Tag: garage door material

  • Unique Features of California’s Redwood Trees

    Redwood trees and Giant Sequoias are a unique feature of Northwest US ecology, and El Dorado Hills has easy access to several national parks in Northern CA that feature these beautiful giants. Redwoods have been around for at least 240 million years, and tree ring dating has told us they can live for over 2,000 years and become over 350 feet tall. How? They’re drought and pollution resistant, and their roots work in teams with other trees to support each other’s health. As a building material, they’re a really elegant and sturdy hardwood; colonists started using them for lumber pretty much the moment they got to CA. So what makes them so great for building? And specifically, what features make redwood a great (and local!) choice of material for garage doors? Let’s find out:

    Redwood as a Building Material

    Many of the features that help redwood trees stand for millennia are kept even after a tree has been processed into lumber:

    • Decay/rot resistant
    • Keep their structural integrity even in humid/wet climates
    • Stand up to dry and sunny weather
    • Sturdy enough (comparable to cedar) for use as jambs
    • Made with several layers to prevent warping

    Choosing redwood as the material for your garage door installation or replacement is the perfect way to have your cake and eat it too – you get the timeless, traditional look of wood doors without the tendency to be susceptible to California’s weather and climate.

  • Installing a New Garage Door? Here’s What It Costs

    Most homeowners only replace 1 or 2 garage doors in their lifetime. But own a home long enough, and you’ll find it’s time. The door may work slower than it used to. Perhaps it makes an ungodly racket every time you open it. Maybe your garage door is a complete eyesore or it’s falling apart. Either way, you know it’s time. A garage door is very important to the function and appearance of a home. Installing a new garage door is the perfect home improvement project that’s well worth the investment.

    After all, it’s the biggest door in your home. And because of this very reason, it’s central to your security. Your door safeguards not only your home but also the contents of your garage — including expensive sports equipment, bikes, cars, tools, etc. It’s also an important modern convenience that makes life easier. You pull up in your drive after a long day — at the touch of a button a hundred pound door opens to welcome you and your vehicle, safe and secure. It’s a beautiful thing.

    But no garage door will last forever. Most need replaced every 15 to 20 years. Eventually, there are issues of safety, security, and appearance. A shoddy, worn down door will substantially reduce your property values. That fact alone is why installing a new garage door has over a 95% return on investment, dollar for dollar. What you invest in garage door installation you essentially reap back in improved property value — just ask your real estate agent.

    Making the Most of Your New Garage Door’s Price Tag

    Nevertheless, the cost of a new door is substantial — and it’s important to do it right without being too cheap. The cost to install a new garage door can vary across the board, anywhere from $290 to $2,000. Depending on your budget, expect to spend at least $1,000 for a door that will last. This covers not only the door itself, but all the components — tracks, connectors, fasteners and perhaps even the electric opener.

    Type of Door According to Cost

    Which type of door you choose can have a big impact on the cost. There are 4 types generally available. The single tilt-up style is a classic garage door that can cost anywhere from $400 to $700 to install. The single roll up sectional is the most common garage door and runs anywhere from $800 to $1,000. Custom roll up doors are similar but can be customized according to style and any special space constraints. These can run anywhere form $1,200 to $2,000. Solid wood custom doors are even better — a custom look with that natural wood feel. These doors can run anywhere from $2,500 to $3,000.

    Why a New Garage Door is Worth the Investment

    A new garage door has one of the highest returns on investments for virtually all home improvements — 97%, virtually dollar for dollar. This is because of the improved curb appeal that boosts the value of your property. So while a new door may seem expensive, consider it an investment into the value of your property. It’s a great way to invest your tax return. You might also consider taking a home improvement loan out with your local bank. New garage door installation is a solid investment. Just ask any realtor.

    Types of Garage Door Materials

    The type of material you choose will also determine the cost. Wooden doors tend to be the most beautiful, but also more expensive and require more daily upkeep. You can also choose between aluminum, steel, and vinyl.

    Insulation Considerations

    Living in El Dorado Hill, California, you might not think insulation even applies to you. But keep in mind that insulation can keep hot heat out of your garage — which can be critical during California’s hot summers. A insulated door can substantially cut down on your cooling costs — especially if your garage door is attached to your house.

    Garage Door Opener Installation

    A garage door opener is what makes your garage door so convenient in the first place. If you are planning on using the garage to store vehicles, an opener is essential. Nobody likes getting out of their car just to open their garage — especially during rainy weather or hot summers. Convenience is essential to the enjoyment of your garage. You can expect garage door opener installation to run you anywhere from $150 to $300.

    Consider a Smart Garage Door

    To truly optimize the convenience of your garage door, consider investing in smart garage door technology. This enables remote control access and viewing of your door from your phone, tablet, or PC. You can allow access if you get a package delivery, for instance, anywhere in the world. You can also view your property if you get a suspicious alert. It’s convenience and peace of mind all rolled into one.