How to choose the right garage door

Corner shot of single storey house in white with anthracite grey integral sectional garage door matching guttering and window frames and block paved driveway.

Choosing the right garage door isn’t just about function—it’s about security, energy efficiency, and enhancing your home’s kerb appeal. With so many options, finding the perfect fit can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down what to consider, helping you make the best choice for your home.

Beige brick townhouse style property with integral garage and garage door in dark grey matching door and window frames.

Understanding your needs

The function of your garage will greatly influence your choice of door. If your garage is a living or working space, insulation and energy efficiency are crucial. On the other hand, if keeping your belongings secure is your main concern, you'll want to focus on strong locking systems and durable materials.

"We’re passionate about helping you find the right garage door. We’ll bring samples and talk you options before arranging a technical survey. When your garage door is made, our installation team return to install for a perfect finish."
John Foster, Hillarys Exterior Installation and Service Manager

Close up of modern brick property with attached double garage with garage doors in dark grey.

How to choose a secure garage door

Your garage door is one of the biggest entry points to your home, so security matters. Modern garage doors come with advanced features for extra protection, including reinforced locking systems, letting you choose exclusive security locks over basic padlocks, electronic-only entry which prevents forced access with unique access codes or key fobs, strong materials like steel and aluminium which provide extra durability and even Secured by Design accreditation, like our Ultra 77 Roller door which meets police-approved security standards.

For extra peace of mind, consider adding a smart hub so you can control access from your phone or tablet.

Large traditional pale stone house with wide driveway and integral double garage on left with two grey garage doors.

Different types of garage door

How your garage door opens can affect both the inside and outside space. Traditional up-and-over doors swing outward, needing space in front of the garage, while side-hinged doors offer easy pedestrian access. We offer two types of doors - Roller doors which retreat into a box above the opening and Sectional doors that run along the ceiling. During your appointment, our experts will take a look at your driveway and garage layout to help you choose the most convenient and space-saving option.

Exterior shot of modern brown-brick bungalow with integral garage door with georgian-effect panelling in white, closed, matching front door, white fascias to windows, brick driveway with lawn to right and flower pots to left of drive.

Energy efficient insulation

If your garage is attached to your home or used as a workspace, insulation is key for temperature control and energy efficiency. Our Roller garage doors have double-walled laths for great heat and noise insulation, while our Sectional garage doors have double skinned panels with enhanced thermal and insulation properties.

Large traditional brick house with apex windows and double-width internal garage with dark brown roller door that matches the front

Enhancing kerb appeal

A garage door isn’t just functional—it’s one of the first things people see when they approach your home. With a wide range of designs, materials, and finishes, you can find a door that matches your home's architecture and your personal style. Think about coordinating your garage door with your front door, window frames, fascias, guttering, or even the driveway for a co-ordinated look.

The final word

Choosing the right garage door involves carefully considering insulation, security, size, opening mechanism, and style. By understanding your specific needs and preferences, our advisor can help you pick a door that not improves your home's functionality and boosts its appearance. Explore our range of doors available to transform your garage into a versatile, stylish, and secure space.