What is the R-Value of a Garage Door?

What is the R-Value of a Garage Door?

A garage door is often the largest opening in your home, and it can potentially allow air leakage that could affect your energy bill. An insulated garage door can minimize this loss of treated air to help improve your home’s energy efficiency and lower your utility expenses. This aspect of how well a garage door can resist thermal transfer is determined by a measurement referred to as the R-value.

How Is R-Value Calculated?

R-value determines a material’s thermal resistance, which refers to how much heat or cold can pass through it. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation. For a flat object, heat flows in a straight line, making the transfer area consistent throughout the material. The R-value is calculated by dividing the object’s thickness by its thermal conductivity — the R-value increases proportionally to the thickness. 

For garage doors, the R-value accounts for the thermal resistance of each individual door section. A higher R-value means the garage door is better equipped to maintain a consistent temperature inside the garage, reducing the energy required for heating or cooling the space. Reducing energy consumption translates to lower utility bills and a more sustainable lifestyle. 

How Much Insulation Do You Need for Your Garage Door?

While installing an insulated garage door is the most efficient way to realize the benefits of a high R-value, it is possible to insulate a preexisting door as well. Determining what R-value your garage door needs depends on several factors, including:

• For a detached garage with its own insulation, the garage door should have a minimum rating of R-10 to help maintain the interior temperature.
• If the garage is detached and does not have insulation, a rating of R-6 is acceptable, especially if you don’t intend to heat or cool the space.
• If your garage is attached to your home, we recommend installing an insulated garage door rated at R-12 or higher.

A garage door professional at Halo Overhead Doors can help you determine the ideal R-value for your garage, explain how to measure your garage door for insulation and recommend the best insulation options. There are two main types of insulation materials for garage doors: 

• Polystyrene: This styrofoam is sold in solid sheets or blocks and can be added to an existing garage door. Although adding insulation makes the door more energy-efficient, it doesn’t completely seal the door from the elements. The material is also more subject to wear and tear due to the nature of aftermarket installation. For these reasons, we recommend buying a preinsulated door.
• Polyurethane: Polyurethane is a spray foam filler injected into the garage door panels between layers of steel in preinsulated garage doors. In addition to providing heat and sound insulation, polyurethane makes the door stronger and more resistant to dents.

Halo Overhead Doors Offers Insulated Residential Garage Doors

For homeowners looking for ways to increase the energy efficiency of their garage and home, installing an insulated garage door is a great place to start. Halo Overhead Doors offers preinsulated garage doors that offer better climate protection and last longer than other forms of insulation. Our knowledgeable team can help you find the best insulated garage door for your home, and our expert technicians will ensure efficient installation. Request an estimate today to get started!

How to Choose the Right Commercial Garage Door for Your Business

Commercial garage doors are vital tools for various industries, from warehouses to garages to retail stores. The needs of businesses will vary, so you must choose an appropriate garage door to meet those needs in the most efficient way possible. With an array of options available, finding your ideal fit can prove to be difficult, but the experts at Halo Overhead Doors will strive to assist you.

As you explore your options, you will want to consider various factors, like door type, materials, insulation, usage and security, before committing to a specific model. Carefully considering every element and determining what to prioritize for your business and its needs will help increase the likelihood that your door will be secure and functional.

Types of Commercial Overhead Doors 

Choosing a commercial garage door will take time and careful consideration. You need to identify where you plan to place your overhead door, and then you’ll have to select the right specifications that match the environment and circumstances. Each type of overhead door offers specific benefits and services to improve its energy efficiency and functionality, letting you get the most from your investment. 

You have several options to explore to determine the model that will best fit your business needs, including: 

• Sectional: This type offers cost-efficiency and flexibility, making sectional doors an excellent option for businesses. They are supremely durable, and they come equipped with features that maximize thermal efficiency. Depending on your area, you will need a significant amount of headroom or backroom to install them.
• Rolling Steel: If you operate in a tight space with little headroom or backroom, rolling steel doors utilize interlocking slats that coil around a suspended barrel for space conservation. These options are durable and highly secure.
• High-Speed: For businesses requiring doors that can frequently cycle while holding up against the strain, we offer high-speed models that can raise and lower as fast as 54 inches per second.
• Security Grilles: Security grilles provide a visual presentation of your business while preventing theft during closed hours. You can show off your facility while ensuring strong security. 

Many factors go into choosing the right type of overhead door for your company. Think about aspects like door function, door purpose and building limitations to determine how to best integrate your overhead door into your business. 

