Fiberglass vs. Steel Garage Doors

Fiberglass vs. Steel Garage Doors

Garage doors can make all the difference in the curb appeal of your home or business. On the other hand, an outdated or damaged door can negatively impact the exterior beauty of your property and become a safety risk. Choosing the right garage door is an important task, and it’s a good idea to compare your options before buying, such as a steel vs. a fiberglass garage door.

At Garage Door Specialists, Inc., we carry a wide selection of door styles that are sure to make a statement and provide both style and durability.

Differences Between Fiberglass Garage Doors and Steel Garage Doors

If you’re deciding between a fiberglass or steel garage door, there are a few characteristics you should know about that make these materials different:

• Appearance: Both steel and fiberglass doors can be customized to a certain degree to fit your style preferences and existing structure. Steel is a heavy material that offers a modern, sleek look while fiberglass is a traditional, decorative alternative.
• Composition: Steel garage doors like Modern Steel™ are durable, dependable and very secure, but must be well-maintained to avoid rust. Fiberglass doors like Arbor Grove™ are well-insulated to help reduce noise and are resistant to corrosion. 
• Longevity: Made of iron and carbon, steel is incredibly long-lasting and won’t become warped or cracked. Fiberglass material can withstand strong winds and won’t easily dent.
• Cost: The differences in price will depend on the overall design and style options you choose. A fiberglass garage door is a cost-effective, low-maintenance choice that offers more damage resistance, while steel is a budget-friendly, energy-efficient option that keeps your home secure.

Which Type Is Better?

As with any decision for your home or business, the garage door you choose will depend on your personal style, needs, maintenance, budget and many other factors. Both steel and fiberglass have unique benefits and can work for a variety of residential and commercial properties.

You may also make your decision based on the customization options, such as the colors, textures, wood grains, paint, paneling and other design choices. With Garage Door Specialists, Inc., you can find an excellent selection of residential garage doors and commercial overhead doors to complement the exterior of your home or business.

Contact Garage Door Specialists, Inc. for Your Residential and Commercial Overhead Door Needs

No matter what style or material you choose for your garage door, work with a team of experienced professionals to get the job done. At Garage Door Specialists, Inc., we’re committed to fitting your home or commercial building with high-quality and durable garage doors that meet your requirements.

Whether you want to install an entirely new door and hardware or repair your current door, we have everything you need to ensure your product lasts and continues to offer reliable operation. Request an estimate today to get started or contact us online to learn more about the styles and services we offer.

Aluminum vs. Steel Garage Doors

Aluminum vs. Steel Garage Doors

Your garage door is one of the first things people see when they drive up to your home or business. A warped, faded or damaged garage door with rusted or broken parts can pose a safety risk and negatively affect the visual appeal of your property.

If you’re looking for a replacement garage door and wondering what type offers the best performance and longevity, consider an aluminum or steel door from Garage Door Specialists, Inc. We offer custom options for insulation, paint, windows and paneling to fit your unique needs and preferences. 

Differences Between Aluminum Garage Doors and Steel Garage Doors

Here’s a comparison of aluminum and steel materials to give you a better idea of these two options:

• Appearance: Steel and aluminum are both popular choices for garage door installations. Both materials can be customized with various panels, finishes and woodgrain designs to suit the look of your home or business. 
• Composition: Aluminum garage doors are lightweight, easy to install and corrosion-resistant. At the same time, they may be less effective when it comes to keeping outdoor temperatures outside. Steel doors are heavy, durable and more secure against weather conditions. Both types of doors are made of recyclable, environmentally friendly materials.
• Longevity: Both materials are relatively low maintenance. Aluminum is easy to clean, and you don’t have to worry about rust or rot. Steel garage doors require a pre-painted treatment to prevent rust and corrosion, but they can typically withstand more wear and tear than aluminum. 
• Cost: Steel garage doors provide a long-lasting investment at an affordable cost, and aluminum can be even less expensive. While the price of these materials often changes depending on current supply and demand, both options are generally within many budgets. 

Which Type Is Better? 

As you weigh the pros and cons of steel vs. aluminum doors, it’s important to determine your specific requirements for your new garage door. You may want to consider what kind of design elements you’re looking for as well as identify your ideal price point. You can also weigh whether security is your top priority, or if you’re more concerned with budget and performance.

The team at Garage Door Specialists, Inc. can help you decide between steel and aluminum garage doors to ensure you select the option that best suits your unique requirements.

Let Garage Door Specialists, Inc. Install or Repair Your Garage Door

At Garage Door Specialists, Inc., we know you have many choices when it comes to selecting a new overhead door. That’s why we offer many durable, aesthetically appealing and high-quality residential garage doors and commercial doors so you can find exactly what you’re looking for. 

Our knowledgeable, experienced technicians will be glad to discuss your performance and functionality expectations and help you determine the right product and customization options. Contact our team today to learn more about our installation and repair services or request an estimate to get started.

Garage Door Sizing Guide for Commercial Industries

Commercial Garage Door Sizing Guide 

Investing in a new garage door is a comprehensive process. You must ensure you select the right size for your business. This guide will outline the various dimensions of common commercial garage door types, so you can purchase the one that will fit your facilities. 

Commercial Industries That Use Garage Doors 

When determining industrial garage door sizes, consider the door’s application. Some common applications of garage doors across sectors include the following: 

Car dealerships and showrooms

The automobile industry incorporates garage doors in several ways, especially in showrooms and dealerships. Glass windows and garage doors let customers look at different models while letting the sunlight in. When customers select the car they want, dealerships can raise the doors to get the vehicle out easily. 

