Home remodeling gives you a chance to update the appearance of a home, personalize features, and increase home value. Unique garage doors add an interesting look and feel to the home differentiating your house from the others on the block. Here are a few of our favorite unusual garage doors.
1. Spanish-Style Garage Door
If your home has Spanish style architecture, such as Mission, Craftsman, or Mediterranean styles, consider a Spanish-style garage door. Often made of wood, these rounded doors look thick and heavy. Heavy wrought iron details enhance the effect.
Material Options
While wood is a popular choice for Spanish-style garage doors, other materials such as steel or fiberglass can also be used. Wood doors provide a traditional and authentic look, whereas steel and fiberglass offer durability and require less maintenance.
Arched Design
The defining feature of a Spanish-style garage door is its arched design. The gentle curve at the top creates a graceful and elegant look that complements the architectural style of the home. The arch can be more subtle or pronounced, depending on personal preference and the overall design of the property.
Ornate Hardware
To enhance the Spanish aesthetic, garage doors often incorporate ornate wrought iron hardware. Decorative hinges, handles, and clavos (nail heads) are commonly used to add intricate details and create an authentic Spanish look. The wrought iron elements provide a touch of elegance and a sense of craftsmanship to the overall design.
Window Inserts
Some Spanish-style garage doors feature window inserts that further enhance their visual appeal. These windows are typically small and rectangular, often divided into multiple panes. Clear or textured glass can be used to allow natural light into the garage while maintaining privacy.
Finishes and Colors
Spanish-style garage doors can be finished in a variety of ways to complement the overall color scheme of the home. Stained wood finishes showcase the natural beauty of the material, while paint can be used to match or contrast with the exterior color palette. Earthy tones like warm browns, deep reds, and olive greens are popular choices that blend well with Spanish-style architecture.
Security and Functionality
While the focus is often on the aesthetic aspects, Spanish-style garage doors provide the same level of security and functionality as any other garage door. They can be equipped with modern features such as insulation, weather sealing, and automatic opening systems to ensure convenience and energy efficiency.
When selecting a Spanish-style garage door, it’s important to consider the overall architectural style of your home, the available space, and personal preferences. Consulting with a garage door professional or an architect can help you make the best choice to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look for your property.
2. Contemporary Frosted Acrylic Garage Door
This style features metal frames with frosted acrylic panels, which let in natural light while maintaining privacy. It’s the best of both worlds, as you can enjoy a well-lit garage without feeling like your neighbors can see what you’re working on. Clear acrylic panels are also available for even more light.
Sleek Metal Frames
The garage door features sleek and clean metal frames that provide a contemporary and minimalist look. Materials like aluminum or steel are commonly used for their durability and ability to complement the overall design.
Frosted Acrylic Panels
The main feature of this garage door style is the frosted acrylic panels. These panels are designed to let in natural light while maintaining privacy. The frosted effect diffuses the light, creating a soft and inviting ambiance inside the garage. If you prefer a more transparent look, clear acrylic panels can also be used, allowing even more light to enter the space.
Enhanced Privacy
The frosted or clear acrylic panels offer privacy by obscuring the view from the outside. This allows you to work on projects or store belongings in your garage without feeling exposed to the prying eyes of neighbors or passersby.
Natural Light
One of the key advantages of the contemporary frosted acrylic garage door is its ability to let in natural light. The panels allow sunlight to penetrate the garage, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. This not only creates a brighter and more inviting atmosphere but also helps save on energy costs.
Low Maintenance
Acrylic panels are known for their durability and resistance to impact, weather, and discoloration. They require minimal maintenance compared to other materials, such as glass, which may be prone to breakage or require more frequent cleaning.
Customization Options
Contemporary frosted acrylic garage doors offer various customization options to suit your preferences and match the overall aesthetic of your home. You can choose different frame finishes, such as brushed aluminum or powder-coated colors, to complement your exterior. Additionally, the size and arrangement of the panels can be customized to create a unique and personalized look.
