can withstand the force of outside elements such as frost or snow while also not being prone to rust and corrosion.
Roll-up garage doors are generally more costly than sectional carport doors because of their heavy-duty nature.
Slide to the Side Design
Another garage door that is among the early style and first operating methods is the slide-to-side design. As its name suggests, the slide-to-the-side door operates by sliding or bending to one side of the carport and sitting parallel to the wall. It can be made of panels that run along a trolley track. They are usually flexible enough to follow a slight curve or minimal slope in the ceiling or floor. This type of door design is automatic and comes with a built-in retractable motor.
Slide-to-the-side carport doors is ideal for garages with low ceilings or little headroom.
Tilt-Up/Up and Over Canopy Design
Similar to side hinged carport doors, tilt up canopy carport door do not have sections and they also come in one solid piece. But instead of being hinged to the side, the hardware or mechanism of operation for this door design is attached on top or the overhead part of the door. Rather than using a regular hinge, this type of door design utilizes a pivoting hinge mechanism, allowing the door to tilt up.
There are two types of tilt up carport doors:
Tilt-up canopy garage door: Canopy carport entryways are the more common type of two tilt up designs. Tilt up canopy carport doors make use of a pivoting hinge mechanism that lifts the door upward . The door then slides back parallel to the garage’s ceiling, while a small part of it extends past the house’s facade.
When the door is open, it then sits parallel to the ceiling into your carport. Because of such, there must be no obstruction in your garage’s ceiling and the door itself or driveway since the door will extend past the front of the house. This type of door design is ideal for garages that have limited floor area since they are more likely to take up space from the outside rather than the inside.
Tilt-up retractable garage door: Tilt-up retractable carport doors are very much similar to their canopy counterpart; however in this design, there is no part of the door which extends or protrudes to the facade of the home when it’s open. This type of design is ideal for garages that have large floor areas since they are suspended independently from the frame
Single vs Double Doors
Aside from the way they open, carport entryways can also be classified according to their size, namely : single and double carport doors.
Single Bay
A single bay door is a general term for carport doors which are made with a large single panel. This type of garagedoor size is only large enough to accommodate one car. The typical standard size for single bay carport doors is 8 feet wide.
The example above features a large two car garage with two single bay doors.
Double Door
A double garage door is a general term for garage doors which are made with two panels. Some examples of double garage doors include carriage garage doors and swing out doors. This door size is big enough for two cars to pass. The typical standard size for double garage doors is 16 feet wide.
Materials for Carport Doors
There are several materials used in making garage doors, and each makes a significant difference in how it performs. Likewise, the material used for you garage doors affects its function, lifespan, your home’s value, appearance, and curb appeal.
Just like any other door at home, garage doors can be made of wood, steel, glass panels, or more modern and cheaper alternatives like vinyl, composites, or fiberglass. Below, we break down each of these options along with some of their greatest advantages and disadvantages.
Wood
Wood, in general, is still considered to be the most common material used in interior and exterior construction. If you want a garage door which can effortlessly serve as a focal point of your house’s exterior, then this material is the right choice for you as it projects a strong traditional, warm and inviting look. This door is highly suited for houses with a rustic, country or traditional style.
Wood garage doors are available in different species, the most common being mahogany, fir, hemlock, meranti, redwood and cedar. These species are known for their adaptability to different changing conditions which make them last for decades. Cedar is best known for being heat tolerant while redwood can stand up to high humidity. You can have wood garage doors customized into any design and size you like.
When it comes to cost, wood garage doors tend to fall on the mid price to very expensive range. The price greatly depends on the size, design and composition. Mid price wooden garage doors are usually made up of a lightweight wooden frame filled with foam insulation and wrapped in plywood or hardboard, while the more expensive wood garage door counterparts are made of true solid frame and panel doors. Typically, a standard wood door costs a few hundred dollars, while the custom options can go up to thousands of dollars.
Advantages of wood garage doors: Most homeowners choose wood garage doors over any other material because of its unmatched natural beauty. It offers a genuine charm and authentic distinct aesthetic which no other material can mimic. Aside from this benefit, another advantage of wood garage doors is its extreme durability. It is a very reliable material which can stand up well to bumps and dents.
