Automatic Garage Doors vs Manual Garage Doors

Garage Doors   Brett Rowley  | 17 July 2019

We would probably all agree that having a garage door that you can open from your car seat with a remote control has its advantages. Think of the times you were in the driveway in the pouring rain and escaped a soaking because you could stay in your car, or the times you’ve come home late at night and felt safe because you didn’t have to get out of your car in the dark. We’ve all been there. 

However, does that mean that manual garage doors are useless? Absolutely not. 

The manual garage door definitely does still have some strengths of its own and automated garage doors have their share of weaknesses. In this article, we will be comparing the two so that you can make an informed decision for your next garage door purchase

 

Benefits of a manual garage door 

Cost 

No doubt the biggest benefit of a manual garage door is its significantly lower cost. When you’re considering your garage door options, you need to consider your budget. If your budget is small, a manual garage door will still keep your area safe and protected. 

Maintenance 

Another large benefit of manual garage doors is that they don’t really break down. This means that they are extremely easy to maintain, only requiring minimal servicing and checking. Additionally, you won’t have to pay as much in ongoing servicing costs compared to an automatic door. 

 

Weaknesses of a manual garage door 

Inconvenience 

Probably the biggest downside to manual garage doors is they are significantly more inconvenient compared to electric garage doors. Having to get out of your car to open the space when you could be simply sitting and waiting for the garage to open could get annoying. 

However, if you are using the door for an outdoor space and not for your car, then a manual roller door will work fine. All you will need to do is make sure it’s installed by a garage door professional. 

Ease-of-use

A roller door, especially if it is older and hasn’t been looked after as well, can be difficult to open. This will be particularly difficult if you suffer from mobility issues, or have a weakened upper body. 

 

Benefits of an electronic garage door 

Improved safety

Are automatic garage doors safe? Installing an automatic garage door opener can remove risks such as the garage door crashing down on someone’s fingers, a child in particular, if a manual garage door was not handled properly. An automatic garage door can also be highly beneficial for those who suffer from a medical condition like arthritis or who are not fit to manually lift open a garage door. Safety features can include auto-reverse, motion detection, manual controls, and regular maintenance.

Added comfort/convenience

Instead of having to step out of your car, you can now open and close your garage door from the comfort of your vehicle at the touch of a button as you leave and enter your driveway. This can prove to be quite handy on those dark, cold and rainy days, or if you’re arriving home late at night. 

Extra security

The garage door is the gateway to your home, this is why garage door security is paramount for all homeowners. Automatic garage can include a wide range of added security features including advanced encrypted wireless technology which can prevent hackers from opening your garage door, key ring type remote controls, and security pin-code access pads. Electric garage door openers allow you to customise your door to suit your lifestyle.

Advanced technology

If you’re looking for all the added features mentioned above, this all comes with the latest advancements in automatic garage door technology. From easily accessible remote controlled doors, to smartphone apps that allow you to open and close your door from afar, the modernisation of a garage door has proven to make our lives easier and our homes a safer place.

If you’re still currently operating a manual garage door by hand and are in search for a more convenient lifestyle, contact Gryphon Garage Doors Perth and make the switch to an automatic garage door opener. 

 

Weaknesses of an eclectic garage door 

Cost 

An electric garage door has a much greater cost than a manual door, particularly sectional garage doors. Although they are much more expensive, you need to evaluate the garage door cost against the advantages to understand if it is worth it for your needs.

If you are looking for a more cost effective electric garage door, browse a selection of automatic roller doors. 

Maintenance 

Electric garage doors require more maintenance than manual doors. This not only costs more for you, but you may also find it annoying. You may be wondering “how long do automatic garage doors last?” If you want to avoid a breakdown, you should get your electric roller door motor serviced by a professional once a year. 

 

Where to get your garage door serviced, repaired and installed 

Are you still wondering about garage door designs, garage door styles, or are you asking yourself “do I need an automatic garage door opener?” If this is you, I have one place that can help.

Gryphon Garage Doors is one of the best garage door companies for sectional and roller door repair in Perth, and have been helping Australians protect their homes and commercial spaces in stylish ways for over 25 years. Why is this important? Well it means we’ve come across countless different jobs, and have had to overcome each one. So no matter your situation, you gotta get a Gryphon. We have:

  • Finger proof safety 
  • Quietest motors on the market 
  • Trained professionals 
  • Customised products
  • Warranty up to 7 years!
  • After sales service

Your garage broke down and you need it to open ASAP? Not a problem, give us a call and we will try our best to get to you today and open your space. We look forward to hearing from you.

Brett Rowley

Brett is a garage door expert who also runs Gryphon Garage Doors. He strives for great customer service, excellent product knowledge and constant innovation.