Functional Features
Similar to other types of garage doors, contemporary frosted acrylic doors can be equipped with modern features for convenience and security. This includes insulation to regulate temperature, weather seals to keep out elements, and automated opening systems with remote control access.
When considering a contemporary frosted acrylic garage door, it’s important to take into account the architectural style of your home, your desired level of privacy, and the amount of natural light you want to let in. Consulting with a garage door professional can help you determine the best options available and ensure that the installation meets your specific requirements.
3. Carriage Door
A carriage or barn-style door lends country charm to any garage. These doors are usually made of wood and often include windows. While carriage doors look like they swing open, they can roll up and automate easily. These garage doors work well with historic homes but can blend in with contemporary homes due to the popularity of rustic accents. Carriage-style garage doors often have texture details, which enhance the appeal up close. These doors can be painted or stained to further customize the look.
Classic Design
Carriage doors are reminiscent of the traditional doors found on old-fashioned carriage houses and barns. They feature a distinctive design that mimics the appearance of swing-out doors, with horizontal panels and decorative hardware. This timeless aesthetic adds character and warmth to any home.
Wood Construction
Carriage doors are typically constructed using wood, such as cedar, mahogany, or redwood. Wood not only contributes to the authentic look and feel of the doors but also offers durability and natural insulation. It’s important to choose high-quality wood that can withstand the elements and regular use.
Window Inserts
Many carriage-style garage doors incorporate windows, which add a touch of elegance and allow natural light to enter the garage. These windows can be arranged in various patterns and shapes, such as rectangular, arched, or divided panes. Frosted or textured glass options are available for those seeking privacy while still enjoying the benefits of natural light.
Roll-up and Automation
Despite their swing-out appearance, modern carriage doors can be designed to roll up vertically, making them compatible with automatic opening systems. This feature enhances convenience and eliminates the need for manual operation. With the right hardware and mechanism, you can effortlessly open and close the doors with the touch of a button or through smartphone connectivity.
Versatile Style
While carriage doors are often associated with historic or traditional homes, they have gained popularity in contemporary architecture as well. The charm and versatility of carriage doors make them suitable for various architectural styles. They can seamlessly blend in with both rustic and modern homes, especially those incorporating other rustic accents or natural materials.
Texture Details
Carriage-style garage doors often feature texture details, such as beveled or raised panels, grooves, or decorative trim. These subtle yet eye-catching elements enhance the visual appeal of the doors, adding depth and interest. The texture can be further accentuated with paint or stain finishes, bringing out the natural beauty of the wood and providing customization options to match your home’s exterior.
Customization Options
Carriage doors offer a wide range of customization possibilities. You can choose from different wood species, finishes, and stains to achieve the desired aesthetic. Additionally, various hardware options, including decorative hinges, handles, and clasps, can be added to enhance the authentic carriage door look.
When considering a carriage-style garage door, it’s important to select a design that complements the architectural style of your home. Working with a garage door professional or designer can help you choose the right materials, finishes, and hardware to achieve a cohesive and visually appealing look that suits your personal preferences and enhances the overall curb appeal of your property.
4. Modern Aluminum Garage Door
Modern aluminum garage doors protect against weather and wind, age well, and are low maintenance. These doors blend well with modern homes due to their clean lines and metal accents.
Lightweight and Durable
Aluminum garage doors are known for their lightweight construction, making them easy to operate and install. Despite their lightness, they are highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions, including wind, rain, and sun exposure. The strength and resilience of aluminum make it a long-lasting option for garage doors.
Low Maintenance
Aluminum garage doors require minimal maintenance compared to other materials. The natural resistance of aluminum to rust and corrosion means you don’t have to worry about regular painting or staining. Occasional cleaning with mild soap and water is typically sufficient to keep them looking their best. This low maintenance aspect makes aluminum doors a convenient choice for homeowners.
Contemporary Design
The clean lines and sleek appearance of modern aluminum garage doors make them an excellent choice for contemporary homes. The smooth surface and metal accents create a minimalist and sophisticated aesthetic that can enhance the overall curb appeal of your property. The simplicity of the design allows the door to blend seamlessly with modern architectural styles.
