Garage doors do not last forever. If yours is dented, making a lot of noise as it opens, or beginning to look a bit rusty or rotten, then it's probably time for a new one. Since it has probably been a while since you last chose a new garage door, you might be surprised at the number of options available to you. Asking yourself these questions can help you narrow down your choices:

What style is your home?

It's important to choose a garage door that coordinates with the overall look of your home. For instance, if you have a Craftsman home or one with a very rustic look, then a wooden garage door will like perfect. For more modern homes with clean lines and smooth finishes, a garage door made from vinyl or aluminum may look more in place. Keep style in mind when choosing a color, too. Even if you like navy blue, for instance, it may look a bit out of place in a log cabin home.

How important is security?

If your garage is attached to your home, you need to be more concerned about security than if you have a detached garage. After all, if someone gets inside your attached garage, they can then make their way into your home. If you have a detached garage and only use it to store lawn equipment and the like, a break-in is not as serious of an issue -- and thieves won't be as likely to break in.

Steel garage doors are the most secure since it's tough to cut through steel. Vinyl doors and aluminum doors are not very secure, and wood falls somewhere in between. 

What's your budget?

Garage doors can be more pricey than you might think. If you're on a tight budget, your best bet may be an aluminum door, as you can find inexpensive ones that cost $400 - $700. Wood costs a lot more -- you may pay $800 - $1000 for one that's designed to be painted. Steel doors come in between $750 and $1200, depending on features and the size of the door. Consider getting a few estimates from a garage door company in your area, and then make your decision with this information in mind. 

Choosing a garage door can feel a bit overwhelming, but if you start by narrowing down your style choices, security needs, and budgetary limitations, you'll be on the right track. Contact a company that can give you garage door estimates for more information and assistance.