It might not be something you think about often, but your garage door plays a bigger role in your home than you realise! It's more than just an entry point for your car, it affects your home’s curb appeal and security too! In fact, most garages take up roughly 30% of your home’s facade!
But when it comes time to upgrade or replace it, choosing the right one isn’t always as simple as looking at a catalogue and ordering the first one you see!
With so many designs, materials, and features to consider, the perfect garage door for one home might not be the best fit for another. That’s why it’s important to weigh up your options carefully.
In this post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about choosing the right garage door for your home, including the different types and materials available, automation options and other factors to consider.
The Benefits Of Investing In A New Garage Door
Garages have many uses beyond a place to park your vehicle. Many families use it for storage, home gyms and even extra living spaces. This means that your garage door should complement your lifestyle and the space it serves. A new garage door offers several benefits beyond just a fresh, new look:
Choose One That Best Suits Your Needs: Sometimes, your current garage door just doesn’t work for you anymore. Maybe it’s taking up too much space, or it’s a hassle to open and close at the end of a long day. A new garage door, however, allows you to choose a design that fits your home and lifestyle perfectly.
Increase Your Home’s Value: A new garage door is a smart investment. Not only does it improve the overall look of your property, but it also enhances functionality - something potential buyers appreciate! Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to boost your home’s long-term value, upgrading your garage door is a great way to do that
Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal: Older garage doors can start to look worn out, dull, and outdated, even after a deep clean. If you want to instantly boost your home’s appeal, a new garage door is a great way refresh your home’s exterior. With a wide range of modern styles, colours, and finishes to complement your home’s architecture, you can find one that blends seamlessly (or makes a statement)
Enhance Security: Your garage door is one of the largest entry points to your home, so security is key. Older doors, especially those with outdated locking systems, can be easier to break into. Newer models, on the other hand, often use stronger materials and advanced locking mechanisms, making them a tougher barrier against intruders.
Less Maintenance, More Convenience: The older your garage door, the more maintenance it requires. Worn-out springs, rusting panels, and aging mechanisms can mean the need for constant repairs. Newer doors are built with durable, low-maintenance materials, meaning less time spent on upkeep.
Improved Performance: Even with regular maintenance, older garage doors can lose their functionality over time. Noisy hinges, sluggish springs, and rusty mechanisms can make opening and closing a daily frustration. A new garage door operates more smoothly, quietly, and efficiently, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
5 Common Garage Door Types
When it comes to choosing a garage door, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. But what exactly are the different types of garage doors, and does it really matter which one you choose?
The simple answer is yes! The right door can impact everything from the ease of use and security to the overall look of your home. The 5 most common types of garage doors are:
Roller Garage Doors
Sectional Garage Doors
Counterweight or Tilt Garage Doors
Side Sliding Garage Doors
Roller Shutters
1. Roller Garage Door
Roller garage doors are a popular choice in Australia and one of the most common garage doors. They are made from a single curtain that rolls up into a compact drum above the door opening.
They are budget-friendly and ideal for homes with limited driveway space since they don’t swing outwards (like tilt garage doors). Roller garage doors are typically made from durable Colorbond Steel, making them low-maintenance, secure, and perfect for withstanding Australia’s diverse (and sometimes extreme) weather conditions.
✅ Best for: Small spaces, security, and durability
❌ Consider this if: You prefer a more decorative or custom design
2. Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional garage doors are another common garage door choice. Made up of multiple panels that move along tracks and fold upwards as they open, they are a great option if you want a sleek, modern look. It also offers plenty of customisation options, including materials, colours, window inserts and even automation for additional convenience!
✅ Best for: Modern homes, custom designs, automation, and lower ceiling clearance
❌ Consider this if: You want to use the ceiling as storage
3. Counterweight or Tilt Garage Door
Tilt garage doors, also known as counterweight doors, are a single solid panel that tilts outward and up to open. They’re a classic choice for older homes or those with unique design requirements. As they are one large panel, the style options are endless! Sleek and modern, timber cladding or a traditional touch, a tilt door can do it all. However, they require extra clearance when opening, so are best suited to driveways with ample space.
✅ Best for: Classic home designs and large garage openings
❌ Consider this if: You have limited driveway space
4. Side Sliding Garage Doors
Unlike traditional garage doors that open vertically, side sliding doors move along a track and slide parallel to the garage wall. They’re perfect for garages with limited ceiling height or obstructions like pipes or storage racks. Plus, they offer smooth, quiet operation and are automated.
