Let’s talk about garage doors. You know, most people today go for the typical roll-up doors, but if you want something with a bit more character, side-hinged garage doors might be your thing. Austin Garage Door can set you up with the best, and these doors bring a timeless appeal that fits both traditional and modern homes. Let me walk you through why these doors are making a comeback and why you might want them on your garage.
What Are Side Hinged Garage Doors?
Simply put, side-hinged garage doors are like the front door of your house but for your garage. They open outward, swinging on hinges that are attached vertically on either side of the door frame. No complex mechanisms, no tracks, and no springs—just solid, reliable doors that open wide and let you in.
These doors have been around forever, but they’re getting popular again because of their simple design and functional benefits. You can open one door for quick access or both doors if you’re moving your car or working in the garage.
Why Choose Side Hinged Garage Doors?
Classic Appeal
Let’s face it—side-hinged doors have a certain charm that roll-up doors just don’t. The traditional swing-out motion mimics old carriage house doors, which add a nostalgic feel to any home. This style is perfect if you want to match the architectural style of a vintage or classic home, or even if you just want to give your house that extra bit of curb appeal.
Practicality
They’re super easy to use, especially if you don’t need to open the entire garage door every time. Just pop one open and grab your bike or lawnmower without exposing everything inside your garage to the world. And because they don’t have tracks or springs, there’s less to maintain or worry about breaking.
Space Considerations
One of the biggest advantages is the space you get inside your garage. Since these doors open out, you’re not losing overhead storage. You can hang tools, shelves, or even lights in the space where a roll-up door would normally go.
However, these doors do need space to open. If your driveway is small or you park right up to your garage door, they might not be the best option. You’ve got to leave enough room for the doors to swing outward, which is something to think about if your garage opens onto a busy street or sidewalk.
Quiet Operation
If you’ve ever been startled by the loud, clunky noise of a roll-up door, you’ll love how quiet these doors are. No motors, no chains, just smooth, silent hinges. This makes them perfect if your garage is near a bedroom or if you’re a night owl working in the garage late.
Durability and Security
Side-hinged doors are usually made of solid materials like wood or steel, which offer excellent durability and security. Steel doors, for instance, are robust and can be painted to match the rest of your home. Wooden doors give a warm, classic look but need a little more maintenance. Either way, these doors are tough. You can even add extra security bolts for peace of mind.
Materials and Customization
Side-hinged doors come in a variety of materials. Here’s a breakdown:
Material | Durability | Maintenance | Aesthetic |
---|---|---|---|
Wood | High | Regular | Classic, warm appearance |
Steel | Very High | Low | Modern, durable |
Aluminum | Moderate | Low | Lightweight, rust-resistant |
Composite | High | Low | Mimics wood, low maintenance |
Wood doors bring a natural, warm appeal but need regular painting or staining to keep them looking fresh. Steel doors, on the other hand, offer maximum security with little upkeep. You can even get insulated steel doors if you want to keep your garage warmer in the winter.
For those who love a bit of flexibility, composite doors are also available. They look like wood but come with the added benefit of lower maintenance. Aluminum options are great for lightweight, rust-resistant choices, especially if you live near the coast where humidity can be a problem.
You can also customize the look with decorative hardware, such as wrought iron hinges or handles, to give your doors a more rustic or contemporary vibe.
Costs and Installation
Prices for side-hinged garage doors vary depending on the materials and size of the door. For a standard 8’ x 7’ steel side-hinged door, you’re looking at around $500 to $1,000. Wooden doors can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $4,000, depending on whether or not they are insulated. Installation costs are usually between $150 and $500, and you’ll want to hire professionals like Austin Garage Door to make sure everything lines up perfectly.
In-Depth Questions About Side Hinged Garage Doors
How do side-hinged garage doors compare to roll-up doors?
Roll-up doors save space because they don’t need room to swing outward. But side-hinged doors offer better interior storage since they don’t take up ceiling space. Plus, they’re quieter and don’t require the maintenance that comes with a roll-up door’s motor and tracks.
Are side-hinged garage doors easy to automate?
Yes, but it’s a bit more complicated. Side-hinged doors can be fitted with an automation system, but it’s not as common as with roll-up doors. If you’re committed to automation, make sure to discuss this with your installer beforehand.
What are the best materials for side-hinged garage doors?
Wood and steel are the most popular choices. Wood gives a timeless look, but steel offers more durability with less maintenance. Composite materials are also becoming popular because they mimic the look of wood without the upkeep.
How do you maintain side-hinged garage doors?
Wooden doors need to be painted or stained regularly to prevent weather damage, while steel doors should be inspected for rust spots. Keeping the hinges oiled and ensuring the frame is aligned will help maintain smooth operation.
Conclusion
Side-hinged garage doors might be a throwback, but they’re as functional as ever. They offer classic style, easy access, and a ton of customization options. Whether you’re in Austin or the surrounding area, Austin Garage Door can help you choose the best materials, handle the installation, and even take care of the details like weatherstripping or garage door motor repairs.
If you’re looking for something unique and functional, give Austin Garage Door a call today. With expert installation and a variety of customization options, you can’t go wrong. Your garage never looked better—trust only the best for your garage door needs! Contact us now and let’s get those doors swinging.
For more info, check out how to reset Liftmaster garage door opener or how to install garage door weather stripping to keep your new doors running smooth.