How to Choose a Garage Door Style

There’s no shortage of garage door styles to choose from, and the possibilities become even more intricate once you start adding smaller details. Customizing a garage door to perfectly match your home can be an exhilarating experience, but where do you begin? We’re here to guide you through the process by breaking down key elements of the design journey and offering a fun quiz to help you discover which of our Artisan door series might suit your preferences.

Figuring out which garage door style aligns with your vision starts with understanding your options. The most common type is the overhead carriage-style door, which is widely available and a staple in many of Artisan’s offerings. Other styles, such as sliding or folding doors, offer unique alternatives but come with their own set of pros and cons depending on your design aesthetic. Your choice should ultimately reflect the overall look you’re aiming for.

Choosing a garage door is more than just aesthetics—it’s also practical. As you dive deeper into the process, ask yourself these important questions:

  • Is my garage attached to my home? If so, consider integrating design elements from the rest of your house into the garage door. For detached garages, a more rustic or barn-style door might be ideal.
  • How many windows should I include? Adding windows can enhance natural lighting, making the space feel brighter and more inviting—perfect for creative studios or additional living areas.
  • What’s my budget? Understanding your financial limits will help prioritize which design features are most important to you.
A panel garage door made of dark wood

Your Style Options

With countless ideas and trends circulating online, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when selecting a garage door. To simplify the process, later in this post, we’ve included a quiz to help you identify which Artisan door series matches your personal style. Remember, your garage door doesn’t need to conform to rigid expectations—it’s about blending your taste with practicality.

Let’s explore some popular garage door styles, materials, and decorative hardware options to inspire your decision-making.

Common Garage Door Styles

Understanding the various types of garage doors is crucial when envisioning your perfect door.

  • Swing-Out: Despite appearing as two separate doors, these operate similarly to standard overhead carriage doors—they simply roll up and down.
  • Bifold: Designed to fold like traditional barn doors, bifold doors still function as overhead doors.
  • Trifold: With at least three panels, trifold doors resemble bifold doors but offer even more flexibility.
  • Barn: A classic, non-overhead style, barn doors typically swing or slide and often lack windows.

Garage Door Materials

When deciding on materials, consider how they complement your home’s exterior while factoring in local climate conditions. Some materials perform better in extreme weather than others.

  • Wood: A timeless choice, wood offers excellent insulation and adds a touch of elegance. However, it requires regular maintenance.
  • Wood Composite: Made from wood fibers, plastic, and a bonding agent, this eco-friendly option mimics real wood but demands less upkeep.
  • Faux Wood: Pressed together in molds, faux wood achieves the appearance of natural wood without the hassle of real wood.
  • Vinyl: The most budget-friendly option, vinyl is naturally resistant to insects, moisture, and rot.
  • Glass: Glass doors let sunlight flood the garage, making the space feel larger and brighter. They’re also low-maintenance since they don’t require painting.

Add Decorative Hardware

Decorative hardware can make your garage door stand out while enhancing its functionality. At Artisan, we offer tailored recommendations based on your chosen series and style. Always ensure that any hardware enhances rather than detracts from the door’s purpose. Below are some hardware options we provide:

  • Ring Pulls
  • Latches
  • Strap Hinges
  • Clavos
  • Pull Handles

Take the Quiz

Ready to discover which Artisan garage door suits your personality? Think about your lifestyle choices when answering these questions. Write down your responses, and we’ll recommend a door series at the end.

  1. What’s your design style?
    • a. Classic and Traditional
    • b. Modern and Chic
    • c. Earthy and Simple
    • d. Vibrant and Playful
  2. What colors dominate your home?
    • a. Monochrome
    • b. Neutral Tones
    • c. Earthy Greens and Browns
    • d. Bold Colors
  3. What materials compose your home’s exterior?
    • a. Vinyl
    • b. Stone
    • c. Brick
    • d. Wood
  4. Which type of vehicle do you own?
    • a. Sedan
    • b. SUV
    • c. Truck
    • d. No Vehicles
  1. What activities take place in your garage?
    • a. Storage
    • b. Gym
    • c. Workshop
    • d. Additional Living Space
  2. What’s your favorite beverage?
    • a. Coffee
    • b. Tea
    • c. Smoothies
    • d. Energy Drinks
  3. Where would you love to travel?
    • Italy
    • Japan
    • Canada
    • New Zealand
  4. What’s the climate like where you live?
    • a. Humid
    • b. Mild and Sunny
    • c. Cold and Snowy
    • d. Warm and Arid

Explaining Your Results

A classic white carriage-style garage door

Mostly A’s: Symphony Door Series

If you prefer timeless designs and simplicity, the Symphony Door Series is a fantastic choice. Built from vinyl, it maintains its pristine appearance without demanding frequent maintenance. Featuring a historic carriage door look, it allows customization through panel and trim board options. The Symphony series combines classic charm with affordability, and decorative hardware can further elevate its timeless appeal.

Learn more about the Symphony Series.

A sleek black-and-gold glass garage door

Mostly B’s: Panorama Door Series

For those seeking innovation and standout style, the Panorama Series offers a glass garage door that dramatically transforms your home’s aesthetic. These doors flood the garage with natural light, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Despite being made of glass, they remain sturdy and secure against potential intruders. Perfect for year-round use, especially in home gyms.

Learn more about the Panorama Series.

A brown two-panel garage door

Mostly C’s: TimberLife Door Series

Environmentally conscious homeowners will appreciate the TimberLife Series, crafted from Tricoya or Accoya wood. Known for durability and versatility, this door blends seamlessly with nature through its natural hues of brown and tan. Available in plank-style designs with limited windows and trim boards, it exudes refinement and harmony with its surroundings.

Learn more about the TimberLife Series.

Green garage doors

Mostly D’s: American Farmhouse Door Series

Looking to make a bold statement? The American Farmhouse Series features vibrant colors like blue, green, and red, adding sophistication and elegance to your home. Its classic yet modern design ensures it stands out in any neighborhood.

Learn more about the American Farmhouse Series.

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