Materials 

In addition to choosing the type of garage door, you can also select from several materials. Each material has a unique look, allowing you to choose something that adds to your business’s overall aesthetic. However, when selecting a material, you should also consider functionality and usage. 

If you use your door each day, you may want to choose something more durable, like steel. Other materials like aluminum can work for doors requiring less safety and protection from dents and damages. You can even explore glass overhead door selections to create an open and inviting atmosphere in your business. 

Insulation

Your overhead door helps protect your business from outdoor conditions to keep your products and customers safe. Like other forms of insulation, insulated overhead garage doors can create an energy-efficient environment that keeps air conditioning and heat inside while keeping the winter cold and summer heat out. 

Additionally, investing in an insulated overhead door can safeguard your facility from other weather conditions, like rain, wind, snow, ice and more. Insulation can add to your door’s life span, providing you with a solution that’s durable and meant to last. 

Usage

When choosing an overhead door for your company, you should consider the demands of your business by measuring the amount of traffic you experience. You might require a door that only needs to cycle a few times a day, like a security gate for a lot at the mall. Conversely, the garage doors of a warehouse or body shop might open a dozen times in just a few hours. 

Since each door type has unique demand capacities, determining how frequently you will use your door will help you choose the best model for your business. By recording the frequency of your cycles, you’ll know if you need to have an automated or manual garage door opener. 

With more usage comes more garage door maintenance, so if you plan to use your door often, you will want to choose a durable model with a long life span. Making the right choice ensures convenience and can also increase your business’ efficiency and revenue.

Security Features 

Any commercial garage door you select should provide uncompromising security and safety for your business, and that’s what you’ll receive when you choose Halo Overhead Door products.

You can customize your doors with sturdy locks and choose from various features, including inside or outside placement and manual or powered options. Beyond that, your door’s opener can integrate state-of-the-art security features through automatically engaging deadlocks, scrambling opening codes to prevent inadvertent cycles and closing after a pre-programmed amount of minutes.

With a high-quality door you can customize to fit your security needs, you can adequately prepare for any situation that comes your way.

Contact Halo Overhead Door to Help You Choose a Commercial Garage Door

When determining how to choose a commercial garage door for your business, you’ll have to consider several factors to ensure you find the right model to meet your needs. By exploring all your options, you can create a door that will best serve your business for years to come.

At Halo Overhead Doors, we operate the largest garage door showroom throughout the Houston area, and we’re the only Clopay® Master Authorized Dealer® in Houston. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will do all they can to assist you in choosing a commercial garage door as well as the perfect commercial overhead door opener to go with it. Contact us today or call us to learn more about our product catalog and services.

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How to Upgrade Your Home’s Style With Clopay® Garage Doors

Your home is more than just a place to live. It’s a reflection of your style and personality. Every element, from the front door to the landscaping, contributes to your home’s appeal. One thing that often gets overlooked is the garage door. This feature can impact your home’s curb appeal. Upgrading to a high-quality, stylish garage door, like those offered by Clopay®, can elevate your home’s appearance. This change can make your home stand out in the neighborhood and possibly increase its market value.

Clopay® Residential Garage Door Styles

Clopay® offers a wide array of garage doors. Each style is tailored to complement different architectural designs and personal tastes. Here are the main styles the company offers.

Modern

If you prefer clean lines and minimalist aesthetics, modern garage doors will appeal to you. These styles often combine glass, aluminum and steel, giving them a sleek and contemporary look. Glass panels allow plenty of natural light to enter your garage and create a visually striking effect, especially when paired with frosted or tinted glass. Aluminum framing is durable yet lightweight, making these doors easy to operate while retaining their aesthetic flair.

Traditional

For homeowners who appreciate classic setups, traditional garage door designs are the perfect choice. Traditional varieties are typically made from steel or wood and offer sturdy construction with raised panels and intricate designs. Steel options are available in various finishes. For example, faux wood provides warmth and character and requires minimal maintenance.

Wood provides a natural beauty that you can customize with different stains and finishes.

Carriage

Another option that adds character to your home is carriage house garage doors. Carriage doors have a rustic look and feel and are available in steel, wood and faux wood. You can also add decorative windows and hardware to enhance their vintage appeal. Similar to traditional doors, the faux wood options look and feel like real wood with minimal upkeep. The carriage house style is fantastic for cottages and any property where you want to add a traditional touch.

