One of the biggest eye-catching spots on a home’s exterior is a garage door. It’s a prominent fixture on the front facade, and an important part of the curb appeal, too. With the right garage door, you can increase your home value and improve the look of your home.
At Easy Garage Door Repair, we understand that selecting a garage door that performs well and enhances the aesthetic of your home is a big decision. From a modern upgrade to a classic touch to a simple refresh, here are nine garage door features that can enhance curb appeal in an instant.
Stylish Garage Door Materials
The garage door material contributes greatly to its look as well as durability. Selecting a wise material can enhance the architectural feel of your home and garner personality.
1. Steel: This material can be designed to resemble wood, laying it over metal for a durable, low-maintenance option.
2. Wood: High-end and classic look with a natural texture, but requires more maintenance.
3. Aluminum and Glass: Sleek and modern look with enhanced natural light.
4. Fiberglass: Provides the look of wood without the maintenance worries of warping or rotting.
5. Vinyl: A long-lasting material that resists denting and stands up to the elements.
Choosing the proper material can improve the garage door’s beauty and function level.
Bold or Complementary Colors
A fresh coat of paint or a garage door in some bold color can make a dramatic difference in curb appeal. However, although neutral shades like white, beige, and gray are still widely popular, adding a splash of color can create a statement.
• Using dark colors such as black, deep blue or charcoal creates a contemporary and refined appearance.
• Red, brown, or dark green: warm tones that provide a hospitable yet classic impression.
• Bright colors can also help differentiate a home and draw the eye from other homes in the area.
• If you’re not sure which color will work, try matching the garage door to the front door or trim to create a unified look.
Decorative Hardware Accents
Decorative hardware can transform an ordinary garage door into one that looks custom, even high-end. The addition of small details like handles, hinges, and faux iron straps can turn a garage door into a classic carriage style door.
• Common accents of hardware are as follows:
• Rustic wrought iron handles
• Faux strap hinges
• Ornamental clavos (decorative studs)
This accent suits traditional, farmhouse, and Mediterranean-style homes exceptionally well while advanced enough to supply an ageless feel.
Windows for Natural Light and Style
Garage door windows are not only better looking, but let natural light into the garage. Types of windows to choose from include the following:
• Arched or rectangular windows for a classic style.
• Frosted or tinted glass that provides privacy but lets light in. • Classic or colonial-style homes: grid or divided panels
• A sleek, metal frame with full-view glass panels for a modern or industrial look.
Strategically placed windows can also create a more aesthetically pleasant appearance to your garage door, while providing an inviting feel to your garage space.
Design Styles: Modern, Carriage House
Changing a garage door can do wonders for the curb appeal. These are two of the most popular styles:
• Carriage House Garage Doors – Look like traditional swing-out barn doors, but function like contemporary overhead doors. The doors sometimes include decorative hardware, paneling, and arched windows.
• Contemporary Garage Doors – Clean and minimalistic in design, usually in glass-finished panels, clean lines and high-quality metals. • Choosing a style suited to the overall architecture of your home can add character without detracting from its value.
Smart Technology for Convenience and Security
Smart technology makes a garage door work better and makes a home more modern. Wi-Fi-connected openers and smartphone-controlled access offer security and convenience.
• There are keyless entry pads that let a homeowner enter without a remote.
• Smart garage door openers allow for monitoring and operation from a phone.
• Security cameras and motion sensors offer extra protection.
A high-tech garage door system can help you in your day-to-day life, and also add interest to your home for potential buyers.
High-Quality Insulation
Make sure to get an insulated garage door. Installing an energy-efficient insulated garage door can help to improve energy efficiency and the comfort of living space, particularly for attached garages. Besides regulating temperature, insulation reduces noise and increases durability.
Some commonly used insulation includes:
• Polystyrene Insulation – An inexpensive choice offering decent temperature regulation.
• Polyurethane insulation – A denser, stronger alternative that offers better insulation.
An insulated garage door is a desirable addition for anyone wanting to reduce energy bills and increase functionality.
Custom design aesthetics and embossed textures
Garage door panels also have different textures and designs, adding depth and visual interest. Instead of a flat, nondescript garage door, try:
• Raised panels for a traditional or colonial home.
• Flat panel for a more modern look.
• Recessed panels give a Craftsman or carriage-style look. • Grainy Wood Textures for the warmth and charm of natural wood without the hassle
An unusual panel design can turn a garage door into an eye-catching element of a home’s exterior.
A Clean and Well-Maintained Appearance
Even the most fashionable garage door is going to lose its curb appeal if it appears grimy, dull, or old. With simple maintenance, a garage door can be kept looking new, and attractive.
• Clean the surface regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt and stains.
• If the color looks faded or if the paint is chipped, repaint or refinish the door.
• Lubricate hinges and moving parts to keep everything running smoothly.
• Insulate against drafts and moisture by checking and replacing weather stripping.
Regular garage door maintenance not only adds to the curb appeal but also helps extend the door lifespan.
Final Thoughts
The garage door is more than a utilitarian entrance; it plays a huge role in a home’s curb appeal. Whether it be upgrading the look with a trendy design, dressing it up with decorative enhancements, outfitting it with smart gadgets, or just keeping it clean, the entryway is where homeowners can add immediate curb appeal and home value.
As professionals at Easy Garage Door Repair, we specialize in garage door upgrades, installations, and maintenance that will give your home the best look possible. If all you need is a new garage door or simply some improvement, call us today.