The Novoferm guide
Tips and tricks for garage doors
WOODEN GARAGE DOORS
ALL ABOUT TYPES, INSTALLATION AND CARE
Nowadays, garage doors are generally made of metal and plastic. Many consider wood on garage doors to be problematic. Of course, unlike the previously mentioned models, this material generally requires more maintenance. However, it also has its clear advantages. In particular, the natural, elegant appearance and excellent insulating properties speak in favour of wooden garage doors. Moreover, they are much more robust and durable than you think.
In order for you to enjoy all these positive properties in the long term, wooden doors require specific care. Read on to find out what is particularly important, what types of wooden garage doors you can buy, and how to choose the right motor!
WHICH WOODEN GARAGE DOORS ARE AVAILABLE?
- Two-leaf wooden garage door: The two-leaf wooden garage door is a classic garage door. It usually has two door elements that are mounted on hinges on either side of the garage opening and open outwards.
- Wooden overhead door: The popular overhead door is also available in wood. This door variant opens all the way to the garage ceiling thanks to a mechanism consisting of rods and springs.
- Wooden sectional door: Sectional doors are also available in wood. In this case, the individual wooden elements or sections that make up the door are pulled under the garage ceiling on a track to save space.
- Wooden rollershutter door: Wooden roller shutter doors are somewhat rarer, but are becoming increasingly popular due to their refined, modern and natural appearance. This type of door consists of narrow wooden slats that, when opened, are rolled up to the height of the garage lintel.
TIMING: HOW (IN)SENSITIVE WOODEN GARAGE DOORS ARE
As a natural, 'living' material, wood obviously has to be taken care of with some care, so that it can be enjoyed for a long time. However, it does not have to be very delicate.
The type of wood used for the garage door plays an important role. Products made of mahogany, teak or other sturdy woods are much cheaper than those made of pine, for example. A professional treatment with a wood preservative then guarantees optimal protection against weathering.
Paints or varnishes are usually applied in the factory, but must be renewed regularly.
SANDING A WOODEN GARAGE DOOR
THAT'S WHAT COUNTS!
If you want to refresh your wooden garage door with a new enamel or paint and make it perfectly weatherproof again, you must first sand down the existing protection. Complete sanding is only necessary if the paint is badly weathered or if you want to apply a completely new colour.
It is best to proceed in the following steps:
- Thoroughly clean the garage door: water, mild soap, sponge and brush are usually sufficient.
- Once dry, sand the door thoroughly with an orbital or random sander.
- Larger damaged areas can be filled in with wood filler; if there are irregularities, simply sand again.
- Remove the sanding dust from the door and cover or mask off the areas that are not to be painted.
- Impregnate the garage door and then paint it with a weather-resistant paint or enamel.
WHICH ELECTRIC MOTOR FOR MY WOODEN GARAGE DOOR?
Wood is a relatively heavy material. Therefore, if you want to open and close your wooden garage door electrically, you must ensure that the motor has sufficient power. Especially for wooden overhead and sectional overhead doors, which have to be lifted, it is important to consider the following guide value: Ten square metres of door generally require an operator with a force of 700 N.
WOODEN GARAGE DOORS: HOW TO CARE FOR THE WOODEN DOOR PROPERLY
Caring for the wooden garage door involves first of all maintaining the paint. In order for the paint to protect the wood from the weather and other harmful influences for as long as possible, it must be regularly cleaned of dirt.
The door should be cleaned with a clean cloth, clean water and a little detergent at the latest after the cold season. In addition, the paint should be refreshed at least every five years.