Should a garage door have windows? Absolutely! Garage door windows enhance your curb appeal and brighten up your garage. These features are available in different shapes, sizes and designs, which allow you to get creative in selecting a personalized model for your property.
Below, we’ll discuss the benefits of garage door windows and some considerations to keep in mind. Learn about the different styles of garage door windows available and how to care for the garage door when you choose to install one.
Pros of Garage Door Windows
Garage door windows have become popular additions to garage doors in recent years. We can narrow down the reasons to the benefits they offer for your overhead door. The top advantages of having windows on your garage doors include:
1. Natural Light in the Garage
A primary benefit of garage door windows is that they let in natural light without needing to open the doors. Generally, many garages are dark because almost every part is sealed. But you might spend a lot of time there. Adding windows to your garage door increases the visibility inside without needing extra lights. Installing windows on your garage door also helps you cut utility bills since there’s no need to switch on the light during the daytime.
2. Aesthetic Addition to Your Curb Appeal
Garage door windows are excellent options for improving your curb appeal. They add something unique to your overhead door and give you more design options.
The garage door is likely the largest door on your property, and it’s usually facing the road where passersby can see it. This means it’s one of the most attention-grabbing areas. So, adding windows on your garage doors leads to even more appeal.
3. Customizable Options
Garage doors allow you to get creative, beginning with garage door window inserts. You can choose the number of windows you want, as well as the size, color and shape. You can select two or three-row windows with diamond-shaped large rectangular panels, or get innovative with the half-crescent alternative. There are multiple glass options to pick from, too, including:
- Rain
- Clear
- Tinted
- Frosted
- Mirrored
4. Safety and Security
Safety is essential now more than ever. While burglars search for ways to breach your property, you should implement plans to protect your belongings.
Imagine hearing a noise behind your fully-sealed garage door but you can’t view what’s happening outside. Opening the door to check may not be a great idea. With garage door windows, you can peep before opening the door.
The good thing about garage door windows is that you can choose an option that’s opaque from the outside. That will prevent strangers from seeing what you do or have inside the garage. It’s also helpful to learn general garage safety measures to keep your property safe and secure.
5. Property Value Boost
A customized, stunning-looking and safe garage door is an extra selling point to your property. This is especially true when the garage door fits your home’s or building’s architectural design well. Moreover, installing quality windows informs buyers of the level of care you put into customizing and maintaining your house or commercial building.
Cons of Garage Door Windows
Installing garage doors may come with some challenges, although most can be averted. But considering these factors is helpful in making an informed decision. Here are some things to keep in mind regarding garage door windows:
1. Allows Sunlight to Enter Your Garage
Garage door windows are generally made of glass. Sun rays can pass through the glass, which may increase the temperature in your garage. This situation is more prevalent during the summer, but your garage may get hotter when the sun rises.
When choosing a window for your garage door, use a low-emissive (low-E) glass option for your architectural glass pane. Low-E glass windows can filter out most ultraviolet rays, which harm your skin, furniture and anything you keep in the garage. Most importantly, low-E glass can decrease energy loss by 30%-50%. Choosing an insulated garage door helps the energy savings even more.
2. Lets People See the Inside of Your Garage
When your garage door window is transparent, it allows strangers and burglars to see your garage. This hinders your privacy, safety and security. Luckily, you can select from a wide range of opaque garage door window options. Select a screened, frosted, tinted or mirrored option, depending on your desired level of privacy.
Garage Door Window Styles
There are many garage door window options for your residential and commercial properties. Some garage door window insert options include:
- Arch: Arched windows give your garage a classic look. Choose from options with grills for added detail or plain ones to maintain a more contemporary appearance.
- Rectangular: Rectangular windows are ideal for modern garage doors, but they can suit any style, especially if you choose ones with vertical and horizontal grills. Choose from short, medium and long windows to complement your property.
- Detailed: Detailed windows feature patterns and designs to enhance your garage door’s style. Rectangular details give off a modern vibe, while elegant curves can suit older properties.
How to Care for Garage Door Windows
When you keep your garage door clean, it keeps your property fresh and increases the door’s life span — the same applies to the windows. Cleaning prevents dust, dirt and grime from building up. But how do you clean your garage door windows? Follow these simple tips:
- Clean your garage door window regularly: Garage doors sit on the exterior part of your property. This exposes them to the elements all year round, making them accumulate dirt and dust. Preventive maintenance helps you retain the windows’ fresh look and feel. Try to clean your overhead door windows every three months or so.
- Use a soft cloth: Clean your windows with soft fabric, like a microfiber cloth. This helps you prevent scratches and damage to the seals around the windows.
- Use gentle cleaning products: Abrasive cleaning products can harm the window material. It may scratch or erode the surface of the window, especially if it’s coated glass. Use warm water and a few drops of a mild dish soap.
- Avoid using a pressure washer: Washing your garage door windows with pressure could damage the window or chip of coating from the surface. Instead, use a gentle garden hose to rinse the soap and grime.
- Avoid cleaning in direct sunlight: Cleaning your garage door windows in the sunlight dries the water and cleaning products quickly. This leaves a chalky residue on the surface of the window. Consider cleaning the windows during dusk when it’s just light enough to do a good job, or take advantage of cloudy Washington days to clean.
Request an Estimate From Kitsap Garage Door Today!
With all the benefits of garage door windows, you may be thinking about them for your overhead door upgrade. When it’s time for a new door, the team at Kitsap Garage Door can help.
Kitsap Garage Door is the leading garage door solutions provider in Kitsap County, Washington, whether you need residential or commercial options. We offer only the best garage doors and windows to keep your property safe and beautiful. Reach out to us today to learn more about our services or request an estimate!