Here are a number of factors to consider when choosing a garage door.
The Type of Drive System
1. Screw-drive System
The screw-drive system has a lifting apparatus that moves the length of a steel rod. The system requires little maintenance due to the very few moving parts. The system body is mounted in the garage ceiling. The cost for screw-drive system is generally more than $150 and less than $200.
2. Chain-drive system
The chain-drive system has a metal chain lifting the garage door up or down along a set of tracks. The chain-drive system is the most common and usually the most affordable system. The chain-drive is priced in the range of $100 to $170.
On the downside, the chain drive system makes more noise than the screw-drive system. The chain drive system is mounted in the garage ceiling.
Chain drive mechanism: By far the most popular and affordable opening device.
3. Computer-controlled system
The computer-controlled drive system uses no screws or chain. The body of the system is mounted directly above the door. Having the system mounted above the door helps in garages that have low headroom. Also, it provides more ceiling space which can be used for storage.
The type of power
Select a motor with enough power to raise your door. Have at least a motor with ? hp if you have a double door. A large motor is likely to last longer. Try to find a motor with a "soft" start and stop. It operates more quietly and minimizes the wear and tear.
The speed
The more expensive garage door opens much faster, cutting down the waiting time on your driveway. The quicker opening model still closes at a slower speed for safety. Consider how much you are willing to spend for the quicker models.
Safety concerns
All garage doors have a safety feature that prevents the door from pinning objects. The door reverses in direction if they hit something. The safety feature is mandated by federal law. The safety feature is triggered by an electronic beam.
The computer-controlled mechanism measures the optimal operating time and speed of the door. It can detect and compensate for varying conditions ? like if the door is coming in to contact with an obstruction or closing too fast.
Security features
The newer generation of garage doors use random codes for enhancing security. Each time the remote is used to open the garage door, a new random code is generated. The security feature prevents you from opening your neighbor's garage door and vice versa. The random code prevents code theft.
If the power is out, all garage doors have a manual that will open the door. A few high-end models have a function that allows the door to open just a little bit so that your dog or cat can get out.
The remote control
Several models use a single-button remote control, while others use a remote with multiple buttons that can open multiple garage doors. The multiple button remote control is the best choice for people with several garages, each with its own door.
The fixed controller
The fixed controller is mounted to the wall either inside or outside near the garage door. The fixed controller allows the door to be opened without a remote controller. The fixed controller usually does not come with the standard kit, it is usually an accessory.
The keypad provides you a means to lock the door for a specified amount of time, like when you are away on a trip. Another function is delayed closing, a brief pause between pushing the button and the closing of the door. The keypad provides a lot of time to exit on foot without running, dodging the electronic beam and the garage door.
Lighting
Many garage doors have a security light that turns on as you turn on the system. The light stays on just long enough for you to step out of your vehicle and get into the house. Most remotes have buttons that turns on the light without opening the door.
Replacing garage doors is a very easy task, which every home owner does. There are two kinds of garage doors available in the stores today, namely tilt up and sectional role up door. The role up door is costlier than the tilt up doors but provides many facilities and features which is not available in tilt up doors.
Tilts up doors have one panel, which tilts up and slides along the roof of the garage. Their mechanism is simple and they are an example of a basic garage door. They can either be mechanized with a remote control or opened manually.
Sectional roll up doors are very easy and flexible doors. They are made of horizontal sections, and each section is hinged to the next section. The doors consist of rollers and they roll up automatically along the roof when opened. These doors operate manually as well as mechanically with the help of remote controls. Sectional roll up doors are extremely useful as they do not take up much space and roll up in the garage making a lot of room for your vehicle. These doors are very attractive, enhance the beauty of your home and boost the real estate value.
You must know that garage doors are produced from either steel or wood. Wood has it's own charm for enhancing the splendor of your home but the fact is that it can spell doom if termites come into play. You can't give up, rather you will have to fight back to halt this insect influx. Painting the doors at an interval of 1-2 years won't help alone; you will have to make sure that they are water resistant. With extremes in temperature you may even witness a few warping to the wooden doors. There is no doubt that the amount of maintenance in case of wooden doors are comparatively more. But no question is raised on its grandeur as a result of which there is a rise in the real estate worth of your house. And beyond that, you shouldn't be surprised to find that wood is less costly than stainless steel.
Speaking of steel, they are long lasting with no maintenance at all. Now, if treated reasonably they will not rot or rust whatsoever. Bear in mind that although they are by far exorbitant, they are handy in due course of time. You can opt for alternatives by way of aluminum alloy doors but remember that, these less expensive doors are not are resilient like the others.
Garage doors should always be maintained well, for long lasting effects. The mechanism of the door and its parts should be oiled regularly to prevent break down. Your remote should always have an automatic reverse option to prevent animals and children from getting hurt.
Garage doors are not just a useful addition to your house they can also add to its decor. When you want to replace your garage door this should be considered too with along its practical use. How much time you can spare to maintain it should also be considered when thinking about buying a certain type of garage door. Many times garage doors can be seen from the street and will effect the look and feel of your house. So take a little care before you install one as it should be a positive investment for your home and increase its real estate value.
David Raiburn has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Improvement, Bathroom Home Improvement and Home Improvement. David Raiburn is the owner of , a fantastic resource for information about doors. For questions or comments about this article why not visit:. David Raiburn's top article generates over 201000 views. to your Favourites.