Having a place to park your car so that it is not on the street or out in the elements is important. Garage doors are probably one of the first things anyone notices about your home. In fact, for most families, this is the primary way to enter and exit the home. When it comes time to replace this structure, you have several options.
Materials Make the Entrance
Many visitors will judge how your home looks based on their first impression of the outside, including the large garage doors on your residence. Choosing the right material can make or break the overall aesthetic quality of your house.
Wood gives the front a natural look. This option has several layers in order to keep the panels from warping over time. In addition to giving your residence a natural, earthy look, wood is easy to paint or stain to match your decorating style.
Aluminum panels are lightweight and easy to maintain. Due to the construction, it can remain rust free. It also comes in several colors making it easy to choose something that matches your style. However, aluminum does dent more easily than steel, which means you may have to have these repaired more often.
Steel garage doors are the toughest on the market. They are made with two layers of galvanized steel and can be painted to match your home. They will dent if hit, but not as easily as aluminum. Unlike aluminum, they are subject to rusting and corrosion so you have to keep them well-maintained, especially if you live in a coastal area.
Vinyl options are ideal for those with busy kids. They are built on a steel frame to give them durability, and they are tough to dent or break. While they do not have as many color options as steel or aluminum, you can find something that looks great with your home. You don’t have to do much more than hose them off from time to time.
Style is Just as Important
The style of your garage doors is just as important as how they look. In fact, the way it opens can play a huge part in the final look. Sectionals are the most common style. However, it is hardly the only option you have.
Swing-style doors open like a set of French doors. They offer strong vertical lines, helping to integrate the garage into the rest of your home. This particular style is more energy efficient due to the superior seal. Also, they only have one joint instead of multiple hinge points as on a sectional. Of course, when using this type of door, you must be sure to park clear of them so they open without hitting your vehicle.
Up and over doors are traditionally made of a single piece of wood that pulls up and slides into the top. This type usually leaves a small portion sticking out and is often referred to as a canopy. While this type is popular, some companies will not install or maintain them due to the excessive weight. Unlike sectionals, this weight can be hazardous and has been known to cause injuries.
By installing garage doors that complement your home’s style and color, you can vastly improve your curb appeal. It can also help to breathe new life into an outdated look.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/9375710