Nov 19, 2025 | Garage Door Comparisons, Garage Door Types, Sectional garage doors
Sectional garage doors have become one of the most popular choices for modern UK homeowners, and it’s easy to see why.
Unlike traditional up-and-over or side-hinged doors, sectional designs offer a combination of style, practicality and advanced engineering that suits a wide range of properties. Their vertical opening mechanism makes them particularly valuable for homes where driveway space is limited or where internal garage space needs to be maximised.
This guide explains how sectional garage doors work, the different types available, who they are most suited for and why they’re a great option for homeowners looking to save space in their garages.
What Are Sectional Garage Doors?
Sectional garage doors are built on horizontal panels that lift vertically before running along ceiling tracks.
The door rests flat under the ceiling, maximising space inside and outside the garage.
Types of Fittings for Sectional Doors
Sectional garage doors can be installed in different ways depending on the structure of the garage opening and the look you want to achieve. The fitting style affects both the appearance and the amount of usable space, so choosing the right option ensures the best performance and finish.
- Face Fit – The frame sits on the external face of the opening, fixed to brickwork or cladding.
- Reveal Fit – The frame sits inside the opening for a neater, integrated appearance.
What Types of Sectional Garage Doors Are Available?
Given how popular they are, sectional garage doors come in a wide range of styles and specifications to suit different homes and budgets.
From the material of the panels to the level of insulation to the external finish to additional security options.
Understanding these options helps you select a door that complements your home and delivers the right level of functionality.
Common Door Materials
- Steel: Strong, durable and affordable.
- Aluminium: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
- Timber: Premium, natural appearance
Insulation Options
- Single skin: Non-insulated steel panels
- Double skin: Two layers of steel with internal insulation.
- Triple layer: High-grade insulation, with thick polyurethane foam for improved thermal control.
Finishes and Colours
- Wood grain textures
- Contemporary smooth panels
- Modern ribbed or minimalist designs
- Colour options such as beige, black, blue, brown, green, grey, ivory, red, white – just to name a few.
What Are Sectional Garage Doors Most Suitable For?
Sectional garage doors are most suitable for modern homes, where space is limited in and around your garage. This includes:
Homes with Short Driveways or Limited Front Space
Sectional garage doors open straight up rather than outwards, which is ideal for homes where a car is parked close to a garage door, or which have a short driveway or may be situated close to a street.
Attached Garages
Sectional garage doors can be highly insulated, making them ideal for garages attached to homes.
Their multi-layer panel construction and tight perimeter seals help maintain consistent temperatures, reduce heat loss and even minimise noise.
Garages with Low or Irregular Ceilings
The track systems used in sectional garage doors are highly adaptable.
They can be used in spaces with low headroom or sloped ceilings by using adjustable brackets or alternative track layouts that allow the door to follow the shape and height of your ceiling.
Modern, New Build homes
Newer homes often have reduced driveway depth and smaller garage footprints.
Sectional doors maximise usable space by storing flat under the ceiling. This allows:
- More internal pairing room
- Additional wall space for shelving and storage
- Improved security through reinforced tracks, strong locking systems and smart alerts
- A contemporary appearance with a wide design choice.
Key Takeaways for Buyers
Whilst sectional garage doors may have a higher upfront cost, their space-saving and insulative qualities make them the ideal choice for homeowners looking to maximise their property’s space.
At West Midlands Garage Doors, we are committed to helping you choose the right garage door to suit your style and budget.
Our installation process is simple and affordable with no hidden costs. Request a free site survey today.
Nov 19, 2025 | Garage Door Maintenance and Replacement, Security garage doors
Many homeowners underestimate the importance of garage door security, even though their garage remains one of the most frequently targeted and vulnerable entry points to a property.
Enhancing your garage with additional security features not only protects your valuable possessions but also safeguards the well-being of your family.
A burglary is more than a financial loss, it’s a violation of your personal space that can leave homeowners feeling vulnerable and shaken.
Improving your garage door security is a crucial step in preventing these risks and ensuring greater peace of mind.
What Are the Most Effective Upgrades for Garage Door Security?
The most effective upgrades increase resistance to force, block known attack methods and improve access control.
Install Anti-Snap Locks
Anti-snap locks are high-security door cylinders designed to prevent a common break-in method, known as lock snapping.
Lock snapping is the application of force to a cylinder until it breaks, allowing the burglar to manually turn the mechanism and open the door.
