If you are looking for a way to give a fresh look to your garage without making any significant modifications, garage door wraps might be the perfect solution for you. A decorative covering applied to the door of the garage, it is versatile, removable and is a sureshot and convenient way to add some personality to your garage’s exterior. There are various options for you to choose from, allowing endless design possibilities. So come along as we walk you through the types, functions, pros and cons and installation process of garage door wraps.
See also: How to install garage door openers?
Types of garage door wraps
Garage door wraps are available in several different types based on their material and design. Here is a comprehensive list:
Vinyl wraps
Durability, versatility and ease of installation make vinyl the most popular choice of material for garage door wraps. These are available in a variety of colours, patterns and textures and allow vast scope for customisation to suit different styles. Moreover, their weather-resistant properties allow them to withstand harsh outdoor conditions.
Fibreglass wraps
Similar to their vinyl counterparts in terms of durability and weather resistance, fibreglass wraps are more lightweight and flexible, making the application process on various types of doors a breeze. Additionally, a smoother surface results in a sleeker finish for your garage door.
Aluminium wraps
If a sleek and modern look is what you are looking for, consider aluminium wraps. Lightweight, durable and exceptionally corrosion resistant, these can easily be powder-coated or anodised to achieve different colours and finishes for endless customisation possibilities.
Polyester wraps
Polyester is a material that facilitates excellent printing and colour vibrancy. This is your go-to if you are looking to incorporate custom designs, graphics and logos on garage doors. They are resistant to fading and abrasion and ensure long-lasting visual appeal.
3M scotchcal wraps
This high-quality vinyl is preferred for its adhesive strength and durability. While it is generally used for vehicle wraps, it can also be applied to garage doors. The excellent conformability of these wraps allows for seamless application on curved or uneven surfaces.
Magnetic wraps
Made from flexible magnetic sheets, these wraps adhere to metal garage doors without the need for adhesive. Installation and removal is simple, making them suitable for temporary decorations. They are available in multiple designs and can be reused several times.
Wraps according to their design
- Solid colour wraps: These feature a single colour for a clean and uniform appearance. Available in various colours, their versatility allows them to complement various decor styles.
- Patterned wraps: They flaunt designs such as geometric shapes, stripes or artwork and add visual interest to the space by making a bold statement.
- Wood grain wraps: Resembling the look of natural wood at a fraction of the price, they can provide a rustic and traditional look without the maintenance requirements of real wood.
- Custom wraps: Tailored to your specific needs, custom wraps can include personalised designs, logos or images as per your stylistic preferences.
- Textured wraps: Add some dimension to the garage door surface and create visual and tactile interest with textures wraps. Common options include leather, carbon fire and brushed metal.
- Seasonal wraps: Especially designed for temporary use on special occasions, seasonal wraps come in festive themes such as snowflakes or pumpkins.
Pros and cons
To better help you choose the right garage door wrap, here is a list of pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Cost effective: Cheaper alternative to upgrade the appearance of the garage door without replacing or painting. | Durability: Despite being durable, they might not last as long as permanent alternatives, and can fade or warp due to the impact of external elements. |
| Customisation: Can choose from a wide range of colours, patterns, textures and designs to suit style preferences and complement existing exterior design. | Maintenance: Periodic maintenance is required, such as cleaning the surface to remove dirt, debris and stains accumulated over time. |
| Versatility: Can be applied to any type of surface, like metal, wood, fibreglass and vinyl. | Limited lifespan: They have a limited lifespan as compared to permanent solutions, depending on the quality of material and installation. |
| Protection: Several varieties provide UV protection, scratch resistance and weather resistance to prolong the lifespan of the door and maintain appearance. | Surface preparation: Preparing the surface to ensure proper adhesion before applying the wrap can add time and effort to the installation process. |
| Easy installation: Easier to install than remodelling or renovation projects; generally does not require much technical expertise. | Resale value: They might impact the resale value of your house negatively in the long-term as buyers may prefer a neutral design, |
| Temporary options: Removable options are available that allow temporary change without committing to a permanent design for the long-term. | Limited repair options: Repairing can be a task due to unavailability of materials that affect the visual seamlessness of the garage door. |
Installing garage door wraps
Now that you’ve decided on the kind of garage door wrap ideal for you, let’s take a look at the installation process:
Preparation
Gather the required materials such as the door wrap, cleaning supplies, squeegee, utility knife and a heat gun, if possible. Start off by cleaning the door surface and making sure it is free of any dust, dirt and debris.
Measurement and cutting
Determine the size of the wrap required by measuring the garage door panels. Measure accurately to ensure it covers the entire surface and cut to appropriate size using a utility knife, leaving a slight overlap on the edges for trimming.
Cleaning
Clean the surface thoroughly with a mild detergent or alcohol-based cleaner to get rid of any grease, grime or residue. Scrub gently with a soft, clean cloth with special attention to the corners and edges. Let the surface dry completely before proceeding.
Application
Peel off a small portion of the backing paper from the wrap to expose the adhesive side. Align the exposed edge with the side edge of the door panel and position in correctly before firmly pressing onto the surface.
Smoothing
Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles using a squeegee or cloth as you continue to peel away the backing paper and apply the wrap further. Start from the centre outward by applying even pressure to ensure tight adhesion.
Trimming
After applying the wrap fully, trim away the excess material along the edges and seams. Make clean and precise cuts to ensure a professional finish.
Final inspection
Once installed, carefully inspect the wrap for any imperfections, air bubbles or areas that may need touch- up. Adjust the corners and make corrections as required to ensure a seamless and uniform finish.
FAQs
How long do garage door wraps last?
While a well-maintained garage door wrap can last for about five to ten years, the lifespan is subject to factors like material quality, installation and exposure to environmental elements.
Can I install a garage door wrap myself?
Although a garage door wrap can be easily installed at home, consulting a professional ensures proper alignment, adhesion and finish.
Are garage door wraps weather-resistant?
Most garage door wraps are designed to be weather resistant, withstanding exposure to sunlight, rain, snow, UV rays and other outdoor elements.
Can I remove a garage door wrap once it's installed?
Garage door wraps can be easily removed without causing damage to the underlying surface, subject to the adhesive quality.
How do I clean and maintain a garage door wrap?
Garage door wraps are low-maintenance and just require regular cleaning with a mild detergent and soft cloth to preserve the appearance and longevity.
Can I apply a new wrap over an existing one?
While you can apply a new wrap over an existing one, it might not yield as effective results as you might achieve with a properly cleaned and prepared surface.
Are garage door wraps customisable?
Yes, garage door wraps can be easily customised according to your preferences as they are available in various colours, patterns and styles.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
