Side Door Garage: Reasons To Have Side Entry Door For Your Garage

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Adding a side entry door to your garage can transform how you use this essential space. However, is it really needed? What are the reasons to install side doors?

Reasons to have a garage side door include:

Enhanced Convenience
Increased Privacy
Improved Safety
Better Energy Efficiency
Increased Home Value

Whether planning a new build or upgrading an existing garage, understanding the benefits of a side door can help you make an informed decision.

What Is A Garage Side Door?

Knowing what you’re getting into when looking at garage side doors is essential. A garage side door, or a side entry door, is a convenient access point without opening the main garage door.

This can be a simple exterior door built into the garage wall, providing a practical alternative to the front entry for everyday use.

In terms of design, there’s no need to compromise on style. You can find side entry doors with various finishes and features, including glass panels or windows, to allow natural light while maintaining privacy with blinds or frosted glass.

Some homeowners opt for a classic look with a solid wood core door, adding an architectural element to their home’s exterior.

Whether you need an access point for quick trips to the lawn or a more secure entry for your smart home, a well-chosen garage side door can be a valuable upgrade.

Always review the building codes in your county to ensure compliance, and consider contacting a professional for installation to avoid any damage or misalignment.

Investing in a quality garage side entry door enhances convenience and adds to the overall value and aesthetic of your home.

What Are The Materials Used To Make A Garage Side Door?

When choosing materials for a garage side door, you have several options, each offering unique benefits. Whether you want to match your home’s style or prioritize durability, the right material can make a big difference.

Steel

Steel is a popular choice for garage side doors. It’s known for its strength and durability and provides high security.

Steel doors are resistant to weather and physical damage, making them a reliable option for exterior doors.

Steel doors are available at Home Depot in various styles and finishes. They can be painted to match your garage’s exterior, ensuring a cohesive look. However, steel can dent and rust if not properly maintained.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass doors, such as the Therma-Tru door, offer another excellent option. They can mimic the appearance of real wood without the upkeep.

Fiberglass is resistant to dents and corrosion, making it an ideal choice for harsh climates.

These doors often come with insulation, which helps to protect your garage and home from extreme temperatures.

Fiberglass doors can be painted or stained, providing flexibility in design. They are also available in prehung versions, simplifying installation.

Solid Wood

Solid wood doors are a classic choice for those who prefer a traditional look. They provide a rich, warm aesthetic and can be customized with various finishes.

Solid wood doors are sturdy and offer good sound insulation. However, they require regular maintenance, including painting or staining, to prevent damage from moisture and pests.

They are generally more expensive and may not be as durable as steel or fiberglass in the long run.

Particleboard

If you’re looking for a cost-effective option, consider particleboard or hollow core doors. These materials are typically used for interior doors but can be adapted for garage side entries.

Particleboard doors are lightweight and easy to install, making them a good choice for DIY projects. They are covered with a veneer to give the appearance of solid wood. Still, they are less durable and more susceptible to damage.

Hollow core doors provide minimal insulation and security, so they might not be the best choice for exterior applications.

Aluminum

For those interested in a more modern design, aluminum doors offer a sleek and contemporary look. Aluminum is lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it suitable for exterior use.

These doors often feature glass panels or windows, which can enhance the appearance of your garage while allowing natural light inside. Aluminum doors are low maintenance but can be prone to dents.

Vinyl

Vinyl doors are another material to consider. They are known for their low maintenance and resistance to moisture and pests. Vinyl doors can be insulated to improve energy efficiency and soundproofing.

Vinyl doors are available in various styles and colors, making it easy to find one that matches your home’s exterior. While not as strong as steel, they can still offer a reasonable level of security.

Benefits To Have A Garage Side Door

Here are seven compelling reasons to consider installing a side entry door in your garage.

Enhanced Convenience

A side entry door offers unparalleled convenience for daily tasks. Imagine needing to grab a tool or some lawn equipment from your garage.

With a side door, you don’t have to open the large, often noisy garage door, disturbing the peace or using more energy than necessary.

This is particularly useful for quick errands like taking out the trash or accessing storage. You save time and effort, making daily routines smoother.

Increased Privacy

Privacy is a significant concern for many homeowners. Opening the main garage door exposes the contents of your garage to anyone passing by, which can be a security risk.