It is a quiet, fast and widely used break-in method.
Anti-snap locks have built-in sacrificial weak points, meaning when force is applied, the lock will break safely in a controlled way, leaving the central lock mechanism intact and protecting the internal components.
For the most effective results, have the anti-snap locks installed by a professional, qualified technician.
Key points:
- Prevents access after cylinder snapping
- Use controlled break points to protect the core
- Works with most modern garage doors
Add Improved Bracing for Door Strength
Improved bracing are additional reinforcing structures that enhance the door’s strength.
Common Bracing Materials
- Steel bars
- Aluminium bars
- Specialised brackets
Bracings enhance your door’s strength and stability against external forces including high winds, physical impacts and forced entry.
They can be installed vertically or horizontally and are anchored securely to either:
- The garage floor
- The header above the door
- Side walls
- Roof joists
The added rigidity makes forced entry or peeling the doors significantly more difficult for burglars.
What is Peeling?
Peeling is a specific burglary technique, where a wire hanger is used to peel back the top edge of the garage door panel to hook the emergency release handle from outside.
Adding improved bracing to your garage door will physically block access to internal locking rods, deterring criminals.
Use External Keypads With Secure PINs
Weatherproof keypads allow controlled access to your garage.
Typical functions:
- Set personalised pins
- Create unique, temporary codes for limited-time access
- Grant access for specific individuals such as dog walkers.
- Remote management via smartphone apps
- Anti-tamper sensors
External keypads remove the risk of lost keys and log each activation when linked to smart systems. They also prevent unauthorised door release by limiting who can open the mechanism.
This personalised locking system gives you that extra layer of security.
Install Motion-Activated Lighting
Bright lighting around the garage deters intruders, leaving them exposed and visible on security cameras.
Typical installation points to consider include:
- Above the garage door
- Along the driveway
- On side entrances
When motion is detected, the lights will alert homeowners, encouraging you to investigate or alert authorities.
Invest in Security Cameras for Monitoring and Evidence
Security cameras not only act as a strong deterrent for burglars, but if a break-in does occur, they provide high-definition footage that can be used as valuable evidence.
Useful features:
- Motion alerts
- Night vision
- Two-way audio
- Smart notifications
Install security cameras so that they directly face the garage door, this will act as a visible deterrent to discourage criminals from breaking in.
Security-Focused Garage Doors at West Midland Garage Doors
Upgrading your garage door with the right security features is one of the most effective ways to protect your home, your belongings and your peace of mind.
At West Midlands Garage Doors, we understand the importance of security.
Available systems:
- Hörmann – which are fitted with anti-theft kits when closed
- SWS – part of the SecueroGlide range, with a unique patented locking mechanism.
These products offer tested components and enhanced resistance to break-ins.
Arrange your free on-site survey today.
Oct 22, 2025 | Up & over garage doors
Up and over garage doors remain one of the most popular and reliable options for UK homes. They combine a simple lifting mechanism with wide design availability, making them a practical choice for both new builds and property upgrades.
This guide explains how up and over garage doors work, what types are available, their security and automation options, and how to choose the right size, finish and manufacturer for your home.
What Is an Up and Over Garage Door?
An up and over garage door is a single, solid panel that lifts upwards and outwards to open. The door tilts on a spring-assisted mechanism, moving from a vertical closed position to a horizontal position above the vehicle space.
This design has been a mainstay of domestic garages for decades because of how robust, cost-effective and mechanically simple it is.
Two main types are available:
- Canopy up and over doors – The panel forms a small canopy outside the garage when open.
- Retractable up and over doors – The panel slides fully inside the garage on horizontal tracks.
Retractable doors are typically preferred for automation, while canopy doors remain a popular manual choice.
How Do Up and Over Garage Doors Work?
Up and over garage doors operate using counterbalanced springs and pivot arms that assist lifting. When opened, the springs take the weight of the door, allowing it to move smoothly with minimal effort.
Mechanism overview:
- Canopy design – The panel swings outwards on pivot arms; about one-third of the door projects forward when open.
- Retractable design – The door travels along horizontal tracks mounted to the ceiling; it does not protrude beyond the opening.
This mechanism is simple, reliable, and easy to maintain, which is why up and over garage doors continue to be a preferred option for homeowners and installers alike.
Are Up and Over Garage Doors Secure?