As mentioned earlier, wood is a very flexible and versatile material, which means it can be customized into any design you like to fit the overall style of your house. It can also be modified into any size and can be treated with a variety of finishes like paint, varnish, wood stain and polyurethane.
Wood garage doors are also very energy efficient too. Wood is a better insulator than steel.
Disadvantages of wood garage doors : Although durable, wood garage doors struggle when exposed to too much humidity and moisture. This type of material does not stand up well to rain, hail and snow. Wood is prone to warping, expanding and rotting when exposed to moisture. It is also prone to bug and termite infestation and can harbor the growth of molds and mildew. Once these problems develop, they tend to drastically alter the natural beauty of your wooden door – the most prized quality which wood garage doors are known for in the first place.
Another downside of wood garage doors is that they require high maintenance. They’ll need frequent repainting, restaining and regular finishing every few years to maintain their beauty. But if you live in a region with a damp climate, you’ll have to do this more often. The upkeep of a wooden door translates to additional costs and requires a lot of effort and time. In some cases, wood garage doors also carry a short warranty – most ranging only to one year. But you can verify this with your trusted supplier before purchasing.
The added finishing and maintenance is required to rectify the weaknesses of wood garage doors. Finishing and treating it properly will protect it from the elements as well as pests. Along with proper care, this maintenance procedures can significantly extend its lifespan.
In terms of handling, wood garage doors tend to be heavy, so when installing, you’ll probably need an extra hand.
Steel
Metal is another popular material choice for garage doors. There are two most common types of metal used in garage doors, namely steel and aluminum. Steel is an alloy of carbon and iron, which is best known for its high tensile strength. It is a major construction material used in both architecture and industrial design because it is inexpensive yet very tough.
When shopping for a steel garage door, there are two major features that you have to consider, namely insulation and gauge or thickness .First, steel is naturally a poor insulator, so you have to buy doors which have insulation to improve energy efficiency and noise cancellation properties. Most of the time, steel garage doors are made of layers of galvanized steel with insulation sandwiched in between.
Next is the gauge or thickness. Steel is typically produced in different gauges or thickness which range from 0 to 38, but for garage doors in residential applications, the most commonly used panels fall between the range of gauges 24 to 28 (the higher the gauge number, the thinner the metal). Commercial grade garage doors are thicker.
Garage doors which have this thickness are more reliable and have a more minimal risk of denting. Low cost doors have thinner panels which have a gauge of 27 to 28. Although durable, this thinner variants do not stand up well to impact. The midlevel steel garage doors, on the other hand, typically have a gauge of 25 to 26, while the top quality steel garage doors have at least a 24 gauge. Some manufacturers also produce steel garage doors with a fiberglass overlay in order to rectify the weaknesses of the metal such as oxidizing, rusting and denting.
The best steel garage doors are made of two layers of galvanized steel with insulation in between. The surface is typically treated with a primer, covered in paint or given a tough top coat. You can also buy steel garage doors which are clad with a composite material, however, this option will cost you a little more.
Advantages of steel garage doors : Steel is a much better material choice than wood if you are looking for a garage door that does not require high maintenance. Unlike wood which is prone to decay when subjected to moisture, steel garage doors can withstand changing elements like humidity and heat.Steel garage doors do not warp or rot and would seldom need repainting or restaining.
Extreme durability is also one of the top qualities of a steel garage door. It does not dent easily and won’t budge from bumps from a little hail. It is proven to stand the test of time and can last for decades. In fact, most high quality steel doors in the market come with a lifetime warranty.
In terms of design and aesthetics, you can find a wide array of options for steel garage doors in the market. It can be customized into different colors and can have panels, window inserts and other details. Aside from a myriad of colors, steel garage doors can also be treated with a wood grain finish, which means you can still have the beautiful look of wood minus the problems commonly associated with it.
For homeowners that are concerned with energy efficiency, steel garage doors also lead the pack. This material is energy efficient all year round. Most steel garage doors come with a foam core that helps keep the garage air tight, so the space is constantly heated or cooled. In the long run, this translates to savings in your energy and electric bills, while also protecting anything which is stored in your garage.
Cost wise, steel garage doors are also a good option since they are generally inexpensive. You get a good value for its price.
Over all, steel garage doors combines beauty, low maintenance and energy efficiency into one material.
