Carriage House Garage Doors
At C & M Garage Doors, we specialize in garage door solutions that combine classic beauty with modern convenience. Among our most requested installations in Loveland and Greeley are carriage house garage doors – an elegant, timeless option that brings vintage charm to today’s homes without compromising on performance or durability.
What Are Carriage House Doors?
Carriage house doors can trace their roots to medieval Europe at a time when feudalism was at its peak. Feudal lords lived on vast estates and needed safe and comfortable ways to get around. Enter the horse and carriage. With the advent of the horse and carriage came the need to protect the carriage - and the horses - from the elements when not in use, which led to the creation of the carriage house.
This structure was separate from the main house, mostly so that lords and ladies would not have to endure the smells generated by the horses. Some of them were larger than today's average home. Quite a bit larger. These structures used hinged doors that opened out from the center; a style of door that would, in time, be known as both carriage house doors and barn doors.
In time, a new type of door also entered the scene. The overhead door was easy to use and very reliable and did not require that you clear a big area in front of the garage to open the door. In spite of this convenience, however, carriage house doors endured, mostly for aesthetic reasons. Even many homeowners with overhead doors will admit that carriage house doors are the more attractive option.
Stamping and overlaying were introduced as methods of increasing the already formidable visual appeal of carriage house doors. They provide the homeowner with a relatively simple and affordable way to alter the look of their home in a positive way, though as we've seen each has its pros and cons.
Popular Carriage House Styles
Carriage house garage doors typically come in two styles: overlay and stamped. Overlay doors feature wood or composite panels layered over a steel base, offering rich detail and customization. Stamped models are made from single steel sheets pressed with wood-like textures, offering a classic look at a lower cost. The chart below outlines their key differences.
| Feature | Overlay Carriage House Doors | Stamped Carriage House Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Multiple overlays available (steel, wood, fiberglass) | One-piece stamped steel design |
| Aesthetic Detail | Customizable with raised panels for a more authentic look | Simulated wood grain patterns or textures stamped directly on steel |
| Durability | Heavy-duty steel with additional overlay materials | Durable stamped steel, generally lighter than overlay models |
| Insulation | Offers high thermal efficiency (R-values up to 18.03) | Offers moderate insulation with R-values around 10.29-10.67 |
| Customization Options | More panel styles, colors, and glass options for design flexibility | Fewer customization options compared to overlay doors |
Stamped Carriage House Doors
Stamped doors are made from steel and feature pressed designs that mimic wood. They’re rust-resistant, durable, and require minimal upkeep—making them a practical, cost-effective choice. However, they offer fewer design options than overlay doors.
Overlay Carriage House Doors
Overlay doors feature wood or composite panels affixed to a base door, adding texture and dimension. They offer extensive customization, especially with genuine wood, but come at a higher cost and may require more upkeep than stamped models.
Choosing between stamped and overlay garage doors depends on your budget, maintenance expectations, and design goals. Stamped doors are more affordable and lower maintenance, while overlay doors provide premium visual appeal with added upkeep.
Use the table below to quickly compare key aspects of each type:
| Feature | Stamped Garage Doors | Overlay Garage Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel with stamped patterns | Wood, steel, or composite with applied overlays |
| Durability | Highly durable and resistant to weather | Durable but may require more upkeep |
| Design Variety | Limited to available stamped patterns | Highly customizable with different overlays |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance; occasional cleaning | Higher maintenance; wood overlays may need refinishing |
| Cost | More affordable | Higher cost due to materials and customization |
Both door types enhance curb appeal and value. Your decision should reflect your home’s style, desired upkeep, and budget priorities.
Why Choose Carriage House Garage Doors?
With so many garage door styles available, what makes carriage house doors such a standout? Here are just a few of their unique benefits:
- Historical Charm: A design inspired by traditional carriage house doors, full of rustic character.
- Tailored Appearance: With a wide variety of materials, colors, and features, your door will be as unique as your home.
- Modern Operation: Classic look meets modern functionality with quiet, overhead performance.
- Exterior Appeal: Elevates curb appeal with stately, stylish design.
- Fits Any Home: Works well with both historic and modern architecture in Loveland and Greeley neighborhoods.
It’s no wonder these doors are a preferred choice for homeowners seeking both beauty and practicality.
Customize Your Carriage House Garage Door
Ready to Upgrade to a Carriage House Garage Door?
Visit the page below to learn more about the garage door installation services we offer in Northern Colorado - or call our team to learn more about our carriage house garage door options!At C & M Garage Doors, customization is at the heart of what we offer. Whether you’re aiming for traditional or contemporary style, you can tailor your carriage house door to reflect your personal aesthetic. Choose from:
- Design – Options include the iconic X-brace pattern and sleek, simplified panels.
- Color and Finish – From painted steel to faux-wood grain finishes, your door can match or accent your home’s exterior effortlessly.
- Windows – Add charm and daylight with customizable window layouts, sizes, and glass types.
- Hardware – Decorative handles, hinges, and other elements let you create a rustic or minimalist feel – your door, your style.
Call C & M for a New Carriage House Garage Door
At C & M Garage Doors, we’re committed to helping Loveland and Greeley homeowners bring their vision to life. From handcrafted wooden overlays to strong and stylish steel models, our team is here to guide you through every step of the selection and installation process. Ready to enhance your home with a stunning new carriage house garage door? Get in touch for a free quote today!