Fashions in garage doors come and go, but up and over garage doors keep selling for a simple reason: they do the job at a fair price, and almost any decent installer knows how to fit and repair one.
How the Door Moves
One of the panels in the bottom of the door tilts out as the door lifts up, then slides back to the ceiling. Springs or counter-balance arms help the door to open, so a correctly adjusted door feels very light in your hand.
Canopy or Retractable
The edge of a canopy door swings out in an arc. This means there needs to be an open space in front of it. A retractable door, on the other hand, travels mostly inside of the garage. This means it sticks out far less and can be a better option for a short drive. Verify which type your current door opening is built for.
What You Pay For
They tend to be cheaper than sectional or roller doors, and parts are easy to find. For a household watching its budget, that counts for plenty.
Choosing a Material
Steel hardly needs maintenance. Timber has to be treated regularly. GRP needs little maintenance. Look for the thickness of the panel, the quality of the hinges and locks.
Security Points
A multi-point locking system uses several bolts to secure the door to the door frame. If the lock is attached to the door, check that the handles are sturdy.
Draughts and Rain
Seals along the top, sides and bottom help keep out wind and rain. If the garage is attached to the house, an insulated version would be worth considering.
Fitting Notes
Springs hold a lot of tension, so leave fitting and adjustment is best suited for a trained person. Check your opening size, headroom and make sure the fitter has clear access.
When to Replace
Do not wait to call about a sticky door. Dropping doors or doors that require a lot of force to open can be signs of a worn door that can be dangerous.