Mediterranean

Most homes with Mediterranean or Spanish influences feature these garage doors. These styles have overlay designs and rich wood tones that complement Mediterranean homes. Clopay’s Mediterranean-style doors are available in various materials with diverse finishes. This garage door style is not limited to villas or Spanish-like homes. For an element of charm, you’ll find other designs and details that can complement a modern home.

How to Choose the Right Garage Door Style for Your Home

Your garage door should last at least 15 years, making it one of the most significant purchases you’ll ever make. When choosing a new door, you need to factor in budget, style and practicality. Here are key considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Consider Your Budget

Your budget determines the style, material and features of your door. High-end materials like natural wood and custom designs may come at a premium. But there are cost-effective options, like faux wood, that offer both durability and style while keeping your bank balance in check. At Halo Overhead Doors, we offer various options that cater to different budget levels. You can find a stylish and functional door with no financial constraints.

Choose One That Complements Your House

Different garage door styles and materials can alter the appearance of your home. Modern homes can benefit from a contemporary door’s clean lines and glass panels. Traditional homes may be better suited to raised panel steel doors.

Consider how the door will blend with the architectural style of your home. A well-chosen garage door should harmonize with your home’s exterior elements and create a cohesive look with your front door, windows and trim. If your home has a lot of wood accents, a wood or faux garage door can tie the look together beautifully. Contrasts can work well too, as long as they’re done in moderation. You can blend hues of blue and orange to create a complementary effect. Choosing a color that contrasts with your home’s exterior paint can add visual interest and curb appeal.

To make your decision easier, check out the Clopay® Door Imagination System™. This tool allows you to upload a photo of your home and see if different styles and materials complement each other.

Consider Insulation

An insulated garage door can regulate the temperature inside the garage and reduce energy costs by preventing hot or cool air from your heater or fan from escaping. This also translates to a more comfortable space.

Insulation is especially important if your garage is attached to your home or you use the space for more than parking your car. There are various insulated garages with options for different R-values, which measure the door’s thermal resistance.

Check That It’s Practical

When choosing a garage door, functionality is as important as aesthetics. Overhead doors provide smooth operation, and you can equip them with advanced features like smart technology for remote access or security options. Think of the main uses your door will undergo. From there, choose a door that’s easy to operate, convenient and safe.

Factor in Maintenance Requirements

Regular maintenance helps keep your garage in good working order. Different materials require different levels of upkeep. Wood doors may need to be repainted or refinished periodically to protect against harsh elements. For peace of mind, choose a wind-rated door that can withstand harsh conditions and keep you safe.

Visit a Dealer Showroom

Before making a final decision, visit a Clopay dealer showroom. This allows you to see the doors in person, feel the materials and visualize how different styles and colors will look on your home. Showrooms have experts on hand to provide advice and answer any questions you may have.

Upgrade Your Home’s Style With Halo Overhead Doors

Investing in a Clopay garage door can improve your home’s curbside appeal and functionality. At Halo Overhead Doors, we have a wide range of styles, materials and customization options to help you find the perfect door for your home’s character. We are a Clopay® Master Dealer and have matched doors to houses for over 30 years. We can match any written quote and provide an extended warranty. If you’re in the Houston area, choose Halo Overhead Doors to enjoy 0% financing and full-service garage door solutions.

Visit and browse our virtual showroom, where you’ll find many garage doors to fit any home style. Once you’ve decided, our dedicated team of experts will provide an estimate to install your new garage door.

The Complete Guide to Choosing a New Garage Door

If you’re researching garage doors, you may not know where to begin — many different garage door styles exist, and it’s important to take your time and weigh your options. With an array of colors, materials and additional features, you can choose a garage door that suits your needs and adds plenty of curb appeal to your property.

Browse our garage door buying guide below to discover tips and factors to consider when investing in a new garage door for your home.

Table of Contents

1. Different Types of Garage Doors
2. Garage Door Material Options
3. Standard Garage Door Sizes
4. Best Colors for Garage Doors
5. Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door
6. Adding Windows to Your Garage Door
7. Choose Halo Overhead Doors for Your Garage Door Installation

What Are the Different Types of Garage Doors? 

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a new garage door is type. There are a few main types of garage doors, categorized by how they open and are installed in a garage:

1. Sectional Garage Doors

This is one of the most popular types of garage doors. These doors are made of panel sections connected with hinges. When you close or open the garage door, wheels at the edge of the panel roll inside a vertical track, allowing the doors to open vertically. Sectional doors are available in many materials, including aluminum, wood, wood composite and fiberglass.

