Up-and-Over Canopy Door
Typically, these doors are designed for single-width openings (generally under 9 feet / 3 meters). The door itself is composed of a single, rigid panel crafted from metal, timber, or fiberglass. It commonly features an overhead spring system with cables. The tracks for its rollers are usually oriented vertically. When fully open, approximately one-third of the door protrudes outside, creating a distinct “canopy” effect, which gives this style its name.1
Up-and-Over Retractable Door
These doors are suitable for both single and double-width apertures. Like their canopy counterparts, they consist of a single, rigid panel made from materials such as metal, timber, or fiberglass. Their spring mechanisms are positioned at the sides. The roller tracks are typically horizontal, extending inward into the garage, and are generally affixed at head height on the door frame. Upon opening, the entire door retracts completely into the garage space.2
Sectional Door
This door design is typically divided into three or four horizontal sections that ascend as the door opens. The tracks begin vertically, then gracefully curve into horizontal runs near the top of the door opening. When fully open, the sectional door slides along these horizontal tracks. In its open position, the door rests parallel to the ceiling, positioned at a higher point than the actual door opening, maximizing clearance.3
Roller Door
A roller door is characterized by numerous narrow horizontal sections, each usually only a few inches in height. As the door operates, these sections move upwards and tightly coil around a compact cylindrical drum situated directly above the door opening.
Sliding Garage Door / Accordion Style Door
This door type is constructed from multiple vertical sections. It incorporates wheels along its bottom edge, enabling it to slide horizontally for opening. Typically, a channel set into the ground guides both the door and its wheels. Additionally, a track above the door securely holds it in place. As the door slides to the side, the overhead track bends, allowing the door to ultimately rest parallel to the adjacent wall. In an accordion-style variant, these vertical sections fold compactly together, resting to the side beyond the garage opening.