Modern up and over garage doors can be very secure when properly specified and installed. Security largely depends on the locking system, panel construction and frame strength. Key security features to look for include:
- Multi-point locking – Provides locking on both sides of the door for better resistance to forced entry.
- Reinforced panels – Steel or timber doors with additional bracing prevent bending or warping.
- Secure fixing points – A galvanised or steel subframe prevents prying at the edges.
Look for doors certified to Secured by Design standards or those tested under PAS 24 for enhanced residential security. When combined with a properly fitted frame and anti-lift locking bar, an up and over door provides a strong level of protection for everyday use.
Can Up and Over Garage Doors Be Automated?
Yes – most retractable up and over garage doors can be automated easily.
A motorised operator can be attached to the top of the garage door which will lift the drive arm when activated. Safety sensors can also be implemented also which will stop the door from opening and closing if an obstruction is detected, such as your vehicle or a small child. Most systems are compatible with key fobs, wall switches and smartphone apps, but this will vary depending on the model selected.
While canopy doors can be automated using a special converter mechanism, retractable models are better suited for smooth motorised operation.
Standard Sizes and Custom Options
Up and over garage doors are available in a wide range of standard sizes to suit single and double-garage openings. Typical dimensions include:
- Single doors – 2134mm (7ft) to 2438mm (8ft) wide by 1981 – 2134mm (6ft 6in – 7 ft) high.
- Double doors – Up to 4877mm (16ft) wide.
Manufacturers also offer bespoke sizes for non-standard openings, older properties or integral garages. When sizing, it’s essential to measure the structural opening and allow for frame tolerances and fitting clearances.
Material and Colour Choices
Up and over garage doors are available in several materials, each with different performance and aesthetic benefits:
| Material |
Key Advantages |
Typical Finishes |
| Steel
|
Durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective
|
Powder-coated RAL colours, textured or woodgrain finishes
|
| Timber
|
Natural appearance, ideal for traditional properties
|
Hardwood or softwood, factory-stained or painted
|
| GRP (Glass-Reinforced Plastic) |
Resistant to corrosion and weathering
|
Gloss or wood-effect gel finishes
|
|
Aluminium
|
Lightweight and rust-resistant
|
Anodised or colour-coated surfaces
|
Most manufacturers offer a full RAL colour range, enabling the door to match windows, doors, conservatories, fascias or cladding.
Maintenance Requirements and Lifespan
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure smooth operation and long-term performance. Fortunately, up and over garage doors are relatively low-maintenance compared to more complex systems.
Recommended upkeep:
- Lubricate springs, pivots, and locking points every six months.
- Check cable tension and fixings annually.
- Keep tracks free from dirt and debris.
- Touch up any paint chips to prevent corrosion on steel doors.
With proper care, a quality up and over garage door can last 20 years or more, especially if serviced by a professional installer.
Which Manufacturer Should I Use for Up and Over Garage Doors?
The UK market includes several reputable manufacturers offering certified, high-quality up and over garage doors. Selection should be based on design options, warranty terms, affordability and after-sales support.
Leading manufacturers include:
- Hörmann – Known for precision-engineered retractable doors and reliable automation compatibility.
- Garador – Offers wide size and colour ranges, including Secured by Design options.
- Cardale – Provides both steel and timber models with made-to-measure capability.
- Novoferm – Manufactures insulated and corrosion-resistant doors for residential and commercial settings.
Always choose a manufacturer-certified installer (like our team here at WM Garage Doors) to ensure compliance with performance and safety standards.
Advantages and Drawbacks of Up and Over Doors
| Feature |
Advantage |
Limitation |
| Design |
Simple, proven, and reliable |
Requires outward clearance (canopy type) |
| Cost |
Affordable compared to sectional or roller doors |
Fewer insulation options |
| Security |
Strong when fitted with multi-point locking |
Depends on frame strength |
| Automation |
Easily motorised (retractable type) |
Canopy type requires converter kit |
| Aesthetics |
Wide colour and material range |
Limited to single-panel look |
Conclusion
Up and over garage doors remain a trusted solution for homeowners who want a balance of reliability, affordability and straightforward design. They are affordable, easy to operate, secure when properly fitted and available in a wide variety of styles and finishes to suit almost any property type.
If you’re considering upgrading or replacing your garage door, it’s worth speaking to a qualified supplier or installer who can assess your space and advise on automation or security options. Reach out to our team at WM Garage Doors and speak to a specialist to explore all your options when it comes to your next garage door installation.
