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Garage doors - installation / repair specialists - what you need to know

Whether you use your garage to store your car, as an outdoor gym, or simply need to pile up your possessions, it needs to be secure and accessible. And that hinges on having the right door to protect your property.

There are plenty of options when it comes to garage doors, from traditional up and over models to sectional and roller doors. For an authentic look with maximum curb appeal, you could even opt for a side-hinged door. Whatever door you choose, make sure it allows you to use your garage the way you want to.

It’s worth considering an electric or automatic door too. While this might seem something of a luxury, this type of system isn’t as expensive as you might think, and it could turn your garage into a more appealing space.

Cost of garage door installation

No matter what form or function you’re seeking, there’s usually a garage door to fit your requirements. Here are the standard prices you might expect to pay for supply and installation:

Single timber, GRP or steel up and over door*

• Low: £500-£750
• Average: £1,000-£1,500
• High: £2,500-£4,000

Single sectional steel door*

• Low: £800-£1,000
• Average: £1,500-£2,000
• High: £2,000-£3,000

Single timber, GRP or steel side-hinged door*

• Low: £1,000-£1,200
• Average: £1,500-£1,750
• High: £2,000-£2,500

*Double prices for double-sized doors, and add £300-£500 for electric operation

Types of garage door

There are four main types of garage door: up and over, sectional, roller and side-hinged doors.

• Up and over doors. By far the most common type of garage doors, up and over doors are reliable, easy to use and available in a variety of designs. These doors are fitted with a spring mechanism to prevent them from dropping down when raised and usually have a strong box steel sectional chassis for added support. Up and over doors are typically available in four materials – steel, timber, GRP and PVC – and can be fitted for manual or electric operation.
• Sectional doors. This type of door is split into sections which means minimum space is taken up by the door when it’s folded away. And that gives you more room in your garage. Sectional doors can be supplied with a range of insulation options and some manufacturers will include rubber weather seals to retain heat and keep water out. Sectional doors can be operated manually or via an electric motor.
• Roller doors. This garage door is formed from aluminium slats, which roll up and fit neatly into a box atop your garage door opening. Roller doors are ideal if you’re looking to save space in your garage. While they’re most frequently operated via an electric motor, these doors can also be opened and closed easily by hand thanks to their sprung system. As with other door types, a range of colour and finish options are available – even wood effect.
• Side-hinged doors. Opening outwards, these doors maximise space inside your garage. Side-hinged doors are built onto a steel frame, and it’s important to make sure they have weather seals to prevent wind and rain from entering your garage. These doors are usually available in both steel and timber, with different designs and colour options, so you can find the right style for your home.

The qualifications your garage door installer needs

Unlike work carried out on standard doors and windows, your professional won’t need FENSA certification. FENSA is the body that ensures compliant, competent and professional service in the double-glazing sector. The most important criteria to look for is plenty of experience installing and maintaining garage doors, with lots of customer references available too.

Planning permission for garage door installation

You won’t need to consider planning permission for a new garage door unless you live in a listed building. Visual amenity considerations (in other words whether your door is in keeping with the appearance of your home and neighbouring properties) may come into play here.

Insurance for garage door installation

The main insurance requirement you’ll need to consider when having a garage door installed is public liability cover. This will protect you and your tradesperson against any damage caused during the fitting of your new garage door.

Most garage door systems will also come with a warranty. Make sure you’re provided with the necessary documents, so you’re covered in case anything goes wrong with your door.

Questions you should ask your strong garage door installer

• What type of door would they recommend and why?
• What service or maintenance schedule would they recommend on an electric motor operated door?
• Can they show you examples of doors they’ve installed previously?
• Can they provide a warranty on their work?