Choosing The Best Overhead Garage Door

Whether your garage stands alone or is attached to your home, it fulfills an important daily function for you and your family. Garages protect vehicle(s) from sun exposure, snow, and inclement weather, offer storage space for everything from gardening paraphernalia to sports equipment and sometimes even provide extra functional space for specialized workshops, studios, and/or recreational pursuits.

One of the features that defines a garage is the fact that you can conveniently drive (or transport large items) into and out of it through a wide door that’s designed to operate differently than any of the other doors in your home.

If you're looking to install a new garage door or replace an old one, you may be wondering what type of door will offer the best security, insulation, durability, and affordability for your needs. At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, we're often asked about how to select the best garage door, so we've put together answers to a few of the most common inquiries we receive.

If, after reading this post, you still have questions about which garage door will be the right door for your particular needs and circumstances, visit us in person to speak directly with a friendly and knowledgeable STAR team member.

What Is the Difference Between a Roll-Up Door and an Overhead Door?

Overhead doors are upward-opening doors that are supported horizontally when open—usually on an overhead track. They are often panelled and commonly found on garages.

Roll-up doors are steel curtains that typically roll up into a coil directly over the door opening—much like a roll of paper towels. They’re commonly found on storage sheds.

Roll-up doors are typically more economical than overhead doors and can offer excellent security, but they do come with some drawbacks as well.

What Are the Disadvantages of Roll-Up Doors?

The main disadvantages of roll-up doors are:

• Roll-up doors are less likely to offer superior insulative properties than overhead doors.
• Roll-up doors are less frequently compatible with automation than overhead doors.

What Is the Most Reliable Type of Garage Door?

At STAR Building Materials, we recommend steel or aluminum overhead doors as the most durable and reliable garage door options. Easy to automate, long-lasting, secure, and offering excellent insulation options, these doors are the gold standard for residential garages.

What Is the Life Expectancy of an Overhead Door?

On average, a properly maintained overhead door will have a lifespan of 15-30 years but can last longer under ideal conditions.

Ready to install a new overhead door to enhance the function, security, insulation, and durability of your garage? At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, we offer a wide selection of product options and will be happy to advise you on DIY installation or make your project easy with one of our complete garage packages.

For more information, visit our store or contact us directly today!