Jun 25, 2024 | News, Roller garage doors, Side hinged garage doors
With the rising cost of living, finding ways to reduce household expenses has become crucial for many homeowners. As utility bills soar and budgets tighten, the need for efficient, cost-saving measures within the home becomes ever more important. One effective way to cut down on energy costs is by installing insulated garage doors. These doors not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home but also significantly improve its energy efficiency. There are various types of insulated garage doors available, including side hinged insulated garage doors and roller insulated garage doors, each offering unique benefits.
Benefits of Insulated Garage Doors
Energy Efficiency
Insulated garage doors are designed with multiple layers of insulation, which serve to create a barrier between the interior of your garage and the outside environment. This barrier helps to maintain a consistent temperature within the garage, preventing the transfer of heat or cold. As a result, your home’s heating doesn’t have to work as hard to regulate the temperature, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. Furthermore, the improved insulation can also protect your vehicles and stored items from extreme temperatures, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs. This added protection further contributes to overall household savings.
Improved Comfort
In addition to their energy-saving benefits, insulated garage doors can also enhance the overall comfort of your home. By maintaining a stable temperature in the garage, they can help to reduce drafts and cold spots in adjacent rooms, making your living space more comfortable year-round. This can be particularly beneficial if your garage is attached to your home or if you use the garage as a living space, workshop, or storage area.
Increase Property Valve
Moreover, insulated garage doors can add to the curb appeal of your property. Available in a variety of styles, colours, and finishes, these doors can complement the architectural design of your home, boosting its visual appeal and potentially increasing its market value. Whether you prefer the classic look of side hinged insulated garage doors or the modern efficiency of roller insulated garage doors, there is a design to suit every taste and requirement.
Side Hinged Insulated Garage Doors
These doors are designed for ease of access and are particularly suitable for garages that are used frequently. The side hinged design allows for partial opening, reducing heat loss during entry and exit. This feature makes them an excellent choice for maintaining internal temperatures.
Roller Insulated Garage Doors
Roller garage doors are ideal for maximising space, as they roll up neatly above the door opening. They offer excellent insulation properties, preventing drafts and keeping the garage warm during winter and cool during summer. This type of door is perfect for garages with limited headroom or for homeowners seeking a sleek, modern appearance.
Why Buy from West Midlands Garage Doors
Investing in an insulated garage door is a smart move for any homeowner looking to save on utility bills and enhance their home’s comfort. When considering a purchase, West Midlands Garage Doors stands out as a reliable supplier. We offer a wide range of high-quality insulated garage doors, including both side hinged and roller options, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your needs. Our expert installation services and commitment to customer satisfaction make them a top choice for homeowners in the West Midlands.
By choosing an insulated garage door from West Midlands Garage Doors, you are not only making a financially sound decision but also improving the energy efficiency and comfort of your home. Contact us today to start saving today with a new insulated garage door.
Jan 9, 2024 | News, Security garage doors
In the landscape of home security, the garage door stands out as a frequently disregarded but pivotal element. It operates as a gateway for convenience, facilitating the comings and goings of homeowners. However, it can also become a potential Achilles’ heel if not reinforced against the backdrop of escalating crime rates. As crime statistics continue to highlight the vulnerability of residential properties, particularly through garage break-ins, the need for a robust security infrastructure, starting with the garage door, becomes more pressing than ever. Investing in a security garage door emerges not merely as an enhancement to your home’s overall safety but as a proactive response to the ever-evolving challenges of modern-day security threats.
Recent crime reports underscore the significance of addressing garage door security. Criminals frequently target garages as a point of entry due to perceived vulnerabilities, seeking valuable items such as tools, bicycles, and even accessing the interior of the house. Recognising the evolving tactics employed by intruders, homeowners are compelled to reevaluate their security measures, with a security garage doors taking centre stage in this defensive strategy.
1. Reinforced Physical Barrier
A security garage door is crafted with robust materials that significantly enhance its strength and durability. Unlike standard garage doors, which may be prone to forced entry, security garage doors act as a formidable physical barrier, deterring potential intruders from attempting unauthorised access.
2. Advanced Locking Mechanisms
One of the key features of security garage doors is their advanced locking systems. From traditional deadbolts to modern smart locks, these doors offer a variety of options to secure your garage effectively. Multi-point locking systems provide additional security by engaging multiple points along the door frame, making it challenging for intruders to breach.
