Recently, so-called sectional garage doors have become very popular. They offer numerous advantages over doors with traditional opening systems. The installation cost depends on the dimensions, the chosen material, and any additional features included.
Sectional doors have many advantages over traditional systems. Their primary appeal is practicality, as they do not take up space either in front of or inside the garage during operation. In urban areas, where every inch of space is valuable, sectional doors have become the standard, and their price is no longer a significant barrier.
The design is similar to window shutters, as the doors simply lift up. However, instead of rolling up into a box like roller doors, they slide along the ceiling, which is often the only available surface in overcrowded garages. There is also an option for side-guided doors that slide along one of the walls, but this solution is less popular as it requires that the wall be entirely free.
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The most significant advantage of sectional garage doors is space-saving. Unlike other systems, sectional doors save space in terms of width; the opening size for installation is the same as the size when the doors are open. Other systems typically “steal” a few inches, making it more challenging to maneuver a vehicle in tight city garages.
Sectional doors come in various sizes, making them suitable for both industrial buildings and private garages. The difference lies in the mechanism; industrial doors often use side motors, while private garages typically use ceiling motors. The way panels are guided inside the building also varies.
Materials Used in Sectional Garage Doors
Standard sectional garage doors are made of sandwich panels constructed from galvanized steel sheets coated with plastic, with polyurethane foam filling. The galvanized steel provides strength and protection against corrosion, while the polyurethane filling offers thermal insulation. Aluminum profiles with transparent fillings are also used, especially in auto service centers where natural light is essential.
The polyurethane foam ensures good thermal insulation, reducing heating costs and preventing condensation during the heating season. Sectional doors have seals on all sides, preventing air from passing through, even in strong winds. Additionally, the polyurethane filling provides a decent level of sound insulation.
Installation Considerations
There are some limitations when installing sectional garage doors, primarily related to the dimensions of the opening and installation conditions. Most garage openings are standard sizes, so there are no technical obstacles to installing and operating sectional doors. The shape of the entrance, whether slanted or arched, does not affect the installation of sectional garage doors.
The ceiling height in most garages also does not impact door installation. Different attachment methods are used depending on the garage material, ensuring the tracks are securely fastened inside the opening. The most important factor is that the surface where the doors are installed is flat.
Sectional doors can be motorized or manually operated. If there is no motor, locking is secured with locks. These doors are more affordable and recommended for users who only use them once or twice a week. Non-motorized options are also suitable for industrial doors that are rarely opened. In general, sectional doors used daily are much easier to operate if equipped with a motor.
Are Sectional Garage Doors Safe?
Regarding safety, most motors have an automatic opening system if an obstacle is detected. An additional safety measure is installing photoelectric sensors that signal the motor to stop closing if something is in the door’s path.
The motor automatically halts the closing process and reopens the doors. After some time, if the obstacle is removed, the doors will automatically start closing again.
Cost Factors
The price of sectional garage doors is generally calculated per square foot but can vary depending on several factors. The base price increases with the addition of a motor and installation costs.
Other optional features, such as pedestrian pass doors, photoelectric sensors, extra remote controls, panel color, and windows for natural light, are all added separately and influence the final price. A precise cost is determined after taking exact measurements, assessing installation conditions, and considering customer preferences.
Photo: Freepik, Hormann