A Guide To Pedestrian Access Garage Doors
As the rooms inside modern homes have become smaller and our cars have grown larger, as a population we’ve gradually moved away from using garages to store cars. That’s not to say that people don’t still use them for this purpose, but it’s definitely a minority now.
With this unique set of circumstances, the pedestrian access garage door has steadily grown in popularity. Sometimes referred to as a wicket door, it’s thought the design originated because larger gates on castles and city fortresses required an entrance for people on foot instead of always having to open the full gates.
Now the idea of a smaller door within your garage door is quite appealing for the modern homeowner, since if you’re not keeping a large vehicle inside, you don’t always want to open the entire door. This month at Doormatic Garage Doors, we’re going to talk to you about the benefits of this door type, how they work, where they’re suitable and how secure they are.
The advantages of pedestrian access garage doors
The biggest and most obvious advantage you get with a pedestrian access garage door is the simple and easy route in and out of your garage on foot. Whether you keep tools and other items in there or you use the space as a workshop or home gym, you can come and go quickly without the bother of lifting and operating a full garage door.
Likewise, if you are using the garage to workout in or to spend time on other hobbies, you don’t want your possessions on show for the whole neighbourhood. By having one simple, regular sized door, you can retain your privacy too. Plus, they don’t just keep prying eyes out either — the wind and rain are also kept at bay with this garage door style.
Finally, if you have small children with toys and bikes stored in the garage, a pedestrian access door makes it easy for them to take these items in and out of the garage without needing you to open and close the whole thing each time.
How pedestrian access garage doors open and close
Like your front door, the pedestrian access door in your garage will work in much the same way. You unlock and open the smaller door when you want to get in on foot, locking the door behind you if you’re staying in to do some work. If you need to move larger items in or out of the garage door, you simply unlock the other parts of the full garage door to either be opened on a hinge or raised (with the wicket door closed).
Where are pedestrian access garage doors suitable?
Is a pedestrian access garage door right for you? Here are just some of the scenarios where they’re most suitable:
- For those with a family, needing to enter and exit on foot a lot
- For those using the garage as a gym, workshop or hobby space
- For those without a car to park in the garage
- For businesses with a garage for storage
Are pedestrian access garage doors secure?
Yes. When you purchase a garage door with us at Doormatic, we only provide doors manufactured by the leading brands with security built in. However, if one of the major concerns for you and your family is security, please speak to our expert team and we’ll be able to advise on the right level of locking security when choosing a new or replacement garage door.
You can find out more about the different types of garage door locks in our previous post or use our post on how to better secure your garage door.
Thinking of opting for a garage door with a pedestrian door for extra convenience? Or are you just weighing up your options? At Doormatic, we’ve helped thousands of happy customers find a garage door to suit their property and we’re always happy to help you find the right door too. Wherever you are in Surrey, Kent, Berkshire, Devon, Hampshire, West Sussex, London or Buckinghamshire, call today and get a free, no-obligation quote or book a home visit with our team.
