Choosing the Perfect Garage Skin: A Comprehensive Buyer's Guide

Okay, you've discovered the GarageSkins System. You're excited about finally upgrading your garage to get that custom carriage-house door look that will wow the neighbors. There’s justs one problem: which one should you order? 

If you've checked out our photo gallery, you're definitely facing a quandary. Well, don't fret. GarageSkins is here to help. Let's start with the basics. Choosing the right GarageSkins system for your home isn't just about picking a color you like; this isn't a set of towels. To get the most out of your investment and optimize your house's look and style, you need to find the perfect match: a garage door system that complements your home's style, suits your personal tastes, and meshes with your home's color scheme.

 

We know that choosing from so many beautiful real wood veneer options and finish styles can feel overwhelming. So, we've put together this buyer's guide to help you narrow down your choices and make an informed selection with confidence that it will look great.

Putting it All Together

While we think all homes can be improved with any of our GarageSkins Systems, we also want you to take care in selecting your color and style so that you will be happy with your choice for years. Here are some factors that you should consider:

 

1. Understand Your Home's Architectural Style

Start by considering the design of your home. Is it modern and sleek? Traditional and timeless? Rustic and farmhouse-inspired? Your garage should complement—not compete with—your home's existing design language. Accordingly, here's what we recommend:

• Modern homes: Go for clean tones like Barnwood Gray, Charcoal Black, or Bali Teak. In terms of panel style, the clean geometric designs of Moderne and Cochere are the most complementary.

• Traditional or colonial homes: Rich tones like American Chestnut, Brazilian Mahogany, or Tennessee Walnut create a classic look. Style-wise, Saxony, Cochere, and Paddock all fill the bill.

• Rustic/farmhouse homes: American Chestnut, Brazilian Mahogany, and Western Cedar pair beautifully. With their throwback style, the Saxony and Cochere panels will suit this architectural style to a T. 

• Coastal/cottage-style homes: Lighter woods like Barnwood Gray or Bali Teak create a breezy, relaxed feel. Almost any panel style will look fantastic on a cottage-style home.

2. Consider Your Existing Color Palette

The colors recommended for different architectural styles will work well if your home has colors commonly used with those styles. Still, you must ensure that your home's color palette will mesh with the wood tone you choose for your garage. You need to consider not just your home's main color, but your siding, trim, roof, and front door. If you have any type of cladding, such as stone or brick, you need to consider those tones, as well.

Your garage door should contrast, but not clash, with your trim and primary home colors. Keep tones in the same shade family: cool tones with cool tones, warm tones with warm tones. They don't have to match (after all, you want your garage doors to be noticed!), but they should complement one another. The goal is to create visual harmony.

 

 

3. Think About Light and Environment

Your home's surroundings and the amount of natural light it receives can impact how GarageSkins finishes appear. When making your selection, consider:

• Bright sunlight can make light finishes glow and may also exaggerate warm undertones.

• Shady lots might benefit from mid-to-light tones to avoid a heavy look for your home.

• Coastal or humid climates often pair well with lighter tones that reflect heat and look cool and fresh.

4. Decide on Visual Impact: Subtle or Statement?

While we love to show off our GarageSkins Systems, we understand that many people buy them to satisfy their aesthetic sensibilities, not to impress the neighbors or the delivery guy. For a refined upgrade that helps your house give off a subtle, sophisticated feel, choose a color that blends into the overall feel of the house's architecture and landscaping, with the richness of genuine wood. 

If you want a bold, dramatic transformation, opt for a rich contrast that turns your garage into a focal point, emphasizing the wood tones and a distinctive style.

5. Use the GarageSkins Visualizer Tool

Not sure what will look best or want to try something daring without impacting your wallet? Try our free visualizer tool at GarageSkins.com. Our imaginator smartphone tool lets you test how different finishes and styles would look on your home—you can even snap a virtual photo and send it to friends and family to get their feedback. It's the easiest way to compare looks and make an informed choice before you buy.

6. Consider Long-Term Style

One of the great benefits of the GarageSkins System is that the panels are removable and replaceable, so you're not locked in forever. However, it still helps to think long-term. Choose a finish and style that you'll enjoy driving up to for many years and that fits with your plans to sell, renovate, or stay. 

 

 

 

Choose with Confidence

All GarageSkins panels, regardless of tone or style, are engineered for durability, weather resistance, and easy DIY installation. So once you've picked your perfect finish and style, you can trust that the system will hold up and look beautiful for years with minimal maintenance.

Upgrading your garage door with GarageSkins is one of the most cost-effective and impactful changes you can make to your home's exterior. By matching style, tone, and environment, you'll ensure the results feel custom-tailored and elevate your entire property.

Want to find your perfect match? If you still have questions about finishes and styles, contact us today, order a Sample Pak to compare finish colors, or visit our site to download our visualizer tool. Then, get ready to transform your home's curb appeal from "yawn" to "yowza" with confidence!