Windows are an easy to way add a sleek and modern design to the front of your garage door. Not only that, they increase your curb appeal and can add significant value to your home. This can be especially important for people looking to sell their home, as garage door windows are a great way to stand out from other homes in the neighborhood.

But before you go and fall in love with a set of windows, there are a few important things to consider in your garage door makeover:

1) Are the new windows compatible with your current garage door?

Most garage doors are compatible with window installations – but not all. Before you decide to take on this project, it’s important to ensure your choice of windows is compatible with your current garage door. If not, you may need to purchase new garage doors. 

Since some doors come with windows pre-installed, this could be a good option if you’re not sure about window compatibility. Replacing a garage door with a new, stylish, durable one has a great ROI and can even increase the value of your home. 

2) You may need a garage door spring calibration after the windows are installed.

Most garage door springs are calibrated to handle a specific weight. Depending on your window selection, this could lead to an unbalanced door. Plan ahead and know that your springs may need to be recalibrated after installation. That’s something the garage door repair professional who does your window installation can deal with.

This is an important step not to skip, especially if you’ve replaced an entire door panel in order to accommodate new windows. When your garage door is unbalanced, even if it works, bad things are happening under the surface. Parts will wear out too fast and unevenly, and you may even have the door come off track or the opener motor burn out.

3) What kind of windows do you need?

Before you have garage door windows installed, think about why you want them in the first place. If you’re looking to increase the natural light in your garage, clear window panes can work well. But be warned this may allow unwanted guests to see what you have inside your garage. If you’re worried about security, you can use tinted panes or install on the highest panel of the door. 

You also can’t forget the energy efficiency factor in your garage door window design. Double insulated panes are a good option for keeping the integrity of an insulated door. Regardless, always choose windows that filter out harmful UV rays. Getting glass that’s rated for high winds is also important in extreme weather events.

4) DIY or hire a professional to install new garage door windows?

There’s no shortage of window installation tutorials online for DIYers interested in setting up their own garage door windows. But is it wise to do it on your own?

The answer is… it depends. If you know what you’re doing and are 100% sure that the windows are compatible, it can be a good way to save money. Hopefully, you also know how to recalibrate your garage door springs. 

It’s important to understand that you’ll be cutting holes in your garage door so if the windows don’t fit, you’ll be left with a damaged door and a bigger, more expensive garage door repair. By working with an insured garage door repair company, you can rest assured that you’ll receive a quality installation without the risks involved.

5) Span the gap between trendy styles and classic designs.

Your garage door should last you 20+ years, if you care for it correctly. So, while you should choose a modern, sleek look that matches the rest of your home’s façade, you shouldn’t get too into what’s on trend and choose a style that’s too specific. Think about longevity – when you go to eventually sell your home, will the design be attractive to a wide array of buyers?

6) Is it time to simply replace the garage door itself?

Whether your garage door is so old it literally can’t be fit with windows, or you’re looking to upgrade a cheaper or worn out garage door, take time to ask yourself if this window replacement is a band-aid. If you’re staring down a garage door replacement in the next few years, it may well be worth it to have a new garage door installed now. 

Newer garage doors are infinitely customizable, and come with door openers with smart technology and battery backups. And since the ROI on garage door installs is virtually dollar-for-dollar, it’s oftentimes a better long-term decision to replace the garage door’s panels when you want to upgrade the windows.Have questions about garage door windows? Give us a call to consult with professional garage door technicians on window design, installation, and advice on how to best do this garage door makeover.