The Hidden History of Garage Doors
Garage doors are a standard inclusion for any new house being built today. The history of garage doors is an interesting one, but you may not know the full backstory. With this article we’ll cover the history of garage doors and how they’ve come to be what they are today after all these years.
The Very Early Days
Before cars were invented, horse-drawn carriages were the main mode of transportation. Those who owned them stored them in carriage houses. These houses were located at the back of the main house and generally had large wooden doors which swung outwards. More than just storage areas for their carriage, these houses were built in an elaborate way which reflected the homeowners wealth.
The Invention of the Automobile
In the late 19th century and early 20th century saw an increase in the production of automobiles, people started to realize they needed to store them in order to keep them in good working condition.
Car owners started storing them in carriage houses, but this proved difficult getting them in and out due to the large swinging doors. Not only that but the doors, when swung open, took up too much valuable space. Because of this it led to the creation of the first purpose-built garage. Simple in design, they were detached from the main house. They were made mostly from wood but the garage door still swung outward.
The Invention of the Overhead Garage Door
In 1921 was when the real revolution came and it was created by C.G Johnson who invented the overhead garage door. This invention was revolutionary because it was stored along the garage ceiling. This new type of garage door not only saved space but made it easier to open and close the garage.
Due to its popularity, in 1926 Johnson took the design a new leap forward and invented the first electric garage door opener. Due to his incredible achievement, it was recognised as not only a practical invention, but also a reflection of true technological advancements during this time period. Over time, every new home that was built with a garage had an overhead garage door installed.
The Post-War Housing Boom
After WWII, a housing boom occurred and neighborhoods sprung up everywhere across the United States. With new designs of homes, it started the beginning of new garage door designs and styles as well. Instead of wooden garage doors, aluminum and steel took over as the primary manufacturing material. This is because of its easy to care for properties and durability.
Along with storing a car, the garage also served for multiple uses including as a recreational area, storage space, and workshop. Overtime, the garage door evolved to meet the additional needs of garage designs with options of custom designs, windows and insulation included.
Automation and Smart Technology
The rise of automation and smart technology came in the late 20th century to early 21st century, and improved many aspects of life including garage doors. In regards to garage doors, smart technology and automation saw the increase in remote controls, keypads, and electric openers which made the doors easy to use and convenient.
In today’s world, smart home systems are integrated with garage doors allowing homeowners to use their smartphones to control them. They can receive notifications if the door is opened or left open allowing homeowners to monitor the door throughout the day.
Designs and Material
These days the designs, styles and material of garage doors is in abundance. If you utilize a professional garage door company like the Overhead Door Company of Southeast Texas or other brands, you’ll be able to see the diversity and designs available. The most common materials used in garage doors are:
- Aluminum
- Steel
- Glass
- Wood
- Fiberglass
- Wood Composite
- Vinyl
The materials and door type you use will depend on the seasonal changes and weather conditions the garage door may be up against. In terms of colors, garage doors now come in a range of colors which include but aren’t limited to shades of:
- White
- Black
- Gray
- Green
- Red
- Blue
- Brown
- Yellow
To enhance the look further, garage manufacturers also offer different designs which include:
- Windows across the top
- Windows down the side
- No windows
- Textured coated feel
- Smooth coated feel
- Indented prints
- Wooden patterns
Rather than an after-thought of a house, modern garage doors are designed as a focal point when you pull up to the home. They can help improve curb appeal as well.
Endnote
Garage doors have come a long way throughout their history. From simple wooden doors to full automation and integration of smart technology, it’s no wonder an increasing number of homeowners are looking to add something more sophisticated to their home.
Whether you’re buying a new home or you’re building a new garage, don’t forget to upgrade your garage door and be a part of the next generation of garage door history.
