A standard garage door has connected sections that roll up or down during operation. You may be less familiar with another style — a garage door that swings in and out.
This type is known as a carriage garage door because it resembles the doors installed on carriage houses during the days of horse-drawn wagons.
What Are the Advantages of Swing Doors?
A swinging garage door offers many potential advantages for homeowners:
- Extra space: Traditional doors need the garage’s top level for storage while open, which consumes ceiling space. Because a carriage door swings in and out, it won’t use this area of the garage. You can use this additional space for storing items, reorganizing the garage or other purposes.
- Attractive style: Many people love carriage house door designs because they create an elegant look that can complement homes showcasing a range of aesthetics and eras. The enhanced curb appeal could even increase your home’s value and sale price.
- Security: Swing doors are solidly built structures crafted from sturdy materials like wood and steel. They typically consist of multiple layers up to 2 inches thick. These door systems are also easy to secure by installing steel chains and locking mechanisms.
- Versatility: A carriage garage door doesn’t require overhead tracks for movement. Instead, it relies on a hinged swing system that is less obtrusive and can accommodate substantial weight. Your door will glide smoothly during opening and closing.
- Minimal maintenance: Swinging garage doors require little preventive care to keep them operating smoothly and looking fantastic. The steel and wood materials hold up well against the elements, and they have no electrical or mechanical features to fail and require repairing or replacing. However, you can add an automatic door opener with some models if you prefer.
Are Swing Doors Suitable for Small Garages?
While swinging doors can fit most garages, they may not be practical in urban areas with smaller lot sizes. A garage door professional can help you determine whether you have sufficient space in front of your garage’s entryway to ensure a successful installation. If you have room for the door to swing open and closed freely, a carriage garage door will suit your property.
Explore Your Carriage Garage Door Options With Blankenship Garage Doors
Blankenship Garage Doors has been helping central Oregon residents find the perfect garage door since 1996. Contact us to learn more about our Clopay® COACHMAN® carriage garage doors and request an estimate today.
