What You Should Know About Garage Doors

 

A few things you should know about Garage Doors before buying them. A door's primary function is to prevent entry or storage. This is especially important for businesses, as a door can keep out both employees and clients. To make the best choice for your business, look for doors that are highly insulated. Generally, these types of doors have a higher R-value than their counterparts. However, this doesn't mean they're better than non-insulated doors.

Before buying a garage door, check whether it meets local regulations. In some areas, fire-rated garage doors are required for commercial buildings, but you should check with local building codes to ensure they meet your requirements. Regardless of your requirements, there are several types of garage doors available. Here's a breakdown of the main types:

Side-hinged doors swing open from a hinged frame on either side of the opening. They are the most popular type of garage door, but there are other options available, such as sliding doors. You can purchase side-hinged doors to fit any design you like best. In addition to their low price, they're made to last a lifetime. And if you're concerned about the weather, you can purchase doors that incorporate insulation.

Extension spring systems are a major safety concern. This is because certain parts are under tremendous tension, and removing them can cause serious injuries. Extension spring systems should be restrained by a safety cable, which runs through the spring and ties off to a solid point at the front and rear of the horizontal door track. This safety cable prevents potential hazards to bystanders when the spring breaks under tension. So while these doors may seem expensive, they are actually the safest choice for your home.

Torsion springs can last for up to five years if properly maintained. Poor maintenance and loose components can cause them to shorten their lifespan. Garage door manufacturers recommend that owners avoid putting grease on the tracks, as this can make the wheels "skate" in the track and prevent them from turning on the bearings. Torsion springs also need lubrication, so you should always wipe them down with a cloth and remove any excess grease.

Composite garage doors are generally composed of two layers of galvanized steel with a wood frame. Better models use higher-density fiberboard skins and include realistic overlays and grooves. Fiberglass doors are much stronger and tend to last longer. They don't require painting or staining, but they do have a tendency to dent. If you're looking for a durable door, fiberglass is a good choice.

In addition to durability and affordability, garage doors are available in various styles. You can select between single and double-panel styles. Single-panel doors have less parts to break and require less maintenance. These types of doors look best on contemporary or mid-century modern homes. You can also choose between single-panel doors and sectionals. And while sectionals look good, they may not be practical. They can interfere with the overall appearance of a large block.