Your garage door has seen better days, let’s be honest. If you’re thinking about expanding or improving your garage space, you might also consider options to convert carport to garage for added security and value. Now you need a new garage door, but you don’t know, “How much is a new garage door?” The answer is not a single number but rather a range (from a few hundred to several thousand dollars); therefore, knowing what drives garage door prices is important for making a smart purchase. This blog will help you understand what factors affect garage door cost and installation in Australia, allowing you to manage your budget like a professional.
What’s the Average Garage Door Price?
A garage door is a complex mechanism made up of panels, tracks, springs, and, in many cases, advanced electronics. If you are thinking about getting a new garage door, it can really enhance the appearance of your property while also adding value. However, a number of factors determine the final garage door price.
Garage door installation costs can range from around $1,500 for a simple, single roller door to more than $10,000 for a high-end, custom-designed sectional door. A simple double garage door is estimated to cost $3,500 to $7,000.
What Factors Determine Garage Door Cost?
There are several factors that can affect the garage door installation cost. Let us have a look at each:
Door Type
- Roller doors are made of a ribbed steel curtain that rolls up into a barrel above the doorway and are both space-saving and cost-effective.
- Sectional doors are made up of multiple hinged panels that slide along tracks in the ceiling of your garage. Sectional doors have an updated look, come in different styles and materials, and can be insulated for better energy efficiency.
- Tilt doors are single solid panels that tilt outwards and upwards to open. Tilt doors are appropriate for garages with limited headroom.
Door Material
- Steel: There is no question that steel is the most economical material. Modern steel doors are durable, low-maintenance, and available in a range of colours and coatings.
- Aluminium: This material is lightweight and resistant to rust, particularly in coastal areas. However, the cost of these types of garage doors is typically more than steel garage doors.
- Wood: If you want to achieve a customised appearance, you can use this material. It is one of the most expensive materials available on the market.
- Custom Materials: You can choose materials such as fibreglass, acrylic, or even copper, but expect a large rise in cost.
Door Size
- The larger the door, the more material is needed, and hence the higher the garage door price.
- When you install a single garage door, the cost may be low. These doors are appropriate for a location with only one car.
- Double garage doors can accommodate at least two cars, which can lead to higher costs as you may be using more material.
Automation and Motorisation
When getting a garage door quote, be careful to ask about whether the cost covers both the motor and installation. The automatic garage door cost is a major concern for many homeowners. The cost of the motor and opener depends on:
- The Drive Type: Chain-drive motors are often the most economical, but belt-drive motors are quieter and more expensive. A high-quality motor may cost $400 to $1,000 to install.
- The Power: It will take a more powerful and costly motor to operate heavier doors, such as insulated or solid timber doors.
- Features: Battery backup, Wi-Fi connectivity (which lets you control the door from your phone), and smart home integration are some of the features that modern openers have, and they will all affect the electric garage door cost.
Extra Features and Customisations
There are several options available if you want to give your garage door a personal touch, such as:
- Windows: Windows are another common choice that can let natural light into your garage and enhance the visual appeal of your garage door.
- Insulation: An insulated garage door can help control the temperature in your garage if you use it as a playroom, gym, or workshop.
- Wind-rated Bracing: If you live in a coastal or high-wind area, extra bracing for your garage door may be required to meet local building regulations.
Installation Complexity
Every garage door installation is different. Labour costs may vary based on the nature of the task.
- Labour cost for a basic garage door replacement will be low if the new door is the same size and type as the old one.
- The cost of installing a power point in a newly constructed garage will increase if extra structural work or electrical wiring is needed.
- The installation will take longer and be more complicated if your garage has a sloping floor, an odd shape, or limited headroom.
A Cost Breakdown for Garage Doors
Garage Door Types and Prices
Take a look at some common types and what you could expect to pay (supply only, before installation):
- Roller Doors: A garage roller door cost for a single door can start at about $600, but the total garage door cost and installation can range from $1,300 to $2,500. The price range for a double roller door is between $2,000 and $4,000.
- Sectional Doors: A single sectional garage door cost is about $850, and a complete installation can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500. This is more expensive than a roller door. The garage door installation cost of a double sectional door might range from $3,000 to $6,000.
