5 Things to Look for In a New Sectional Garage Door

When shopping for a new garage door, a sectional door is just the thing. These doors operate quietly and are neatly tucked out of the way overhead when open, which makes them a good style for most garages. When shopping for a door, there are a few things to look for. 

1. Pinch-Free Design

One issue with sectional doors is pinching since they do consist of multiple moving panels that are hinged together. Fortunately, many modern garage doors feature pinch-free designs that incorporate a cover seal over the hinged gaps between panels. You won't have to worry about fingers, or anything else, getting caught in the moving door.

2. Panel Materials

Common materials for sectional doors include aluminium, vinyl, and wood. Aluminium and vinyl are lightweight compared to wood, and they require less annual maintenance. Aluminium and wood can be repainted if desired, but vinyl comes with the colour impregnated into the material and can't be changed easily. No one material is superior, simply choose the one that works well with your budget and maintenance requirements. 

3. Security Upgrades

Sectional doors typically don't lock when closed, which can be a security risk. Manual bypasses can be engaged on automatic doors, allowing entry to an intruder or thief. As a solution, manual or automatic locking systems can be added to some sectional door styles. If security is a concern in your home, then make sure the door you choose is compatible with a locking system if it doesn't already come with one pre-installed.

4. Insulation & Seals

Quality insulation and seals are a must for a garage door, especially if it is attached to the home or heated. Insulation helps prevent overheating or overly cold conditions in the garage. In attached or heated garages this will save you on energy costs. Further, good seals help keep out leaves and other debris that can otherwise blow into the garage and cause a mess.

5. Customisation Options

Although function is important, the appearance of the door is also important. The good news is that sectional doors are available in a huge range of colours and designs, depending on the manufacturer. Whether you desire a sleek modern look or the look of an old carriage house, shop around so you can find the garage door dealer that has exactly what is needed to blend in with your home's exterior style. 

Contact a garage door company to learn more about different kinds of sectional doors, including B&D sectional doors.