If your business needs a new or replacement commercial garage door, you’ve likely already gone down the rabbit hole trying to understand all of the options available in terms of size and type. With numerous manufacturers creating custom sizes, as well as seemingly endless material types to choose from, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out what configuration would work best for your building and its various applications. In this blog post, we will demystify the most common sizes and types of commercial garage doors so that you have an easier time deciding what might work best for you – giving way to more confidence when choosing a product that meets your unique needs!

1. What Are the Most Common Types of Commercial Garage Doors?

We can simplify the garage door size and type decision for you by breaking it down into four typical categories, each designed with a very different purpose in mind:

Flush – When you see commercial garage doors flush with the walls surrounding them, you know that there is something special about these products. Flush doors are designed to be as inconspicuous as possible so as not to take away from the appearance of the building where they are installed. Flush doors are commonly used in front entrances, lobbies, and other areas where aesthetics is paramount.

Flush commercial garage doors may use either standard slabs or insulated slabs depending on what their primary purpose is and what temperatures are like in your area.

Minor ribbed – Similar to flush doors, ribbed commercial garage doors strive to be as non-obtrusive as possible. Sometimes referred to as “slimline” garage doors, these products have small inverted-V shaped ribs on the exterior of the panels. These ribs serve an aesthetic purpose and also allow for less material to be used on a per panel basis, making them lighter and easier to install.

Deep ribbed – While still being designed with an aesthetic purpose in mind, deep ribbed commercial garage doors offer a much more significant aesthetic benefit than their simpler counterparts. As the name suggests, these products are designed to have an array of ribs that run throughout their panels. This complex construction creates a unique pattern on the exterior of the door and is commonly used for highly visible entrances and exits in buildings.

Full glass – Many new construction and renovation projects require garage door replacement that utilize glass as the primary material. This is only a viable option for certain sizes and types of doors, however. Glass garage doors are commonly used in locations such as doctor’s offices and sales floors because they offer enhanced security features and create a clean, airy image for their clients or consumers.

2. How Do You Know Which Type of Door Is Best for Your Business Premises or Facility?

Take a look at the space of your business – you will have a good idea what kind of garage door you need based on the size of your building. This is because garage doors come in different shapes and sizes, and each style may be more suitable for certain situations than others.

When designing a new building, architects will consult with engineers and other professionals to determine the best placement for each type of commercial garage door. These professionals will come up with a design that meets all of the safety codes and requirements for that particular area.

Please note: It is important to remember that there are many different types of garage doors you can choose from for your premises, so don’t be afraid to reach out to the experts at Connecticut Garage Door Service. We can walk you through the options available in terms of size, height and type.

3. What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Garage Door for Your Commercial Property?

Below are some common factors considered when choosing a commercial garage door.

Door Roller Configuration

Rear-Roller vs. Spring Assisted – The rollers are mounted on the rear side of the door, and you can control opening and closing with a manual cord, chain or strap. Most commercial doors use rear rollers, while residential doors use spring-assisted rollers.

Belt vs. Chain Driven – Belt drive garage doors open and close using a chain and sprocket like a bicycle chain mechanism. Chain driven doors are often used on warehouses that need heavy duty function, but generally aren’t recommended for other commercial buildings.

Side-Roller vs. Bottom-Roller – Side rollers are mounted on the side of the door, and are typically used on residential doors. They allow for better maneuverability because of the smaller track size necessary (a 24” width vs 36” or more). Side rollers also have a tighter closing radius, allowing them to open into smaller spaces like garages. Bottom rollers are typically found on garage doors for industrial applications.

Materials

Steel – Steel doors are typically heavier, but also cost less to purchase. They are often ideal for commercial buildings where the door is meant to last a long time and be used frequently.

Aluminum – Aluminum door panels are lightweight and can be used in warehouses or industrial facilities. Aluminum doors weigh less than steel, making them better for small spaces like a garage or walkway.

Laminated vs. Solid – Laminated doors are lighter and more energy efficient. Solid doors are more durable and last longer than laminated doors.

4. What Are the Benefits of Installing a New Garage Door on Your Commercial Property?

Commercial garage doors are a necessity for all businesses, big or small. The following list outlines some of the most common features and benefits that commercial customers have been shown to appreciate about new garage door installations.

Security – The biggest benefit of installing new garage doors in your commercial space is the added security. When people are walking on sidewalks or driveways, they feel safer if there is a sturdy barrier that they can’t see through or under.

Appearance – New garage doors are a great way to add style to your commercial building. Getting new garage doors installed can make your business look more up to date, as well as make it a more attractive place for potential clients to choose for their needs.

Energy Conservation – New garage doors are made with insulation and weather stripping extras that help keep your building cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. This can save money by reducing your energy costs!

5. How Much Will It Cost to Install a New Commercial Garage Door on Your Property?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, and the cost of a new garage door installation will depend on many factors. The first consideration should be the size of your commercial building and how much material you need for your new garage doors.

The second consideration is if you will be installing new rails or tracks when you get your new commercial garage doors, or if they already exist on your property. And remember, every building structure is different and requires a custom design to ensure both safety and appearance.

Conclusion

Commercial garage doors are a necessity for all businesses, big or small. However, the size and type of the commercial garage door will depend on the architecture, type of business, and business needs for your unique organization. 

Need a new commercial garage door? Reach out to the professionals at Connecticut Garage Door Service now!