What Is A Carriage House Garage Door?

A carriage house garage door is a type of garage door that is designed to resemble the doors found in traditional carriage houses. These doors are known for their rustic and elegant look, which adds charm and character to any home. Carriage house garage doors are often made of wood or composite materials and can be customized to match your house’s architectural style. They are often used in upscale neighborhoods and are considered a premium option if you want to add curb appeal to your property.

The history of carriage house garage doors

Carriage house garage doors can be traced back to the 18th and 19th centuries when horse-drawn carriages were commonly used for transportation. These carriages were typically stored in carriage houses with large doors that swung open horizontally. The designs featured intricate details and hardware, reflecting the craftsmanship of the time. Carriage house garage doors were not only functional but also served as a status symbol, showcasing the wealth and taste of the homeowner.

Over time, as automobiles replaced horse-drawn carriages, the need for carriage houses diminished, but the charm and aesthetic appeal of the doors remained. The nostalgia for the elegance of the past led to a revival of interest in carriage house garage doors in modern architecture and design. Homeowners sought to incorporate the historic charm of carriage house doors into their contemporary homes, blending tradition with innovation.

In the early 20th century, the popularity of carriage house garage doors waned as mass-produced and less expensive overhead sectional garage doors became the norm. However, as urban sprawl has spread across the US, there has been a resurgence of interest in carriage-house style garage doors, driven by the desire for more unique and visually appealing garage door options. One way to stand out from the sea of sameness is by personalizing the largest feature of your home.

Carriage house garage door advantages

There are several advantages to choosing a carriage house garage door:

1. Personalization: Existing home sales make up nearly 90% of all homes sold each year, so you are moving into a home with features selected by someone else. By upgrading to a carriage house overhead garage door, you can signal to your neighbors with the same builder-grade steel garage door that you have different decor tastes. The garage takes up more surface area in most homes than any other building element, so it is a great place to showcase your tastes and preferences.
2. Enhanced curb appeal: Carriage house garage doors add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. Unlike traditional and full-view garage doors, they are available in a wide range of styles and materials and can be highly customized.
3. Durability: Carriage house garage doors are typically made of high-quality materials, such as select tight knot cedar, Douglas fir, or mahogany, which are known for their durability. Properly treated and maintained, these doors are built to withstand the elements and can provide long-lasting performance.
4. Insulation: Many carriage house garage doors have insulation options, which can help improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. The added insulation also helps to reduce noise from outside, creating a quieter and more comfortable garage space.
5. Increased Home Value: The latest Cost vs Value research shows that garage door replacement generates the highest ROI for any home improvement project at 193.9%.
6. Versatility: Another advantage of carriage house garage doors is their versatility. These doors can be customized to fit a wide range of garage sizes and configurations, making them a great option if your home has a unique garage layout. Whether you have a single-car or multi-car garage, carriage house doors can be tailored to suit your needs.

Carriage house garage door disadvantages

While carriage house garage doors have many advantages, there are also a few disadvantages to consider:

• Higher cost: Carriage house garage doors are typically more expensive than traditional steel ones. The cost is often justified by the high-quality materials, customization options, and the added curb appeal they provide. However, it’s important to factor in the higher initial investment when considering this type of door.
• Maintenance: Wood carriage house garage doors require regular maintenance, including painting or staining, to keep them looking their best. Steel garage doors require less maintenance but may still require periodic cleaning and maintenance.
• Weight: Wood carriage house garage doors are heavier than builder-grade steel options. However, this added weight is handled by upsized hardware, such as larger drums and torsion springs.

The design of carriage house garage doors may not be suitable for all architectural styles. While they can enhance the aesthetic appeal of traditional or rustic homes, they may look out of place on modern or contemporary houses. Consider your home’s overall look and feel before opting for a carriage house garage door to ensure it complements the existing design seamlessly.