Customizable Options
Aluminum garage doors offer a variety of customization options to suit your personal preferences and complement the design of your home. They can be painted in a wide range of colors to match your exterior or create a striking contrast. Additionally, different panel designs and window configurations can be chosen to add visual interest and personalize the look of the door.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Aluminum garage doors can be equipped with insulation materials to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat transfer. This helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside the garage and can contribute to energy savings. Insulated aluminum doors also help to reduce noise transmission, making them a practical choice for homeowners seeking both style and functionality.
Security Features
Modern aluminum garage doors are designed with security in mind. They can be reinforced with sturdy frames and robust locking mechanisms to ensure the safety of your belongings and provide peace of mind. Additionally, aluminum doors are less susceptible to warping or sagging, contributing to their overall security and durability.
Window Options
Aluminum garage doors can incorporate windows to allow natural light into the garage and enhance the aesthetic appeal. The windows can be arranged in various patterns and sizes, providing both functionality and visual interest. Clear or frosted glass options are available to suit your privacy preferences.
When considering a modern aluminum garage door, it’s important to consult with a garage door professional who can guide you in selecting the right size, design, and features for your specific needs. They can help you determine the appropriate insulation level, recommend suitable hardware options, and ensure proper installation for optimal performance and longevity of the door.
5. Wood Grain Garage Door
Wood grain garage doors mimic the look and feel of traditional wood but are made of metal, which is low maintenance and eco-friendly alternative. These doors are so realistic they will fool your neighbors while protecting your garage from the elements.
Realistic Wood Appearance
Wood grain garage doors are designed to closely mimic the natural texture, color, and grain patterns of real wood. The advanced manufacturing techniques and finishes used create a highly realistic look that can fool even the most discerning eye. From a distance, these doors can give the impression of being made of authentic wood.
Metal Construction
Despite their wood-like appearance, wood grain garage doors are actually made of metal, typically steel or aluminum. This material choice offers several advantages over real wood, including enhanced durability, resistance to warping or rotting, and protection against the elements. Metal doors are less susceptible to damage from moisture, pests, and sunlight, ensuring their longevity.
Low Maintenance
One of the significant benefits of wood grain garage doors is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike real wood, they do not need regular staining, sealing, or painting to maintain their appearance and protect against weathering. Simply cleaning the door periodically with mild soap and water is usually sufficient to keep it looking its best.
Eco-Friendly Option
Opting for a wood grain garage door made of metal rather than real wood is an eco-friendly choice. By choosing a sustainable material like steel or aluminum, you help reduce the demand for harvesting and depleting natural wood resources. Additionally, metal doors are often made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of their lifespan, contributing to environmental sustainability.
Weather Resistance
Wood grain garage doors provide excellent protection against the elements. The metal construction ensures resistance to moisture, extreme temperatures, and UV rays, preventing warping, fading, or other forms of damage commonly associated with real wood doors. This durability makes wood grain doors an ideal choice for areas with harsh climates.
Customization Options
Wood grain garage doors offer various customization options to suit your desired aesthetic and complement your home’s exterior. They are available in different colors, wood grain patterns, and finishes, allowing you to achieve the desired look and coordinate with your existing architectural style. Additionally, decorative hardware, such as handles and hinges, can be added to enhance the authentic wood appearance.
Security and Insulation
Wood grain garage doors made of metal provide reliable security for your garage and belongings. They are strong, sturdy, and can be reinforced with additional security features. Furthermore, these doors can be insulated to improve energy efficiency and regulate temperature inside the garage, providing added comfort and potential energy savings.
When considering a wood grain garage door, it’s important to consult with a garage door professional to ensure proper sizing, installation, and maintenance guidelines. They can help you select the right material, design, and insulation options based on your preferences, budget, and specific needs.
