Garage doors have numerous components that work together to ensure smooth operation and security. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to enhance your garage door’s style or a business owner needing durable commercial door hardware, knowing the different types of garage door hardware can help you make informed decisions.
Door Hardware: The Backbone of Garage Door Functionality
The most critical category of garage door hardware is the operational components that allow the door to open, close, and remain secure. These pieces are essential for the door’s movement and long-term durability.
Tracks
The tracks are the guiding rails on which the garage door rolls up and down. They are typically installed on the walls or ceiling of your garage, depending on the type of system in place. There are different types of tracks available, each suited to specific applications:
- Normal headroom tracks – These tracks require 12-15 inches of clearance from the ceiling to the top of the door. They are the most common and are suitable for most residential homes.
- Low headroom tracks – Ideal for garages with limited space above the door, these tracks use a double-track system to accommodate the limited clearance.
- High lift tracks – These tracks raise the door higher along the wall before it curves back horizontally, making them perfect for spaces where you want to keep the door out of the way when open.
- Vertical lift tracks – Used primarily in commercial applications, vertical lift tracks allow the door to move straight up along the wall, maximizing overhead space.
Rollers
Rollers are small but vital components that fit into the hinges of the garage door and travel along the tracks. They come in various materials, each with its advantages:
- Steel rollers – These are the standard option and are known for their strength and durability. Steel rollers typically require regular maintenance, including lubrication.
- Nylon rollers – Slightly quieter than steel, nylon rollers are favored for lighter residential garage doors. They require less maintenance and tend to last longer in certain applications.
- Nylon rollers with ball bearings – These rollers are designed for heavier doors and provide a smoother, quieter operation due to the ball bearings, making them an excellent choice for homes or businesses where noise is a concern.
Hinges
Hinges connect the different panels of a sectional garage door, allowing it to bend and move along the curved portions of the track. Hinges are typically found on the interior side of the door and vary in strength and design:
- Residential hinges – Usually made of 14-gauge steel, these are standard for most home garage doors.
- Commercial hinges – These are made from thicker, 10-gauge steel, providing extra durability for heavier doors typically found in commercial settings.
- Quiet hinges – Equipped with nylon inserts, quiet hinges reduce noise during operation, making them ideal for homes where sound reduction is desired.
Struts
Struts are horizontal supports that run across the length of the garage door panels. Their primary function is to reinforce the door, preventing it from bending or breaking under pressure from wind or regular use. Depending on your needs, the number and size of struts can vary:
- Standard wind load struts – Most garage doors have standard wind load struts that offer sufficient protection against moderate winds.
- High wind load struts – For homes or businesses in areas prone to high winds, additional struts can be installed to increase the door’s resistance to wind stress.
Cables
Garage door cables are attached to the bottom brackets of the door and work in tandem with the spring system to facilitate the opening and closing of the door. These cables are crucial for the safe operation of your garage door:
- Standard cables – Used in most residential applications, these cables can handle the weight of the door and the tension of the springs.
- Heavy-duty cables – For larger or commercial doors, heavy-duty cables provide additional strength and durability, reducing the risk of cable failure.
Drums
Drums are circular components located on either end of the torsion spring shaft. As the door opens, the cables wind around the drums, lifting the door smoothly. Drums ensure the cables operate without slipping or causing uneven door movement.
Pulleys
Pulleys are used in garage doors with extension springs. They connect the cables to the springs, allowing for a smooth operation. Like rollers, pulleys must be lubricated regularly to maintain their function and prevent wear.
Springs
Springs are perhaps the most important hardware in a garage door system. They store the mechanical energy needed to lift and lower the door, making it possible to operate the door with minimal effort:
- Extension springs – Typically used on smaller doors, these springs stretch and contract as the door operates. They are less expensive but have a shorter lifespan compared to torsion springs.
- Torsion springs – Torsion springs are mounted above the door and wind or unwind to lift or lower the door. They are more durable and provide a smoother operation, making them ideal for larger or heavier doors.
Decorative Hardware: Adding Style to Functionality
While functional hardware is essential for your garage door’s operation, decorative hardware adds a personalized touch to your property’s exterior. This type of hardware is all about enhancing your garage door’s appearance without compromising functionality.
Hinges and Handles
Decorative hinges and handles are mounted on the garage door’s exterior side. Although they do not serve a functional purpose, they can significantly enhance visual appeal. Your options include faux hinges and stylish handles that are purely decorative and add a charming touch to the door’s appearance.
Windows
Adding windows to your garage door can brighten your garage space and enhance your property’s curb appeal. There are many styles and types to choose from:
- Plain glass – Plain glass provides a simple, clean look while allowing natural light to enter the garage.
- Obscure glass – Ideal for anyone who wants a bit of daylight without sacrificing privacy, obscure glass offers privacy while still letting light through.
- Custom inserts – Various shapes and designs can be added to the windows to match your property’s style or personal preference.
Get New Hardware for Your Garage Door
When selecting the types of garage door hardware, it’s essential to consider the functionality and durability of the components. High-quality hardware extends your garage door’s lifespan and ensures smooth and safe operation. Omaha Door & Window prioritizes offering the best products on the market, providing various options that suit your needs and budget. If you have any questions or need assistance selecting the right hardware for your garage door, contact Omaha Door & Window today. Our knowledgeable team can help you find the perfect solution.