Are Garage Door Windows Really Worth it?

Garage door windows are a bit of a debate in the industry. Some homeowners love their look, others prefer their absence in a garage door design. There’s no right answer to the question of “is it a good idea to have windows on your garage door,” but we can at least shine some light on the pros and cons of garage door windows. Are garage door windows worth it? Can they improve the look and functionality of your garage door? 

Hopefully this quick guide can make your choice a bit easier. Find out everything you need to know about custom garage door window options. 

The Pros and Cons of Having Windows on a Garage Door

Do you think garage door windows are right for your home? You may be right. There are many reasons (both aesthetically and from a utility standpoint) why garage door windows are a great idea.  

• Natural Light: windows allow natural light into your garage, making it a more pleasant and inviting space. This can be particularly beneficial if you use the garage as a workshop or hobby area, as you may not need overhead lighting during some parts of the day. 
• They Just Look Good: windows can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your home. They add an extra architectural feature that can be customized to match the style of your house. This is dependent on your personal preference, of course. 
• More Visibility: windows provide a view of the outside, and there are a few things that are better than that. If you like spending time in your garage and don’t want to feel cooped up, windows are the right choice for your door. 

While there are many good reasons to have garage door windows, there are some things people might consider drawbacks when it comes to them. 

• Security Concerns: windows can be a potential security risk, as they allow outsiders to see inside your garage. This could make it easier for burglars to identify valuable items. You can mitigate this concern by getting frosted glass, which will prevent people from looking in. 
• Energy Efficiency: windows can reduce the overall energy efficiency of the garage door, potentially leading to higher heating or cooling costs. However, with new energy efficient windows, these effects tend to be minimal, even if you live in a climate with extreme temperatures. 
• Extra Maintenance: windows will add a bit of additional maintenance and cleaning. They can also be more susceptible to damage compared to solid panel doors. 

Window Glass Options

When choosing windows for your garage door, you have several options regarding the type of glass and its configuration: 

• Clear Glass: this provides maximum visibility and natural light but offers less privacy and insulation. 
• Frosted or Tinted Glass: allows light to enter while providing privacy and reducing glare. These options can also help with insulation. 
• Insulated Glass: consists of two or more layers of glass with an air or gas-filled space in between, improving energy efficiency and reducing noise. 
• Wet-Glazed Glass: ideal for coastal and storm-prone areas. This type of glass is sealed with a silicone-based material, making it more resistant to wind, water, and impact. Find out more about wet glazed glass here. 

Windows Configures for Custom Garage Door Design

If you choose to have windows on your garage door, there are many ways in which they can be incorporated into your design: 

• Top Row Windows: placing windows in the top row of the garage door is a popular choice as they allow natural light to enter while maximizing privacy and security. 
• Corner Windows: windows can be placed in the corners of the garage door, adding a unique design element while maintaining some level of privacy. 
• Full View Panels: for a more modern look, some garage doors feature full view panels with large windows, offering maximum light and visibility. 
• Arched Windows: arched windows add a classic, elegant touch to your garage door, making the door more ideal for traditional and historic style homes. 

What About Walk-Through or Integrated Doors?

For added convenience, consider incorporating a walk-through or integrated door into your garage door design. These doors provide easy access without having to open the entire garage door, which can be particularly useful in cold or inclement weather. 

Walk-through doors are smaller doors built into the garage door itself, allowing pedestrian access. They are ideal for frequent access without the need to open the main door. They also come in integrated door designs, which are seamlessly built into the design of the garage door, maintaining the sleek look while providing functionality. 

Ready to build a garage door with or without windows? We can help! Get in touch with our team for a free design consultation today!

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