Garage
door installation is a big project, but you can do many things to
make it easier. Gathering your ideas ahead of time, getting your
finances in order, doing research about different types of doors, and
hiring the right contractor are all ways that you can make the
experience a little simpler.
If
you're a homeowner who is thinking about installing a new garage
door, know the things you can do to be prepared. The following tips
can help.
1.
Start a Garage Door Scrapbook
Many
different styles of garage doors are available to homeowners. These
garage doors all have a different look and are appropriate for
different styles of homes.
As
an example, carriage-style garage doors are very traditional and
old-fashioned in appearance. They typically have windows and large,
exaggerated hinges on either side of the door. These doors look best
with older, more traditional homes.
On
the other end of the spectrum, many modern garage doors are made
entirely of glass and allow light to filter through. These doors look
best on ultra-modern homes.
As
you try to decide which type of door is right for your home, you may
come upon many pictures of garage doors that you like. When the time
comes to choose a new garage door, you can show your contractor
garage door images you like and they can recommend doors based on
your preferences.
2.
Make a Budget
Garage
doors can cost anywhere from $400
to $3,500
,
depending on the type of door you install and other factors. If you
replace your garage door opener at the same time, installation costs
will likely go up. Budgeting for this kind of project can help reduce
the burden when the time comes to perform the installation.
To
make a budget, start by getting quotes from contractors that you're
thinking about hiring. Get several quotes to help you decide
approximately how much you'll need for your new garage door.
After
getting quotes, set aside a specific amount of money every month to
pay for your garage door. Some garage door contractors may offer
financing options or payment terms that can help make the cost of
garage door installation slightly more manageable. Ask contractors
about this option when meeting with them.
3.
Do Your Research
Garage
doors may seem like simple structures, but the type of garage door
you choose makes a big difference. Do your research to ensure that
the door you choose will meet your needs. Here's what you need to
know.
Features
Modern
garage doors have many conveniences to make life easier for the
homeowner. From battery backups to smart garage door openers, garage
door features are out there for everyone.
Materials
Garage
doors come in many different material types. Each type of material
has its own look and feel. Here are a few material types to consider:
-
Fiberglass looks
like wood but doesn't require all the maintenance.
-
Steel is strong and
can be painted in different colors but can also be dented.
-
Wood doors require
regular maintenance to look their best.
-
Vinyl doors are
difficult to dent and are very durable.
As
you consider the material for your garage door, consider the
insulation in the door as well. Insulation levels vary depending on
the material and will affect how comfortable your garage is in winter
and summer.
Safety
Garage
doors should have many safety features, including a photoelectric eye
to sense when someone has stepped into the path of a closing door and
an automatic reverse function that will kick in if the door closes on
something unexpected. Check safety ratings and features of each door
to ensure the one you pick is appropriate for your home.
4.
Just Say No to DIY
Garage
doors can weigh as much as 400 pounds. Installing a garage door on
your own could be a very dangerous project if you don't have the
proper training and tools. Unless you're a garage door contractor
yourself, hire a professional to get the job done.
5.
Pick the Right Contractor
Pick
the right contractor to ensure that the job is done right. You can do
many different things to guarantee that you've picked a good
contractor.
-
Meet with
multiple candidates.
Meet
with contractors on-site to discuss your garage door installation,
and get quotes from each candidate before making a final decision.
-
Check
references.
Call
at least three different references for a contractor before signing
a contract for installation.
-
Compare
bids.
Remember
that the cheapest bid may not be the best; quality garage door
installations often fall in the middle price ranges.
For
more information about how you can install a garage door, contact a
reputable garage door contractor in your area. At Edgemont Garage
Doors, we're happy to answer your questions and give you information
about your new garage door installation. Call
us today
to
find out more.