Disadvantages of steel garage doors : Although steel garage doors do not rot, decay or dent like wood doors, they can get scratched or dented. Untreated or base steel is sensitive to oxidation and corrosion, which means it can rust, making them a less suitable option for homes located near coastal areas. However, you can treat it with a protective coating to prevent rust from building up. Scratches would also need to be touched up quickly.
In itself, steel is naturally not a good insulator, that is why most garage doors made up of this material comes with an added insulation.
Composite
If you are looking for a less expensive alternative to wood, you can consider getting a composite garage door. Composite garage doors are typically composed of a wood frame covered with sheets of fiberboards. The fiberboards are made up of 80% recycled wood fibers and a bonding agent. The core of a composite garage door is filled with polystyrene insulation.
You can also find high end composite carport entryways in the market, but for a more expensive price. This option is typically made with high-density fiberboard skin and has a more realistic look, almost similar to real wood. Some even have more detailed designs that includes overlays and grooves.
Advantages of composite garage doors : The best thing about composite carport entryways is that they offer a good yet cheaper alternative to wood. Although they do not have the same level of beauty that a solid wood door has, they are available in designs which are as close as the real thing. Think of it as a ‘discount wood garage door’, minus the weaknesses like the tendency to rot, split, decay or get infested with termites.
Composite garage doors are also durable and low maintenance. It does not need restaining or repainting and can be cleaned easily. In addition to their reliability as a material, composite carport entryways are also energy efficient. The expanded polystyrene core insulation improves air circulation within your garage, preventing cooled or heated air from escaping.
Overall, composite garage doors offer the durability of steel, combined with the beauty of wood.
Disadvantages of composite garage doors : Although cheaper than wood, composite carport entryways are more expensive than other materials. However, try not to let the expensive price tag turn you off, since this material will likely help you save energy costs for years and can last a lifetime.
Fiberglass
Another option for garage doors is fiberglass. Among all the materials used for this application, fiberglass is the most lightweight option. Fiberglass is made up of superfine glass filament. It is produced by heating glass until it is molten and forcing it into tiny holes which then creates the thin filaments. The glass threads or filaments are woven into bigger sheets which allow for modifying into different products like furniture, composite doors, windows, etc.
Typically, this type of carport entryways are made with fiberglass panels that are encased in an aluminum frame. You can buy it painted
Advantages of fiberglass garage doors : Despite looking fragile, fiberglass carport entryways are very durable and reliable. They offer great resistance to denting. In addition, it does not expand, warp or rot when exposed to moisture and humidity. They work best for homes which are located in the coastal regions since they are more resistant to saltwater corrosion.
As mentioned earlier, fiberglass is a very lightweight material so handling and installation is much easier as compared to other materials. And since it is lightweight, there is less noise when you open or close your garage door.
Disadvantages of fiberglass garage doors : One of the biggest downsides of fiberglass carport entryways is energy efficiency. This material is not a good insulator and is not effective when it comes to keeping the air in your garage warm or cool. The temperature outside of your home can easily get inside your garage and might leave you feeling uncomfortable. In the long run, this can also result in increased bills when it comes to electricity, cooling and heating.
Even though fiberglass garage doors do not break easily when exposed to moisture, they do, however, get brittle when subjected to cold temperatures, making them a less suitable material option for homes which are located in cold regions. Fiberglass carport entryways also fade over time because of the constant exposure to changing weather.
Fiberglass carport entryways are resistant to rust and corrosion, thermally efficient, and can be made to resemble a variety of materials, especially wood. The fiberglass layers are typically bonded to a steel frame with polyurethane insulation, which is suited for homes in hot climates. These kinds of doors are quite sturdy. However, they can become discolored and break in cold climates.
Garage doors made from fiberglass are less subject to denting or cracking. They do not rust but can break upon impact. Two layers of fiberglass are typically bonded to a steel frame and filled with pFiberglass will need periodic repainting or restaining, though, because the color fades over time.
Glass Panels
A more contemporary option for garage doors are glass paneled doors. Typically, glass paneled carport entryways have aluminum frames and come in different types like frosted glass, tinted glass or etched glass. Some designs also combine opaque panels and glass to create a more eye catching look. These special finishes are often added to make up for the lack of privacy and security. Frosted and tinted glass lessens the transparency and partially blocks the view, while tempered safety glass or acrylic panels give more security.
