Your garage serves as more than just a space to park your car or store boxes of forgotten treasures. It’s an extension of your home’s character, and just like any other room, it deserves attention when it comes to aesthetics.
While garage doors have come a long way in terms of design and customization, the tracks that facilitate their smooth operation often remain a functional eyesore.
If you’re looking to transform your garage into a seamless, stylish haven, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore ingenious ways to hide those unsightly garage door tracks without compromising on functionality or safety.
Hiding Garage Door Tracks
Hiding garage door tracks can be done for aesthetic reasons or to improve the overall appearance of your garage space. Here’s a general guide on how you might go about hiding garage door tracks:
1. Use a Track Cover
One of the easiest ways to hide garage door tracks is by using a track cover or casing. These are typically made from materials like PVC, vinyl, or metal.
They are designed to fit over the existing tracks and rollers, giving a clean and finished look to the garage door system.
2. Paint or Camouflage
You can try painting the tracks to match the color of the garage door or the surrounding walls. This can help them blend in and become less noticeable.
Another option is to use camouflage techniques, such as covering the tracks with a textured material that mimics the appearance of the wall.
3. Build a Cover Box
Constructing a cover box is a more involved option but can provide a seamless look. Build a wooden or metal box that encloses the tracks and rollers.
This box can be attached to the ceiling or the wall above the garage door. Ensure that the cover box doesn’t interfere with the operation of the garage door.
4. Install a Bulkhead or Valance
A bulkhead or valance is a decorative panel that’s installed horizontally along the ceiling, in front of the tracks.
This can be made from wood, metal, or another suitable material. It can help obscure the tracks while adding a stylish element to the garage.
5. Use Curtains or Drapes
For a more unconventional approach, you can install curtains or drapes on either side of the garage door.
This not only hides the tracks but also adds a touch of personality to your garage. Just ensure that the curtains don’t interfere with the garage door’s operation.
6. Consider a Trackless System
If you’re planning a major renovation or installation of a new garage door system, you might want to explore trackless garage door options.
These systems use different mechanisms, like side-mounted tracks or vertical lift systems, that don’t require visible horizontal tracks across the ceiling.
7. Consult a Professional
If you’re unsure about how to proceed, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional. A garage door technician or a contractor can provide expert advice and assist with the installation of any modifications you’re considering.
Remember that any modifications you make should not compromise the functionality of your garage door system or pose safety risks. Always prioritize the proper functioning of the door and the safety of your family and belongings.
How to Hide the Rails of Garage Doors?
The presence of a garage on a property is desirable, whether it is attached to the house or freestanding. For opening and closing the garage door, rails are attached to the interior, which provide a track.
This setup may appear too industrial and unattractive to some homeowners. The rails of your garage doors can be hidden by installing a fabric ceiling, which is quick and cost-effective.
Things You’ll Need
- Measuring tape
- Fabric
- Staple gun
Step 1
To account for the height of the rails, measure across one garage door rail to the other. The garage door rails should be measured as well as an additional three feet on either side. For future reference, write down the numbers.
Step 2
Take the fabric and cut it to the dimensions noted in Step 1. When working in the garage, choose a fabric that is thicker, such as velvet or canvas.
Step 3
Spread the fabric out underneath the garage door rail setup and remove any vehicles or items from the garage. Make sure the fabric orientation matches the rail orientation.
Step 4
You will need to staple a corner of the fabric to the ceiling above one of the garage door rails in order to attach it to the ceiling. Attach the fabric in all four corners by repeating this process.
Step 5
In order to complete the installation, staple the fabric to the ceiling around the perimeters of the garage door rails.
Final Words
With a fabric ceiling, you can easily conceal garage door tracks. You can make your garage look more attractive and subtle by doing this.
It is possible to add a ceiling only to the track part, which can be cost-effective. For a more subtle look, you can also add a ceiling to the whole garage.
