Do you need a new garage door? If you're a first-time garage door buyer, take a look at the questions to ask before you invest in a replacement.
What Is Your Budget?
Are you ready to schedule a selection and installation appointment? If you haven't asked yourself this question, now is the time to seriously consider what you can reasonably spend.
Garage doors are available at a variety of price points. But this doesn't mean you should stretch your home improvement budget to buy a model at the higher end of the cost spectrum. To find a door that fits comfortably into your budget:
- Compare contractors.
The first contractor may not give you the best price — or they may have the lowest quote. You won't know if the first estimate is the best until you get at least one more.
- Compare materials.
Steel, aluminum, and other garage door materials have different overall costs. Even though you might have had your heart set on one specific material, it may not have the price tag you need. Discuss your options with a contractor before you rule out any material.
- Compare energy efficiency.
Doors at the lower end of your price range may not come with insulation. While an energy-efficient insulated garage door may have a higher upfront cost, it can save you money over time. Weigh your current budget versus your ongoing energy bills before you choose one model.
- Compare extras.
Do you want decorative hardware, a new automatic opener, or a smart system? These can add to the overall price and push the costs above your budget. Talk to your contractor about what extras you can or can't afford.
Does your dream door cost more than you can afford? Ask the contractor about ways to get the same quality or a similar aesthetic, without stretching your budget. Creative solutions, such as faux finishes or overlays, can help you to save money — without sacrificing style.
Which Contractor Is Right for You?
Now that you know what your budget is, it's time to take the next step and choose a contractor. Again, different contractors may offer different bids. This, coupled with other factors, may make it necessary to interview two or three garage door professionals.
As a first-time garage door buyer, you may not know what to ask your would-be potential future contractor. If you're not sure where to start, begin with these basic questions:
- What brands do you carry?
Even though this is your first experience with garage doors, you may already have a brand in mind. If your research has led you to one specific manufacturer, make sure the contractor carries this brand.
- Do you install doors and openers?
While most garage door contractors sell and install doors and automatic opener systems, you should still ask about both services — especially if you need to replace or buy your first opener.
- What type of warranty do you offer?
It's likely the garage door or opener manufacturer provides a parts warranty. But what about the workmanship? Talk to your potential contractor about their service or labor guarantee policies.
- What is the installation timetable?
How soon do you need your garage door? Ask the contractor if your door is already in stock. If they need to order it, the wait time could significantly impact your installation time frame. But if you don't need a new door immediately, a longer wait may not affect your choice.
Along with these questions, ask the contractor why you should choose them to supply and install your new garage door. The answer can help you to assess the professional's experience, expertise, and ability to meet your home improvement needs effectively.
What Is Important in a New Garage Door?
You're new to the garage door market. This may mean you have little-to-no knowledge in the area. If you're not sure where to start or what you want in a door (beyond the overall purchase and installation price), consider:
- Aesthetics.
What type of style will fit your home's exterior décor? Even though the garage door is a functional part of your property, it also adds curb appeal. This makes it essential to choose a door that meets your individual aesthetic needs.
- Operation.
Do you want a door that's whisper-quiet or does sound not really matter to you and your family? Along with noise level, opener efficiency, and smart features, you should think about operational or functional factors before you decide on a garage door.
- Durability.
How long do you plan to have the door — or your home? According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), the average garage door lasts for 20 to 25 years. Ask the contractor about potential doors and each one's lifespan.
There's no universal equation to help new garage shoppers find the perfect door. Whether aesthetics, function, lifespan, or other factors are at the top of your must-have list, your selection comes down to personal preference.