Glass paneled garage doors come in various thicknesses but the standard panels range from 1/8”, 3/16” and 1/4” thick for the single paneled variants and 1/2” thick for the insulated glass. Since glass in itself is also a poor insulator, most manufacturers offer a special coating which increases the energy efficiency of your garage doors, keeping the temperature of your home regulated.
Advantages of glass paneled garage doors : Aesthetic value and beauty are the best qualities that a glass paneled garage door can offer. They look more contemporary as compared to other materials and pair well with modern homes. Glass also has a very unique way of making a space look larger and more open, especially because it can let natural light in. Also, if you like to enjoy a good view, this material is the best option for your home.
This type of door material also offers the most design and architectural flexibility. You can choose from a wide array of design options regarding the aluminum frame and the type of glass to be used. It can be customized to match your style and is also an effective way to update the look of a traditional home.
Disadvantages of glass paneled garage doors : The biggest concern for most homeowners when it comes to glass-paneled carport entryways is the lack of privacy and security. Unlike other materials like wood, composite or even steel which keeps your garage concealed, everyone can see your home at any time of the day. With such, most homeowners also think it is unsafe to use as it can be broken using blunt force.
Glass-paneled garage doors are also lacking when it comes to durability. Although the panels used for this type of application are significantly thicker and stronger, they still cannot match the reliability and durability of steel or wood. Glass is also brittle and is prone to cracking and can get damaged from bumps or hail, and it can also get scratched
Vinyl
Vinyl is made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — the same material used in making pipes and plumbing materials. It was developed as a cost-cutting alternative to metal, while providing flexibility and durability as a construction material.
Vinyl garage doors are typically built on steel frames and are filled with polyurethane insulation. Appearance wise, they look very much the same to fiberglass garage doors. However, they come in limited designs and colors.
Advantages of vinyl garage doors : Vinyl carport entryways have remarkable durability and can resist denting. It also performs very well even with constant exposure to changing humidity and temperature. It would not rot, decay, rust or corrode when it comes in contact with moisture, salt, snow or hail. They are a suitable option for home located in coastal regions. In addition to reliability in changing temperature, vinyl garage doors do not fade even when exposed to UV light.
Another great benefit of vinyl garage doors is that it requires very low maintenance. A quick hose down of water can easily clean any dirt or dust. It is also considered “child proof” and works very well regarding sound absorption and noise cancellation. It is also very energy efficient and has an effective insulation which can help regulate the temperature of your garage.
When it comes to pricing, vinyl garage doors are considered to be a more affordable option compared to other materials. It is a bit more expensive than steel, but has more benefits. So, if you are working with a limited budget, but want a garage door which can last for years, you can consider this option.
Disadvantages of vinyl garage doors : The biggest drawback of vinyl carport entryways is the lack of design flexibility and customization options. They come in very limited colors and designs, making them a less appealing option if you want a door which works as a focal point for your home.
Painted
We have a brief look at some exterior paints that you can get from either a paint supplier or your local big box store. And since you’re subject to the elements with this project, we focused on the features that make this paint job as painless as possible.
Painting a metal door involves some time and effort, but in the end it’s a great way to give your home a fresh new look!
The Best Paint for Doors
Acrylic latex exterior house paint is the best choice, but be sure to choose a high quality paint. In most cases a single coat of paint is all it takes, but keep in mind it could take more than one coat to provide good coverage if you’re painting the garage doors a color that’s lighter than the original color.
Carport Windows
Windows are another feature you can add to your garage door to enhance the look of your home. Typically, windows are included in the design before the door is customized or installed, however, you also have the option of adding it even after the door is installed.
You need to consider several factors before adding windows to your carport door, namely ; the style of your home, placement or position and the load or weight of the windows. The overall architectural style and design of your home is a significant factor to consider in choosing windows for your garage door to produce a cohesive and well balanced facade. For instance, if your home has a modern theme and the windows are glazed, it would be off to put a window to your garage door that has a traditional motif like a starburst design. Remember, your garage door must always complement and harmonize with the rest of your home.
The placement and position of the window in your garage door is another equally significant actor to consider. Placing windows at the top panel allows more natural light into the garage without sacrificing privacy. Another option is to put the windows on the third section of your garage door (third panel from the bottom) , this, on the other hand, gives you a view of the outside of your garage. Whichever you choose, both works well when it comes to aesthetics as they keep the design balanced.