Some of the benefits of these garage doors include:

• Impressive insulation qualities
• Great strength and security
• Available in large dimensions for bigger garages
• Well-engineered and stylish

2. Side-Hinged

These garage doors open like traditional double swing doors and can also be called carriage garage doors. They open out toward the driveway, giving you unrestricted space inside the garage. These doors are typically made of wood, although galvanized steel doors are also available.

A few benefits of side-hinged doors include:

• Low maintenance
• Quick access
• Easy to install
• Stylish, traditional appearance

3. Up and Over

These doors are made of one solid piece — they don’t have sections. Up and over garage doors have a pivoting hinge mechanism, allowing them to tilt into the garage. Common materials used for these doors are wood composite, steel and wood.

Some benefits of these doors include:

• Canopy or retractable options for the opening mechanism
• Many choices of colors, materials and designs

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What Material Should a Garage Door Be?

Once you know the type of garage door you want, the second factor you want to consider is material. When browsing different garage door materials, consider the local climate, your design preferences and your budget.

1. Wood

Redwood, meranti, fir and cedar are some of the most common types of wood used to manufacture garage doors. These doors may be factory-stained or painted but can also be finished on-site. Wood garage doors are aesthetically pleasing and easy to customize. They can also be treated to prevent warping or swelling during temperature changes.

Wood garage doors require regular maintenance, including painting, staining and sealing to protect against moisture, pests and weather damage. They are also heavier than other alternatives.

2. Steel

Steel is one of the most popular choices for garage doors because of its durability, flexibility and value. In addition, it is available in endless style options and is a lower-maintenance alternative to natural wood. That said, steel is not a natural insulator and can be vulnerable to dents. Extra protection against corrosion from salt exposure may be necessary for homes near bodies of saltwater.

3. Fiberglass 

Fiberglass is less prone to cracking or denting, and it doesn’t rust. In addition, it’s durable, lightweight and low maintenance. It can also provide good insulation properties and is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it a go-to choice for beachfront properties. Fiberglass closely mimics wood but doesn’t crack, shrink or warp. That said, fiberglass material has limited design options and can sustain damage on impact.

4. Aluminium

Aluminum offers similar benefits to steel but at a lower cost. It’s naturally rust-resistant, highly customizable, and a low-maintenance material. However, aluminum is not as durable as steel. In addition, it is not a great insulator and is not fully waterproof.

Modern garage doors made with aluminum are a great choice if you plan to fit them with glass windows to allow natural light into the space.

5. Wood Composite

Wood composite is a blend of wood fiber, plastic and a binding agent. It’s the material of choice for homeowners who want a garage door with a wood look but without the high maintenance requirements of genuine wood doors. Wood composite is also resistant to rot, warping and splitting.

What Are Standard Garage Door Sizes?

Size is also a crucial factor when looking for a new garage door. Garage doors come in standard sizes to fit a range of standard garage door openings. If you have a smaller or larger opening in your garage, you may have to order a customized garage door. If you’re replacing an existing standard door, here are the sizes you can expect:

• Single-car garage: Garage doors for single-car garages come in four standard widths — 7, 8, 9 and 10 feet. The standard heights are 7 and 8 feet.
• Two-car garage: Standard garage door measurements for these garages are 16 feet wide by 7 or 8 feet high. Instead of one single 16-foot door, many homeowners prefer two 8-foot doors separated by a central column.
• Triple-car garage: The garage doors for these spaces are 32 feet wide by 7 or 8 feet high.
• RV garage: Garage doors for RV garages are typically 12 feet wide and 14 or 16 feet high.

  

What Is the Best Color for a Garage Door? 

In addition to the material and style, your choice of color has a significant impact on the overall appearance of your home. By selecting the right colors, your new garage door can complement the exterior of your home and enhance its curb appeal.

The answers to these three questions should give you ideas on the right choice of colors to use for your garage door:

• What is the primary color of your house? You can pick colors that either contrast with or match the primary color of your house. 
• Should the garage door and your home’s front door match? If you want both doors to work in harmony, you should match the colors. Otherwise, you can choose similar colors or have your garage door’s color stand out on its own.
• How do colors look in different lights? Visualizing colors online can be tricky. Try to see the available colors in person on a door or in print on a sample to get a better idea of what they’ll look like.

A general rule is to use a garage door color that is similar to the dominant colors of your home. In addition to answering the three questions above, considering three basic color schemes — monochromatic, analogous, and complementary — can guide you in your choice:

• Monochromatic: Choose a color that matches your home’s exterior, or choose a shade or two darker or lighter. These color schemes are easy on the eye and create a sense of cohesion. 
• Analogous: Use colors that are next to each other on the color wheel instead of staying within the same color palette. 
• Complementary: Complementary colors are opposite each other on the color wheel, and these color schemes are ideal for painted homes by offering an exciting contrast.

