Most of us think of garage doors as a utility thing, and not a decorative element of the home. We are happy if they work, but what if they could look good and offer some functionality (apart from opening and closing), too? When you add decorative windows that coordinate with the overall style of the home or property you can get all of that.
Even if the door already has windows, you can consider updating them to improve their aesthetics and function, and in this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to make it happen.
Good Looking Doors
We mentioned the word aesthetics above, and it is an important one. Many people consider adding windows to doors simply to boost aesthetic appeal, and this is quite common if there have been recent updates to the outside of a property. Often, the styles of the windows actually sync with those of the other doors and windows.
Whether the pre-existing windows are large and open panes of glass or covered in lattice-work designs, this look can be mirrored in the design of the new garage door windows. Companies like Garaga and Novatech both offer product lines that go together perfectly in this way.
You might also opt to visit online or real world Design Centre offered by companies like Garaga. Using them, you simply upload a photo of your property, and then use the software to test out different looks. This gives you a glimpse of what the property would look like with the new improvements and helps in the decision making process.
Functional Doors
Functionality is also a good reason to consider new windows, and many add them simply to improve the levels of natural light indoors. If you do more than just park vehicles in a garage, that extra light can be a boon to hobbies and other activities. Of course, new windows mean considerations around security and privacy, too.
A window is a window, and rather than allowing anyone to simply take a look inside, you can consider ordering and installing frosted or tinted glass options that block anyone from getting a good look at what’s behind the door.
Functionality also means insulation and weathertightness. Important in general, since a good door helps with home heating and cooling, it is even more important if you are going to use the space for hobbies or as a workshop. You need to use the garage door windows with the best thermal resistance, usually said to be at best at R‑3.6 with Argon-filled sealed double panes. The garage door should be an R‑16, 1¾ ″ (45 mm) polyurethane injected model.
Impact on Doors?
Of course, we do need to stop and consider if the glass and installation of the windows has an impact on the lifting system? And the honest answer is: Yes, it will.
Why? If your door did not have windows, the upgrade can affect them depending on the type and the age of the spring system. Whether a torsion or extension spring system is in place, you’ll need to adapt it to accommodate an increase in the weight of the door.
This can add a bit more to the cost of the project, but a door with pre-existing windows rarely needs any improvements to accommodate the addition of new windows.
Of course, you shouldn’t take this as law and instead contact an expert garage door technician to assess the situation and let you know if any changes need to be made.
In addition to the spring system, think about the electric garage door opener, too. Never assume it can lift even a bit more weight than before. While it is true that most garage door openers are capable of lifting weights of 230 lb. (115 kg), any changes to the spring system can leave it unbalanced.
It is a only a balanced door that can function best. After all, it is because of balance that doors seem to weigh only 10 lb. (4.5 kg). Knocked out of balance, there is a lot more resistance and even hazards. And this is true whether opening closing the door since the system presses down with the same amount of force as it lifts. The best solution is to have an expert review the door after any changes are made.
Get Help With Choosing
If you are struggling to make the choice between adding windows, a new door or a new opener, you can contact us anytime at 508-966-0242. We are experts in all things to do with garage doors and openers. We can consult with your, email a quotation, welcome you to our fun Design Centre where you can try out the styles available on your property, and offer our image gallery for inspiration!
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