- Tilt Doors: The cost of installation can go up. Prices for supply and installation range from $1700 to $2750. Installing a tilt door costs about the same as installing a sectional door.
Garage Door Materials and Prices
The garage door price is usually determined by its material. The complete overview is given in the table below:
Material | Benefits | Drawbacks | Estimated Cost (Installed) |
Steel | Durable, affordable, secure | Can rust if not properly maintained, can dent | $1,200 – $3,500 |
Aluminium | Lightweight, rust-resistant, affordable | Dents easily, less secure than steel | $1,500 – $4,000 |
Wood | Timeless charm, customisable, adds value to your home | High maintenance, expensive, susceptible to weather damage | $3,000 – $10,000+ |
Fibreglass | Low maintenance, resists dents and rust, can give wood appearance | Can be more expensive than steel, limited design options | $2,000 – $5,000 |
Garage Door Installation Costs
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Do you want to save money by doing the garage door installation yourself? If you are handy and have experience with similar projects, you could try installing the garage door yourself.
It may seem tempting at first, but be advised that it is not the same as putting together flat-pack furniture; in fact, it is a complicated task that can be risky because of the heavy parts and high-tension springs involved.
Installation errors can cause major harm and void your warranty. So, hiring a professional installer is usually the safer and wiser option.
Labour Costs and Timeframes
What will the cost of hiring a professional installer be? Labour costs usually fall between $800 and $1,200. The job normally takes a few hours, depending on its complexity. A general guide is provided below:
- Single Roller Door: $300 – $600
- Double Roller Door: $400 – $750
- Sectional Door: $500 – $1200+
These are only estimates, so it is better to get several quotations from installers in your area.
Additional Garage Door Costs to Consider
Don’t forget about these extra expenses that may add up:
Garage Door Opener Costs
Generally, homeowners choose automatic openers because they are more convenient. The costs differ as per the features, like battery backup and smartphone connectivity, and brand.
- The cost of installing a basic opener starts at about $650.
- Advanced models with smart features can cost more than $1,000.
- Extra remote controls might cost anything from $80 to $100 apiece.
Permits and Old Door Removal
Ask your local council what permits are needed. Permits are typically not required for garage door replacements, but it is best to double-check. Also, what will happen to your old garage door? Removal and disposal are usually covered by installers, although it is better to double-check.
A single garage door removal should cost about $50, and a double garage door removal should cost about $80.
Structural Modifications
Expert professionals can restructure the garage frame if it is required for the installation of a new garage door. These changes usually increase the overall cost.
Garage Door Replacement Cost vs. New Installation
Is there a price difference between installing a garage door in a new home and replacing an existing one? The answer is yes. Garage door replacement cost is potentially cheaper because the structural opening and wiring are already in place. However, replacement includes the extra step of dismantling the old door. Labour costs for dismantling and disposing of the old door can add $80 to $200 to the bill.
Sometimes, a replacement will cost more than a brand-new installation if:
- The current entryway needs major structural repairs since it is aged, damaged, or not square.
- An electrician is required to repair the existing wiring since it is defective.
- The homeowner has to change the frame since they are changing the size or type of the door.
In a new build, it might be necessary to install new electrical wiring for the motor, and a carpenter or the garage door installer may need to construct the door frame from scratch. This will increase the total garage door cost and installation bill.
How to Get an Accurate Garage Door Quote
Below are some suggestions to help you get an accurate and affordable garage door installation cost:
- Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t just go with the first company you find. Request at least three quotations from trusted installers.
- Provide Details: When requesting a quote, include the size of your garage opening, the type of door you want, and any extra features you require.
- Request a Written Quote: A professional provider will always provide a complete written quote including all costs, including the door, motor, installation, and removal of the old door.
- Look for Hidden Costs: Make sure the quote is all-inclusive and there are no hidden charges.
Take the Guesswork Out of Your Garage Door Project
So there you have it. By the end of this blog, you will no longer have to rely on guessing when it comes to garage door installation cost. You now have a better understanding of what garage door installation costs are.
Another way to achieve this is to contact a professional renovation and construction company. We have got your back. GTG Constructions provides its customers premium products, professional installation, and transparent pricing for your home and wallet.
