Electric roller garage doors – Why you should upgrade
Electric roller garage doors are becoming a popular choice for homeowners seeking convenience, style, and security. Unlike traditional garage doors, which can be heavy and cumbersome, electric roller doors offer a sleek, space-saving design that’s easy to operate. But why should you upgrade to one? In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the key features, benefits, and factors to consider when deciding whether an electric roller garage door is the right investment for you.
What is electric roller garage door?
These garage doors are designed to offer a seamless and convenient solution for garage access. Unlike traditional garage doors, which swing open or slide along tracks, electric roller doors operate by rolling up into a compact housing unit located above the garage opening. This space-saving design is ideal for homes with limited garage space or driveways where swing-out doors might be impractical.
These doors are typically made from insulated aluminum or steel slats that roll up vertically, providing a streamlined appearance. The electric component comes into play through a motorized system that operates the door remotely, either by a handheld remote control or a wall-mounted switch.
How does it work?
The mechanics behind electric roller garage door is both simple and effective. The door consists of horizontal slats that are hinged together, allowing them to roll up into a cylinder housed above the garage door opening. The door operates through a motor-driven mechanism that is either hardwired into your home’s electrical system or powered by a rechargeable battery.
When you press a button on the remote control or switch, the motor activates, pulling the door upwards to open or downwards to close. Many models come with built-in safety features, such as an auto-reverse function, which ensures the door stops and reverses if it encounters an obstacle during closing. This makes electric roller garage doors both user-friendly and safe.
Benefits of electric roller garage doors
Electric roller garage doors offer several benefits, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their garage. Below are some of the key advantages:
- Convenience: No more manual lifting! Electric roller garage door can be opened and closed with the simple push of a button. This feature is especially handy during bad weather or when you’re carrying items to and from your vehicle.
- Space-saving: The vertical operation of the door means that it doesn’t require any additional space either inside or outside the garage. This is perfect for smaller garages or driveways where traditional swing-out doors would take up valuable room.
- Insulation: Electric garage doors are often made from insulated materials, which help regulate the temperature inside your garage. This is particularly beneficial if your garage is attached to your home, as it can reduce heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer.
- Quiet operation: Modern electric roller doors are designed for smooth, quiet operation. This is a major plus if your garage is located near living spaces or if you frequently use your garage during early mornings or late evenings.
- Enhanced curb appeal: These doors are available in a variety of designs and finishes, allowing you to choose a style that complements your home’s exterior. The sleek design adds a modern and polished look to your property.
Are electric roller garage doors secure?
When it comes to security, these electric garage doors offer a significant upgrade compared to traditional options. The design itself makes it difficult for intruders to gain access, as the door rolls up tightly and leaves no visible hinges or gaps for tampering. Most electric roller doors also come with additional security features such as:
- Auto-locking mechanisms: These engage automatically when the door is closed, providing an extra layer of protection.
- Anti-lift technology: This feature prevents the door from being forced open manually from the outside.
- Rolling code technology: Many electric roller doors use rolling codes for their remote controls, which change the access code each time the door is operated. This makes it nearly impossible for anyone to replicate the signal and gain unauthorized access to your garage.
Why you should upgrade
Upgrading to electric roller garage door is about more than just convenience but it’s about modernizing your home with the latest technology and security features. Here are some compelling reasons why you should make the switch:
- Ease of use: Imagine coming home on a rainy day and being able to open your garage door without stepping out of your car. The convenience of remote control operation is a game-changer for many homeowners.
- Increased safety: The advanced safety features of electric roller garage doors, such as sensors that prevent the door from closing on objects or people, make them safer than traditional garage doors.
- Home value: An electric roller garage door can improve your home’s value by offering enhanced functionality, security, and a modern aesthetic. It’s a small upgrade that can make a big difference when it comes to property resale.
- Energy efficiency: One of the most overlooked advantages of electric roller garage doors is their energy efficiency. Many electric roller doors are made from insulated materials, which can help keep your garage warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This insulation reduces the amount of energy needed to heat or cool the space, particularly if your garage is connected to your home.
Customization options for electric garage doors
Electric roller garage doors offer plenty of customization options, allowing you to choose a design that fits your home’s aesthetic. Here are some of the options available:
- Materials: Most electric roller doors are made from aluminum or steel. Aluminum offers a lightweight, rust-resistant option, while steel provides extra durability and security.
- Colors and finishes: You can choose from a wide range of colors and finishes to match your home’s exterior. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or something more traditional, there’s a style for everyone.
- Additional features: You can also customize your door with features like windows, decorative paneling, garage door lock and smart home integration that allows you to operate your garage door from your smartphone.
Installation and maintenance tips
Proper installation is key to ensuring that your electric roller garage door operates smoothly. It’s recommended to have a professional installer handle the job to ensure everything is aligned correctly and that the motor functions properly. When it comes to maintenance and garage door repairs, electric roller garage doors are relatively low-maintenance compared to traditional doors. However, some simple upkeep tasks will help ensure long-term functionality:
- Regular cleaning: Keep the door and its slats clean from debris, which can obstruct the rolling mechanism.
- Lubrication: Annually lubricate the moving parts of the door to ensure smooth operation and prevent wear and tear.
- Check safety features: Periodically test the door’s safety features, such as the auto-reverse mechanism, to ensure they are functioning properly.
What to consider when buying an electric roller garage door?
Before purchasing an electric roller garage door, it’s important to consider the following:
- Space requirements: Make sure you have enough headroom for the door to roll up into its housing unit.
- Motor power: Consider the size and weight of your garage door when selecting the motor power to ensure smooth operation.
- Safety features: Look for models with auto-reverse, anti-lift technology, and rolling code remotes for added security and peace of mind.
Cost consideration – Is it worth the investment?
Electric roller garage doors tend to be more expensive than traditional garage doors, with prices ranging from £500 to £2,000 depending on the size, material, and additional features. While the initial investment may seem high, the long-term benefits, including increased convenience, security, and energy efficiency, make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.
Summary to upgrade electric roller garage door
Electric roller garage doors offer a modern, practical solution for homeowners looking to upgrade their garage. With features like remote control operation, advanced security measures, and energy-efficient insulation, they provide both convenience and peace of mind. Whether you’re interested in enhancing your home’s value or simply looking for a more efficient way to operate your garage door, these electric garage doors are a great option to consider. With various customization options and long-term benefits, upgrading to an electric roller garage door is an investment that will pay off in more ways than one.