We’re not psychics. We’re a garage door maintenance company. We can’t tell your fortune, interpret your aura, or read your palm like a Rand McNally map. And still we can say with reasonable confidence that installing a new garage door carries one of the best returns on investment when it comes to home improvements.
But we can’t tell what you’re thinking or what kind of garage door you want.
Here’s what we need to know from you. Anytime we begin a job to install a garage door, we always sit down and talk with the customer first. This is where you need to tell us your dreams and ambitions for the door, considerations, concerns, and budget. We can find solutions to accommodate nearly all your needs, but we first need a few parameters.
Budget
Let’s start with budget. As a garage door service company that has served the greater Sacramento area for many years, we know how to make the most of every dollar in a budget, no matter its size. But still we have to know what we’re working with.
Keep in mind that installing a new garage door is an investment — one that’s worth planning and saving for. In fact, garage door installation has one of the highest returns on investment for all home improvements — 97%, virtually dollar for dollar. That’s because it can dramatically improve your property value. But like any investment, you get out what you put in. That’s why we encourage our customers not to be too cheap. Plan a new garage door around a tax return. Talk to your bank about a home equity loan. It’s also a great way to invest an inheritance of end of the year bonus.
What’s the Size of Your Door?
Most home garages are pretty standard, though commercial storefront garage doors come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to note the size of the door you need, as well as the ceiling height of your garage. This way we can determine if an overhead opener is appropriate, or if you may need to install a side-wall opener. You might also consider carriage type doors or sliding doors if space is an issue.
Why are You Getting a New Garage Door?
Did you decide to install a new door because of the curb appeal factor and what a great looking door can do for the resale value of your home? Perhaps you were looking for a nicer looking material like wood or composite wood to replace the standard steel one you currently own. The old door may simply need replacing because of its condition.
What’s the Style of Your Home?
To increase the curb appeal, you need a door that isn’t just any other door. It needs to not only match the rest of your home but actually complement and further bring out the style of your home.
What Kind of Garage Door Do You Prefer & Why?
You have your pick of options when it comes to the material you choose for your new garage door. Each has its advantages and budget considerations. Wooden doors are very popular because of their natural appeal. The catch is they tend to be more expensive and there’s more maintenance involved. Aluminum is a nice option. It tends to be more affordable with less upkeep. Modern aluminum doors are less prone to dents. Steel also has less upkeep. It’s usually an inexpensive option, depending on the thickness of the steel.
What Features are Must Have?
Are you looking for an insulated door? How insulated? Do you want a smart garage door with an opener you can control remotely from your phone? Does it need to be durable enough to withstand hurricanes and other extreme weather?
What Else is On Your Garage Door Wish List?
Do you want windows on your garage door? Do you have a lot of overhead storage where perhaps a vertically mounted opener would work better? Does it need to have automatic locks? Do you need a door that can accommodate a smaller entrance?
A Word of Advice? Consider Installing a Smart Garage Door
If you are investing in a new garage door, or even just a new garage door opener, you really should consider smart technology. Getting a smart garage door opener allows your door to be controlled remotely from your phone or other mobile device via an Internet connection. This way you can open and close the door from anywhere, whether you’re in the doctor’s office, at the golf course, or stuck in rush hour traffic.
We all forget to close our garage doors from time to time. Smart garage doors make that no longer a problem since you are notified when your door has been open for long periods. They also eliminate package theft. You can include special delivery instructions to your carrier who can call you to give them access to your garage. Then they can put your package safely inside your garage door out of the temptation of thieves.