If you have a garage, then you are probably aware of at least a few of the different entrance types that are available to you, but the question is which one should you choose? Today we will be looking at double garage doors, specifically side-hinged swing doors and what type of garage and home would suit them.
Also called side-opening, hinged, or double garage doors, side-hinged garage doors are typically made up of two door panels that are attached to the frame with hinges and swing outwards, rather than lifting straight up. The standard two-door design is quite simple, but there’s lots of choice when it comes to the customisation of materials, colours, finishes, windows, and automation options.
There is also the option for a single panel swing door, but with most standard UK garage doors being 7 ft wide, that would require 7 ft of clearance for the door to swing into at all times. This luxury of free space isn’t too common, which is why splitting it between two door panels, hinged at either side of the garage opening, is far more common and popular. This is the main reason why we will be focusing mainly on this 2-door variant today, but a lot of the points can be applied to the one-panel options if that is what you are interested in.
One of the things that people love about a garage with double doors is how it blends style with practicality, with many preferring them aesthetically to their up-and-over or roll-up metal counterparts. Unlike some of the more modern garage doors, side-hinged designs tend to have a more natural, traditional look, and this makes them particularly popular for cottages, period properties, or homes where keeping natural elements is important. But they’re not only for older houses, as modern side-hinged garage doors can also incorporate more minimalist panels and contemporary finishes, making them just as suitable for newer homes.
Now for practicality. Whether you use your garage for storage, a workshop, bicycles, gardening supplies, or just as an everyday entrance, being able to open just one side can be much easier than opening an entire up-and-over-style garage door. This makes quick trips in and out of your garage a lot simpler without the need to fully open the door, making it a much quieter and easier solution to your access problems.
Thinking about a double-door garage, first you should think about how you actually use the space. A single up-and-over garage door offers an unobstructed opening, which is perfect if you’re short on driveway space, however, side-hinged double doors give you a bit more flexibility. With two separate doors, you can easily open just one side for everyday access, or swing both open when you need to move larger items in or out. Unlike a garage door that opens vertically, side-hinged garage doors need a bit of space in front to swing open, since they open outward, so you need to think about what’s directly outside your garage and about your usual parking spot. If you tend to park right in front of the garage, will there still be enough room for the doors to open comfortably? It’s also worth considering whether your garage faces a narrow driveway or shared access path, as you’ll want to make sure the door swing doesn’t block the way or cause any hassle for pedestrians or other vehicles.
Before settling on a style, side-opening gate or otherwise, it’s a good idea to measure the space in front of your garage and then measure how far the radius of the doors will extend when fully open. If space in front of your garage is quite limited, exploring a different type of garage door might be a more practical choice.
There isn’t a fixed price for a side-hinged garage door, as costs can vary quite a bit based on factors like size, materials, design, and specifications. Some of the things that might influence the final cost include:
- The overall size of the door
- The materials and how it’s built
- The type of frame used
- Security and locking features
- Whether it has windows or other glazing
- The colour and finish
- Custom dimensions or bespoke designs
- Installation costs
- Removal and disposal of your current door
It’s always a good idea to compare like-for-like when requesting quotes, so you’re comparing similar specifications, and keep in mind that a more affordable door might not have the same build quality, security features, finish, or durability as one with more comprehensive specifications. Instead of just focusing on the initial price, think about the overall value and how well the door meets your needs.
The answer really depends on where your garage is situated and how you plan to use it. Side-hinged garage doors can be a fantastic choice if you’re after a natural look or easy pedestrian access, and they work especially well if your driveway has enough space for the doors to open fully. However, they might not be the best option if your garage is right next to a roadside pavement, if you often park right up against the door, or if there isn’t enough room for the doors to swing outwards.
Unsure of where to start? Then it’s time to contact the team at Oakleaf Gates. We are experts in garage doors and will be more than happy to help you decide what kind of door is best for you.
Click below to get in touch today: https://www.oakleafgates.co.uk/contact-us
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