1. Sectional Garage Doors (Also Known As Panel Doors or Overhead Garage Doors)
These are the most common types you’ll see in neighborhoods. Made up of panel sections connected with hinges, they roll up and overhead on tracks. They’re reliable and versatile, fitting most garage openings.
- Pros: Space-saving, insulation options, reliable design.
- Cons: Maintenance required for moving parts.
2. Roll-Up Garage Doors
Often found in commercial settings but making their way into homes, these doors roll up into a coil above the opening.
- Pros: Durability, compact design, space-efficient.
- Cons: Higher cost compared to sectional doors.
3. Side-Hinged Garage Doors
A nod to the olden days, these doors swing open like barn doors. They’re making a comeback, especially in homes aiming for a rustic or traditional look.
- Pros: Simplicity, fewer moving parts, full access.
- Cons: Requires ample driveway space for opening.
4. Tilt-Up/Up-and-Over Canopy Garage Doors
These single-panel doors tilt up and into the garage, protruding outwards when open.
- Pros: Clean, unobstructed look; cost-effective.
- Cons: Requires space in front of the garage to open fully.
5. Tilt-Up/Up-and-Over Retractable Garage Doors
Similar to the canopy style but retracts fully into the garage without protruding.
- Pros: No overhang, smooth operation, easier to automate.
- Cons: Complex mechanism requiring precise installation.
6. Side-Sliding Garage Doors
These doors slide horizontally along the garage wall.
- Pros: Leaves ceiling free for storage; can partially open for walk-throughs.
- Cons: Requires clear wall space inside the garage.
7. Roll-Up Sheet Doors
Common in commercial settings, these are made of corrugated steel and roll up into a coil.
- Pros: Highly durable, space-saving.
- Cons: Industrial appearance may not suit homes.
8. Folding Garage Doors
These doors fold into sections as they open, much like a bi-fold closet door.
- Pros: Unique look, compact operation.
- Cons: More moving parts mean higher maintenance.
9. High-Speed Garage Doors
Typically used in industrial settings, these doors open and close rapidly.
- Pros: Great for high-traffic areas; energy-efficient.
- Cons: High initial investment; overkill for residential use.
10. Round-the-Corner Garage Doors
These doors slide around the interior walls of the garage.
- Pros: Unique design; full access to garage width.
- Cons: Needs clear interior walls for operation.
11. Vertical Lift Garage Doors
These doors move straight up and are commonly found in industrial settings.
- Pros: Space-saving; durable for heavy-duty applications.
- Cons: Industrial aesthetic may not fit a home.
12. High Lift Garage Doors
These doors lift vertically for a portion of the way before curving onto horizontal tracks along the ceiling. They are a hybrid between standard sectional and vertical lift doors, often used in residential garages with tall ceilings.
- Pros: Maximizes overhead space; great for storage or car lifts.
- Cons: Requires specialized hardware; more expensive than standard doors.