July 27, 2018

When to Add Windows to a Garage Door

Model Prestige XL avec une porte Novatech

If you are happy that your garage door opens and closes as it should, but you aren’t happy with the way it looks, maybe it’s time to consider an update? One of the nicest options is to add decorative windows that coordinate with the overall style of the home or property.

Whether or not there are existing windows in the door, you can add or update them. In this brief guide, we’ll take a closer look at the issue to help you make the right choice.

The Aesthetics of Garage Door Windows

Aesthetics are an important issue for most of us, and there is some aesthetic appeal to adding windows to a garage door. This is particularly true if you have updated the exterior of the building, and one way to boost the overall good looks of the property. If you coordinate the style of the windows with those of surrounding doors and windows, it is even more beneficial.

How do you do that? Just consider the way that any existing windows are laid out or designed. For example, what are the panes designed like? Is there any obvious grid‑work in them? You can try to integrate similar styles and companies like Garaga and Novatech have collaborated to offer product lines that go together perfectly.

If you require help with this process, there are Design Centres from some of the best names in garage doors, including Garaga. With their center, you simply upload a clear photo of your home, and then the design center allows you to actual “try on” any number of doors and windows. This allows you to easily pick those that are best suited to the architectural style of your property.

The Practicalities of Garage Door Windows

Naturally, many add garage door windows because they require natural light indoors. This is usually when you use that space for more than just parking a car. Additionally, if you do want to add windows for light and aesthetics, you have to consider security and privacy, too.

You don’t want to allow anyone to just peer into the space and see what valuable items are inside. The good news is that you can easily incorporate frosted or tinted glass into your design, preventing anyone from seeing inside.

And in addition to good looks, practicality, security and privacy, you can also make plans for ideal insulation and weathertightness in your garage doors. After all, if you are using the space for hobbies, auto repair or any other reason, it can’t be a cold, damp space. You need to use the garage door windows with the best thermal resistance, usually said to be at best at R‑3.6 with Argon‑filled sealed double panes. The garage door should be an R‑16, 1¾" (45 mm) polyurethane injected model.

Impact on Lifting System?

Many wonder if adding windows affects lifting system using springs, and the answer is: Yes it will.

The garage door without windows is going to be affected by the addition of them. Though it depends a lot on the age of your spring system, and the type (whether torsion or extension) you will have to adapt things to accommodate an increase in the weight of the door. This can add a bit more to the cost of the project.

If the door already has windows and the only change is a new window or two, it is not common for you to have to adapt the door to the new window. Yet, it is important to note that any situation of this kind must be assessed on site by a garage door technician who will then tell you if any changes need to be made.

You should not also assume that an electric garage door opener is still up to the task, if you’ve added new weight with new windows. While it is true that most garage door openers are capable of lifting weights of 230 lb. (115 kg), any changes to the spring system can make the entire system unbalanced.

It is a correctly balanced door that allows the opener to function best. With balance the door seems to weigh only 10 lb. (4.5 kg), out of balance, it can create a lot more resistance and even safety hazards. The same goes with closing the door since it presses down the same amount of weight it lifts. Put your safety and that of your loved ones first, and have a professional do a final check of your system.

Need Help in the Decision Making Process?

That’s not at all unusual and you can contact us anytime toll‑free at:

  • London: 519-685-9797
  • Mount Pleasant: 905-304-9700
  • Guelph: 519-821-4400
  • Clinton: 519-482-3251

We are fully conversant with garage door systems and can explain the best choice to make in your situation, even if your needs are very specific. If you prefer we mail you a quotation, that’s entirely possible or you can head to our online Design Centre to try out the styles available on your property, and even visit the image gallery for inspiration.

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