The doors to your garage are important, since they keep your belongings in and keep the weather and unwanted guests out of your personal space. Unfortunately, your garage doors experience a good amount of stress and abuse over time. On average, garage doors have a lifespan of around 30 years if properly maintained. If the door is approaching this age, showing signs of rust or corrosion, or you just want to update the home's exterior, replacing the garage doors will be necessary. Knowing which type of doors to choose can be a challenge, though. With this guide, you will learn the differences between single-panel and sectional garage doors and which option is right for your home.

Single-Panel Garage Doors

As the name suggests, single-panel garage doors consist of one solid slab that slides up and into the garage ceiling space when opened. Since there are fewer parts to this type of door, the purchase price is usually less expensive and the installation process is much easier when compared to a sectional door.

Single-panel garage doors do operate differently than sectional doors. These doors are installed on a hinge that is attached to a jam. Although they can be installed and opened with an automatic garage door opener, the hinge-like system allows you to easily swing the door opened and closed without an automatic opener.

Single-panel garage doors are available in a variety of materials and styles, so you can find a look that is not only durable but also complementary to your home's exterior.

There is a negative associated with a single-panel door, though. Because these doors operate on a hinge system that features extension springs, they are not as safe as sectional garage doors. Without proper maintenance and repairs, the springs may become loose, affecting the door's ability to open and close in a safe, efficient manner.

Sectional Garage Doors

Now that you understand the design, installation, and benefits of a single-panel garage door, you need to learn about a sectional door. Because of the safety risks that may occur with a single-panel door system, many people are opting for sectional garage doors.

Sectional doors are installed on a track system. When the automatic opener opens the garage door, the various sections of the door fold up into the garage ceiling without taking up an excessive amount of space.

Sectional garage doors come in a variety of colors and styles, as well. Because they feature various sections, certain styles of doors may not be possible. For instance, if you want a real wood garage door, a sectional version may not be possible. However, there are metal and aluminum sectional doors with faux wood finishes.

Installing and maintaining a sectional garage door can be a bit more difficult than a single-panel door. Since there are more moving parts, there are more springs, hinges, and other small parts and components that need to be installed properly and maintained over time.

Which Is Right for You?

There are a few factors to help you determine whether a single-panel or sectional garage door is right for you and your home.

If you are planning to conduct the installation on your own or you are on a tighter budget, you may prefer the simplicity of a single-panel door. Also, if you want to enhance the look of your older, historical home, the antiquated, old-fashioned look and feel of a single-panel door may be the best option.

On the other hand, if you are more concerned about safety and durability, consider a sectional garage door for your home. 

For more information, get in touch with a company that offers garage door services.