Sectional Garage Doors
Sectional Garage Doors
Evolution of a Sectional Garage Door
Sectional garage doors have a rich history that traces back to the early 20th century, when innovative minds strived to improve the traditional up-and-over garage door. Unlike Up & Over doors that swing outward and inward, sectional doors are made up of horizontal sections connected by hinges.
Early sectional garage doors were primarily made of wood, providing durability and insulation. However, as technology advanced and new materials became available, manufacturers began producing sectional doors using steel and aluminium. These materials offered enhanced strength, resistance to weather elements, and customisation options in terms of colour, texture, glazing, and design.
The introduction of automatic garage door openers further propelled the popularity of sectional doors. Electric motors, remote controls, and anti force features transformed the way homeowners accessed their garages, providing unparalleled convenience and security.
The Benefits
There are many features and benefits to a sectional garage door; these include: space saving design, expert security, enhanced safety features, low maintenance, a large range of customisation options, and much more.
Enhanced Security: Sectional garage doors offer excellent security features to protect homes and belongings. Built with durable materials such as steel or aluminium, these doors are resistant to forced entry and tampering. Additionally, sectional doors can be equipped with robust locking mechanisms, self-locking motors, and security alarms for added peace of mind.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency: Insulated sectional garage doors improve thermal efficiency and reduce energy costs. Insulated panels help regulate temperatures inside the garage, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. They come in a 20mm, 45mm, and 70mm thick insulated panel.
Customisation Options: Sectional garage doors offer a wide range of customisation options to complement various architectural styles and homeowner preferences. From traditional raised-panel designs to contemporary flush styles, homeowners can choose from an array of panel configurations, finishes, and glazing options to achieve the desired look for their homes.
Safety Features: Sectional garage doors are equipped with various safety features to protect users and property. These include anti force mechanisms that prevent the door from closing if an obstruction is detected and manual release systems for emergency situations. These safety features help prevent accidents and injuries, especially in households with children or pets.
Types of Sectional Garage Doors
When choosing a section door, you will need to decide on the type of sectional you want. This will include choosing the level of insulation, the design, and also the door finish.
Insulation Choices
20mm Panel
The 20mm sectional panel is the smallest thickness of insulation available but is usually the most competitive on price.
45mm Panel
45mm insulated sectional is the best selling sectional door type on the market and is often quoted as standard by most garage door companies when quoting.
67mm Panel
The energy-saving 67mm sectional door offers excellent thermal insulation and is at the top of the range when it comes to sectional garage doors.
Timber Panel
The solid timber door is excellently suited for timber houses or buildings with many timber elements, such as timber garages or barns.
Door Styles
Sectional Finishes
How do Sectional Doors Work
Sectional garage doors operate using a straightforward yet efficient mechanism that allows them to open and close smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of how sectional garage doors work:
Construction: Sectional garage doors consist of 4 horizontal panels that break into individual sections when opening and closing.
Track System: Along the sides of the garage door opening, vertical tracks are installed to guide the movement of the door. At the top of the opening, horizontal tracks are installed parallel to the ceiling. These tracks provide support and alignment for the door panels as they move up and down.
Torsion Spring System: Sectional garage doors are equipped with a spring system, which can be located in 3 locations depending on the garage door size. This system consists of one or more highly tensioned springs mounted onto the metal shaft. The springs are tensioned to assist in lifting the door when opening and closing.
Cable and Pulley System: Attached to the bottom of each door panel is a cable that runs through a series of pulleys installed at strategic points along the tracks. As the door is opened or closed, the cables move through the pulleys, allowing the door panels to follow the track system smoothly.
Automatic Operation (Optional): Many sectional garage doors are equipped with electric motors that automate the opening and closing process. These motors are typically mounted on the ceiling of the garage and connected to the door via a drive mechanism. The motor receives signals from a remote control, wall-mounted switch, or keypad, allowing users to operate the door with ease.
Weather Seals: To ensure proper insulation and weather protection, sectional garage doors are often equipped with weather seals along the bottom edge and sides of the door panels. These seals help to keep out drafts, moisture, and debris, maintaining a comfortable and secure environment inside the garage.
How do Sectional Doors Work
Choosing the right sectional garage door involves considering several important factors to ensure you select a door that meets your needs, fits your budget, and complements your home’s aesthetics. Here are key factors to consider:
Material & Insulation:
Insulated: Offers durability, security, and resistance to dents and rust. It’s a popular choice for its strength and low maintenance requirements. It also helps regulate temperature, improve energy efficiency, and reduce noise. Ideal for attached garages or areas where climate control is desired.
Timber: Provides a classic, natural look and can be stained or painted to match your home’s exterior. However, it requires more maintenance to prevent warping, rotting, and insect damage.
Style and Design:
Panel Design: There are a number of panel designs to choose from, ranging from the popular L-Ribbed and M-Ribbed to the not-so-popular S-Ribbed.
Customisation: Choose from various window designs, and decorative elements to match your home’s architecture and personal preferences.
Colours: With over 5 verified and trusted manufacturers, we recommend you have the choice of over 100 plus colours to choose from.
Size and Fit:
DIY: Measure the width and height of your garage opening accurately to ensure the door fits properly. Consider headroom and sideroom requirements for installation, especially if you have limited space in your garage.
Supply & Install: We always recommend getting a garage door specialist to supply and fit a sectional garage door to ensure a smooth installation. Fitting a sectional door yourself can be very dangerous due to having to tension the sectional spring.
Automation:
Decide whether you want a manual or electric garage door. Automated doors offer convenience and can be operated with the click of a button. Ensure the motor system is reliable, quiet, and equipped with emergency release options in case of a power cut or emergency.
Budget:
Determine your budget and explore options within your price range. Consider the long-term value, including durability, energy efficiency, and maintenance costs, when making your decision.
By considering these factors carefully, you can choose a sectional garage door that meets your functional needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints, enhancing the overall curb appeal and functionality of your home.