A side garage door allows discreet access, ensuring that prying eyes don’t get a peek inside your garage. This feature is especially beneficial if you store valuable items or have a home gym in your garage.

Improved Safety

Safety is a top priority for any home, and a side entry door enhances this aspect considerably. Having an additional exit can be a lifesaver in case of an emergency, such as a fire.

It provides a quick and easy escape route if the main garage door is blocked. Additionally, you can still access the garage during power outages without relying on the electric garage door opener.

Better Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is another notable benefit of a side garage door. Opening and closing the main garage door frequently can lead to significant energy loss, especially if your garage is heated or cooled.

A side door minimizes this issue, helping maintain a stable temperature inside the garage. This is particularly important if you use your garage as a workspace or have an insulated garage.

Products like insulated fiberglass or steel doors at Home Depot can further enhance this efficiency.

Versatile Design Options

Regarding design, side garage doors offer various styles and materials. Depending on your aesthetic preferences and budget, you can choose from:

steel,
fiberglass,
solid wood, or even
aluminum.

Solid wood doors provide a timeless appeal for a classic look, while fiberglass options like the Therma-Tru door offer durability and minimal maintenance.

You can even find prehung models that make installation easier. These doors can be customized with various finishes, glass panels, and window designs to match the rest of your home’s exterior.

Increased Home Value

Installing a side garage door can also increase your home’s value. Potential buyers often look for features that offer both practicality and style. A well-designed side entry door adds curb appeal and functionality, making your property more attractive in the real estate market.

It’s a relatively small investment that can yield significant returns when selling your home. Buyers appreciate the extra convenience and security a side door provides, setting your home apart from others in the neighborhood.

DIY-Friendly

Installing a side garage door can be a satisfying endeavor for those who enjoy DIY projects. Many doors come with comprehensive instructions and all necessary hardware, making the process straightforward even for those with moderate DIY skills.

Products available at Home Depot often include prehung doors, which simplify the installation process. Before starting, ensure you have the right tools and measurements.

This project enhances your home and gives a sense of accomplishment upon completion.

Downsides To Have A Garage Side Door

While a side garage door offers many benefits, it’s important to consider the potential downsides.

Here are seven reasons to think twice before installing a side entry door in your garage.

Increased Security Risks

A side garage door can be a security vulnerability. Intruders often target these doors as they are usually less secure than the main garage door.

If you don’t invest in high-quality locks and deadbolts, such as those with ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 ratings, you could make it easier for burglars to access your home.

Solid wood or steel doors can offer better protection, but these must be regularly checked for weak points.

Higher Maintenance Costs

Maintenance can be a significant downside, particularly for wooden doors. Solid wood doors require regular painting or staining to protect against weather damage.

Fiberglass doors, like the Therma-Tru door available at Home Depot, are low maintenance but still need occasional cleaning and inspection. Steel doors can rust if the paint gets chipped, requiring touch-ups to maintain their appearance and durability.

Over time, these maintenance tasks can add time and money.

Limited Design Options

While various styles are available, your choices may be limited compared to other types of doors.

For example, incorporating glass panels or windows in a side door can be tricky, especially if you want to maintain high security and privacy. Prehung doors offer convenience but may not always match your home’s aesthetic.

This can be frustrating if you’re looking for a specific architectural style or finish to complement your home’s exterior.

Higher Installation Costs

Installing a side garage door can be more expensive than you might expect. Retrofitting a side door into an existing wall requires:

cutting through the wall,
adding a door frame and
possibly rerouting electrical wiring.

Hiring a professional can significantly increase costs if you’re not handy with DIY projects.

Prehung doors can simplify installation but still require precise measurements and proper fitting to avoid gaps and ensure security.

Potential for Damage

A side door can be more prone to damage than the main garage door. This is especially true if the door is frequently used or is made from less durable materials like particleboard or hollow core.

The constant opening and closing can wear out the hinges and locks faster than expected. A side door might suffer from warping, swelling, or other weather-related issues in areas with extreme weather.

Fiberglass and steel doors offer more durability but are not immune to dents and scratches.

Energy Inefficiency

If not properly insulated, a side garage door can become a significant source of energy loss. This is particularly problematic in climates with extreme temperatures.

