Building Types and the Best Garage Door for Each

If you’re buying a house or planning a remodel, the type of building you have will shape the garage door you need. A wrong size or style can look out of place, cost extra, or even cause safety issues. Let’s break down the most common UK building types and show you which garage doors work best for each.

Detached and Semi‑Detached Homes

Detached houses and semi‑detached homes are the most common in suburbs. They usually have a single garage attached to the front or side of the property. Because you have the whole front façade to work with, you can choose a full‑width door (up to 4 m) that makes a strong visual statement. Steel or aluminium doors are popular here – they’re strong, low‑maintenance and can be painted to match the house colour. If the roof is pitched, a multi‑panel tilt‑and‑turn door fits neatly under the eaves without raising the ceiling height.

Look for a door with good insulation if the garage is heated or used as a workshop. A double‑leaf door gives easy access for larger vehicles and adds curb appeal. Many owners add side‑hinged or sliding doors for additional storage rooms.

Terraced, Row and Bungalow Properties

Terraced houses and row homes share walls on both sides, which limits how wide a garage door can be. Most of these homes have a single‑leaf door (around 2.5 m wide). A single‑panel or sectional door is the most space‑efficient because it slides upward and sits close to the ceiling.

Bungalows often have a front‑facing garage that sits lower than a two‑storey home. A low‑profile sectional door works well here, keeping the door line smooth with the house. Wood‑look aluminium doors add a traditional feel without the upkeep of real timber.

Because the side walls are shared, pay attention to fire‑rating requirements. Choose a door with an approved fire‑resistant core if the local council mandates it.

Apartments and Multi‑Storey Buildings

In blocks of flats, garages are usually either underground or in a separate basement level. Space is at a premium, so most owners opt for narrow roller doors (about 1.8 m wide). Roller doors slide up into the ceiling cavity and take up almost no floor space, which is perfect for tight car parks.

When the garage is underground, moisture resistance is key. Look for doors with sealed edges and rust‑proof hardware. Many property managers also require a CCTV intercom system, so choose a door that integrates easily with that tech.

Choosing Materials and Features

Across all building types, the material you pick influences price, durability and appearance. Steel is the toughest and most common, while aluminium offers lighter weight and rust resistance. Timber‑look doors are great for period properties but need regular upkeep.

Smart features like remote openers, battery backup and automatic timers add convenience for any home. If the garage is part of a security system, get a door with built‑in tamper alerts.

Finally, measure the opening twice – once from the floor to the ceiling and once from side to side – before you order. The right size saves you money on custom work and avoids delays.

Knowing your building type helps you pick a garage door that fits, looks good and lasts. Whether you have a sprawling detached house or a snug terraced home, there’s a door that meets your needs and budget.