However, it's important to note that there are very specific installation requirements for side sliding doors. These include needing enough side room along the wall and a completely level floor to ensure proper function.
✅ Best for: Garages with low ceilings or obstructions
❌ Consider this if: You don’t have enough wall space for the door to slide
5. Roller Shutters
Roller shutters are similar to roller garage doors but are typically heavier-duty and provide extra security. While they are most used in commercial settings, they’re also a great option for homeowners looking for reinforced protection. Some models even come with insulation properties, making them effective for keeping out heat, cold, and noise.
✅ Best for: High-security needs and harsh weather conditions
❌ Consider this if: You prefer a more decorative or residential look
Tips For Choosing The Right Door
Choosing the right door can be a big decision! With so many options available, it’s important to consider factors like material, style, functionality, and budget to ensure you get the perfect match for your home and lifestyle. After all, you don’t want to be stuck with a door that you don’t like!
Material: The material you choose will impact the durability, maintenance, and aesthetics of your garage door. Think about your climate, long-term durability, and how much maintenance you’re willing to do. Steel is tough and low-maintenance, while aluminium is lightweight and resistant to corrosion (perfect for coastal areas.) Timber provides a classic, warm look but may require more upkeep. Alternatively, timber-look options can offer the same charm with less maintenance.
Budget: Garage doors can vary widely in price, depending on the material, style, and features you choose. Before you start shopping, it's important to set a realistic budget. Keep in mind that while a higher-end option may come with more features or a more sophisticated look, there are still plenty of great choices available at lower price points. Consider the long-term value and durability of your investment as well as any added costs for installation or maintenance.
Style: Consider the overall style of your home when choosing a garage door. Do you prefer a modern look with sleek lines and a minimalist design? Or do you lean toward a Hamptons or classic style with more traditional detailing? Don’t forget to think about colours and finishes too! Roller garage doors and shutters are great options for a more industrial or contemporary aesthetic. Sectional and tilt garage doors can provide a more polished, classic look, especially when paired with timber finishes.
Function: Think about how your garage space will be used. Will it primarily be for parking your car, or do you need additional space for storage, a home workshop, or even a living area? If you plan to use the space for more than just parking, you may want to consider a door with more flexibility or one that offers better insulation.
Space & Storage: Another important consideration is storage. For garages with limited driveway space, a roller door or sectional door is a good choice, as these doors don’t require additional clearance to open. Consider where you'll store items like tools, bicycles, or seasonal gear. Do you want to keep your storage in the ceiling, along the walls, or both? Choose a door that offers the flexibility to use your space efficiently.
Insulation: Not all garages require insulation, but if you plan on using the space for anything beyond storing your car, like a home office, gym, or living area, insulated doors can make a big difference. Insulation helps regulate the temperature inside the garage, making it more comfortable year-round and can even improve overall energy efficiency in attached garages. If your garage is detached, insulation may be less of a priority, but it can still help with temperature control and soundproofing if needed.
Additional Features: Garage doors come with a variety of extra features that can improve both form, function and security. Features such as built-in pedestrian doors allow easy access to the garage without needing to open the entire door. Automation and motors can also add an extra level of convenience. If you're looking for a more energy-efficient option, insulated doors are an excellent choice too.
Custom Solutions: If you can’t find the perfect garage door off the shelf, consider working with a professional (like the team at KangarooGD!) to create a custom garage door solution that fits your exact needs, style, and preferences. A custom door can be designed to complement the architecture of your home while offering the specific features you need.
Get The Perfect Garage Door Today!
With a little thought and preparation, finding the right garage door for your home can be easy! By considering factors like material, style, function, and space, you can make an informed decision that fits both your needs and your home’s aesthetic.
If you're ready to take the next step in upgrading your garage, the team at KangarooGD is here to help! We offer custom solutions and professional installation to ensure your new garage door fits perfectly with your home.
Not exactly sure what you need? No problem! As garage door experts, we can help you find exactly what you need, whether it’s a specific style, material, or functionality. We will guide you through the process and provide expert advice to make sure you know your options.
Get in touch today and let’s get started on transforming your Sydney home with a garage door that works for you!
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