6. Frameless Garage Door
Sleek, elegant frameless garage doors enhance the appeal of a modern home and give a new look to the traditional garage. In a frameless-style garage door, opaque, translucent, or mirrored glass panels are mounted on a metal frame, which is invisible yet supports the structure. The end result is a stunning glass door that looks sleek and functions well.
Minimalist Design
The frameless garage door is characterized by its sleek and minimalist design. Unlike traditional garage doors with visible frames, the frameless style utilizes a concealed metal frame that provides structural support while remaining virtually invisible. This creates a seamless and uninterrupted glass surface, giving the door a clean and modern aesthetic.
Glass Panel Options
Frameless garage doors feature opaque, translucent, or mirrored glass panels that can be customized to suit your preferences. Opaque glass offers privacy by preventing visibility into the garage while still allowing natural light to enter. Translucent glass allows diffused light to pass through while maintaining a level of privacy. Mirrored glass creates a reflective surface, adding a contemporary and unique element to the overall design.
Visual Impact
The use of glass in a frameless garage door creates a striking visual impact. It allows for a seamless integration between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a sense of openness and connectivity. The transparency of the glass panels can showcase the interior of the garage, displaying any vehicles or carefully curated storage spaces, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.
Natural Light
Frameless garage doors maximize the entry of natural light into the garage. The glass panels allow sunlight to penetrate the space, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day and can contribute to energy savings. The abundant natural light can also provide a pleasant working environment and showcase the interior features of the garage.
Customization Options
Frameless garage doors offer a range of customization options to match the design of your home. The metal frame can be finished in various colors or powder-coated to complement your exterior. Glass panels can be customized in terms of opacity, texture, and even tinted options, allowing you to tailor the appearance to your desired level of privacy and aesthetic preferences.
Functionality and Durability
Despite their sleek and delicate appearance, frameless garage doors are designed to be sturdy and durable. The metal frame provides structural stability and support, ensuring the door functions well over time. The glass panels are made of tempered or laminated glass, which enhances their strength and resistance to impact, ensuring the safety of the door.
Security Features
While the focus is often on aesthetics, frameless garage doors also prioritize security. The tempered or laminated glass panels are highly resilient and difficult to break, providing a level of security for your garage. Additionally, the door can be equipped with robust locking mechanisms and integrated security systems to enhance the overall security of your home.
When considering a frameless garage door, it’s important to consult with a garage door professional or designer to assess the structural requirements, installation process, and any specific considerations for your home. They can guide you through the customization options, provide recommendations, and ensure that the installation meets the necessary safety and performance standards.
Visit our Oklahoma City showroom to browse unique garage door styles, feel the quality of the materials, and ask questions to find the perfect door for your needs.
You should always choose a professional for garage door installation, especially when you’ve picked a unique garage door. Our garage door pros can install your garage door, automate it, and go over any maintenance needs so you can keep your investment in the best possible shape. To get a quote from the pros at the Overhead Door Company of Oklahoma City, contact us here or call 405-685-2200.
FAQs
Home remodeling allows you to update your home’s appearance, personalize features, and increase its value. Unique garage doors add visual interest and differentiate your home from others on the block.
A Spanish-style garage door is often made of wood and features a rounded, arched design. It incorporates ornate wrought iron hardware and may have window inserts to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Yes, Spanish-style garage doors can also be made from materials such as steel or fiberglass. Wood provides a traditional look, while steel and fiberglass offer durability and lower maintenance.
A contemporary frosted acrylic garage door features metal frames and frosted acrylic panels. It allows natural light into the garage while maintaining privacy and has a sleek, modern appearance.
Yes, contemporary frosted acrylic garage doors offer customization options such as different frame finishes, panel arrangements, and window styles to match your home’s aesthetic.
A carriage-style garage door mimics the look of swing-out doors found on traditional carriage houses and barns. It’s usually made of wood, includes windows, and works well with both historic and contemporary homes.
A frameless garage door features glass panels mounted on a concealed metal frame, creating a sleek and modern look that enhances the appeal of a contemporary home.
Yes, frameless garage doors can use opaque or translucent glass panels to maintain privacy while allowing natural light to enter the garage.
