The Difference between Residential and Commercial Garage Doors 

The functions of residential or commercial garage doors are different in how they are used when placed in a home or an office. Knowing the differences helps you figure out which one to use.

A good residential and commercial garage door supplier will have options for both. Here’s a clear overview of how they differ.

Purpose and Use

Residential garage doors are designed for residential properties. They’re used to house cars, tools, or personal belongings. They mostly open a few times per day when people leave or return. 

Commercial garage doors are used in factories, warehouses, or shops. They are subjected to heavy use, opening and closing daily for deliveries or workers. 

Size and Design

Household garage doors are often 8 to 10 ft wide and 7 to 8 ft tall, enough to suit 1 or 2 cars. They come in traditional garage door styles, modern garage door styles, and contemporary garage door styles to match a home’s look.

Commercial doors are much larger, sometimes 20 feet wide or more, to allow trucks or equipment inside. Their form is simple and utilitarian, more function than fashion.

Materials

Both will use steel, aluminum, or wood, but the strength differs. Residential doors can be lighter because they’re not subjected to heavy traffic. A carriage house garage door may feature wood to give your home a classic look, while modern garage doors are often glass and steel.

Commercial doors are built in thicker, tougher materials to withstand frequent use and the occasional bump from vehicles. 

Durability and Maintenance

Garage doors on homes have a long life with minimal maintenance to keep things lubricated, such as hinges, once a year. They don’t have to be super-strong because you’re not dealing with heavy-duty items. Regular garage doors are not complicated and easy for the owner to handle. 

Commercial doors are rarely barreled up for wear and tear day-to-day. They may require more general maintenance, such as periodic inspection of the springs and tracks, to keep them in working condition for commercial use.

Opening Systems

The way doors open varies. Many residential doors have a standard motor, chain, or belt, silent enough for home use. Contemporary garage doors, for example, might have sleek, modern openers. 

Commercial doors require heavy-duty motors to quickly and frequently lift large, heavy panels. Some even use roll-up systems rather than sectional ones to save space in crowded areas. A garage door supplier specializing in residential and commercial will be able to fit the system to the task.

Insulation

Insulation is essential for residential doors, including carriage house garage doors, which often contain insulation to ensure a garage is comfortable, especially if attached. It’s not always a necessity, however, depending on the climate.

Commercial doors may not be insulated in warehouses where temperature doesn’t matter, but insulated options are available for offices or stores. Which option to use depends on a building’s needs.

Cost

Residential doors are less expensive because they are smaller and simpler. A regular garage door for a house could be a few hundred dollars, while a fancy contemporary garage door costs much more.

Commercial doors are typically more expensive because of their size, strength, and additional features. But it’s worth it for safety and function, businesses expect to be in the thousands. A garage door supplier site for residential and commercial purposes has designs for all budgets.

Final Thoughts

Garage doors come in commercial and residential grades, with different uses, sizes, materials, and prices. Residential and commercial garage door suppliers can advise you on modern garage doors for a contemporary home or a robust door for a business. When choosing a door for your home or office, knowing the differences means getting one that functions and lasts.