What is an up-and-over garage door?
An up-and-over garage door is a type of door that opens and closes vertically. It is typically made of one panel that swings outwards and up and over into the garage’s roof. This type of garage door is popular with homeowners because they are relatively easy to operate and maintain.
Up-and-over garage doors are available in a range of materials such as steel, timber and uPVC that each come in a range of colours and designs like Georgian panels or vertical slats. The extensive range of up-and-over garage doors enables homeowners to choose the perfect style for their homes.
How does an up-and-over garage door work?
Two types of mechanisms are commonly used in up-and-over garage doors: canopy and retractable.
Whilst the two mechanisms are highly similar, some differences will influence a buyer’s decision. Some factors that you may want to consider include ease of installation, space provided, automation, costs and maintenance.
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Canopy up-and-over garage doors
Canopy doors tend to be the most popular type of garage door due to their simple and easy operation. As the door opens, the panel swings outwards and up before stopping at a horizontal position. This leaves around one-third of the door protruding outwards, hence the name ‘canopy.’
The garage door features two tracks installed on each edge of the door frame. The door panel runs vertically on these tracks, making it easy to open and close the door.
Whilst this type of garage door is one of the most cost-effective and efficient solutions, it is not typically suitable for electric automation. A conversion kit featuring a bow arm converter is required to apply force at the bottom of the door and lift the canopy door with electrical mechanisms.
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Retractable up-and-over garage doors
Like canopy doors, retractable doors also open vertically. However, instead of stopping at a horizontal position, the tracks on the door panel continue to move backwards until it is entirely inside the garage. This type of mechanism is often used on larger doors as it provides a wider opening.
This type of mechanism tends to be more effective for the installation of electric operators. The cost of retractable lifting gear for this type of garage door is much more affordable than the bow arm and canopy gearing required for automated canopy doors.
Alternative types of garage door mechanisms
Up-and-over garage doors tend to be the most popular mechanism utilised within properties in the UK. Their low maintenance is one of the key reasons why clients continue to favour these types of doors to secure their garages. In addition, up-and-over doors are incredibly simple to fit, meaning the installation process takes minimal time and disruption to your property.
However, several other mechanisms may suit your needs more appropriately. They include the following
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Roller garage doors
Roller garage doors contain an interlocking sheet of tough yet thin-walled aluminium or steel slats. The slats open vertically and roll into a coil within the opening of the garage, rather than the door moving as one section along internal tracks.
These types of doors are typically operated with a motor that requires little maintenance as the system runs on mains electricity.
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Sectional garage doors
Sectional garage doors are constructed from non-protruding panels rolling upwards to lie parallel to the garage ceiling when in an open position.
These garage doors offer the maximum space inside and out of the garage as they cover the face of the opening. They are often more expensive than the other types but are the best solution if there is limited space outside or inside the garage.
Purchasing an up-and-over garage door
Now that you understand how up-and-over garage doors work and some alternatives, you should feel more confident to make a decision. The right garage door for you will depend on your budget, internal and external space, and requirements for automation.
To browse an extensive range of high-quality garage doors and experience a seamless installation process, visit Garage Doors Repaired today. Their dependable team of experts are based in Bridgend, providing friendly expertise across South Wales.