Other Factors to Consider When Choosing a Garage Door

As there are different types of garage doors, different approaches may be required when installing them. For example, are you installing an automatic door or a manual door? In addition, a tilt-up door has different installation requirements from a side-hinged door. Keeping these additional considerations in mind will help you choose the best garage door for your home:

Create a Budget

Garage doors come in various styles, materials and sizes, and each has its own price point. Determine your garage door budget, including the installation cost. If you want additional features such as automatic openers or insulation, consider these factors in your budget, too. With this information in mind, you can more easily narrow down your options.

Measure Your Garage Door Opening

Be sure to measure your garage door opening before buying a garage door. Measure the width and height from the edges of the doorframe, adding an extra inch or two to ensure a good seal when closing the door. Having a professional garage door installer complete the measurements for you can help eliminate any miscalculations.

Invest in a Garage Door Opener

Consider buying a powerful garage door opener to make opening your new garage door a breeze. Get an opener with a lifting capacity that matches your door’s weight. Automatic openers are highly convenient and have additional features, like sensors, to prevent accidents.

Customization Options

Explore customization options that help you tailor the garage door to your needs and preferences. These options include finishes, colors, automation systems and window designs. Working with an experienced garage door company can help you customize the perfect garage door for your home.

Get Professional Help

Garage door installation should always be left to the professionals. Hire a garage door company with an experienced team to complete the job for you. These professionals know how to remove old doors and install new ones safely. They can also install a new opener, track or any other equipment needed to improve the functionality of your garage door. 

Should You Add Windows to Your Garage Door?

Beyond your garage door’s material and color, you may want to add extra features to make it truly unique. One of the best ways to elevate the appearance of your garage door is by adding windows.

Garage door windows offer the following benefits:

• Natural light: Windows in your garage door will allow natural light into the garage. With natural light, you can use the garage space for more than just storing your car. Natural light is essential when converting your garage into a gym, home office or storage room. 
• Design trends: Windows are a common exterior feature in specific design and architectural trends, including modern and contemporary styles, and they may work perfectly with your home’s visual appearance.

Despite these benefits, windows may not work for every garage door. The following are some common concerns about garage door windows to consider:

• Garage door balance: If the garage door didn’t come with windows and you’re installing them as a DIY project, ensure you gauge the added weight to your door. Garage door openers are programmed to take weight distribution into account and lift the door evenly, and tampering with the doors may create balance issues. To avoid these problems, hire a garage door technician to install a garage door with windows already built-in.
• Privacy: Outsiders may be able to see the inside of your garage through your windows. However, most garage door windows are positioned high on the door, and you can also use frosted or tinted options for added privacy.
• Damage: Garage windows can break, but using tempered glass can help address this issue.
• Insulation issues: If the windows are not insulated, the indoor temperature of your garage won’t be regulated properly. To avoid this problem, choose high-quality glass windows and have them professionally installed.

Choose and Install Your Garage Door With Halo Overhead Doors

A new garage door is a worthwhile investment that keeps your belongings safe and adds to your home’s exterior visual appeal. Choosing the right garage door requires some consideration, but taking the time to look through your options will ensure you select the best option for your needs.

If you need assistance finding a high-quality residential garage door, Halo Overhead Doors is here to help. Since 1991, we’ve been selling and installing garage doors and offering garage door services in Houston, Texas, and the surrounding areas. We offer a large range of new garage doors from the industry’s leading brands, giving you plenty of options in materials, colors and styles.

From selection to installation, our professional team is ready to assist you along the way. After installation, we offer continued support to ensure your garage door stays in great shape. You can reach out to us whenever you need a garage door repair or inspection.

Choose Halo Overhead Doors as your go-to garage door dealer in the Houston area. Contact us today for more information about our services and to request a quote!

When to Replace Your Commercial Garage Door

Garage doors provide a functional and convenient way to exit and enter your businesses. They also protect the people, equipment and products inside your building from weather elements and security risks. Whether your door is getting to the end of its life expectancy or you’ve started noticing some strange movement or noises, it may be time to look into a replacement. Learn the most common signs you need a new door and the importance of investing in a high-quality replacement.

