Garage doors have become an essential part of every modern house. Today, they come in different types, including sectional, up-and-over, and sliding garage doors. Each type is designed to meet your specific needs, preferences, and budget. In this article, we will focus on the horizontal garage door track, also known as the high-lift garage door track. We will explain what it means, how it works, and why you should consider it for your garage door.
A horizontal garage door track is a type of garage door track that is installed horizontally above the garage door opening. It raises the door higher than the standard vertical tracks, allowing for more overhead clearance space. It also creates a more vertical lift angle, which reduces the stress on the garage door parts, resulting in a longer lifespan of the door and opener.
The horizontal garage door track works by using a cable and pulley system. The track is installed above the garage door, and the opener lifts the door by pulling the cables attached to the door bottom. The pulleys mounted on the horizontal track guide the cables smoothly, ensuring the door opens and closes efficiently. Compared to the traditional vertical tracks, horizontal tracks provide more clearance space for overhead storage and taller vehicles.
Here are some reasons why you should consider installing a horizontal garage door track for your garage door:
In a standard setup, garage doors open and close using vertical tracks. The tracks hold the door panels in place in a vertical position, limiting the overhead clearance space available when the door is open. This can be a problem if you have a tall vehicle, an overhead storage area, or a workbench close to the door. Installing horizontal tracks means that the door can fully retract into the garage ceiling, providing extra overhead clearance space.
Horizontal tracks allow for more versatility than vertical tracks. In addition to being compatible with various types of garage door openers, they also have a broader range of possible door sizes. You can install horizontal tracks on both small and large garage doors. This means that even if you have a larger than standard single garage door or a custom-sized door, you can still benefit from the added height that the horizontal track provides.
When using a vertical track, the door tilt angle is steeper, resulting in more stress on the garage door's working parts, including the springs, the opener, the tracks, and the cables. With less stress on these parts, the door is likely to be more durable and require less frequent maintenance. The horizontal setup provides a reduced degree of tilt and, therefore, a reduced potential for wear and tear.
Horizontal tracks are aesthetically appealing and seamless, improving the overall look of your garage. The cleaner appearance of the horizontal tracks integrated into the ceiling of your garage can add to the value of your home.
Horizontal garage door tracks are an excellent addition to any garage door setup. They offer added overhead clearance space, more versatility, improved durability, and better aesthetics. While the initial installation requires an expert technician since it can be a more complex process, the long-term benefits of a horizontal garage door track make it worthwhile. To get started with installation, reach out to a reputable garage door repair company in your area.
