Roll up garage doors are often seen in commercial business properties. But, this type of garage door is also a versatile option for residential buildings. Since we know how overwhelming it is to decide whether or not a roll-up garage door is for you, here’s a guide that might help you out.
This guide will answer all your questions. And it is actually everything you need to know about roll-up garage doors. It will also include the advantages you can get from a roll-up garage door installation in your home.
What is a roll up garage door?
A roll up garage door is made out of aluminum or steel slats or laths. It is designed like a curtain with slats that opens vertically. However, unlike a sectional garage door that slides along internal tracks when opened, the slats of a roll-up garage door coil into a roll shape at the top of the opening.
Aluminum is the best option for those who want their garage entrance to be highly resistant, durable, but light. Aside from aluminum, you can also choose steel.
The advantages of a roll-up garage door
Roll-up garage doors come with several advantages, including great insulation, excellent security, etc. Check them out below:
1. It offers excellent security and protection
If you want a garage door to protect your property, go for an insulated roll-up garage door. You may choose from aluminum, stainless steel, or galvanized steel for a high level of security. Also, roll-ups are highly durable. It makes it difficult to break into, giving you a sense of peace even if you’re away.
2. It provides great insulation
Another advantage of a roll-up garage door is its excellent insulation. Since it is made of foam and metal, it blocks any path where moisture can seep in. It also means that your heated or cooled air won’t escape from your home.
Some homeowners experience a surge in their utility bills because of a poorly insulated garage door. The HVAC system will work harder to meet your set temperature when cooled or heated air escapes.
3. It blocks noise
If the outside noise passes through your garage door, it’s time to switch to a steel roll-up. Properties that are near a working area or crowded streets are particularly noisy. So, contact a garage door service provider for a roll-up & installation if your home or workplace is located in these areas.
A roll-up overhead door can block external elements, including sound waves, moisture, wind, and heat. If you install a thicker material, your sound barrier also becomes better.
4. It can help you save space
Space is a valuable resource, especially in storage facilities. It tells the reason why most business owners choose roll-up garage doors. Since this type of garage door coils into a roll shape when opened, it doesn’t occupy space. Aluminum roll-up doors are the most popular option for commercial properties as they are the thinnest and lightest type among other options.
5. It is easy to maintain
As mentioned earlier, roll-up garage doors are durable and highly resistant. It means they can endure wear and tear very well in harsh climates. They also require less maintenance than other garage door types. Since they don’t have as many parts as sectional doors, roll-up garage door replacement is easier.
Roll-up doors have components that provide adequate protection against all types of damage. Its protective components include bottom bars, corner guards, and spring coatings. You don’t have to worry about cracking, denting, and warping.
As long as your roll-up garage door is installed correctly and maintained, it could last for more than 30 years. You can also use high-end primers and paints to upgrade the look of your steel or metal roll-up garage entrance.
How to get the right roll-up door size
Below are the three key dimensions that are important to know. These dimensions will determine whether you have adequate room for the roll-up garage model you want.
- Opening- Measuring the height and width of the empty door frame will let you determine the garage door’s size. Make sure to get these dimensions to the closest ¼ inch.
- Side room- You’ll need some space on each side of the door to support your guides regardless of choosing between-jamb or wall-mounted guide configurations. Each side must also accommodate the overhanging components of the hood, particularly the adjuster and operator. Measure the side room beginning from the corner of the jamb on the nearest obstruction on either side of the wall. Sideways clearance for roll-up doors is usually 5 to 11 inches. Consult the technical specifications for the garage door size you chose for further information.
- Headroom- It is the distance between the ceiling or nearest obstruction and the top of the open doorway. You’ll need enough space for the roll-up door’s motor and hood, so make sure to measure the headroom accurately. You might require headroom of around 10/12″ to 31”, depending on the garage door.
How secure is a rolling garage door?
Both manual and automated roll-up doors are secured by an internal lock for security. For manual roll-up doors, a sliding bar mechanism secures the door as it locks into side channels inside. On the other hand, automated roll-up doors typically feature a locking mechanism mounted inside the barrel connected to the sheet of metal or steel slats.
Research about the quality of roll-up garage door locking devices first before buying as there are differences between manufacturers. Ensure to acquire a model with the required standard for better security.
Conclusion
Overall, a roll-up garage door is an ideal option for those who want to save garage space. It provides a wide range of benefits, such as easy maintenance, excellent insulation, etc. Before choosing a roll-up garage door, accurately measure the headroom, opening, and side room.
