Sneaky $20 Garage Upgrade With Magnetic Hardware?
New garage in under 10 minutes? Yes, please!
Is your garage making your house look outdated? You could replace it, but a new 2-car garage door can put you out several thousand dollars these days – yikes!
Fortunately, there is a cheap and easy way to update your home exterior that will trick your neighbors into thinking you've just splurged on fancy, expensive upgrades. Imagine their faces when you coyly reveal that you upgraded with...magnets?
Magnetic hardware is becoming increasingly popular - and for good reason! It's affordable, easy to install, and looks great.
What is magnetic hardware and what are the benefits?
(Image Credit - Cre8tive Hardware at Wayfair)
Magnetic hardware is a type of decorative hardware made of magnets that attach to your garage door. They come in a variety of styles, ranging from simple to ornate to match the style of your home. Popular options include fake handles and hinges, faux windows, and decorative clavos.
The benefit of magnetic hardware is that it is much cheaper than replacing your entire garage door but it will look like you shelled out for a high-end or even custom installation.
It's also super quick and easy to install, with no tools, no drilling, and not even adhesive required! Magnetic hardware is virtually impossible to screw up, so you can fearlessly take on this project by yourself without the fear of messing up your existing garage door. Phew!
Does it look fake/cheap?
(Image Credit - GlamourHardware at Etsy)
It sounds too good to be true, and we're not going to lie – some of the styles definitely look cheap and fake, so read the reviews. But if you take your time to find a style that matches the rest of your home's exterior, and order from any retailer other than Wish, no one will be the wiser.
Something we really love is that unlike actual windows (which can pose a security risk for nosey burglars on the prowl for their next target), these magnetic squares look just like shaded windows from the street and you really can't tell the difference unless you're up close trying to peek through them.
Just like all exterior features that are continuously exposed to the elements, eventually, the magnets may start to show signs of age and need to be cleaned or replaced; but at only $20 for a full set, that won’t be an issue!
How hard is it to install?
(Image Credit - Cre8tive Hardware at The Home Depot)
As we said, installation is a breeze. Just make sure that your garage door is clean and dry before attaching.
If your garage door is paneled (the most common builder-grade style, with the squares), feel free to just eyeball the magnet placement. All you have to do is slap the magnets on, and you'll have a beautiful-looking garage in just a few minutes!
For the perfectionists, you can measure and line up the magnets using blue painter's tape to ensure everything is flawlessly lined up.
Is it easy to remove?
(Image Source - DURA-LIFT on Amazon)
Yes...but also, no?
The faux hardware is made with strong magnets that will stay in place through rain, wind, and constant movement of the door opening and closing throughout the day.
However, if one of the pieces is applied a bit crooked, it's no biggie. Simply peel up from the corner and reposition it as many times as you want until it's exactly where you want it.
We can't guarantee the magnetic hardware will survive a Category 5 hurricane or that the kids won't be tempted to play with them (psst! Get them their own!), but other than that, these magnets should stay put through typical wear and tear.
Where can I get it?
(Image Source - WINSOON on Amazon)
You can find garage door magnetic hardware at most home improvement stores, though you may need to check their website because this item isn't always available for purchase at the physical store.
You can find tons of options on Amazon (usually the least expensive), Lowe's, and even Wayfair. Just be sure to double-check that what you're ordering is magnetic and not the kind that is vinyl adhesive or requires screws!
Final Thoughts
(Image Source - The Honeycomb Home blog)
Now that you know all about magnetic garage door hardware, it's time to take the plunge and upgrade your garage – without breaking the bank! Let us know how it goes by posting a picture of the final result on our Facebook page for a chance to be featured.
Really want to crank up the curb appeal? Painting your existing garage door is an inexpensive way to freshen up the whole look of your home's exterior and make that new magnetic hardware look even better. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.