More modern and contemporary door designs usually have window panels on the sides rather than being placed horizontally on top.
Lastly, putting a window on your garage door has the tendency to create an imbalance in the garage door’s spring system. Spring systems in carport doors can usually withstand a maximum variance of only 5% of the entire weight of the door. For a well balanced door, you can only use around 8 to 10 pounds of added weight or else the door opener will not work properly.
Types of Carport Windows
Garage door windows come in a variety of designs, shapes and colors. Some have simple rectangular forms, others curved and have more complex shapes. Some have clear glass; others have tinted or colored panels.
Special designs made of designer glass are another option for carport door windows. These are usually made to resemble stained glass windows. Other additional designs are plastic inserts that protrude on the outer part of the window frames, like arches, french windows and different motifs. In some cases, the designs can also be painted to match the exterior color scheme of the house.
There are a variety of carport window designs to choose from and the names vary for each supplier. The most common designs are the single rectangular panel, transom or fanlight, french windows and arched..
Insulation for the Doors of the Garage
Insulation is another feature which can be added to your garage door. Rather than being aesthetic, this is more of a functional feature which enhances the performance and efficiency of the carport door. Garage door insulation affects your door in several ways : (1) increases durability, (2) increases efficiency, (3) reduces noise and improves sound barrier and (4) regulates temperature.
Garage door insulation keeps the warm and cool air within your garage. It makes your home quieter by acting as a barrier against the street noise. Additionally, it helps conserves energy and can save you money in the long run. You should consider adding insulation to your garage door if your carport is a part of, or attached to your home. Read more about the attached vs detached garage pros and cons here.
When do you need insulation? Typically, carport entryways are constructed in three different ways : 1-layer, 2-layer, and 3-layer. One layer carport entryways is made up of a single layer of steel and has no insulation. The 2 layer carport entryways are made up of three different materials – an insulation sandwiched between a single layer of steel and a vinyl backing. Three layer garage doors have the highest quality and are made up of two layers of steel with an insulation in between. The latter is the most expensive and most efficient.
There are 2 types of insulation: Polystyrene and Polyurethane. Polystyrene is the same material used in making styrofoam products. This type of insulation is usually used in two layer garage door construction. Polyurethane , on the other hand, produces a more solid door as it fills the whole panel. Polyurethane insulation can be found in three layer carport entrances.
There are also DIY kits which can be used to add insulation to an existing carport door. It comes in four different types namely cellulose, spray foam, rigid foam and fiberglass. It will cost you about $200 to insulate a garage door on your own.
Types of Door Openers
There are several types of garage door openers to choose from. The most popular are belt, screw, chain and direct drive. Chain drive are perhaps the oldest and still the most commonly used in homes today.
Keyless Entry
Keyless EntryAnother improvement which you can add is a keyless entry garage door opener. This type of unit makes use of a keypad remote to open, close and lock the carport door. Keyless entry gives several benefits such as allowing multiple access using only a code, lessens the risk of losing a key (because you basically do not need one to operate your garage door) and of course, wireless control.
To operate a keypad remote, you need to set a security access code. This code then opens and closes the door for you. In installing a keypad remote, you do not need to wires to the garage opener itself and you can set it up anywhere easily. This door feature costs around $30 to $40 for the remote and $30 to $60 for the keypad.
Door Sizes
Now that you know the common styles, materials and designs of carport entryways available in the market, it’s time to know the average sizes that you can choose from. Here are some of the most important facts on garage door sizes and dimensions:
Standard Garage Dimensions
Garages can either be detached or attached to your home. An attached garage, as it name suggests, comes with your house, while a detached garage is a separate structure adjacent to your home or within your property.
The smallest option for garages are one car garages. One-car carports are made to fit one vehicle and have a standard dimension of 12 feet wide and 20 feet deep. This size is adequate for your garage to be used as a shed or even a small bedroom or den. You can build a bigger carport if you want more storage. Other standard one car garage sizes are 14 feet wide x 22 feet deep, 16 feet wide x 24 feet deep and 14 feet wide x 24 feet deep.
Two car garages are obviously bigger as they can accommodate two vehicles at one time. Of course, if you do not have two cars but have the luxury of space available in your home, you can explore this option if you want more garage storage or have an equipment like a lawn mower or snow blower that needs ample space to be stowed.
