While it can seem trivial, investing in a new garage door is one of the most important home improvement purchases you will make as a homeowner. Undeniably, the garage door is one of the frequently used appliances in your home. 

Since it also impacts your property's security and appeal, you need to ensure you are investing in the best residential garage doors you can find. If you are considering getting a new garage door, below are some of the key things you need to keep in mind:

Be mindful of garage door warranties.

When you purchase a garage door, it is crucial that you make sure it comes with a warranty. This is important so you won't have to pay for the garage door when it needs to be replaced or repaired. Also, since warranties expire after a specific period, make sure you know when it ends.

Typically, garage doors have a warranty on the door panels and some of their parts. Some manufacturers also offer a lifetime warranty on the parts and door panels. It is also recommended that you check if the manufacturer offers a separate warranty for the installation of the garage door.

Be aware of the different garage door styles.

There's no denying garage doors can dramatically enhance the look of your home. That said, it would be best to opt for a garage door style that complements your house. Some of the most popular garage door styles include:

• Contemporary garage doors. This style is best if you want to go for a modern look. Contemporary garage doors are typically made from a combination of glass and metal.

• Raised-panel garage doors. This garage door style comes with symmetrical rectangles. This type of garage door is ideal if you are going for a more traditional look.

• Carriage house. This garage door traditionally opens from the center and typically has a rustic look. Fortunately, it still works well on contemporary homes.

While some homeowners prefer the look of wood, wooden garage doors will need more maintenance. In addition, wooden garage doors cost more compared to those made from other materials.

Take note of your material options.

When picking a garage door, you also have several options to choose from in terms of materials. Some of the options available include:

• Aluminum. If you live in a humid place, aluminum is your best option as it can resist corrosion and rust.

• Composite wood. If you want the attractive aesthetics of wood, you can never go wrong with composite wood. Composite wood can also be painted and has moisture resistance. If insulated, it won't crack or rot.

• Steel. When it comes to door materials, steel is considered one of the most common. Also, since steel is one of the most popular, you will have more options when it comes to style, color, and price range.

• Wood. Undeniably, wood looks great, whether on the siding of your home or your garage door. While wood products created for outdoor exposure are typically made of moisture-resistant wood, they will require a lot of maintenance. If you don't mind refinishing your garage door every few years, this is an option you can look into.

Figure out which garage door opener to get.

When getting a garage door, you need to also decide on the type of garage opener door to get. Two of the most common garage door openers include:

• Chain drive. While least expensive, this type is also the noisiest.

• Belt drive. This type requires less maintenance since it has less moving parts.

There are also other great features you need to look for in a garage door opener. There's ultra-bright LEDs, remote control, Wi-Fi, motion detector activation system, manual release features, and battery backup, to name a few. 

Factor in the benefits of insulation.

When picking a garage door, you will likely ask yourself if an insulated one is worth the extra cost. Prices can vary, depending on the material used and the size of the garage door you have chosen. Even if it doesn't get too cold where you live, insulation can be beneficial as it can help improve your energy efficiency significantly.

Insulated garage doors are not only thicker, they are also considered more durable. Insulated garage doors are also less prone to damage. Other enticing benefits insulated garage doors offer include:

• They are visually pleasing and can help increase curb appeal

• They can increase the value of your home

• They can function as a noise barrier

• They help regulate the temperature inside and prevent mold and condensation

Final Thoughts

Once you figure out all the important factors to consider when buying a garage door, the next thing you should look for is a trusted garage door company to purchase from. If you need expert help, our team at Modern would be more than happy to oblige. We can help you effortlessly find an affordable, durable, and top-quality garage door that ticks all your boxes.