Annie Button teamed up with specialists at Wessex Garage Doors to bring you this sponsored guide offering advice for anyone considering upgrading their garage.
Choosing the right upgrade is important. Whether you need one to suit the style of a new build, tighten security on commercial premises, overhaul an investment property or modernise a bungalow, having garage doors that are practical, presentable and secure is key.
Like any home improvement, it’s important to feel confident that you’re getting a good deal from a reputable company that delivers a high standard of workmanship. Wessex Garage Doors are renowned for their in-depth knowledge of both the supply and installation of various types of garage door, together with bespoke styling. They are therefore well placed to guide you through the garage door decision process and determine the best solution for your upgrade.
Check their previous work
The first step to finding a reputable garage door company is to look at their previous work, and particularly any case studies of properties similar to yours they can share. This will give you an idea of the standard of work you can expect on your own property. If they’re reluctant to show you these examples, that could be a red flag that their quality of workmanship is not very good.
How varied is their product range?
The world of garage doors offers more variety than you might think. You can choose from automated or manual, wooden, steel or GRP, and added features like hardware or windows. It’s essential that you choose a door that’s not only functional but also works with the style of your property, so working with a company that gives you a wide range of choice can help. This way, you’re not limited to choosing a door out of necessity – you can choose a style that really works for you.
Consider a look that matches exteriors
To create an immediate impact and boost your home’s kerb appeal, consider selecting garage doors that suit the rest of your property’s exteriors. A new automated garage door looks modern and is convenient, while timber surrounds might look better in a period property you’re modernising. Aim to match garage doors to fit your building’s style and also opt for paint colours that blend well.
Ask what maintenance services they offer
Some garage door companies will just install the door and that’s all – but if you run into a problem or the door fails immediately, this leaves you in a difficult position. Check what maintenance or repairs services they offer, as well as any warranties they provide, to safeguard your purchase. While wear and tear over time is to be expected, you want to know that a business will take responsibility for any other faults.
Read customer reviews and testimonials
Social proof is incredibly important – if you have access to countless positive reviews about a business, you have more confidence that they can be trusted. Look at Google Reviews, sites like Trustpilot, and social media profiles to see what other people have said about the company. Ideally, look to family and friends or colleagues as well to see if they’ve had a good experience because this can help guide your search.
Question their processes
Whether you’ve had a new garage door installed before or not, you’re sure to have questions so don’t be afraid to query their processes. Find out as much as you can about how the business works before you sign a contract with them, because it will put your mind at ease and help you choose between different companies in the area based on your unique needs.
What to expect on installation day
Once you’ve chosen the right garage for your property, the installation day itself is another consideration. You won’t want a garage door that underperforms or poses safety risks if it is not fitted correctly. For a professional service, you’ll expect the company to follow safety protocols, protect your driveway, cars and property, handle heavy parts, and thoroughly test all the safety features and mechanisms, especially on automated doors.
Choosing a company to work with can be daunting because you’re investing your time and money into their products and services. Thorough research and asking plenty of questions is the key to ensuring that the business you choose for your new garage door is reliable and will deliver excellent customer service. Hopefully these tips will ensure that your garage door installation runs smoothly.
By Tom Fenton 
By Annie Button 