Mechanics

Like dealerships, mechanics need better accessibility and flexibility between indoor and outdoor spaces. With garage doors, drivers can pull up to buildings, and mechanics can streamline transportation processes for more efficient services. 

Shipping and storing companies

Warehouses and distribution centers use garage doors to transport products seamlessly across different stages in the shipping process. Trucks can get as close as possible to warehouses with garage doors, increasing efficiency at loading docks. Garage doors can improve processes at touchpoints when organizations want to streamline the supply chain. 

Restaurants

The food and entertainment industries can also benefit from garage doors. Because these doors offer increased flexibility, restaurants and other businesses can use them to transform spaces for increased functionality. When lowered, restaurants can use garage doors as windows or walls. If the weather is nice or the staff needs to increase dining room capacity, they can raise garage doors for a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor seating. 

Your industry and application will determine your commercial garage door’s type and dimensions, so knowing how you’ll most use the door once it’s installed will guide you to the best model for your facility’s needs.

3 Types of Commercial Garage Doors 

Businesses can choose from several types of garage doors, depending on their needs and benefits. Understanding the types can help you make a more informed decision. 

1. Overhead Garage Doors 

Overhead garage doors are popular in commercial and residential applications. They are comprised of multiple panels that fit together with hinges. Rollers control how the door lowers and rises, and it rests parallel to the ceiling when up. You can select various operation methods to match your business’s needs, including remote and manual options. 

This option is popular because of its many benefits, including: 

• Durability: Commercial overhead doors are sturdy and durable, making them ideal choices for optimizing their functionality and life span. Your overhead door will continue to perform well for years to come. 
• Material: This door option is excellent when prioritizing aesthetics and functionality. Commercial overhead garage doors come in many materials, including stainless steel, aluminum, glass and fiberglass. You can adapt it to your industry’s applications and needs while continuing to receive excellent quality. 
• Weather-resistance: Along with its durability, this door type can withstand all weather phenomena, regardless of your local climate. You can count on an overhead garage door to protect your business and its goods. 

While overhead doors are an excellent option for many businesses, consider them thoroughly before investing. If you lack the proper overhead area, you might opt for a more space-efficient option. 

2. Roll-Up Garage Doors 

When businesses want something similar to overhead doors but lack the space, roll-up options are beneficial. Instead of rollers holding the door against the ceiling, roll-up garage doors have a coil that sits above the frame that wraps itself around when raised. This door type has smaller panels, letting it coil tightly to minimize space. 

Some benefits of choosing a commercial roll-up garage door include: 

• Space-efficiency: Roll-up doors optimize available space because of their design and storage solution. The coil and smaller panels let roll-up garage doors take up the least amount of stage when raised. This solution might be right for you if your facility has limited overhead space or crowded transitional areas. 
• Easy to operate: You can streamline the implementation process after installing a new garage door with roll-up options because it is easy to use. The simple controls let you save time on training and make it easier for employees to operate it. Having a simplified solution might benefit your operations and employees if you have to open and close doors frequently. 
• Durability: Like overhead doors, roll-up options are durable and robust. They usually come in stainless steel, helping protect them from the weather and other threats for a long-lasting solution. 

Roll-up garage doors suit many businesses and industries. Because they are similar, understanding the benefits can help you choose between roll-up and overhead options. 

Insulated Garage Doors 

Insulated doors are better at maintaining internal conditions and keeping external ones outside. Using this option offers several benefits in industrial and commercial applications, including: 

• Energy-efficiency: Because insulated garage doors are excellent at keeping external temperature and moisture out, your business can save money on heating and cooling. When you can better maintain your internal temperature without external interference, systems spend less energy and effort trying to heat or cool spaces. This benefit can also lengthen your heating and cooling system’s life span. 
• Protection: In addition to lower costs and efficiency, your business can better preserve and protect your stored products. Some equipment or goods require particular temperatures and air conditions to maintain quality. Insulated doors can lock moisture out and keep the temperature closer to its settings. 
• Durability: An insulated garage door is sturdy and durable, ensuring quality performance throughout its life span. 

Whether your business is somewhere hot or cold, insulated garage doors can provide the care and protection you need. 

Commercial Garage Door Sizes By Type 

Each door type comes in different sizes. Choosing the option that aligns with your standard warehouse door size or specific application ensures your choice will fit your facility and space. While each model and type has unique dimensions, these industry standards represent most and will fit common trucks:

• Commercial overhead door sizes: Overhead doors typically measure 32 feet by 2 inches wide and 24 feet by 1 inch tall. 
• Roll-Up door sizes: When selecting a commercial roll-up door, they will typically be around 30 feet by 4 inches in width and 28 feet by 4 inches in height. 
• Insulated door sizes: Insulated doors are the smallest of the commercial models. However, their efficiency and other benefits balance out the diminished size. Commercial insulated garage doors are 30 feet by 2 inches wide and 24 feet by 1 inch high. 

Invest in Commercial Garage Doors With Garage Door Specialists, Inc. 

When you know exactly what you need, you are ready to invest and install. At Garage Door Specialists, Inc., we offer several services to help streamline the installation and implementation process for businesses purchasing a new door. Our wide selection of commercial doors makes it easy to find everything your company needs. Our technicians will visit your location for a free site check and installation estimate, ensuring you have the right door for your space and a clear idea of costs. 

Explore our commercial door selection today, or contact us to learn more about our installation services.

Everything There Is to Know About Roll-Up Doors 

Everything There Is to Know About Roll-Up Doors 

You have options if you’re looking to install doors in a warehouse, garage or yard shed. Roll-up doors, also known as coiling garage doors, provide security and durability. They’re an excellent choice for various businesses and work well in both new facilities and existing buildings. 

