Garage door types: pros & cons & use cases

As a leading garage door supplier in New Zealand, we're often asked 'Which type of garage door is best?' We understand that choosing a garage door style is a huge decision for homeowners, so we're here to make the choice easier with this comprehensive guide to garage door types.

There are various types of garage doors to choose from, each with its advantages. The style you settle on for your house will depend on the architecture of your home, the level of functionality you require and the amount of space inside your garage. The level of maintenance you're willing to commit to and the initial cost are also considerations.

Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors consist of several panels that slide up and sit horizontally across the garage ceiling when opened. They are highly weather resistant and energy efficient, making them suitable for New Zealand's varied climate, although they require frequent lubrication to help them run smoothly. They can also be more expensive than other types of garage doors. However, as they are available in many styles and finishes, they are becoming increasingly popular among New Zealand homeowners.

Best for: Those looking for a very modern look and smooth operation.

Roller Garage Doors

A traditional choice because they require less maintenance and are extremely durable, roller garage doors also offer space efficiency in garages where headroom is limited, and a sectional garage door isn't practical. These aluminium or steel doors require little maintenance but offer limited design options compared to other types like sectional doors.

Best for: Those with space at the garage opening.

Electric Garage Door Options

Our advice when buying a new garage door is, if it's within your budget, always opt for electronic operation. Motorised garage doors can be opened and closed with a remote control or a wall-mounted panel, which allows you to give access to others when you're not at home. Or you can choose a smart opener that allows you to operate your garage door from your smartphone or by using voice commands.

Best for: Convenience and easy operation of your new garage door.

Wooden Garage Doors

Warm and luxurious wooden doors provide a look like no other material can. However, it's worth noting that one of the main disadvantages of this premium style is that it's high maintenance and is more susceptible to rotting. But if you can't go past the feel of real timber, wooden doors offer excellent sound insulation and thermal efficiency.

Best for: A premium look and those who don't mind regular maintenance.

Other Garage Door Types

For a traditional-style building or period homes with a smaller garage entrance, side-hinged garage doors bring charm to your home's facade. Providing a classic and elegant look, side-hinged garage doors open outward, so are not suited for all driveway spaces.

Choosing a new garage door design is about more than looks. Here's what else you should consider before making your purchase.

Garage Door Materials and Costs

Garage doors can be made of many different materials, each with its own benefits. For example, steel garage doors are extremely tough, but they can also be heavier to lift.

The material you choose for your garage door will largely dictate the cost, as will the size of the garage door and other features and accessories.

Garage Door Maintenance and Repair

All types of garage doors require regular maintenance to keep them functioning optimally. For example, for sectional garage doors, the torsion spring, which allows the garage door to open and close, is a critical part of its operation. It needs to be well lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Roller doors need clean and smooth tracks to run on, so these need to be polished regularly.

Ask your garage door manufacturer about low maintenance options and what steps will be required to care for your door once installed. Also, book in for an annual service to ensure it remains effective and operational. Failing to keep your door well-maintained may lead to costly repairs.

Garage Door Installation and Replacement

Garage door installation is best left to a professional garage door installer. They have the correct tools and knowledge to ensure your new garage door is fitted correctly, meaning it will operate smoothly for longer.

If your garage door is damaged it can be repaired. However, if it's also looking dated and negatively affecting the kerb appeal of your home, it's worth weighing up the cost of repair against the value a new garage door can add to your home.

From improved materials to modern designs, garage doors have come a long way from the loud, heavy and inefficient doors of the past.

While it may be more expensive initially, having your garage door fitted with smart features and energy efficiency measures is a cost-effective option in the long run. For example, insulation on your garage door can help your whole home stay at a consistent temperature, saving you on heating and cooling costs.

Style, material, colour, finish and cost are normally the first considerations when choosing a garage door. However, other factors to think about include how the shape and size of your garage opening will affect the type of door you choose and its cost, and how functional you require your door to be.

Speaking with a trusted garage door designer and manufacturer like Windsor Doors can help you work through the pros and cons of each type of door to get you the right one for your garage space.

Trusted by thousands of New Zealand families and businesses to provide innovative and durable garage door solutions, we understand the importance of style and craftsmanship. Made predominately from New Zealand steel, we aim to provide affordable garage doors that will make your home stand out from the crowd. Contact us today for a free measure and quote.