The typical garage dimensions of a two car garage are 18 feet wide by 20 feet deep. Other common sizes are 20 feet wide x 20 feet deep, 22 feet wide x 22 feet deep and 20 feet wide x 22 feet deep.
Aside from one or two car garages, there is also another bigger option which is the three car garage. Three car garages are common in households who have children who can already drive and have their own vehicles. Sometimes, the extra space is also used as an additional family room. Three car garages are usually have a standard dimension of 32 feet wide by 20 feet deep. Much like 18 x 20 2 car garages, 32 x 20 feet snugly fits 3 cars. Other larger options include 36 feet wide x 25 feet deep, 38 feet wide x 26 feet deep and 40 feet wide x 30 feet deep.
Tandem Garage
A tandem garage is configured where one car is parked directly in front of the other. This type is often used in high density areas such as big cities where space is at a premium. they can be useful to have but inconveniencing when one needs to use the car parked in the back.
Standard Door Sizes
Garage doors are typically manufactured in standard widths that range from 8 feet to 20 feet. Single carport entrances start at 8 feet and comes at 1 foot increments, with 10 feet maximum width. double carport doors, on the other hand, start at 12 feet and move up a sizing of 2 feet intervals with 18 feet as the maximum. You can also order doors which are bigger, but these models require more lead time.
Garage doors, whether sectional or one piece , make a dominant design statement, especially if they are located at the front of your house. – Popular Mechanics Complete Home How-to, Albert Jackson and David Day
Standard height for garage doors are more limited and they are usually offered in 7 or 8 feet only. Most cars can usually fit in a seven feet high headroom, however, if you have a top rack, it might not be enough.
The dimensions below are the standard garage door measurements used by leading suppliers and manufacturers:
Single car garage door sizes – 8 x 7 feet , 6 x 7 feet, 7 x 7 feet
Double car garage door sizes – 14 x 6 feet and 16 x 7 feet (can safely fit two vehicles side by side)
The typical thickness that most manufacturers use is 6 inches, but this depends on the material used. Steel carport entryways, for example, can be as thin as ⅛ inch. insulated doors are thicker and typically come with a ¼ inch to ½ inch foam insulation sandwiched in between the steel.
What Are RV Doors?
RV carport entryways generally range from 12 to 14 feet wide and 12 to 16 feet tall. A 16 foot tall door will accommodate most recreational vehicles on the road.
Pricing
There are several factors that affect the price of carport entrances. These include the type of design, style, materials used and the size of the door. Additionally, accessories, hardware like rollers, spring systems, tracks and handles will also increase the price of a carport door. Special features like smart openers and installation are also other add ons to the overall cost of a garage door.
Prices Based on Size
Single size carport entryways start at around $200, depending on the size and material used. This price may increase too once installation is included. Double carport entryways, naturally cost more because they are bigger and uses up more materials.
Double carport have an average price of $4,000. Average price for double carport entryways go around $600, depending on the material and excluding installation. High end custom carport entryways are the most expensive ones and can run up to several thousand dollars
Price Based on Materials
Here are some of the estimated prices for carport entryways based on different materials. The following prices are based on 16 x 7 doors and do not include installation. New hardware such as tracks, rollers, spring, and hinges are typically included in the carport door’s purchase price.
Wood Carport Entryways – $1000 to up to $10,000. Wood is the most expensive option
SteelCarport Doors – $250 to $3,500
Aluminum Carport Entryways – $1,500 to $2,000.
Fiberglass Carport Doors – starts at $1,200 to $2,200
Vinyl Carport Entryways – starts at $600
Composite Carport Doors – start at $1,500
Glass Carport Entryways – start at $1,500. Pricing is similar to composite doors.
Steel Carport Entryways- range from $250 to $2,500.
Installation Costs
What’s included in a new door installation cost? For any commissioned work, an installation cost is simply the fee that you pay for the labor or the services of a professional.
Aside from the labor and professional fees, installation costs for a new garage door also covers the mobilization, removing the old door, hauling away the old door, upgrading and setting up the new door and fitting the hardware and openers. The average cost for installation that companies charge for carport entryways run around $250 for single size door and $350 to $500 for double carport entryways.
