When purchasing a new garage door, many homeowners have questions about installation, insulation, maintenance, and long-term performance. At Shank Door, we’re committed to helping customers make informed decisions about their garage door investment. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners in New Holland and the surrounding communities.
TL;DR: Common Garage Door Questions
- Professional installation is highly recommended for safety and proper operation.
- Insulated garage doors provide energy efficiency, comfort, and noise reduction benefits.
- Steel and wood garage doors each offer unique advantages.
- Many one-piece garage doors can be replaced with sectional garage doors.
- Steel garage doors can typically be repainted if desired.
Should a Professional Install My New Garage Door?
Yes. Garage door installation is a highly technical process that is generally not recommended as a do-it-yourself project. Garage doors are the largest moving objects in most homes and contain numerous components that must work together properly for safe operation.
Garage door springs are under significant tension and can be dangerous to install or adjust without the proper tools and training. Professional installers have the experience necessary to complete the job safely, efficiently, and according to manufacturer specifications.
In addition to ensuring proper operation, professional installation may help preserve manufacturer warranties and eliminate the hassle of disposing of an old garage door during a replacement project.
Should I Install an Insulated Garage Door in a Non-Insulated Garage?
In many cases, yes. Insulated garage doors provide several benefits, even if the garage itself is not insulated.
Large garage door openings can allow significant heat transfer between the garage and the outdoors. An insulated garage door helps reduce this transfer, which can improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Insulated garage doors are particularly beneficial if:
- Your garage is attached to your home.
- You use the garage as a workshop or hobby space.
- Your garage is located beneath a living area.
- You want quieter garage door operation and improved interior appearance.
Many homeowners also appreciate the improved strength and durability that insulated garage doors often provide.
Should I Choose a Steel or Wood Garage Door?
Both steel and wood garage doors offer distinct advantages, and the right choice depends on your priorities.
Steel garage doors are popular because they require relatively little maintenance. Most steel doors feature a factory-applied finish that is designed to withstand years of exposure to weather and daily use. Routine cleaning with mild soap and water is often all that’s needed to keep them looking their best.
Wood garage doors offer timeless beauty and natural character but typically require more maintenance. Wood doors generally need to be primed, painted, or stained and periodically refinished to maintain their appearance and protect the wood from the elements.
If low maintenance is a priority, steel may be the better choice. If you value natural beauty and custom craftsmanship, wood may be worth the additional upkeep.
Can a Sectional Garage Door Replace a One-Piece Garage Door?
In many situations, yes. Sectional garage doors can often be installed to replace older one-piece garage doors.
However, sectional door installation requires tracks, springs, and other hardware that may not be present in an older one-piece door system. Depending on your garage’s structure and available space, modifications may be necessary before installation.
A professional garage door inspection can determine whether any structural adjustments are needed and help ensure a smooth installation process.
Can I Paint My New Garage Door After Installation?
Yes. Most steel garage doors can be repainted after installation if you wish to change their appearance or better match your home’s exterior.
Shank Door’s steel garage doors feature durable factory-applied finishes designed to provide years of protection. However, if repainting is desired, we generally recommend using a high-quality exterior latex paint. Oil-based paints are typically not recommended.
Following the manufacturer’s painting guidelines will help ensure proper adhesion and long-lasting results.
Have More Garage Door Questions?
Whether you’re considering a new garage door, comparing materials, or exploring insulation options, the experienced team at Shank Door is here to help. We proudly serve homeowners throughout New Holland and communities across Eastern and Central Pennsylvania.
For expert guidance or a free consultation, contact Shank Door at 717-393-7280, 800-480-4134, or visit www.shankdoor.com.