Before you install any door, it helps to know how each style works and what kind of benefits and drawbacks you can expect. Garage Door Specialists, Inc. has more than 40 years of experience helping companies choose the right doors. When you work with us, you know you’ve made the right product choice and that a one-year warranty covers your door installation. 

Learn more about roll-up doors and their applications from the pros at Garage Door Specialists. 

What Is a Roll-Up Door and How Does it Work?

Roll-up doors are produced from sheets of metal, usually steel or aluminum. Our roll-up doors are made from 24-inch wide sheets of 26 gauge steel. The steel is roll formed with integral grooves, which creates a continuous sheet. After installation, roll-formed guides move the steel sheets vertically, opening and closing the door. 

As a roll-up door opens, the steel sheets coil around a spring-loaded shaft, rolling into a compact drum at the top of the door frame. The drum size means you don’t need much clearance to install a roll-up door. While a true zero-clearance roll-up door might not be possible, the space required at the top of the door frame is typically minimal. 

Roll-up doors are available in light-, medium- and heavy-duty models to suit various needs. An example of light-duty door use might be a yard shed roll-up door or a self-storage roll-up door. A large warehouse may need a heavy-duty model. 

To extend their life span, roll-up doors are typically painted with silicone polyester paint. You can choose various colors to complement your building’s appearance or fit your company’s branding requirements. 

What Are the Advantages of a Roll-Up Door?

A roll-up door offers multiple benefits. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of a roll-up door versus a sectional door, here are some of the advantages of choosing the roll-up variety:

• Durability: Steel and aluminum have long life spans and can withstand years of use and abuse. Steel roll-up doors are galvanized or coated with a layer of zinc, which helps protect them from rust. The doors are also finished with long-lasting paint that protects while enhancing the door’s appearance. 
• Enhanced security: A sheet of 26-gauge steel is thick and hard to break through, meaning a roll-up door will keep whatever is on the other side safe from harm. Roll-up doors are also better able to resist damage from vandals than sectional doors. Plus, there’s the option to add a lock to increase security.
• Added insulation: Warehouses and garages tend not to be heated or cooled. With a roll-up door, you can choose to add a layer of foam insulation to keep the heat in during the winter and out during the summer.
• Optional fire rating: You can install a roll-up door that’s fire resistant and will trigger at the first evidence of fire. A fire-rated door can keep flames from spreading for up to four hours. 
• Reduced clearance requirements: Since the door rolls up into a compact drum, roll-up doors can be ideal for areas with little additional space.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Roll-Up Door?

One notable drawback of roll-up doors compared to other options is the cost. Roll-up doors have a higher price point than sectional doors, at least upfront. However, while you may pay more initially for a roll-up door, you’ll likely enjoy cost savings in the long run. These doors often need less maintenance than other styles and have the potential to outlast models with a lower purchase price.

What Are the Types of Roll-Up Doors?

Various types of roll-up doors are available. The model that’s right for you will depend on your needs:

• Light-duty: Light-duty roll-up doors are ideal for structures that see minimal wear and tear and don’t require extensive security. For instance, you might install a light-duty door on a yard shed, storage facility or recreational garage.
• Medium-duty: A medium-duty roll-up door can be an appropriate pick for a garage or warehouse that doesn’t see much use.
• Heavy-duty: Heavy-duty roll-up doors are ideal for use in buildings that require extra security or are exposed to severe weather. The door’s strength allows it to withstand strong winds or security threats. A heavy-duty door can also withstand repeated, ongoing use with little signs of wear or damage.
• Fire-rated: Fire-rated roll-up doors protect against fire damage in two ways. First, the doors are specially outfitted with sensors that enable them to detect fire — at the first sign of flames or smoke, the door rolls shut. Closing the door keeps fire from spreading from one building area to another. Fire-rated doors are also designed to withstand flame and heat damage to help keep the fire contained. 
• Insulated: In many cases, you can add insulation to roll-up doors. Choosing a roll-up door with a layer of foam insulation helps keep your facility’s heating and cooling costs down and create a climate-controlled environment while increasing comfort inside your building. 

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Roll-Up Door?

The cost to install a roll-up door varies depending on the door type and size. We can provide you with a free estimate based on your project specifications to help you better understand what your door installation will cost. 

When evaluating the cost of a roll-up door, it helps to consider the following:

• What’s included in the quote: When getting an estimate, find out what it includes. Are you getting a quote for the door cost alone, or does the price cover installation? 
• Available extras: Depending on your needs, you may want to add insulation or choose a fire-rated door. 
• The upfront cost versus ongoing maintenance needs: A roll-up door might have a higher initial price tag than another style, but it will cost you less over time. Ask about maintenance requirements before choosing a door, as one that requires a lot of upkeep and attention can be the more costly option.
•  Longevity of the door: How long the door lasts also affects its cost. A door with a higher price tag and longer life span can be the more cost-effective option over the long term compared to a less expensive one with a shorter service life.

How Do You Maintain a Roll-Up Door?

Caring for and maintaining a roll-up door helps to prolong its life span. There are a few things you can do to keep a door in excellent condition:

• Clean the door regularly
• Keep the channels lubricated
• Schedule regular inspections

If you have a fire-rated roll-up door, test it every few months to ensure that it is set properly and will deploy as intended in case of fire. 

How Do You Stay Safe When Using a Roll-Up Door?