Table of Contents

• What is the Life Expectancy of a Commercial Garage Door?
• Signs You Need a Garage Door Replacement
• Inconsistent Opening and Closing
• Frequent Door Repairs and Part Replacements
• Increasing Energy Bills for Your Business
• Lack of Modern Safety Features for Employees
• Benefits of a High-Quality Garage Door Replacement
• Request Commercial Garage Door Installation in Houston

What Is the Life Expectancy of a Commercial Garage Door?

Every garage door has a different life expectancy. Many factors can impact how long your model stays in working condition, including:

• Materials
• Construction
• Maintenance
• Proper installation
• How often you use the door
• Weather elements your building faces

Some businesses can get close to 30 years of use from their door, while others may only reach 10 years or less.

Rather than relying on a number of years to determine your door’s life span, you should consider the cycles you run daily. The springs in your door can typically handle between 5,000 and 20,000 cycles, depending on the spring system and materials. If you run multiple cycles a day, opening and closing often, your door will likely reach its limit sooner than it would if you only ran a cycle at the start and end of every day. Contact the company that installed your door to determine how many cycles your system can handle for the most accurate life expectancy.

Signs You Need a Garage Door Replacement

Several signs can indicate when it’s time to replace your garage door. If you’re noticing issues with your door, getting to the cause as soon as possible is important. Additionally, you should always leave repairs, replacements and installation to the professionals to ensure your safety and the door’s longevity. A reliable door company can help you find the best type of door for your business to meet your needs while staying within your budget. Determine whether you face any of these common indicators for needing a door replacement:

Inconsistent Opening and Closing

Inconsistent opening and closing could be the result of several issues. You could have problems with the connections between devices, and the opener isn’t registering when you click the button. You could also have blockages that prohibit your door from functioning properly, such as debris blocking the sensors or an object stopping the door from operating fully. However, inconsistent functioning could also indicate more serious problems.

For example, the door springs may be nearing the end of their life, releasing the door prematurely and causing it to slam closed or snap open. Continuing to use your door with this issue could cause stress on other parts of the door, leading to even more costly repairs. Damaged or broken springs can also be dangerous for any people, vehicles or equipment in the space. If the springs snap, the door could crush anything beneath it, and the springs could become projectiles, potentially harming those nearby.

Frequent Door Repairs and Part Replacements

As with most equipment, you can often tell it’s time for an updated model when you need frequent part replacements and repairs. Although it’s essential to replace parts when necessary, there can come a point when the services and maintenance become excessive and less cost-effective than replacing the door.

Wear and tear will happen naturally over time, but some damaged parts can cause strain on other elements of the door, leading to a need for maintenance and repairs. For example, broken or damaged cables could lead to more stress on the tracks, which can lead to track misalignments or damage to essential screws or other components.

Increasing Energy Bills for Your Business

Garage doors can help insulate your building. If you notice higher energy bills than usual, your door could have weather stripping or insulation issues. Along with causing you to pay higher energy bills, poor insulation could impact your employees or products. For example, if you have goods that have specific temperature storing requirements, you may diminish product integrity by lacking proper insulation. Employees may also feel less comfortable working in the space, potentially decreasing productivity and satisfaction.

Lack of Modern Safety Features for Employees

Modern garage doors offer a range of safety features to protect your business, products and employees. Features such as alarm systems, motion sensors and rolling code technology can prevent break-ins, alert you if something is wrong, and protect your employees and products from adverse situations. Whether you have an older door without these features or notice other businesses and competitors investing in these high-quality options, it may be time to consider an upgrade.

Benefits of a High-Quality Garage Door Replacement

While garage doors serve a functional purpose for your business and employees, they can also aid in business success. High-quality garage doors can:

• Boost your curb appeal: For many businesses, first impressions of a building can impact potential sales or customer or partner relationships. Whether you want to sell your property in the future or present your business in a certain way, a high-quality, modern garage door can work wonders to boost your image.
• Reduce noise pollution: The proper insulation in a garage door can lower energy bills while preventing unnecessary noise pollution from impacting your employees. If your business is near busy streets, trains, construction work and other loud areas, a new garage door can prevent your employees from becoming distracted by unnecessary noise.
• Allow for easier use: Modern technology makes it easier than ever before to control your door. You can use smartphones and connected devices to control your door, and other advanced features can bring additional convenience to your daily operations.
• Save money: High-quality doors use materials and components that last longer. This can save your business money by requiring fewer maintenance and repair sessions and offering an extended life span so you don’t have to make significant purchases as frequently.

Request Commercial Garage Door Installation in Houston

Halo Overhead Door is committed to providing trusted garage door solutions. We’re a family-owned business in Texas, proudly serving business owners and homeowners in Houston. As a full-service overhead door company, we can meet all your needs for maintenance and installation. We can help with customized solutions for steel and glass commercial doors.

