Since the proliferation of the automobile during the 1950s, garages have become the primary design element of the modern American home, providing shelter for treasured cars and motorcycles. But while the garage itself may serve a solely utilitarian purpose, your garage door doesn’t have to.

“Garage doors have come a long way in the past 10 years,” says Donald Michler, owner of A.C.E. Garage Door Company. Not long ago, garage doors were offered in two options: white or almond. Today, garage doors are available in a full spectrum of colors, styles and materials to complement the architecture of your home. Follow these tips for choosing the right garage door for your home.

The Style

“The garage door is actually the easiest way to change the whole look of your home,” Michler notes. So instead of tackling an extensive landscaping project or siding update, consider replacing your worn-out, outmoded or unattractive garage door first. It probably isn’t making a good first impression anyway.

There are several garage door styles on the market today, and the key to picking out the right style involves a deep understanding of your home’s architecture. Take a Craftsman bungalow for example. These types of homes are characterized by low-pitched roofs with wide eaves, porches with thick columns and stone supports and extensive woodwork. When picking out a garage door, you might consider options in the carriage style, complete with corresponding panel designs, similarly patterned windows and decorative hardware.

If you live in a modern home accentuated by clean lines, your garage door choice should be much different than that of a Craftsman-style home. In this case, you should seek out garage doors with minimal detailing to complement your home’s streamlined appeal. Currently, full-view aluminum garage doors are one of the most popular options for contemporary homes.

The Material

Just as important as the style of the door, the material can add even more visual intrigue to the exterior of your home. For a natural look, opt for wood garage doors. Many installers, including A.C.E. Garage Door Company, offer custom wood options to give you that beautifully handcrafted look you’ve been dreaming of. Wood doors are available in a variety of styles, from traditional panel to board and batten.

Other popular garage door options include aluminum and glass. Naturally rust- and corrosion-resistant, these modern doors provide long-lasting good looks. Aluminum garage doors are available with several types of glass and other materials, and you can choose the type that meets your privacy requirements.

Upgrade Your New Orleans Home

Whether you’re looking to sell your home or enhance your curb appeal, Michler says that a new garage door “can add somewhere around $5,000 property value to your home.” If you’re ready to boost the appearance and the value of your home, request a quote from A.C.E. Garage Door Company, a locally owned and family operated company serving New Orleans, Metairie, Slidell, Kenner, Harvey, Belle Chasse, Chalmette, Kenner, Saint Rose, and the surrounding areas.