Perfect Home Survey Says Garage Doors Must Be Durable

When it comes to garage doors, homeowners want durability first and foremost.

Homeowners across the country have spoken in the Perfect Home Survey, a new independent research study conducted by Knowledge Wave and commissioned by JELD-WEN, a leading manufacturer of reliable windows and doors. The largest number of respondents, 45 percent, said durability is the number-one attribute they look for in a garage door, followed by appearance and energy efficiency.

'Because it is often the most visible exterior element of a home, the garage door is getting more attention from today's homeowners,' says John Monfore, product marketing manager at JELD-WEN. 'Our survey found that homeowners want a long-lasting, dependable garage door in addition to great curb appeal.'

It's no wonder that garage doors are receiving closer looks from homeowners. The Perfect Home Survey revealed that the garage door is now the most frequently used exterior door when entering the home for both men (42 percent) and women (41 percent). The front door was close behind, followed by the side and back doors.

Manufacturers have responded to this call for reliability and increased visual appeal with alternative materials that stand up to the toughest conditions. For example, JELD-WEN offers garage doors that are made from the same strong, wood composite material throughout, from the trim to the face of the door. This technology offers high performance with very little maintenance, and helps prevent common problems such as cracking, splitting, shrinking, expanding, rusting and denting.

Here are some additional garage-related findings from the Perfect Home Survey, plus tips to consider when selecting a new garage door or redoing a garage space:

Boost Curb Appeal - Appearance is the second-most important attribute of a garage door behind durability. Designs have come a long way from the days when all garage doors looked the same. In fact, manufacturers have recently introduced a variety of new, eye-catching styles, such as Carriage House and Old World designs for Craftsman as well as Mediterranean-style homes.

Bring in the Light - Nearly 60 percent of survey participants do not believe their garages contain enough natural light. When selecting a new garage door, options include arched, rectangular or square window inserts, a popular feature that provides detailed design accents and natural light. The window inserts are important for homeowners wanting to use their garages as living spaces such as a workshop, utility room or children's play area.

Choose materials wisely - When asked specifically about cutting energy costs, 65 percent of survey respondents say installing an energy efficient garage door is important, and nearly the same number say they are willing to spend extra for the cost-saving benefit. Choosing the right material is important for gaining energy efficiency and durability. Wood composite material resists common problems such as cracking, splitting, shrinking, expanding, rusting and denting.

Create multifunctional spaces - One-quarter of survey participants are planning to remodel their garage in the next 12 months, and most say they will use the remodeled space for parking, storage and hobbies. For additional usability, consider renovating your garage space to include a workout room or a recreation and play area. The key is making the garage a place attractive not only for cars but also for people.