The dedicated team members at Halo Overhead Garage Doors are your go-to Houston industrial garage door experts. Our products are long-lasting, durable and efficient. We make it easy to request Texas commercial overhead door installation. Call our team at (281) 247-5679 for commercial garage door replacement.

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Commercial Garage Doors vs. Residential Garage Doors

Commercial garage doors and residential garage doors perform the same primary function — letting people and vehicles in and out of their garages. So how are they different from each other, exactly?

One obvious difference between commercial garage doors and residential garage doors is the type of building where you can find them, whether that be businesses and industrial applications or homes. But the differences extend further than that into the design, construction, aesthetic and functional qualities of the doors.

Understanding the key differences between these doors will help you make the right choice for your home or business. Below, we’ll outline some of the biggest differences between residential and commercial garage doors and how these differences affect their uses.

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An Overview of Commercial vs. Residential Garage Doors

When it’s time to invest in a new garage door, it’s essential to understand the differences between types. Traditional residential doors are only made to open a few times every day, and they are not available in large sizes that will accommodate trailers, big trucks and heavy equipment. Commercial doors are the right choice for large garages that see heavy use because designers build them to withstand heavy use and protect a larger opening.

1. Garage Door Material

Homeowners often choose the materials used in a residential garage door for their appealing appearance, along with their durability and cost-effectiveness. Residential users may also have strong feelings about the insulative properties of their garage doors.

So what are the different types of garage doors? Below are some common materials for residential garage doors:

• Wood: Though wood is less durable and requires more upkeep than other options, a traditional wooden door‘s classic, rustic beauty is hard to beat.
• Glass: Though it’s rare to find an entire garage door made of glass, glass paneling provides an attractive feature to let in some light and enhance the modern beauty of the door.
• Steel and aluminum: Steel provides for an exceptionally sturdy and low-maintenance door, and although it lacks the charm of other materials, many paints and finishes are available to make the metal look cheerier. You could also add a wooden overlay for a more natural look. Galvanized steel also resists rust and corrosion, as does the lighter-weight aluminum, though it tends to cost more.
• Fiberglass: Fiberglass is beneficial for giving a door the natural appearance and charm of wood without requiring the same level of maintenance. It is also a cost-effective option for residential garage doors.
• Composites: Composite doors provide the benefits of multiple materials in one door. For example, a residential garage door made of steel and polyurethane offers the durability and security of steel with the insulating properties of polyurethane for greater energy efficiency.

With residential garage doors, the aesthetic appeal of the door is often a high priority for the homeowner. With commercial doors, however, functionality usually takes priority over aesthetics. The materials used to make commercial garage doors reflect this priority. Commercial doors are typically made of galvanized steel or an aluminum blend. Due to their size and weight, they are also more difficult to open if the automatic lifter breaks.

Generally, the reason for the use of steel and aluminum blends in the construction of commercial garage doors has to do with their durability. Though residential garage doors get plenty of use — on average, a garage door in the United States opens and closes about 1,500 times every year — that’s nothing compared to the frequency of use of a commercial garage door. You open your home’s garage door a few times each day, but the door on a loading dock may be opened several times a day.

The extra wear and tear could destroy a residential door, but the commercial options can withstand the additional use. If you know your door is going to be raised and lowered continually throughout the day, then you should invest in a more durable commercial door.

The added durability of a commercial garage door also increases the security of the garage. Security is of paramount importance in commercial facilities that store substantial quantities of expensive products. A hardy, durable commercial garage door helps protect the products from theft and damage.

2. Garage Door Curb Appeal

Though residential doors are not the industrial workhorses that commercial garage doors are, their visual appeal and financial impact are hard to ignore. An attractive new garage door can brighten a house’s appearance and enhance its curb appeal. More practically, it can also help boost the resale value of the home. Homeowners typically recoup 90% of their costs in the increased sale price of the house, and 70% of real estate agents report that a home sells faster when it features an attractive new garage door. If these options are important for your home, you’ll want to go with a traditional residential garage door.

With residential garage doors, curb appeal is an essential factor. Depending on the home’s layout, a residential garage door can make up a large percentage of the home’s facade, so the door should have an attractive appearance.

Ideally, a residential garage door should have an aesthetic appeal that coordinates well with the architecture and style of the house. A well-chosen and well-designed garage door can accent the home’s exterior and harmonize with its architectural features. It should appeal to the eye and help create an attractive appearance for the home. Customizable options like windows, panel designs, wood-grain finishes, a bold palette of paint colors and decorative handles or trim help create this appealing, polished look.