When properly installed and maintained, a roll-up door shouldn’t present a safety hazard. The first thing to do is ensure the door is installed correctly. Hire a company with years of experience installing roll-up doors and a track record of success.

Any time that door opens, verify that it rolled up completely — a partially opened door won’t be fully secure and can roll back down. 

Remind employees not to walk under the door while it is in motion — for safety reasons, you need to wait for the door to open fully before passing through it. Similarly, ensure that people don’t run under the door while it’s closing. 

Get a Roll-Up Door from Garage Door Specialists

Garage Door Specialists offers a variety of custom roll-up doors, so you’re sure to find a model that suits your needs. We design and install roll-up doors and provide fast, reliable service and repairs to keep your entryways safe and functional. To learn more about our options, contact us today.

What’s the Best Garage Door for Security?

Best Garage Doors For Security

Garage doors can be an eye-catching part of your house. When choosing garage doors, many homeowners make their choice based on looks alone. Yet, your garage door is also one of the most crucial safety features of your home. If you’re in the market for a new garage door, you may be wondering what garage door type is the most secure.

If you want to prevent break-ins to keep you and your family safe, then you need a theft-proof garage door. While no garage door can guarantee safety, some garage doors are safer than others. First, you should understand the common ways thieves break into garage doors.

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What Are the Most Common Ways Garage Doors Are Broken Into?

The most skilled burglars can break into a garage door in a matter of seconds. If your garage door does not have modern safety features, thieves can easily find a way to pull your garage door’s safety release lever. Sometimes, it’s as easy as inserting a coat hanger through a breach in the garage door and pulling the door’s safety cord. They can then open and close your garage door behind them without anyone noticing.

Thieves can break into old, weak garage doors with brute force. In other instances, they will use tools to dismantle your garage door’s locking mechanism from the outside. Modern garage doors give you a better chance at keeping intruders out.

The Most Secure Residential Garage Doors by Type

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular garage doors on the market so you can determine which has the best garage door security.

1. Roller Garage Doors

How secure are roller garage doors? Roller doors, also called roll-up doors, are one of the most secure garage door styles available due to their design. These doors consist of horizontal slats with rollers on either side to slide them open and closed. These garage doors roll up neatly overhead without sticking out as one rigid piece. When closed, roller doors show no visible signs of convenient entry for thieves.

Enhance your roller garage door security with some additional features. A double-skinned roller garage door provides extra protection against forced entry. Make sure the bottom slat is strong and durable, as this is where most thieves will try to breach your garage door. You can also invest in extra locks and bolts, making it harder for burglars to dislodge the door. Make sure to choose a door with high-quality, strong rollers.

2. Sectional Garage Doors

When it comes to the security of garage doors, sectional garage doors are one of the best, which is why they’re the most popular type of residential garage door. Hinges connect the horizontal sections of these garage doors, and when you slide the door open, these hinges allow the sections to separate and roll overhead. Because of this, sectional doors are compact and easy to use. They’re also great at protecting from intruders. When closed, the sections form a tight seal, giving potential thieves no clear signs of entry.

Sectional garage doors are a deterrent to thieves, but you can further enhance their security by making sure of two aspects. First, choose a sectional garage door with a strong steel frame, as this determines the overall strength of the door. Second, make sure the door forms a tight seal when closed. This is a crucial component that makes it very difficult for intruders to wedge anything between the sections.

3. Up and Over Garage Doors

Up and over garage doors are similar to sectional doors in that they slide vertically up and come to rest in a nearly horizontal position overhead. However, they don’t have any horizontal sections or slats and stay in one rigid piece. Due to their unique construction, up and over garage doors have been notoriously easy to break into. Their single locking mechanism is easily accessed by drilling a hole into the doors. Thieves can then easily unlock these doors and slide them open.

Because of this obvious weakness, manufacturers have made these garage doors much more secure in recent years. If you’re considering an up-and-over garage door, make sure it has multiple locking points. A euro cylinder anti-snap lock also goes a long way in keeping intruders out. Getting an up and over garage door with these features will make sure that you and your family stay safer against forced entry.

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4. Side-Hinged Garage Doors

These garage doors are popular for their aesthetic appeal. They swing open from a meeting point between two sections of the door, creating a “French door” type of opening. They add an element of luxury to your garage and are especially useful if your garage receives more pedestrian traffic than vehicle use. They may not be the best garage security system, but they can keep intruders out with some added features.

If you want a side-hinged garage door, then choose one made with strong, sturdy materials. Double-skinned metal panels provide the best protection, and a strong steel frame boosts its strength against intruders even more. You should also invest in one with multiple locking points to make it even more difficult for anyone to break in. If you’ll be using it for pedestrian access, then multi-lock mechanisms are a worthy purchase. You can also get the look of side-hinged carriage doors with the convenience of modern overhead operation.

5. Automated Garage Doors

If you’re looking for the best garage security system, automated garage doors may be the answer. These familiar garage doors use a motorized opener to open and close the door at the push of a button or security code. They’re convenient for vehicle use, as you can stay in your car and use the wireless remote to engage the door. Automated garage doors are also one of the best garage doors for resisting intruders.

Since they are automatic, they have no need for an external locking mechanism. These mechanisms are where thieves usually try to break in first, so their absence in itself is a deterrent. Because automated garage doors use springs and tension, they exert a constant downward force when in the closed position, which makes them difficult for burglars to lift. Only once you engage the motorized opener will the door lift.

Choose Garage Door Specialists, Inc. for Your Garage Door Needs

If you’re ready to enhance your home’s security by investing in a new garage door, we at Garage Door Specialists are ready to help. Our professional teams care about giving you a reliable product at competitive prices throughout North Carolina. We carry high-security residential garage doors to meet every need, no matter your home’s size. We want to give you a product that will last for years to come.

