Roller vs Sectional vs Tilt Garage Doors:  Pros And Cons

Choosing the right type of garage door for your home can be a crucial decision in terms of functionality, security, and aesthetics. The question is, how do you decide which one is more suitable for your property? Three of the main styles are the roller, sectional, and tilt garage doors, and each has a variety of advantages and disadvantages.

Taking several factors into consideration can help clarify which garage door meets your requirements and preferences. These include aspects such as your budget, the door’s maintenance and space requirements, the level of security, and the design options, like colours and materials.

Each home will have different requirements when it comes to the garage door. Find out the differences between roller, sectional, and tilt garage doors and what you should consider when choosing.

The Differences Between Roller, Sectional, And Tilt Garage Doors

There are significant differences between the three main garage doors, which provide flexibility when building or updating your garage. To best understand the differences, it is important to also consider the pros and cons of each.

Roller Garage Doors

A roller door is great when saving space is high on the priority list as it is like a continuous curtain that moves vertically upwards and rolls up to store, making it a compact solution. The horizontal slats or panels are typically made with materials such as corrugated steel or aluminium, making it a long-lasting option. These are hinged together and mounted on a metal track, which allows the smooth rolling action.

Pros of Roller Garage Doors

Roller garage doors present a range of advantages. Some of these include:

• Cheaper than some garage doors.
• Has an urban style and may suit various aesthetics to increase curb appeal.
• Require minimal internal and external space for storage, opening, and closing.
• Include manual or motor opening options.
• Durable and reliable against the elements and physical damage. 
• Low maintenance.

Cons of Roller Garage Doors

Although roller garage doors can be a reliable and beneficial choice for many garages, there are a few disadvantages. Some of these include:

• Less design options than some garage doors such as material options, window inserts, and decorative features.
• The whole roller door must be replaced if there is significant damage because it is one solid piece.
• Can be less secure than some garage doors.
• Requires some headroom above the opening for the rolled-up door.

Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors are a modern twist on traditional garage doors. With separate horizontal panels connected by hinges, these doors slide upwards and overhead along metal tracks when opened.

Pros of Sectional Garage Doors

Sectional garage doors present a range of advantages. Some of these include:

• Available in various materials like steel, aluminium, and wood.
• Highly customisable with a wide range of colours, finishes, and window styles.
• Can be insulated for enhanced energy efficiency and soundproofing.
• Reduced need for significant ground clearance because the panels ascend along the ceiling.
• Quiet and smooth operation.
• Space efficient in smaller garages. 
• Better security than some garage doors.
• Spot repairs are possible due to the ability to replace individual panels rather than the whole door.

Cons of Sectional Garage Doors

Although sectional garage doors can be a reliable and beneficial choice for many garages, there are a few disadvantages. Some of these include:

• Often require more maintenance than some garage doors.
• Consist of more moving parts, which may involve more upfront and maintenance costs.
• More of a complex installation process involved than some garage doors.

Tilt Garage Doors

Tilt garage doors consist of a single solid panel that is hinged at the top of the door frame When opened, these doors pivot outwards and upwards with the use of springs until they lie horizontally parallel to the ceiling of the garage.

Pros of Tilt Garage Doors

Tilt garage doors present a range of advantages. Some of these include:

• Available in various materials such as wood, aluminium, or steel.
• Highly customisable. 
• Option for builders to clad door in material that matches the facade of the building.
• Durable and strong.
• Straightforward and simple to use, which can involve
• Either manual or motorised operation.
• Require minimal headroom.
• Fewer moving parts minimise maintenance requirements and may extend the lifespan of the door. 

Cons of Tilt Garage Doors

Although tilt garage doors can be a reliable and beneficial choice for many garages, there are a few disadvantages. Some of these include:

• Clearance space in front of the door is required to allow the door to swing open.
• Can be more expensive than some garage doors.

Garage Door Types: Frequently Asked Questions

I want to be able to match my garage door with the specific aesthetics of my house. Which should I choose?

Sectional and tilt doors are the most customisable options.

Is one garage door more suitable when maximum security is required?

Sectional doors are typically more secure.

Which garage door is a good option for a small budget?

A roller door can often be the better option.

My current door makes a lot of noise when it is being opened. Which type of garage door is quieter?

Sectional doors do not involve noises from tracks or hinges and do not bang open, which means they can be a great choice when noise is a significant factor. 

PDS Garage Doors Can Install The Right Garage Door For You

The process of choosing a garage door may sound overwhelming, but we are here to support you through every step. We will customise and install the best type of garage door for you. When you are choosing between roller, sectional, or tilt garage doors, please contact our friendly team to discuss your options and organise a free measure and quote.

REQUEST A QUOTE