Your garage door is more than just a functional entry point for your vehicles; it’s a major architectural feature of your home. In a community like Lakewood, where pride of ownership and charming streetscapes are a way of life, choosing the right garage door style is a crucial decision. It can significantly boost your curb appeal, increase your home’s value, and ensure your property complements the unique character of our city.
With so many options available, the selection process can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through the key considerations to help you choose a garage door style that perfectly suits your Lakewood home.
1. Consider Your Home’s Architectural Style
The most important rule of thumb is to choose a door that harmonizes with your home’s existing architecture. A mismatched door can stick out, while a complementary one will look like it was always meant to be there.
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Craftsman/Bungalow: Lakewood is famous for its beautiful Craftsman-style homes. These homes call for garage doors that emphasize natural materials and craftsmanship. Look for doors with raised wood panels, crossbuck detailing (the classic “X” pattern), and rustic hardware. Steel or composite doors that mimic the look of wood are excellent, low-maintenance options.
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Ideal Styles: Traditional raised-panel doors, Carriage House styles.
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Mid-Century Modern: Characterized by clean lines and minimal ornamentation, these homes need a door that reflects that simplicity.
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Ideal Styles: Flush-panel doors (smooth, flat surfaces), aluminum and glass doors with a grid pattern. A full-view glass door can create a stunning, contemporary statement.
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Ranch Style: These single-story, wide-profile homes are versatile. A classic raised-panel door always works, but a Carriage House style can also add wonderful character.
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Ideal Styles: Traditional long-panel (horizontal) raised-panel doors.
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Modern/New Build: Newer construction homes in Lakewood often feature bold, modern designs. Garage doors for these homes can be a focal point.
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Ideal Styles: Flush-panel doors in a bold color, doors with large aluminum frames and frosted or clear glass panels to add light and dimension.
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2. Understand the Different Style Categories
Familiarize yourself with the common garage door style types:
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Traditional Raised-Panel: The most popular style. It features rectangular panels that are raised from the surface of the door. It’s a timeless, versatile choice that works with a wide range of homes.
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Carriage House: Inspired by the swinging doors of old carriage houses, this style offers immense charm. Modern versions feature a swinging door aesthetic but operate on a standard track system for convenience. They often feature decorative hinges and handles.
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Contemporary: Defined by clean lines, large glass panels, and minimalist hardware. These doors are perfect for letting natural light into your garage and creating a sleek look.
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Full-View/Glass: Essentially a large window into your garage. This is a bold choice best for homeowners with a tidy garage interior. It maximizes light and is the pinnacle of modern design.
3. Select the Right Material for Lakewood’s Climate
Lakewood’s climate, with its cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers, should influence your material choice.
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Steel: The most common and durable option. It’s low-maintenance, secure, and can be insulated effectively. Look for galvanized steel to resist the moisture and potential rust.
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Aluminum: Lightweight and excellent for modern, full-view doors. It’s naturally rust-resistant, making it a good choice for the Pacific Northwest.
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Wood: Offers unparalleled beauty and authenticity, perfect for Craftsman homes. However, wood requires significant upkeep—staining or sealing every few years—to protect it from our rainy weather.
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Wood-Composite/Fiberglass: A fantastic alternative to wood. It offers the classic look of wood without the high maintenance. It’s resistant to warping, cracking, and rotting.
4. Don’t Forget Insulation
An insulated garage door is not a luxury in Lakewood; it’s a smart investment. If your garage is attached to your home or used as a workspace, insulation is critical. It:
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Regulates temperature in the garage, making it more comfortable.
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Reduces energy costs by providing a barrier between your garage and living spaces.
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Helps dampen sound from the street and makes the door operation quieter.
5. Finalize with Color and Hardware
The details make the difference.
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Color: While white is a safe and popular choice, don’t be afraid to consider other options. A dark charcoal or black door can create a striking, modern contrast. For a true Craftsman look, consider a stain that matches your home’s trim or front door for a cohesive look.
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Windows: Adding windows can break up the large surface of a door and add charm. Consider matching the shape and style of your home’s existing windows (e.g., square grids for Craftsman, clean squares for modern).
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Hardware: Decorative hinges and handles can elevate a Carriage House style from good to authentic and amazing.
Your Next Step as a Lakewood Homeowner
Once you have an idea of the style you want, your most important step is to work with a reputable, local garage door company. A local Lakewood provider will understand the architectural styles in our community and can provide expert advice tailored to your specific home. They will handle precise measurements, professional installation, and ensure your new door meets all safety standards.
Take a walk around your Lakewood neighborhood for inspiration. Note which garage doors catch your eye and which ones seamlessly blend with homes similar to yours. Choosing your new garage door is an exciting opportunity to enhance the beauty, value, and functionality of your home for years to come.