Garage doors do much more than provide your vehicle or other belongings with security and protection from the elements. If you have an attached garage, its door likely is the most prominent single element and the largest working part of the house. As such, it makes a major impact on the appearance and value of your home.

An annual cost/benefit study by Remodeling magazine recently found that replacing your garage door can return nearly 90 percent of the investment. That makes it one of the easiest and most cost-effective home improvements you can make in terms of recouping the cost when you sell the house. It can help promote the sale by making the house stand out with improved curb appeal that will draw in potential buyers.

Many houses are built with the garage and its door sitting directly front and center. So selecting the right garage door to enhance the appearance of the building is paramount. Luckily, today’s quality garage doors can come in almost a limitless number of looks and styles that still will provide top grade security.

When you decide to upgrade the curb appeal of your home, you will find there are four basic types of garage doors. They can swing up, swing out, slide to the side, or roll up.

The sectional roll up style is by far the most popular and typically is the type that new homes come with initially. However, sliding barn doors or sliding carriage-style doors are a choice that will give you a distinctive look and will keep the garage ceiling clear.

There are so many details, including panels, trim, and windows, that can be mixed and matched to give your garage door a distinctive look, no matter the type of door you select. Nevertheless, the type of door you choose should complement the architectural style of your home.

For example, swing-out doors, or roll-ups that have the appearance of swing out doors, would be a good match for a Craftsman-style house. More modern structures can use roll-up sectionals, with frosted or shatterproof glass in the windows to add to the modern look. Ceiling space is another consideration, but there are rail systems available for everything from garages with low headroom to those with cathedral ceilings.

Windows are a positive addition, since they allow sunlight inside and can add to the door’s appearance with the lights on at night. Other details will add to the price of the doors, though those with true panel and frame construction are more sturdy than those with details simply nailed or glued on.

Insulation is one detail that is not apparent on the surface, but which can provide a wealth of savings if the garage is heated or takes heat from the house. Given the size of garage doors, investing in one with insulation should be a no-brainer. The sandwich-style of construction these doors use also make them more durable and will give the garage’s interior a more finished appearance.

In the end, the cost of your garage door will depend on the type you choose and the details that are included. However, no matter the selection, it should cost much less than the added value it brings to your home. A standard door of steel or wood generally runs in the $600 to $1,700 range for a single door setup, while double doors will cost between $800 and $2,500. On the higher end, a custom-made door of exotic woods or heavy duty aluminum can cost as much as $10,000.