Contact us today to learn more. You can also request an estimate or request service on your existing garage door. Whatever your garage door situation demands, we hope you’ll choose Garage Door Specialists to help.

Which Is Better for Your Application: Rolling or Sectional Steel Doors?

Rolling versus Sectional Steel Garage Doors

Just as every garage serves a specific purpose, so too should every garage door accommodate the space’s unique needs. When considering different commercial garage doors, many people compare steel rolling garage door benefits to steel sectional garage door benefits. In the debate between steel sectional vs. rolling steel garage doors, it’s sometimes difficult to identify which suits your needs.

Thankfully, our team at Garage Door Specialists have extensive knowledge about all types of commercial garage doors. We’re happy to help identify the benefits of each and highlight a few points to consider as you make your decision to purchase a new garage door.

Benefits of Rolling Steel Garage Doors

Rolling steel doors are fantastic resources for commercial settings. You might hear people call them overhead rolling doors, roll-up doors and coiling garage doors. Their mechanism retracts the steel rolls together into a compact coil. These overhead rolling doors are applicable in the interior and exterior of a space. Their versatility, combined with their small footprint, ease of maintenance and attractive design, offer distinct advantages, including increased security, durability and insulation.

Rolling steel doors create layers of protection and locking mechanisms to provide exceptional security. The strong materials used in their design provide substantial durability that enables them to withstand heavy usage, wear and tear for years, which includes standing up to severe weather, corrosion and rust. These steel doors can also have a layer of foam insulation that reduces the transfer of both heat and noise.

One of the more popular types of overhead rolling doors used in commercial settings are fire-rated roll-up doors. These steel roller doors enhance safety and security by rolling down automatically when triggered by smoke to prevent fires from spreading. With customization offering additional benefits, rolling steel doors are applicable for interior and exterior use in businesses of all sizes.

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Benefits of Sectional Steel Doors

Sectional garage doors are among the most popular types of garage doors available, particularly for residential applications. Steel sectional garage doors have wider panels than those of rolling steel doors, and rest parallel to the ceiling when retracted. Like steel roller doors, steel sectional garage door benefits are versatile enough to cater to your unique needs. For instance, you can opt to include windows, insulation or added hardware. Steel doors are generally affordable for all budgets and require little maintenance.

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As one of the leading types of commercial garage doors, steel sectional doors offer a range of benefits. Although they don’t roll into a coil like rolling steel doors do, steel sectional doors are still relatively compact. They also feature strong, durable materials that resist damage and provide enhanced security. If you need better climate control of your interior, choose insulation.

Considerations When Choosing Rolling vs Sectional Steel Garage Doors

Now that you have a general idea of the benefits sectional steel doors and steel roller doors provide, let’s venture deeper into the decision-making process and identify a few crucial considerations. Depending on your specific application, you’ll need to consider additional factors such as each door’s performance, ease of installation, cost and overall maintenance.

Performance

No matter which types of commercial garage doors you choose, performance will be one of your top priorities. Performance is the way to assess how well a door can handle heavy usage. Some garage doors can meet high-efficiency metrics, such as completing hundreds of thousands of cycles before wearing down. 

Typically, rolling steel doors will offer higher cycle ranges than steel sectional doors. However, more is not always necessary. Depending on how much traffic will come in and out of your garage, the “performance” you desire may be a reliable, cost-effective door, even though it doesn’t yield a six-figure cycle range.

Mounting

Before considering space requirements, you must first think about the best way to mount the garage door. Different lift mounts will require space either directly above or beside the doorway, or overhead behind the doorway. For example, you can have rolling steel doors mounted to the walls instead of the ceiling, while sectional steel doors require ceiling or roof support. 

Since rolling steel doors can attach to the walls, they require limited overhead space, which is ideal for smaller garages. However, there are various ways to mount steel sectional garage doors. These include a standard lift, a high lift for high ceilings, a vertical lift to bring the entire door straight up or a low-headroom lift for limited overhead spaces.

Space

The physical space necessary to install any garage door is a factor many commercial and residential property owners forget about at first. Steel sectional doors will take up more overhead space than rolling ones, which significantly limits property owners with low ceilings or smaller garages.

Consider how many resources are above you: fire sprinklers, lighting, HVAC vents, hanging storage shelves and hanging promotional materials like banners or signs. Steel sectional doors may block these, whereas an overhead rolling door will contain itself in a compact coil that takes up limited overhead space in your garage.

Cost

Cost factors into every decision you make for your business. However, it’s vital to understand that “cost-effective” and “cheap” are not the same. No matter which garage door you choose, you should always make sure it has reliable parts and comes from a trustworthy garage door company.

In many cases, steel sectional doors are more cost-effective than steel roller doors because they feature one-piece construction. You must also consider the long-term cost associated with each door. For instance, the steel sectional door may have a smaller upfront cost, but rolling steel doors typically have a smaller lifetime cost, as they’re more durable and require less maintenance.

Size

While space is a critical concern, the size of the door is another aspect that requires some thought. Depending on your garage opening, you may need a door that meets non-standard specifications. A size variance ranging from half an inch to an inch may not seem large, but such details are vital.

It’s possible to custom-fit many rolling steel doors to the exact dimensions required. In most cases, you can also get steel sectional doors modified. However, their modification limits may be predetermined increments ranging from 2″ to 3″ to 18″ to 24″. Modifications on either door will still look attractive, but if your dimensions are uncommon, a rolling steel door may provide a better fit.

