Side sectional garage doors

When does a side sectional beat an overhead door?

If you have a low ceiling, a beam just above the opening, ceiling storage or a loft hatch you want to keep using, a side-sliding door avoids the ceiling altogether. It needs clear wall space on one side instead.

How much side room is needed?

The door parks along one side wall, so that wall needs to be clear for roughly the width of the door, plus a small amount of side room on the other jamb. Shelving, windows or a side door on the parking wall can rule it out, which is why we look at the whole garage at survey.

Can you use it as a pedestrian door?

Yes. Because the door slides sideways, you can open it just far enough to walk through, which saves having a separate side door.

Is it electric?

Side sectional doors can be motorised with a dedicated operator that runs along the head track. Manual versions are also available.

How does it compare on price?

Side sectional doors are more specialised, so they usually cost more than an equivalent overhead sectional door.

Is it secure?

The door runs in a top and bottom track and locks at the closing edge. Motorised versions are held closed by the drive when shut.

What options are there?

• Electric or manualDedicated side-sliding operator or manual handle and lock.
• Partial openingWalk-through position on motorised versions.
• FinishesMost ribbed, flush and woodgrain finishes, with vertical panel joints.

Key facts

Panels	Vertical, insulated
Parking	Along one inside wall
Headroom needed	A head track only, usually well under 200 mm
Side room	Clear wall for roughly the door width on the parking side
Guide price	from £3,495 inc VAT

Who is it for?

Best suited to garages with very low ceilings, loft storage, beams above the opening or a need for walk-through access.

Do I need permission?

Replacing a garage door does not normally need planning permission anywhere in the UK. The usual exceptions are listed buildings, conservation areas, Article 4 areas in England and newer estates where planning conditions restrict changes to garages. Planning rules by nation →