Inexpensive Home Improvement Ideas

Garage Doors – Installing a New Door Can Be Paid For With Tax Credits and Rebates by the Government

Most home owners either do not have the space or funds to build a separate outbuilding which can serve as a workshop. Because of these limitations most garages either double as or are adapted to be a work area. Whether the garage is used for wood working or an automotive mechanic work, after the first winter season it becomes clear that it can be very chilly and painful on the hands.

Should the winter be especially harsh, as has been experienced in the past few years, any garage time is usually delayed until warmer weather. Before December 31, 2010 is the perfect time to replace the garage door with an insulated door for several reasons. The benefits will do more than just provide a warm interior.

An insulated garage door goes a long way for regulating a comfortable temperature not just during the winter, but the summer months as well. There are large tax incentives for those qualifying energy efficient doors; up to $1500, in fact. Newer construction is superior to the aging doors of 15 years ago. Not every door is created equal, however.

There are commonly three basic styles of construction: steel, composite or genuine wood doors. Vinyl garage doors are available, too, but all of these types of doors have their own advantages ranging from strength to being permanently stained or fading and does not always include insulation automatically. It is true that any door will provide a minuscule amount of protection from extreme hot or cold temperatures, but even the most basic door without insulation will only shield a home owner temporarily; usually for just an hour or two.

An average price for a base steel garage door model and the most inexpensive type can range from about $850 – $1100 installed depending on the region. Base models do not include any insulation. An insulated steel door will usually start at a couple of hundred dollars more, but keep in mind that the increased expense of several hundred dollars in upgrading can easily be made back with tax credits under the government stimulus package that went into effect during 2009. Essentially the home owner will get the extra strength of an insulated garage door increased comfort for free. The garage door company should have all of the information regarding any tax credit available, as it is a good benefit for up selling.

Budget is usually the deciding factor for most home owners. As additional features or styling is added, such as windows commonly referred to as glazing, the cost, of course will increase. Composite garage doors offer the best of steel and wood overall with regards to styling and price. Genuine wood custom garage doors can easily cost more than $5,000, but the greatest variety of styles and the beauty of real wood is unmatched by any other material. It is rare, but on occasion the garage door company may have a cancelled or returned special order which may be available at a reduced price. There may be substantial saving available if this is the case.