Security and Maintenance

Although sectional steel doors feature single-piece construction, they often have more components in their overall mounting and installation than rolling steel doors do. With fewer exposed parts, rolling steel garage doors take less wear and tear over time. They’re also more likely to have grease-coated springs that resist damage from rust and low temperatures.

Regarding security, both will secure your garage and everything inside it. Generally speaking, choosing an overhead rolling door over a steel sectional door may lend additional safety because their parts are less exposed. Remember that all commercial garage doors require routine inspection to ensure they’re secure and safe for use.

Steel Sectional vs. Rolling Steel Garage Doors

Still unsure whether a steel sectional garage door or a rolling steel garage door is ideal for your application? We’re here to help. Contact Garage Door Specialists today and tell us the performance and functionality you desire from your garage door. Our knowledgeable team in Western North Carolina will help you choose the right steel roller doors or steel sectional garage doors that meet your unique needs.

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Glass Garage Door Buying Guide for North Carolina

Glass Garage Door Buying Guide for North Carolina

So you’re in the market for a new garage door but aren’t sure where to start. Perhaps you’re in the mood for something sleek, stylish and different from your neighbors. Well, we’ve got three words for you — glass garage doors. Residential glass garage doors can make many houses look stunning and stand out from the rest. 

Most people expect to see boring white or opaque panels when they visit someone’s home and will often ignore them. A garage with glass doors can catch them off guard and provide a sense of sophistication to a part of the home that is not often considered sophisticated. This guide will help you decide whether glass-paned garage doors are for you and tell you all you need to know about them and where to buy them in North Carolina.

What Are Glass Garage Doors?

Glass garage doors are just that — garage doors with sturdy glass panels. While it may sound like a weak material to make a garage door out of, it can be quite resilient, especially when framed by other strong materials like aluminum. Glass paneled garage doors come in many colors and opacities, which allow you to bring as much or as little light as you want.

Pros of Glass Paneled Garage Doors

Glass garage doors have several benefits, including the following:

• Modern designs: The sleek design of a glass garage door can make your home look contemporary and elegant.
• Increased curb appeal: Glass garage doors can increase your home’s curb appeal and, in turn, increase your home’s value.
• A greater sense of size: See-through garage door windows can make the room feel larger.
• Greater efficiency: With glass panels, natural light can come through, reducing the need for interior lighting.
• An uninterrupted line of sight: Depending on where your garage is located, you can see beautiful scenic views while the door is closed.
• Security: Tempered glass and optional insulated glass will keep your garage secure against the elements and potential breakage.
• Low maintenance: Glass garage doors require little maintenance other than the occasional cleaning with glass cleaner.

Cons of Glass Paneled Garage Doors

While there are many pros to glass garage doors, they have a few concerns as well. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Heaviness: Glass paneled garage doors can be weighty and require an upgraded garage door opener to handle the extra heft.
• Higher costs: Glass garage doors tend to be more expensive compared to traditional garage doors.
• A very specific appearance: The minimalist design of glass garage doors may clash with homes that don’t already possess a similarly modern look.
• A lack of insulation: Regular glass garage doors don’t offer much insulation. While optional insulated glass can offer increased insulation, it’s not quite as effective as traditional doors.
• Noticeable defects: If your glass garage door starts to break, the cracks will be noticeable.

How Much Does a Glass Garage Door Cost?

Glass overhead doors can often cost close to and over $1000. While you may occasionally find a garage door for a price closer to a thousand, the most common price range is over a thousand to several thousand dollars. Custom sizing requests and nonstandard materials could drive the price up even more. In addition, the average garage door installation can cost several hundred to over a thousand dollars, so you’ll have to consider that when you start budgeting.

How Can I Customize My Glass Garage Door?

We understand that everyone has their own tastes and visions for how they want their home to appear. It’s for this reason that residential glass garage doors come with many parts that can be customized.

1. Framework

A garage with glass doors generally incorporates a metal frame for each glass panel to help strengthen the overall door. Oftentimes the metal used for this framework is aluminum, and you can customize the color to your desired design.

2. The Glass Itself

The options for the glass used in glass panel garage doors are often tempered glass or clear acrylic, offering the appearance of glass. Tempered glass is much more resistant to breaking than standard glass. If it does sustain damage, it will break into smaller connected pieces that will present significantly less danger to nearby people. Acrylic is also more shatter-resistant than standard glass, although it’s more likely to scuff.

If these options still don’t sound strong enough, you could also install insulated glass to add an extra layer of protection. Insulated glass can make your garage more comfortable and conserve electricity during the heating and cooling seasons.

3. Glass Garage Door Window Styles

If you don’t want a garage door entirely made of glass, glass garage door windows come in many shapes and sizes based on your preferences. You could get windows that stretch the entire width or small windows to accent a portion of the door. Windows let you add glass elements to wooden and steel garage doors.

4. Opacity

The opacity of the glass can be adjusted to produce a variety of effects. Perhaps you don’t want to let in much light, or you want to increase privacy in your garage while enjoying the sleek look of a glass door. Whatever your reason, there’s an opacity option for you. Some popular options for glass garage door opacity include:

• Clear: Clear is the standard appearance of glass, completely transparent for full view doors.
• Obscured: This option uses textured glass that lets in some natural light without revealing anything inside the garage.
• Frosted: Frosting gives the glass a white appearance that diffuses natural light while obscuring visibility.
• Tinted: Tinted glass appears dark and semitransparent, allowing some visibility through the glass.
• Mirrored: Glass doors can also have a one-way mirror application. The outside face has a metallic appearance, while the inside face offers visibility outside.