3. Resistance to Break-Ins
Security garage doors are designed to withstand various forms of attacks, including attempts to force the door open. Reinforced panels and impact-resistant materials make these doors highly resistant to break-ins, ensuring that your garage remains a secure space for valuable belongings.
4. Integration with Smart Home Security
Modern security garage doors can seamlessly integrate with smart home security systems. This allows homeowners to monitor and control garage door access remotely, receive real-time alerts, and even integrate video surveillance for an extra layer of protection.
5. Durability Against Harsh Weather
Security garage doors are built to withstand the elements. Whether it’s extreme temperatures, heavy rains, or strong winds, these doors maintain their structural integrity, ensuring reliable performance even in adverse weather conditions.
6. Prevention of Unauthorised Access
Securing your garage is not only about protecting your vehicles and belongings but also about preventing unauthorised access to your home. A security garage door adds an extra layer of defence against intruders who may see the garage as a potential entry point.
7. Increased Home Value
Investing in security features, including a robust garage door, can enhance the overall value of your home. Potential homebuyers often prioritise security, and a secure garage door can be a selling point when putting your property on the market.
8. Reduced Insurance Costs
Many insurance providers offer discounts to homeowners who take proactive measures to improve home security. Installing a security garage door may lead to lower insurance premiums, providing both financial savings and added protection.
In a world where home security is paramount, addressing every potential entry point is essential. To find out more about crime rates in your area view our report. A security garage door goes beyond mere functionality; it becomes a crucial component in fortifying your home against external threats. The investment not only protects your belongings and enhances your family’s safety but also adds value to your property. Consider upgrading to a security garage door today and take a proactive step towards securing your home.
Jul 16, 2021 | News, Security garage doors
Whether you are working, on the school run, or on holiday, your garage is most vulnerable when you aren’t home. If you find yourself worrying about garage door security, this is a clear sign that you need to review your garage door safety.
Follow our ten tips for keeping your garage safe while you are away, for extra peace of mind.
1. Close The Garage Door
It sounds almost too straightforward, but not closing the door properly gets overlooked far too often. Whether from forgetfulness or because you aren’t away for long, an open door can be seen as an invitation.
Many automatic garage doors have a built-in automatic self-closing feature. This doesn’t mean you have to just drive away and leave it down to the automated system. But it is a great, nice-to-have backup.
If you have access to your garage from your home, add a physical side-locking mechanism on the inside.
2. Keep Your Belongings Out Of Sight
When storing valuables or expensive tools and equipment in your garage, keep these covered or out of sight in a cupboard or lockable tool storage cabinet.
When you are purchasing a new garage door, then consider one without glazing or with frosted glass. If you want clear glazing, opt for glass panels positioned at the top to make it harder to see in.
3. Light Your Garage And Drive
Burglars and thieves don’t like being seen. So you can boost your garage door security by adding exterior home and garage lights. External lights can be connected to the automated garage door opener or use a motion sensor that turns the light on whenever someone approaches.
4. Secure Your Side Door
A service door on the side of a garage is a popular feature that allows access, often directly from your garden. You should upgrade to a secure door if yours is sub-standard, and be sure to keep this locked.
5. Protect Internal Home Entry Doors
If your garage is attached to your home, then it will likely have an internal access door. When you are away, keep this locked to create an additional barrier should someone break into your home.
6. Improve The Visibility Of Your Garage
Just like adding exterior lights, you will improve your garage door security if you trim back bushes and trees to improve visibility.
7. Hide Your Remote
Leaving your garage remote on view in your car or clipped to the visor is not a good idea. Most remotes have a design that allows you to clip them to your keychain, so you can take them with you. Don’t forget to lock your car and don’t leave your house keys in your vehicle.
8. Choose An Opener That Supports A Smartphone Connection
If you don’t like the idea of carrying a remote, then smartphone-operated openers are an excellent alternative. You can also see if your door is open or closed, 24/7, from anywhere in the world.
9. Ensure Your Garage Door Is CE Marked
Garage doors and openers made before 2000 might not be CE Marked. This is an indication that the security features do not meet modern standards.
The evolution of technology has been significant over the past twenty years. New garage doors have features such as rolling codes that change every time you use your remote and holiday modes, which disable remote access when you are away.
10. Choose A Secured By Design Garage Door
Secured by Design is an official police initiative and tells you that you are buying the most secure type of door with strong garage locks.
For more information on garage door security or a site survey and new garage door price, don’t hesitate to contact our team.
