Karen Miglin
REALTOR® /Sales Associate
Realty Executives Exceptional Realtors®
According to the 2021 National Cost vs Value Report, garage door replacement ranks as the number one most important home improvement project for return on investment. In fact, homeowners that replaced their garage door recouped 94.5% of the cost of the new door in home value. That’s why it’s a good idea to move the garage door near the top of your home improvement list, especially if you want to sell your home within the next several years.
When it comes to upgrading your garage door for increased home value, you need to maximize three factors. These include curb appeal, safety and security, and energy efficiency. If you work to develop these three areas when replacing your garage door, you will see a return on investment with the sale of your home.
Garage doors are an important element of curb appeal for two reasons. First, garage doors can take up 30-40% of a home’s exterior. This means that garage door design shapes a tremendous amount of your curb appeal. Second, in the last several decades, people have been calling garage doors the “new front door.” They have earned this title because a significant number of homeowners use the garage door as their primary entrance. For these reasons, you need to carefully consider design before choosing which will best suit your home.
Modern Aluminum and Glass Garage Doors – Full view glass garage doors with an aluminum frame are one of the most striking options for a new modern door. Each section of the door is fitted with glass panes available in dozens of texture, thickness, and color options. A glass garage door will create stunning visual interest for the exterior of a mid-century, contemporary, or industrial style home.
Carriage House Garage Door in Real or Faux Wood – Carriage house garage doors are a classically elegant option styled after 19th century carriage houses. They feature long panels, decorative hardware, and multi-paned windows. For the material of the door, you also have the option between a custom-built, real wood door or a steel door with a faux wood overlay. Depending on your budget and the style of your home, real wood or faux wood can be customized to enhance your curb appeal.
Steel Garage Doors with Windows – Steel garage doors are a reliable choice for replacement. The metal construction resists water and pest damage and is available in up to three layers of insulation. To upgrade the look of a steel door, adding windows is a great option that improves curb appeal. Windows let in natural light, but also come in frosted or etched glass to maintain privacy and security.
When it comes to home security and family safety, buyers want to see a garage door that protects. That is why upgrading your garage door system with a smart garage door opener increases your home’s value. Manufacturers outfit these smart systems with the latest technology to ensure that your garage door remains secure. Security measures include automatic garage door locks, a live and recorded video feed, and even two-way audio. With these additions, you can monitor your garage door at all times, confident that it is defending your home.
The best part of a smart garage door opener is the convenience it provides for door operation. Through an app on your phone, you will be able to open and close the door remotely and keep a log of activity. For safety mechanisms, there are ultra-sensitive eye sensors connected to an automatic reversal system. This will ensure that the garage door never injures you or a family member.
Energy efficiency is another important factor that buyers are considering when viewing new homes. They want lower utility bills and a home that stays at a comfortable temperature all year. That is why insulated garage doors have become a popular option for increasing home value. In fact, an insulated garage door can increase your home’s value by saving on energy costs and utilizing durable materials.
Both steel and aluminum constructed garage doors are available in two or three layers of insulation. A two-layered door will include a steel front and exposed insulation on the interior, while a three-layer insulated door will have a layer of insulation between the steel exterior and interior. With insulation layers, more is better. These layers work to maintain temperature control for your garage and home while also acting to mediate noise level. With an insulated door, your garage will be comfortable and quiet all year round.
In conclusion, if you are looking for ways to add value to your home, a new garage door is an excellent option to consider. Take the time to find the look and functionality that best fits your home and your needs!
