Although single garage doors have been the most common roller garage door choice until now, double door design is growing in popularity. Each roller garage door type offers unique advantages and disadvantages, which must be carefully considered when deciding between the two.
In this article, we will explore the difference between single and double garage roller doors, delving into the advantages and disadvantages of each type and discussing which factors you should consider to decide which option is best for you.
Single Garage Roller Doors
As the most common garage roller door choice, single garage roller doors are made up of a single door panel, which acts as the sole entrance and exit of the garage. Typically, these panels come in a standard size, often 7ft by 7ft. Some homeowners choose to install two single garage doors in a single garage, allowing for independent operation and versatility.
Pros
● Customisation for a Balanced Look: Choosing between one or two single doors enables homeowners to match the width of their garage to create a balanced and proportionate look. Two single doors can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the garage exterior without needing to invest in custom-made doors tailored to specific dimensions.
● Improved Airflow Control: Installing two single doors allows for better control over airflow into the garage. Opening only one door at a time can help regulate temperature fluctuations, making it easier to maintain a comfortable environment inside and potentially reducing energy costs for heating or cooling.
● Alternative Access Points: Having two independently functioning single doors offers a practical advantage. If one door becomes inoperable due to a malfunction or damage, the other door still provides access to the garage, ensuring uninterrupted use.
● Enhanced Privacy: With the ability to operate each door independently, homeowners can open one door while keeping the other closed. This feature adds an element of privacy, meaning not all the contents of your garage will be visible to passers-by.
Cons
● Limited Size: The standard dimensions of single garage roller doors are best suited for smaller vehicles. Attempting to fit larger vehicles, such as SUVs or vans, through these doors can lead to difficulties or risks of damage to the vehicle or the garage frame.
● Increased Maintenance Needs: Opting for two single doors instead of one doubles the number of components requiring maintenance. Tracks, springs, and rollers for each door need individual attention, leading to higher costs and greater time investment in upkeep.
● Higher Automation Costs: Installing automatic openers for two single doors typically costs more than automating a single, larger door. This added expense may deter some homeowners from opting for two doors despite their advantages.
Double Garage Roller Doors
People often mistakenly consider two single garage doors as double doors. However, double garage roller doors consist of a single, wider door panel that typically measures 14ft x 7ft or 16ft x 7ft. These dimensions offer significantly more width than a standard single garage roller door, making them ideal for garages accommodating larger or multiple vehicles.
Pros
● Modern Appeal: Double garage roller doors provide a sleek, modern look that complements contemporary homes. This can enhance the overall curb appeal of a property, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to update their garage exterior.
● Ease of Use: The wider opening of a double garage door simplifies parking and manoeuvring vehicles. This is especially beneficial for households with larger vehicles or multiple cars, as the spacious entryway reduces the risk of accidental damage to vehicles or garage brickwork.
● Cost-Effective for Larger Garages: For garages that require a wide entrance, a double garage door is often more cost-effective than installing two single doors. It provides the same width of access without the need for duplicated mechanisms and materials.
● Convenience for Families: Households with large families, elderly parents, or family members with mobility challenges benefit from the spaciousness of double garage roller doors. The extra room allows for easier movement and access, whether for parking or other activities inside the garage.
Cons
● Mechanism Failure: If the operating mechanism of a double garage door fails, the entire garage becomes inaccessible, meaning that you cannot take out your vehicle until repairs are completed. This can be a significant inconvenience for many people who rely on their vehicles to get around daily.
● Higher Installation and Structural Costs: Due to their size, double garage doors require stronger motors, additional materials, and potentially reinforced structures to support the weight and operation of the door. These factors can increase installation costs compared to opting for one single garage roller door.
● Insulation Difficulties: The larger surface area of double garage roller doors can increase heat loss. Having poor garage insulation may lead to higher energy bills and can even impact connected living spaces.
Shared Space Limitations: In cases where the garage is used for multiple purposes or shared among household members, the lack of separation with a double door can hinder organisation and privacy. For example, if one section is used for storage and the other for parking, accessing the storage area means the entire garage will be visible from the outside.
Our Recommendations
As expert garage manufacturers, we at Rollerdoor UK are adept at understanding and addressing the garage needs of domestic and commercial customers. To help you determine which roller garage door is the best fit for your needs, we’ve outlined our recommendations based on the types of individuals and properties that are suited to either single or double garage roller doors.
Small Vehicle Owners
A single garage roller door is an excellent choice for individuals or families with smaller vehicles. As these doors typically measure 7ft by 7ft, they offer plenty of space for vehicles like hatchbacks, standard cars and smaller SUVs to enter and exit comfortably. The straightforward design of a single roller door ensures easy operation and low installation costs, making it an appealing solution for garages dedicated to housing just one vehicle.
Budget-Conscious Buyers
Single garage roller doors are a highly cost-effective option for homeowners who want to secure their garage without breaking the bank. Their standardised sizing and straightforward mechanism avoid the higher costs associated with larger, custom, or more complex setups. Their affordability, however, does not limit their customisation. Single garage roller doors can be chosen from a range of materials, finishes, and insulation options to balance cost with functionality and aesthetics.
Energy-conscious individuals will appreciate that a smaller door can contribute to lower heating or cooling costs for garages connected to living spaces. A single roller door’s compact size improves insulation by minimising airflow and reducing heat loss, making it an energy-efficient solution.
Privacy-Focused Homeowners
Two single garage roller doors are an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking to enhance the privacy of their garage. With this design, one roller door can be opened while the other remains closed, restricting the view into the garage. This is particularly advantageous for individuals who store valuable items, tools, or gym equipment in their garage, helping to improve safety and deter theft.
Having two doors also simplifies the division of garage space to accommodate various needs. For example, one side of the garage could be dedicated to storage while the other is reserved for parking a vehicle. The independent operation of each garage door allows one area to remain concealed while the other is accessed.
Modern or Contemporary Homes
Double garage roller doors are the perfect fit for contemporary homes. The single wide panel of a double door offers a sleek, modern appearance, making them ideal for homeowners aiming to enhance their property’s curb appeal.
For homeowners with an interest in smart technology integration, double doors are advantageous. These doors are often equipped with advanced automation options, such as smartphone controls or integrated sensors for modern convenience. Despite their larger size, many double garage doors are designed to operate quietly for a tranquil, comfortable environment.
Families with Large Vehicles or Multiple Cars
Households with large 4X4s, vans, or multiple vehicles are best suited to double garage roller doors. The wide opening allows for easy manoeuvring, minimising the risk of scratching vehicles or damaging the garage during entry or exit.
A double door’s easy access is also beneficial for families with young children or mobility challenges. Parents with strollers, bicycles, or bulky items will find it easier to navigate through a spacious entryway. For elderly family members or those with reduced mobility, the extra space improves accessibility.
Rollerdoor UK
At Rollerdoor UK, we're leading roller door manufacturers in the UK. We provide standard and made-to-measure single and double roller garage doors tailored to fit your property perfectly. From expert installation to reliable maintenance, you can count on us for all your garage door needs.
Browse our product range online or get in touch today to learn more about how we can transform your garage.
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