Carriage house garage door designs

Carriage house garage doors are functional and are a significant design element for your home. With a wide range of designs and styles available, you can choose a carriage house garage door that complements the architectural style of your property and enhances its overall curb appeal.

Aside from the common design options mentioned, custom carriage house garage doors offer endless possibilities for personalization. From unique color choices to intricate patterns and designs, custom doors allow you to express your style and make a statement with your garage door.

• Traditional: Traditional carriage house garage doors feature classic designs with intricate details, such as decorative hardware, paneling, and windows. They often have a timeless and elegant look that complements various architectural styles.
• Modern: Modern carriage house garage doors offer a sleek and contemporary twist on traditional design. These doors often have clean lines and minimalistic hardware and can be customized with various materials and finishes to create a more modern aesthetic.
• Rustic: Rustic carriage house garage doors evoke a sense of warmth and country charm. These doors typically feature natural wood finishes and distressing effects and can be adorned with decorative hinges and handles to enhance their rustic appeal.

Where to buy carriage house garage doors

If you’re considering purchasing a carriage house garage door, there are several options available:

1. Us – Doorvana! : Our solid wood carriage house doors are designed and handcrafted in Fort Worth, Texas, and have been shipped across the U.S. Whether you know exactly what you want or need architectural guidance, we can h
2. Online retailers: Numerous retailers specialize in garage doors, including carriage house styles. These websites often provide detailed product descriptions, images, and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.
3. Professional garage door companies: Working with a professional garage door company ensures you receive expert advice, installation services, and ongoing support. These companies can guide you through the selection process, recommend the best options for your needs, and provide professional installation.

When exploring local retailers for carriage house garage doors, consider asking whether their products are their own or if they are buying from a manufacturer. A reputable door builder should have plenty of addresses for you to drive by to view their doors.

Wood or composite carriage house garage doors

When choosing a carriage house garage door, one of the primary decisions is whether to opt for wood or composite material. Both options have their pros and cons.

• Wood: Wood carriage house garage doors offer a classic and traditional look. They can be stained or painted to match your home’s color scheme and customized with various panel designs and decorative hardware. The most popular wood options are select tight knot cedar, Douglas fir, clear cedar, or mahogany.
• Composite: Composite carriage house garage doors are made from a combination of materials, such as wood fibers and durable resins. These doors offer the look of wood without the maintenance requirements. They are generally more resistant to moisture, cracking, and pests. Composite doors will have fewer design options and cost significantly more than real wood doors.

Choosing the Right Carriage House Garage Door

Carriage house garage doors are a popular choice for homeowners who want to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their homes. These doors are 1 known for their classic design, which is reminiscent of the doors used on horse-drawn carriages. When choosing a carriage house garage door, there are a few important factors to consider.  

Material Selection

One of the first things to think about is the material of the door. Wood is a popular choice for its natural beauty and authenticity. However, wood doors require regular maintenance to protect them from the elements. Steel is another option that is known for its durability and affordability. Steel doors are also relatively low-maintenance. A third option is composite, which combines the beauty of wood with the durability of steel. Composite doors are also low-maintenance and can mimic the look of real wood.

Design Considerations

In addition to the material, you’ll also need to consider the design of the door. There are many different styles of carriage house garage doors available, so you can choose one that complements the style of your home. You’ll also want to think about the hardware and window styles. Hardware can include handles, hinges, and decorative accents. Windows can add natural light and visual interest to the door.

Insulation Options

If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you may want to consider insulating your garage door. Insulation can help to improve energy efficiency and reduce noise.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect carriage house garage door for your home.

Carriage house garage door install and service by Doorvana

If you need carriage house garage door installation or service, we are a reputable and reliable company to consider. We specialize in high-quality garage doors and provide professional installation and maintenance services. We can assist you in selecting the right door for your home and ensure that it is installed correctly, guaranteeing years of smooth operation and aesthetic appeal. Contact Doorvana today to learn more about their carriage house garage door services.