Installing new garage doors seems like a straightforward home improvement project. However, this outwardly simple upgrade carries major consequences when done wrong. Faulty garage doors can fail to open or close properly, compromise security, fall off tracks causing injury risk, or require expensive repairs down the line from poor initial fittings.
That’s why finding an experienced, detail-oriented garage door supplier like Steel-Line in your area is so important for long-lasting, safe results. Use these tips to help guide your search:
Check Experience Levels
It pays to find a specialty garage door showroom and service company that has been fitting homes and buildings with custom solutions for decades in your area. They will have deep expertise across all major commercial and residential brands on the market along with the unique regulations and zoning laws for your city. Highly experienced suppliers also bring strong vendor relationships to source special order products fast.
Verify Licenses and Certifications
Be sure to verify professional accreditations like licenses for general contracting or specialty certifications for overhead door installations. These credentials ensure your supplier stays on top of product innovations, proper protocols and expertise to deliver structural and operational sound solutions that comply with building codes. Ask for proof of insurance too – this protects you from liability if injuries were to occur onsite.
Get Referrals
Check reviews and ask neighbours, friends or family for recommendations of garage door suppliers they worked with and would hire again. Strong word-of-mouth referrals based on quality installation experiences, responsive service after sale and delivering on project timelines carries significant weight.
Compare Materials and Design Options
From wood to steel, aluminum, glass, fibreboard and vinyl – today’s garage doors come in a range of durable materials to match your property. Reputable suppliers take you through available options paired to your aesthetic tastes, budget, environmental conditions, efficiency needs and intended functionality before providing quotes. Getting educated on technical considerations ensures you choose wisely.
Emphasize Safety Features
Review what safety specifications to consider like pinch protection sensors, reinforced steel-edge bottom panels on the door, tamper-proof locks, and automatic reverse settings if objects are hit while closing. Upgrade opportunities like smart camera systems, carbon monoxide and fire sensors add next-level monitoring and alerts too. A trusted supplier will guide you accordingly based on garage size, household occupants and usage patterns.
Price Transparently
While cost always weighs into buying decisions, quality garage door materials, specialty features, custom sizing and complexity of your project plays a major role too. Pricing also depends on the experience level of project managers overseeing your installation for expert workmanship. Reputable suppliers provide clear quotes upfront so you can weigh the value of services included versus merely choosing the cheapest contractor.
Check On Warranties
Review what warranty coverage comes standard with various product brands and materials. Suppliers that back their in-house installation expertise may also offer optional extended labor warranties after projects wrap up for added peace of mind. Read fine print to confirm coverage inclusions, service fees and lead times should issues arise.
Conclusion
Finding an established garage door supplier takes some due diligence across criteria. But the right fit brings you stability, safety and security for one of your home’s major access points for decades to come. Leveraging referrals and evaluating experience, capabilities, safety additions and warranties lead to supplier relationships built to last.