Sliding Garage Doors
In years past, sliding garage doors were mainly used for commercial purposes. But now that homeowners recognise their benefits, they're finding their way into residential spaces. Want to get in on the practicality and style that sliding garage doors offer? ArchiPro has products that will suit every home, no matter your preferences. Read on to discover the best solutions and narrow your search.
- Your budget
- How much insulation the unit provides
- Whether the unit will increase your home's value
About sliding garage doors
Unlike traditional garage doors, sliding units open horizontally instead of vertically. Some designs consist of a single panel that glides directly to the left or right.
Other designs, however, consist of multiple panels that hinge on a vertical axis. They glide along a track and bend at corners, allowing the panels to move further back into the garage. These doors can be easily opened or closed with sliding garage door openers.
Benefits of sliding garage doors
Sliding garage doors offer many benefits. For instance, they are safer than traditional structures as they don't come down from overhead. Plus, the door won’t close on top of your car or other belongings.
Other key benefits include:
Improved efficiency
The left-to-right closing/opening is also more efficient. When the button is hit to perform this function automatically, it won't use up as much energy. Homeowners who install this unit often notice gradual decreases in their electricity bills. Plus, you'll be doing your part for the environment!
Takes up less space overhead
Traditional units require installing the motor and track in the overhead space. For some families, it's not a big issue as they don't need this space.
But it’s valuable real estate for a bike rack, kayak rack, or other types of storage.
The motor and track sit off to the side, leaving plenty of overhead room for other purposes. It can even help the garage look cleaner and more organised.
Quieter operation
As mentioned earlier, overhead systems use a lot of power. This power not only contributes to higher electric bills — it can also lead to excess noise.
Homeowners who want a quieter solution should opt for a sliding system. It won't overwork its motor, giving the household the peace and quiet it deserves. Whoever has the room above the garage will especially appreciate this decision!
Customisation
The door can slide to the left or right to make the most of your garage's space. As discussed later, the material can be chosen and plenty of other features for custom sliding garage doors.
Types of sliding garage doors
Horizontal sliding garage doors
When browsing our collection, horizontal sliding garage doors are among our main products. As the name suggests, these units open and close from left to right (or right to left). ArchiPro has a number of leading manufacturers and suppliers listed, with some that also manufacture custom designs.
Vertical sliding garage doors
While most of the units operate horizontally, there are also vertical sliding garage doors. These units are similar to traditional ones in that they sit in the overhead space. Homeowners find them to be a practical option when they need more room for wide vehicles or other belongings.
Materials for sliding garage doors
Sliding garage door units come in various materials.
Timber
One of the favourites? Timber sliding garage doors. This material is beautiful and dent-proof. And while some are expensive, there are many timber options across a wide range of budgets.
Metal
Metal is a popular material for sliding garage doors. Metal is the most sturdy material there is, arming the home against the weather, outside noise, and break-ins. It also comes with little maintenance and looks great year-round.
Mechanism of operation
A motor powers the track on which the panels run.
The good news is that most structures come with a remote. Instead of getting out of the car to open or close the unit, just click a button.
And if you ever need to open or close the unit manually, you'll put minimal strain on your body. It's much easier to operate the door from left to right than it is to work with an overhead trolley.
Other considerations
We've gone over the most important factors to consider when buying a unit. However, keep the following in mind:
Care and maintenance
For most homeowners, these units are a big investment. The good news is that through regular care, they can last many years.
Units should undergo bi-annual inspections. Twice a year, have a pro examine the motor, track, and other components. They should conduct safety tests, take note of any issues, and recommend the appropriate repairs.
Also, realise that the material will affect the maintenance plan. For instance, timber sliding garage doors require frequent painting or staining to keep things fresh. Metal sliding garage doors are a little easier to care for —just wash them a couple of times per year!