Side hinged garage doors, sometimes called side hung garage doors, are a traditional style of garage door made up of two outward-opening leaves, hinged at either side in a similar way to a standard door.
This design is ideal when your garage is used for more than just parking. One side can be opened quickly for pedestrian access, without needing to open the full door.
Because side hinged doors do not retract into the ceiling, no overhead space is required. This makes them a great option for garages with limited headroom or where the ceiling is used for storage. With minimal moving parts, they’re also straightforward to maintain and built to last.
Hinged stable style garage doors are a fantastic alternative to traditional lifting garage doors with their own unique benefits. The simple, timeless design of side-hinged garages ensures years of trouble-free operation with minimal maintenance.
Timber is probably the material you picture when imagining a side-hinged garage door. It's important to know when purchasing a wooden garage door that there is a huge difference between low-grade wood and more stable varieties that can withstand the weight as a door as well as the constantly changing British weather.
We can offer the classic look of a timber side hinged garage door with the peace of mind that we only utilise long-lasting and durable wood that can withstand the changeable UK climate. Side hung wooden garage doors are extremely attractive and practical if your garage doubles up as a workshop or you use it as an entrance to your home.
Steel side-hinged garage doors are, as well as being exceptionally strong, extremely modern and stylish. We offer a huge selection of steel door styles. Double skinned steel garage doors are the best choice for someone that favours security and can be fitted with additional security upgrades if required.
If you wish we can install thermal insulation into your steel garage door to avoid draughts, save energy and prevent heat loss.
There are numerous benefits to double-leaf garage doors. Side-hinged double garage doors allow easy pedestrian access as one half can be quickly opened and closed again to allow for people to enter. This is perfect if you need to use your garage as an entrance to your home or have a detached garage without a separate door.
It's a common misconception that side hinged garage doors can not be fitted with an electric operator - but in reality, this is actually extremely easy to accomplish.
We can fit your side-hinged garage door with a boom-style swing-arm electric operator that allows you to open and close your garage doors without ever leaving your vehicle.
If your garage door is the only entry point to your garage remember to include a manual release when purchasing your garage door!
We supply garage doors only from established, trusted manufacturers - including Wisniowski. Manufactured in Europe, Wisniowski offer a wide range of garage doors, with custom finishes and smart tech options. Reliable to install and built to last, Wisniowski products deliver outstanding security and energy efficiency — ideal for both homes and commercial use. Wisniowski are a trusted name we’re proud to supply.
Side hung garage doors are very secure by nature as you can open and close them much more easily and quickly than other styles of door. They also offer the benefit of increased privacy as they don't expose your entire garage and belongings to be seen by passersby.
Side hinged garage doors can be some of the most secure available - but only if the main door panels are made of a strong material. If security is your number one priority, side hinged garage doors made from steel are the strongest option, combined with a robust locking mechanism.
Quality hardwood timber and GRP side hung doors can also be secure if they are fitted with a sufficient sub-frame. It is best to consider the security level you would like on your door when it is installed as locks added on afterwards can be more vulnerable and clumsy to use on a daily basis.
Here are some tips to ensure a side hung garage door is the right style for you:
A side hinged garage door is made up of two outward-opening leaves, hinged at either side in a similar way to a traditional door. This design allows easy access without needing to open the full garage.
Yes. Modern side hinged garage doors can be very secure, especially when manufactured from steel or fitted with upgraded locking systems. Steel frames and multi-point locks provide strong resistance against forced entry.
Yes. Side hinged doors can be fitted with an electric swing-arm operator, allowing remote opening and closing. A manual release is also included for safe operation in the event of a power cut.
No. Because the doors open outwards, no ceiling or headroom space is required. This makes them ideal for garages with limited height or where the ceiling is used for storage.
Side hinged garage doors are available in a range of materials including steel, timber and GRP. Steel doors offer maximum security, while timber doors provide a more traditional appearance.
Side hinged doors open outwards, so they may not be suitable for steeply sloped driveways. A site survey will confirm whether this style is suitable for your property.
Yes. One of the main advantages of side hinged garage doors is the ability to open just one leaf for quick and convenient pedestrian access.
With correct installation and basic maintenance, side hinged garage doors can last for many years. Steel doors require minimal upkeep, while timber doors may need occasional repainting or staining.
Yes. When properly fitted, side hinged garage doors provide good protection against wind and rain, with weather seals helping to keep the garage dry and secure.