Choosing the right garage door for your home isn’t just about looks—it’s about functionality, durability, and convenience. With so many styles available, how do you decide which one is best?

To make it easier, we’ve rounded up the five most popular types of garage doors. Whether you’re upgrading your home’s curb appeal or need a practical solution for your space, here’s everything you need to know.

1. Sectional Garage Doors (Most Common Choice)

If you drive through any neighborhood, you’ll likely see sectional garage doors everywhere. These doors are made up of multiple horizontal panels that move along tracks and roll up when opened.

Why Homeowners Love Sectional Garage Doors

One of the biggest reasons sectional doors are so popular is their versatility. They work well with different architectural styles and are available in various materials, colors, and finishes.

They also come with the option for insulation, which helps regulate temperature in your garage—perfect for extreme weather conditions.

Are There Any Downsides?

The only potential drawback is that sectional doors require ceiling space for tracks, so they might not be the best fit if you have a low ceiling or limited overhead space.

💰 Price Range: $800 – $3,500 (depending on material and insulation)

2. Roll-Up Garage Doors (Best for Limited Space)

If you’ve ever seen garage doors in commercial buildings or storage units, you’ve probably come across roll-up garage doors. Unlike sectional doors, these are made of narrow slats that roll into a compact coil above the opening.

Why Choose a Roll-Up Garage Door?

One word: space-saving. Roll-up doors are a fantastic option for low ceilings or limited headroom because they occupy almost no ceiling space.

They’re also extremely durable and often made from heavy-duty steel or aluminum, which makes them a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Are There Any Downsides?

Because they’re typically built with durability in mind, roll-up doors can be more expensive than standard sectional doors. They also have fewer design options compared to traditional garage doors.

💰 Price Range: $900 – $4,000

3. Tilt-Up Garage Doors (Classic and Stylish)

Before sectional doors became the standard, tilt-up garage doors were the go-to choice. Unlike multi-panel doors, these doors are made from a single solid piece that tilts up and outward when opened.

Why Do Some Homeowners Still Prefer Tilt-Up Doors?

Tilt-up doors have a sleek, clean look that works well with modern and classic home designs. They’re available in various materials, including wood, steel, and fiberglass, making them customizable to fit your style.

They also tend to have fewer moving parts, which means less maintenance than sectional doors.

Are There Any Downsides?

Since they swing outward before going up, tilt-up doors require more space in front of the garage. This means you need to park far enough away to allow room for the door to open.

💰 Price Range: $700 – $2,500

4. Side-Hinged Garage Doors (Best for Traditional Homes)

If you love a classic, old-school look, side-hinged garage doors might be the perfect choice. These doors swing open like barn doors, making them a great fit for homes with a vintage or rustic aesthetic.

Why Consider Side-Hinged Doors?

One big advantage is the ease of access. Since the doors swing open rather than rolling up, you can partially open just one side if you need to walk in and out without raising the entire door.

They’re also easy to operate manually, which makes them a great option for garages without automatic openers.

Are There Any Downsides?

Because they open outward, side-hinged doors require more space in front of the garage. They also may not be the best choice if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, as snow buildup could block the doors from opening.

💰 Price Range: $1,000 – $4,000

5. Slide-to-Side Garage Doors (Ideal for Unique Spaces)

If you have an unusual garage layout or need an alternative to standard overhead doors, slide-to-side garage doors might be the solution. These doors move horizontally along a track to open and close.

Why Choose a Slide-to-Side Garage Door?

One major benefit is that they don’t require ceiling tracks. This makes them an excellent choice for garages with low or obstructed ceilings.

They also tend to be very durable, using simple, heavy-duty tracks that don’t have as many moving parts as other types of garage doors.

Are There Any Downsides?

Slide-to-side garage doors aren’t as common as sectional or roll-up doors, which means fewer design options. They also require enough wall space for the door to slide open fully.

💰 Price Range: $1,500 – $5,000

Which Garage Door Type is Right for You?

Choosing the best garage door depends on your home’s design, available space, and personal preference. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for affordability, durability, or style, there’s a garage door type that fits your needs.

Use a sectional garage door if you want a common and reliable option. A roll-up or slide-to-side garage door might be better if space is limited. And if you’re after a classic look, side-hinged or tilt-up doors could be the perfect fit.

Before deciding, consider your garage space, ceiling height, and budget to choose the best option for your home.

FAQs