5. Other Features

Here are a few other features available for glass garage doors: 

• Insulation: Insulation is an optional upgrade for glass garage doors that can be customized to some degree. While standard doors are uninsulated, insulated glass panels can increase energy efficiency.
• Color: The color of a glass garage door, also known as tint, can be customized to compliment whatever colors are already present in your home.
• Texture: The texture of the windows can be customized to have a non-smooth surface which can add an extra degree of gravitas.

What Are the Best Windows for Glass Garage Doors?

Many people stick to obscured or textured glass garage doors with aluminum framing that incorporates tempered, insulated glass. This can provide a sleek design to your garage that provides some of the key benefits of having a glass garage door while maintaining your privacy. The tempered or insulated glass will also make sure that your garage can resist the elements.

Where to Get Glass Garage Doors in North Carolina

Glass garage doors require professional installation. If installed improperly, they can cause potential harm to people and your belongings. Thankfully, you can trust the experienced team at Garage Door Specialists. which has been installing garage doors for over 45 years. Our team in North Carolina will be sure to carefully install the door to make certain that it’s secure and functional. 

Take a look at some of our modern glass and aluminum garage doors in our catalog to see what we have available. Then, request an estimate or give us a call so we can figure out how to best meet your needs.

Single Panel vs. Sectional Garage Doors

Single Panel vs. Sectional Garage Doors

Most people can spot the design differences between a single panel garage door and a sectional garage door, but what are the pros and cons of owning one versus the other? There are slight operational and functional differences between the two garage door styles that make them suitable for different types of homes and homeowners.

To help make your garage door choice more clear, this article will cover the nuances of single panel and sectional garage doors along with the benefits and drawbacks of owning each kind.

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What’s the Difference Between Single and Sectional Garage Doors?

Before comparing single panel garage doors and sectional garage doors, we need to understand what they are. Let’s look at what makes a garage door single panel and what classifies it as sectional:

What is a Single Panel Garage Door?

A single panel garage door comes in one large piece that slides up into the space above the car once opened. Typically, single panel garage doors are hung on a strong hinge system attached to the jamb instead of on overhead tracks. This type of garage door is typically found on older homes or newer homes with a vintage look.

What is a Sectional Garage Door?

The layout of a sectional garage door includes several horizontal panels joined together by hinges that enable the door to bend and curve as it goes up and down. Sectional garage doors are more modern and have a smaller opening clearance.

Pros of Single Panel Garage Doors

Even though it’s an older style, there are still plenty of benefits to choosing a single panel garage door for your home. Check out these main advantages of single panel garage doors:

1. More Variety

When it comes to design and material, single panel garage doors offer more of a selection of both. Although sectional garage doors come in many styles, they tend to be more limited to designs that function well within smaller segments and seams. Because single panel garage doors give you one giant palette to work with, you can use virtually any material without having to worry about additional panels interrupting the look of the door. 

2. Less Expensive

Typically, single panel garage doors cost less than sectional garage doors made from similar materials. And your single panel garage door will continue to save you money when you don’t have to worry about frequent garage door cable or torsion spring repairs. With fewer moving parts, single panel garage doors can be less expensive to install and maintain in the long run.

3. Simple

Because it is one big panel, a single panel garage door is much simpler to properly install than a sectional garage door. A single panel door has fewer parts, which means there are fewer bits to potentially wear down and break over time.

Cons of Single Panel Garage Doors

Along with its great benefits, a single panel garage door can come with some drawbacks. If you’re considering getting a single panel garage door, be aware of these factors:

1. Safety

The main reason single panel garage doors have gone out of fashion is their lack of safety features. As opposed to more modern garage doors, single panel garage doors use extension springs, which can fail drastically if not properly maintained. Old springs can fly off rusted connectors and cause damage to drywall, car windows or whatever else is in your garage.

2. Expensive Repairs

Single panel doors may require less maintenance and repairs, but when they do break down, there is potential for the whole door to fail at once. A sectional garage door that’s been crushed or dented in a single section can have just that section repaired, but a single panel garage door must be entirely replaced each time.

3. Space Restrictions

Smaller houses in tightly packed communities may not be the best fit for a single panel garage door. Single panel garage doors do not allow for quite as much space inside the garage due to the angle at which they operate. A single panel garage door will also need to tilt a few extra feet to open, which means you’ll need to be parked farther back as the door begins to open.

Pros of Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors offer their fair share of benefits. Here are some of the top advantages of a sectional garage door:

1. Security

Sectional garage doors offer some extra security because they have rubber seals around their perimeter, which block wind drafts and prevent dirt from blowing into the garage. Because they don’t have an obvious target point of entry, sectional garage doors also offer more security and protection from potential intruders.

2. Durability

A sectional garage door typically stands up to harsh weather conditions better than a single panel garage door. Sectional garage doors also grant you more control over how much the door is opened, so you can open it incrementally to allow for ventilation while cutting down on any glare from the sun.

3. Compact Operation

Unlike single panel garage doors that need a certain clearance space to operate properly, sectional garage doors move within a compact vertical plane. A sectional garage door’s narrow range of motion means you get more room for vehicles to come and go without restrictions. Sectional garage doors do not kick out at all when they open, so you can drive right up to the face of the door before opening it. This feature comes in handy for those with a short driveway or whenever a car needs to be parked close to the garage.