With a commercial garage door, these concerns are less important. Commercial garage doors are typically more robust and durable, but they aren’t as ornate and tend to look utilitarian. While you can find residential doors that beautifully match a carriage house, most commercial doors will be plain. You can get basic raised or glass panels to make commercial doors a little more attractive, but you probably will not find very ornate styles in commercial options.

This unornamented style fits perfectly with the no-frills aesthetic of many industrial garages and loading docks, and the decreased focus on appearance allows manufacturers to focus on the functionality of the doors. The customization options for commercial garage doors tend to be limited to paint color and sometimes windows.

Commercial garage doors can still look sleek and attractive, though. Many commercial garage doors feature an appealing modern industrial look.

3. Garage Door Size

One main difference between residential and commercial doors is their size. Commercial bay doors are designed to admit much larger vehicles, so they’re substantially larger than their residential counterparts.

Although some custom-built residential garage doors can be several feet taller to accommodate motorhomes, standard residential doors are available in 7-foot heights and are designed for one- or two-car garages. Commercial businesses typically need taller doors as they pull in trucks, accept deliveries from large trucks or need extra clearance for larger loads. If you are building a private garage and want a taller door to accommodate an RV or other large equipment, consider commercial garage doors.

The dimensions of residential and commercial garage doors also affect their weight. Residential garage doors generally weigh only a few hundred pounds, while commercial garage doors can weigh more than a thousand pounds.

4. Garage Door Lift Type

Lift type is another major difference. Because they’re so much larger and heavier, commercial garage doors can use standard, full vertical and high-lift types. The lighter residential doors normally use standard or low-headroom lift types, which fit more neatly in a small garage. Depending on their lift type, commercial and residential doors can also differ in the ways they open and close. Most commercial doors are overhead doors that roll up toward the ceiling. While you can find a few side-sliding doors and even swinging garage doors, overheads are the most popular because they don’t need open space on the sides for the doors to swing-out. However, residential doors are readily available in swinging and sliding options.

Some commercial doors are roller doors, which feature multiple thin panels that roll neatly up into a narrow space. These doors are generally more expensive but are popular with businesses that have less available space than a large standard door requires. Due to their utilitarian look and expense, roller doors are not typically available for residential properties. It is more common to see residential sectional garage doors.

5. Garage Door Spring Systems

For that reason, there’s a big difference between commercial and residential spring systems. Depending on the weight of the door, residential garage doors typically use one or two torsion springs. The arrangement of the springs balances the door and keeps it from falling down. On the other hand, industrial garage doors often use three or more torsion springs that are larger than residential springs in wire size and diameter.

6. Garage Door Energy Requirements

The energy needed to power the garage door opener is also different for each type. Predictably, commercial garage doors require more energy, which can be anywhere from 115 to 575 volts. Therefore, the motors on commercial garage door openers are also higher (industrial door openers), coming in at up to 1 HP. In comparison, traditional residential doors only require about 115 volts and have smaller motors of up to 3/4 HP. Depending on the door and your needs, you might need more energy, so keep that in mind when looking for a new system.

7. Garage Door Maintenance Requirements

Employees working on any garage doors should take care to protect themselves from grievous injury, but the risk of injury and causing further damage is higher with massive commercial garage doors. In any case, it’s always wise to consult with experienced, professional garage door companies for maintenance and repairs.

8. Overall Cost of Commercial vs. Residential Garage Doors

At first glance, commercial garage doors cost substantially more than residential doors. However, though they are not always as flashy-looking, they are also more durable. If you are going to put your door through heavy use, then a commercial door is the right choice. Where a residential door would have failed and fallen apart, your commercial door will still operate smoothly. Consider the difference in life span and potential savings with a commercial door before making your decision.

Contact Halo Overhead Doors for All of Your Garage Door Needs

At Halo Overhead Doors, our motto is “Tough doors, loyal service,” and that’s precisely what you’ll get when you partner with us.

We are a family-owned, full-service garage door company and one of Texas’ premier garage door businesses. We offer the most extensive selections of doors in Houston, and our staff members have years of collective expertise. We also take enormous pride in our long-term customer relationships and are dedicated to kind, caring, helpful customer service. Whether your need a commercial or residential garage door, our quality doors are rugged and reliable over the long term, and when you need us, our friendly service gets the job done right.

Contact us today to get started on finding a residential or commercial garage door solution!