Garage Door FAQs

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As the largest moving object in your home, it's important that all your garage door FAQs are answered to keep it running smooth and looking great.

What are the different grille options for my garage door windows?

The different grille options for windows are window inserts, simulated divided lites, and true divided lites. Learn more about different grille options here.

What is the difference between window inserts, simulated divided lite, and true divided lite?

Window inserts are used on basic steel doors to create the appearance of individual windows. The plastic is snapped into place over a single window and can be removed if you need to clean the glass. Simulated divided lite is the most common construction for any door beyond a basic steel. The window section is constructed as one large window pane with a grille of the same material as the door placed on the front of the glass portion to resemble individual window panes. True divided lite is created by individual panes of glass within the window section. Each piece of glass is cut individually for each pane of the window. These are only available on high end wood and vinyl doors and the design is rarely used, as it dramatically increases the cost of a door and gives the same look as a simulated divided lite from outside the garage.

Does it matter which way my garage door faces?

Yes it matters which way your garage door faces. Southern facing garage doors can absorb heat quickly which can lead to warping, twisting, and fading based on the material and color. Garage doors in Eastern or Western exposures require reflective paints and light paint colors. Northern exposure allows most colors and materials to be used. You can read more about how the direction your garage door faces can impact color and material choices.

Should I repair or replace my garage door?

If you like the style, design, and overall look of your garage door, but there is some damage to the exterior or working parts of your garage door, a repair could be the cheaper and more efficient option.

If you’re not happy with the style or design of your door, want to add windows or you think it’s too cold in the garage, you should probably opt to replace your garage door.

Can I replace just part of my garage door?

While it’s not always doable, it is possible to replace just part of the garage door. You’ll need to know the manufacturer, the length and height of the section you want to replace, and the company that installed it for you. Without that information, you will not be able to replace just a section of your garage door and likely be satisfied with the outcome.

What are the different types of glass?

Different types of glass include plain or clear, tinted, frosted, obscure, glue chip, and hammered. Tinted or textured glass offer privacy. More transparent designs offer natural light inside of your garage.

What increases the price of a garage door?

Things that can increase the price of a garage door are the size, design, material, finishing, windows, insulation, motor replacement, woodwork replacement, and the company that’s installing it. Read more about what elements affect the price of a garage door here.

What type of garage door should I get if I live near the beach?

Fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl garage doors are all great garage door materials for beachy areas. Their resistance to rust and moisture make these materials durable in a coastal environment.

How do I check door balance?

First pull the emergency release so you can move the door. Now manually lift the door up. It shouldn’t feel heavy, 5–10 lbs at most. It should stop at three positions: 1/3 of the way up, 1/2 way up, and 3/4 of the way up.

How often do I need to inspect my door?

It is suggested that you perform a safety and maintenance check monthly on your garage door. However, an annual inspection by a trained garage door technician can help keep your door running smoothly.

What are some garage door trends?

Some garage door trends are bold colors, custom designs, modern carriage house style, full view glass doors, and mosaic windows. You can read more about garage door trends here.

What type of insulation is used in garage doors?

Garage doors are insulated with polystyrene or polyurethane. Polystyrene is the same material used for a foam cooler and is cut to size and then placed within a garage door panel. It adds rigidity to the door and typically has an R-value between R6–R10. Polyurethane is a spray injected, expanding foam insulation. As it is sprayed in the door from both sides, it expands to fill every nook and cranny inside the door which adds rigidity. Polyurethane has an R-value of R12–R19, on average.