View Garage Door Styles in North Carolina

Cons of Sectional Garage Doors

With the benefits of sectional garage doors in mind, let’s take a look at some of the negatives:

1. Continual Maintenance

A sectional garage door will require a bit more upkeep than a single panel garage door. The many components of a sectional garage door may need to be repaired and replaced when necessary to keep your garage door operating properly. If you choose a sectional garage door, you will need to develop a regular maintenance routine that includes lubrication and cleaning. 

2. Cost

The operational mechanism of sectional garage doors paired with their higher routine maintenance costs makes them a more expensive alternative to single panel garage doors. With more parts to repair or replace periodically, the maintenance costs of owning a sectional garage door can quickly add up.

3. Complicated Installation Process

Installing a sectional garage door is more complicated than installing a single panel garage door. Because the various parts of a sectional garage door make it a more complex mechanism, it is always recommended to have a professional install the door. Although sectional garage door installation can be tricky, hiring a garage door expert will ensure you get a safe and smooth installation.

Choose the Best Garage Door for You From Garage Door Specialists, Inc.

Now that you know the different appearance and performance characteristics of single panel and sectional garage doors, you can make an informed garage door decision. For a timeless traditional garage door or classically elegant carriage garage door, check out the variety of products from Garage Door Specialists, Inc. We even offer a selection of specialty garage doors.

To find out more about which garage door style is right for your house, contact Garage Door Specialists, Inc. for a free consultation in Western North Carolina today.

View Garage Door Styles in North Carolina

What Are The Benefits of Garage Door Replacement?

7 Benefits of Getting a New Garage Door

Garage door replacements provide a variety of benefits to your home. Today we’re going to dig into what these benefits are and how they affect your decision to buy a new garage door. Here are 7 benefits of installing a new residential garage door:

1. MORE PROTECTION AND SECURITY

In many cases, garages are attached directly to the home and we all store valuables in our garages that we’d like to keep protected from theft. Replacement garage doors by Garage Door Specialists, Inc. are designed for a precision fit, keeping the outside, out. Keep your garage secure by replacing older doors with newer ones designed to prevent criminals from gaining access. A sturdy, insulated replacement garage door offers better protection and improved home security.

2. INCREASED HOME VALUE

According to Remodeling Magazine, replacing your garage door is the #1 home renovation for getting your money’s return. In other words, garage door replacement has the best ROI of any other home improvement. If you’re looking to sell your home or just fix it up for the long-run, installing anew garage door is the most cost-efficient way to add value to your home! Learn more about new garage doors increasing home value.

3. BETTER APPEARANCE

Your old garage doors have been through their share of winters and probably look like it too. Replacing your overhead doors improves your home’s appearance. Better appearance, security and insulation all contribute to a higher home value. If you’re thinking of selling your home, replacement garage door panels are a cost-effective way to add value to your home.

4. SUPERIOR INSULATION

Today’s garage doors are engineered to keep your garage cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Replacing older doors with upgraded models allows you to enjoy your garage comfortably and save you money on your energy bill.

5. SAFETY AND LIABILITY

Modern doors are equipped with a range of safety features to protect you, your family and your guests from accidental injury. Replacement doors may also help you save on insurance.

6. REDUCED MAINTENANCE

Many older garage doors require repairs and fresh paint annually and in some cases, more often. Free up your time and eliminate this chore with doors built to withstand the elements.

7. INCREASED UTILITY

Broken or damaged overhead doors can discourage garage use, preventing you from accessing valuable square footage. Replacing garage doors can lead to more — and better — use of your space.

Garage Door Replacement in Western NC

Contact the professionals at Garage Door Specialists, Inc. today if you live in Western North Carolina. Our experienced team will give you plenty of high-quality options to choose from when selecting your new garage door!

View Residential Garage Door Styles in North Carolina

How Does a New Garage Door Increase Home Value?

How Does a New Garage Door Increase Home Value?

When it comes to home improvement, a new residential garage door is one of the best investment decisions you can make. New garage doors increase home value through better design and visual appeal immediately after installation, so the average return on investment for a new garage door is remarkably high. The most recent cost vs value report conducted by Remodeling Magazine ranked garage door replacement as the number 1 return on investment for your home! Here are 4 ways a new garage door will increase your home’s value:

1. LOWER ANNUAL HEATING AND COOLING COSTS

Reduce air transfer between your garage and the outdoors to save on your annual heating and cooling costs. Customizable, modern and available with optional insulation, today’s garage doors offer improved energy efficiency over older doors. Our professional installation service ensures a tight and proper fit, keeping your climate under control.

2. GET BETTER PROTECTION AND SECURITY

Most modern doors have the latest security and safety features. Often, garages offer direct access to the home, vehicles and all valuables stored within. Intruders want in and new doors help keep them out. Modern garage doors are made from strong and durable materials and are equipped with the latest technology to prevent unwanted guests from gaining access. 

3. IMPROVE CURB APPEAL

Depending on size, garage doors can account for up to 30% or more of the home exterior on the street-facing side. New garage doors are designed to flow with the architecture and aesthetic of your home, which can have a massive impact on curb appeal. We have seen countless examples of homeowners installing a new garage door and coming away with a more valuable and attractive home. Check out some of our before and afters.

4. INCREASE HOME VALUE

New garage doors are smooth, quiet and selected to complement your home’s exterior. New, energy-efficient garage doors with the latest security measures can increase your home value to potential buyers. If you’re looking to sell your home anytime soon then installing a brand new garage is the best possible way to increase your home’s value.

Shop New Garage Door & Increase Your Home’s Value

Garage Door Specialists Inc. offers affordable garage doors, installation and services for adding beauty and elegance to your Statesville, Lenior, and Hickory homes. Contact us to discuss adding value to your home with a new garage door!

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