An uninsulated door can let in cold air during the winter and hot air during the summer, increasing your heating and cooling costs. While insulated doors are available, they can be more expensive and still require proper sealing around the frame to be effective.

Aesthetic Disruption

A side door can disrupt the aesthetic flow of your home’s exterior. If the door doesn’t match the rest of your home’s style, it can stand out negatively.

This is particularly true if you have a meticulously designed facade or architectural theme. Finding a door that perfectly matches your existing exterior can be challenging, and custom doors can be prohibitively expensive.

Even with a range of options at stores like Home Depot, finding the perfect match for your home may still be difficult.

How Much Does Installing A Garage Side Door Cost?

Depending on several factors, installing a garage side door can cost from $500 to over $3,000.

Understanding these elements can help you budget more accurately and ensure you get the best value for your investment.

https://homeguide.com/costs/door-installation-cost

https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/doors-and-windows/install-a-door/

Material

One primary factor is the door’s material. Steel doors are durable and offer excellent security. Still, they can be more expensive, particularly if they have a high-quality finish.

Fiberglass doors provide durability and low maintenance but can also be more expensive. Solid wood doors offer a classic look but require more upkeep, which can add to long-term costs.

Design And Style

The design and style of the door also play a significant role. A simple, unadorned door will be cheaper than one with decorative glass panels or custom features.

Prehung doors, with the frame and hardware already assembled, are generally more expensive but can save on installation labor costs.

Installation complexity

The process is relatively straightforward if you’re replacing an existing side door. However, adding a new side entry where none existed before involves:

cutting through the wall,
adding a frame and
possibly rerouting electrical wiring.

This complexity increases labor costs significantly. DIY enthusiasts might save on labor, but the task requires a high skill level and the right tools to avoid damage and ensure proper fit.

Location

The location of your home can also affect the cost. Installation prices vary by region due to differences in labor rates and building codes.

Urban areas or regions with a higher cost of living tend to have higher installation fees.

Security features

Security features and additional accessories can further increase the price. High-quality locks, reinforced frames, and smart home integration add to the overall cost but are worth considering for their added security and convenience.

Vendor or Contractor

Your choice of vendor or contractor influences the final price. Well-known retailers like Home Depot offer a range of products and installation services, often providing warranties and after-sales support.

It’s essential to review multiple quotes and check reviews to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

How To Secure A Garage Side Door?

Securing a garage side door is essential to protect your home and belongings. Here are some practical steps and insider tips to ensure your side entry door is as secure as possible.

Start With A High-Quality Door

Choose materials that offer durability and strength. Steel and fiberglass doors are excellent options. They are robust and can withstand significant force.

For instance, a Therma-Tru fiberglass door from Home Depot offers both security and low maintenance. Solid wood doors also provide good security but require regular upkeep to maintain their integrity.

Strong Locks And Deadbolts

Install a deadbolt with an ANSI Grade 1 or Grade 2 rating. These grades indicate the highest level of security.

A Grade 1 deadbolt can withstand 250,000 cycles and ten strikes of 75 pounds. It’s crucial to use a high-quality lockset with reinforced strike plates.

Replace short screws with 3-inch screws to secure the strike plate deeply into the door frame, making it harder to kick in.

Reinforce The Door Frame

A steel or wooden frame reinforced with metal plates can significantly increase security. This reinforcement helps prevent the door from being forced open.

Ensure the frame is securely attached to the wall, not just the door jamb.

Additional security features

A security bar or door barricade can provide extra protection. These devices are placed at the bottom of the door, preventing it from being opened even if the lock is compromised. They are easy to install and provide a strong physical barrier.

Leverage Smart Home Technology

Smart locks and cameras allow you to monitor and control your door remotely. A smart lock can alert you if someone tries to tamper with the door, and a camera can provide real-time video footage.

These smart home technologies are convenient and add a layer of security that can deter potential intruders.

Side Door Garage: Alternative Entry Door To Your Garage

A side entry door for your garage offers numerous benefits, including enhanced convenience, increased privacy, and improved safety. It can also boost energy efficiency, provide versatile design options, and increase your home’s value.

While installation and maintenance costs exist, the advantages often outweigh these considerations.

Whether for daily access or emergency exits, a well-chosen side door can be a practical and stylish addition to your garage, enhancing functionality and curb appeal.