4 Things You Should Know before Adding Windows to your Garage Door

Let’s say you had a garage door installed a few years ago and, at the time you bought it, you ordered it without any windows. Now you find that your garage is dark and dreary and you’re wondering if perhaps you could have some windows installed in your garage door. The answer is "yes". However, there are several important things you should be aware of before you do. Don’t rush out and buy window frames without first reading these recommendations.

Your current garage door

It’s important to know what brand of garage door you have. You also need to know the year it was made, its dimensions, its color, its thickness and whether it is embossed with rectangular motifs or deep grooves. Depending on the make and model of the door, you may no longer be able to find the right size of windows.

Window placement: 3^rd or 4^th section?

The location of the windows will depend on why you’re adding them. If you’re looking for a certain amount of privacy or security, but still want to let in as much daylight as possible, the upper section is the best place.

If you want windows that allow you to look in and out of your garage, then the 3^rd section of the door is the ideal spot. If you prefer installing them in this section but still want some privacy, you can also order two‑way‑mirror‑type window glass, which makes it easy to look out, but not so easy to look in.

Harmonization with the other windows in your home

People often match their garage door windows to the windows in their front door and the rest of their home. For example, if the window in your front door is fitted with Georgian tiling, it’s possible to harmonize everything with your garage door.

Spring system imbalance

Depending on the number and type of windows you choose, you should be aware that adding them can throw the spring system — which acts as a counterweight — out of adjustment. Every spring system is calibrated for a maximum variance of approximately 5% of the total weight of the door. If your door weighs around 125 lb (which is the average weight of a 9 x 7 door) and you add a row of windows on the upper panel, the weight will be unbalanced and the spring system will need to be changed. It’s especially important not to overlook this detail, as your garage door opener has to raise and lower the door. It would be like sweeping dirt under the rug. A garage door opener is nothing more than a substitute for human strength. A well‑balanced door weighs around 8‑10 lb, an amount you could easily lift with one hand.

For expert work

Whether you’re looking to install windows to beautify your garage door or simply for practical purposes of letting in more light, feel free to contact us at 717-767-1419.

Here at Baker Door Company, our technicians know exactly how to go about addressing your specific needs. You should never attempt to perform this type of installation yourself, as cutting openings in your existing garage door requires experience and expertise.