sectioanal overhead doorsectioanal overhead doorA sectional overhead door relies on a series of hinged panels that each follow a vertical track as the door opens or closes. The design of the door enables it to lift vertically and then curve along a horizontal track as it moves upward. This saves space both inside and outside the building, making the sectional overhead door a popular choice for commercial and residential properties with limited space. Most models open at a speed of 7-10 inches per second, providing quick access for vehicles and equipment. As a matter of fact, sectional overhead doors are known to offer up to 40% more usable driveway space compared to traditional swing doors, which is a great advantage in crowded urban areas.
A spring system assists the operation of the sectional overhead door-most often a torsion spring-that counterbalances the door’s weight. The durability of such springs is usually tested, and good quality torsion springs can often be rated up to 15,000 or 20,000 cycles, which would equate to 10-15 years under typical conditions. This application of torsion springs reduces the manual or automatic opener forces that need to be applied to the door, thus making the door much easier to use. According to the GDMA, sectional overhead doors with torsion springs perform better in residential and industrial applications, with a maintenance cycle of 1-2 years.
Insulation is another key feature in sectional overhead doors. Many modern doors have thermal insulation aimed at keeping energy costs low by maintaining a consistent internal temperature. According to the International Energy Agency, an adequately insulated sectional overhead door will have an annual saving in energy cost of as high as 20%, hence giving a good return on investment for those homes and businesses that require temperature regulation of their garages or warehouses. These are insulated doors that can help prevent heat from escaping during winter and reduce heat buildup in summer, adding to overall energy efficiency.
The materials used to construct sectional overhead doors also play an important role in functionality and durability. One of the most common materials used is steel because it offers great strength, does not rust easily, and requires low maintenance. The NAHB reports that more than 70% of new homes boast steel sectional overhead doors, the most popular for those homeowners seeking security and durability. Aluminum models boast sleek appearances and a lightweight feel, making them popular in commercial applications as well. Wood, although attractive, requires more maintenance and is primarily used in custom applications where appearance is an important factor.
Another important consideration of sectional overhead doors is security. Most sectional overhead doors have strong locking systems, and many are fitted with automatic locking systems that lock the door when it is completely closed. This added layer of security is very essential in both residential and commercial settings, helping to protect against unauthorized access. According to the study of the National Crime Prevention Council, properties with secure garage doors are 50% less likely to be targeted by burglars, which indicates that one needs an effective overhead door system.
As Elon Musk once said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” Installing a sectional overhead door is a proactive step in securing your property, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing the functionality of your space. By combining space-saving design with durability, insulation, and security features, sectioanal overhead door are one of the smartest investments any property owner can make to improve the performance and security of their building.