If you only plan to have an old garage door removed, expect to pay around $75 to $200.
Overall Garage Door Prices (Materials, Hardware And Installation Included)
On average, a complete garage system, including the door itself, hardware and openers with installation cost around $750 to $2,000 for standard single carport entryways and $1,000 to $4,000 or more for double sized carport gateways
What Is the Best Type of Door of the Carport?
Each type of garage door has their own unique qualities and advantages which make them a good choice for homes. Some are known for their durability, other forms their beauty, some for their performance and low upkeep. With all of the choices presented to us, it can be quite a daunting task to choose which option is the best for our home. Your final choice will depend on what quality do you value the most — beauty, durability, cost or upkeep.
Here is our recommendation on the best carport entrances based on their stand-out attributes:
Top carport door type based on durability and security : When it comes to durability, performance and reliability, steel carport doors make it to the top of our list. Made with a heavy duty material, this type of carport doors can last for decades and can withstand most outdoor elements. It also provides most security.
Top garage door type based on beauty : Wood carport entryways are still the clear winner when it comes to overall aesthetic value. Wood, in general, has its own unique natural beauty which any other material cannot match.
Top garage door type based on upkeep : Composite carport entryways are the easiest to maintain out of all carport door options. This type of carport entrance does not require repainting or refinishing, do not fade over time and require only a little hosing down of water to clean dirt.
Top carport door type based on cost : The cheapest carport door which you can buy in the market are steel carport entryways. Although cheaper than its counterparts, steel gives a good value for money as it is very durable.
Another option worth considering : If we weigh the positive versus the negative characteristics of each carport door type, we have to recommend composite carport entryways as their attributes combine the best qualities of different material choices while eliminating their weaknesses. Overall, composite carport entryways offer the durability of steel, combined with the beauty of wood
Can Doors Be Painted?
Can carport entryways be painted? The answer is yes; carport entrances can be painted. However, the type of paint or finish you need will greatly depend on the material of your door.
Paint, the most readily available and most durable finish can be used for wood, steel, fiberglass and even vinyl carport entryways. The best thing about paint is that it comes in different colors, so you can be sure to find an exact hue to match the exterior of your house.
Acrylic latex paint is the only type of paint that works for all carport door materials. If you want to freshen up an old car shelter door, apply two coats of acrylic latex paint on your carport door. To maintain the look of your garage door, you can sand and reapply the same type of paint every five years.
If you have a wood garage door, another option you can explore is clear coats. Clear coats are a colorless varnish that highlights the natural grains of wood. To freshen up an old wood carportdoor, apply three coats, while to maintain, apply a new layer of top coat every year. This is an ideal choice if you want the natural beauty of your wooden door to stand out.
Door Manufacturers to Consider
You can buy carport entryways at local home improvement stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, but there are also local manufacturers and independent companies which solely dedicated in the production of carport entryways.
Buying Doors from Home Improvement Centers
If you plan on buying a garage door from local home/improvement centers, it helps to check out their website before heading out to the store. That way, you can narrow your choices and save time and effort when viewing the samples. The only thing that you need is the exact measurement of your door opening. Once you have decided which door to buy, the installer will confirm your measurement to ensure the door fits in your carport.
Top Brands for the Garage Doors
Local garage door companies may either carry one single brand of door or a variety of brands. Major manufacturers produce pre-made door sections that can be configured; then the local companies handle the installation.
Some garage door companies have showrooms, but you can also check out their website to get an overview of their product lines and compare each model’s features. When sourcing for carport door suppliers, it also helps to get an estimate or quotation from at least three different brands to make a good comparison and get the best deal.
Some of the top and biggest carport door manufacturers are as follows:
Clopay – Clopay is best known for manufacturing carport entryways, entry doors, and overhead commercial doors. Their products cost around $400 to $4000 depending on the style and size.
Wayne-Dalton – The largest manufacturer of overhead doors, Wayne and Dalton, is an Ohio-based company that supplies, installs, and repairs residential and commercial doors.
Raynor – Raynor handles the construction, installation, and replacement of carport entrances, carport door operators, and garage door installations for residential and commercial applications
C.H.I. Overhead Doors – C.H.I. Overhead Doors is a well-known manufacturer of high quality residential, commercial sectional and rolling steel overhead doors.
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