
Understanding Garage Door Photo Eyes and How to Adjust them
March 10, 2025A garage door is often the focal point of the front exterior of your property. A well-chosen modern garage door can make a house stand out or blend seamlessly into the overall design. With today’s technology tagged with it, you can also enjoy quiet, secure, and convenient operation. Not all properties, however, have these conveniences in style and function. If you’re considering an upgrade, understanding the different styles of garage doors can help you make a choice that fits your home. From modern garage doors to contemporary flush steel options, there are many ways to enhance your garage aesthetic while improving functionality.
Modern Garage Doors
Modern garage doors are sleek and minimalistic. They often are built with flat panels exhibiting clean lines and almost always with simple finishes. When it comes to what colour, black, grey, and natural wood tones are popular choices.
Beyond aesthetics, modern doors add function. Many are insulated steel, helping regulate garage temperatures. This can make a big difference for those who use their garage for storage, hobbies, or as a workspace.
For example, upgrading from an old wooden door to a steel insulated one can increase summer cooling and winter warmth by 8-10 degrees. That difference helps to protect tools, paints, and gardening materials while improving comfort.
Modern doors also pair with smart motors. Brands like LiftMaster can offer quiet operation and apps that allow you to open or close your garage from anywhere. Gone are the days of doors that squeak, slam, or stop abruptly. Today’s motors are quiet, smooth, and reliable. They work just as well with commercial garage doors as they do residential, something to keep in mind if you are a business owner or own a commercial property as well.
Contemporary Garage Doors
Contemporary garage doors often share features with modern designs but tend to be a little more expressive.
Think large glass panels, creative use of texture, and bold colours. Full-vision doors are a contemporary favourite. They allow natural light in while keeping the interior secure. Glass placement can be customized to suit privacy and design preferences.
Contemporary doors may also include mixed materials. Metal, wood cladding, or even custom finishes can be combined to create a distinctive look, not that much different from a modern style.
The key with contemporary doors is balance. A door should enhance the home, not overwhelm it. For example, a bold black flat-panel door can modernize a traditional house without clashing with existing details.
Flush Steel Garage Doors
Flush steel doors are a top choice for many homeowners in Kelowna. They are flat, smooth, and timeless.
Unlike traditional raised panel doors, flush steel garage doors don’t carry the risk of dating a home’s style. Flush doors can be paired with glass inserts, custom colours, and even textures. They are simple yet striking, providing a clean backdrop that works with a wide range of architectural styles.
One of the biggest benefits of steel is durability. Steel doors resist warping, cracking, and fading better than wood. They are also low maintenance and easy to clean. For homeowners looking for longevity and a modern aesthetic, flush steel is hard to beat.
Traditional Raised Panels: When to Upgrade Your Garage Door
Many homes still have older raised panel wood doors. They often squeak, warp, and offer little temperature control. Their look can also automatically date a home, especially if it’s paired with outdated finishes or a long-standing style.
Replacing these doors with modern insulated options can improve comfort, security, and efficiency. Today, even a subtle upgrade can have a big impact.

Customization and Personal Style: Modern Garage Door Options
One of the most exciting aspects of modern garage doors is the level of customization available.
Homeowners can choose from a wide array of colours, materials, and finishes. Some may prefer sleek black panels, while others opt for wood-look textures or full-glass designs.
Your garage doors can also be tailored to the home’s style. Modern craftsman doors, for instance, incorporate subtle panel designs and clean lines to fit a craftsman-style home. Modern-traditional options often use muntin bars in glass to add elegance without being overly ornate. Flush doors can even “disappear” into the façade with cladding that matches siding or paint.
Technology adds another layer of customization that is worth exploring in an upgrade. Smart motors, cameras, and app control allow homeowners to operate their entry gates and garage doors remotely. You can schedule openings, monitor activity, and ensure your garage is secure, all while enhancing your home’s modern appeal. Regardless of where you are in the world, you can manage your garage door via the App. Need to let someone into your home: they can let you know when they arrive, and you can open the door for them.
Choosing the Right Door for Your Garage
When choosing a new garage door, give consideration to its style, function, and durability.
- Consider how the door complements your home’s architecture.
- Decide whether you want glass, panels, or a combination.
- Factor in insulation, security, and ease of operation.
- Don’t forget curb appeal. Your garage door can make a strong first impression if that’s the message you want to send.
If you’re unsure how to proceed with selecting a garage door for your home, it can help to focus on what feels right for the future. Bold colours and textures can be exciting. Sleek flat panels are timeless. Raised panels work if they’re part of a broader, updated look. It’s all up to you. Ultimately, the right door should feel modern, personal, and practical.
Upgrade to Modern Garage Doors with Legacy Garage Doors As Your Contractor
Garage doors are central to a home’s style and comfort. Whether you choose a modern garage door, a contemporary option with glass, or a flush steel design, upgrades can improve curb appeal, temperature control, and convenience.
For homeowners in Kelowna and the surrounding areas looking to explore options, get a consultation, or arrange a professional installation, contact Legacy Garage Doors today. We are happy to answer questions, direct you to possible garage door options, and discuss the ins and outs of your property needs. Our team’s expertise in modern and contemporary garage doors ensures your home will look great while functioning smoothly for years to come with the best in modern garage door design and technology.
Contact us at Legacy Garage Doors to find out more information on where to start in upgrading garage doors.

