The History of Electric Garage Doors

The garage door industry has changed exponentially over the years. 

Since garages first became commonplace at the beginning of the 1900s to the different types we see today, it’s clear that the industry has come a long way. 

Undoubtedly one of the main developments in garage doors that transformed the sector was the introduction of electricity. 

Nowadays, electric garage doors are commonplace across the country and the wider world. However, this was not always the case. 

In this article, the team at Rollerdor will explore the history of electric garage doors, providing you with everything you need to know about their development. 

The History of Electric Garage Doors

The first garages were introduced in society as a place to store vehicles. As motor cars became more and more commonplace, garages became the solution to safely keep them when not in use.

Simple doors were initially in place that were not too dissimilar to the type of doors used on barns. 

However, as the years progressed, the use of technology and human innovation saw the type of doors begin to change. As mentioned earlier, the introduction of electric garage doors was one of the biggest and most significant developments in the garage door industry.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at the history of electric garage doors. 

1921 – C.G. Johnson makes history

In Lewisville, Texas one of the biggest garage door companies was founded. The Overhead Door Corporation remains one of the biggest names in the garage door industry to this day, and it was here that the brand’s founder, C.G. Johnson, made history.

In 1921 it’s thought that the first-ever ‘upward lifting garage door’ was invented, marking the biggest design change yet. This was closely followed by the first-ever electric garage door opener in 1926 and was also innovated to feature electric operation in roller garage doors and shutters. 

1931 – Two inventors make innovations 

Somewhat surprisingly, in 1931 Popular Science magazine included an article that two inventors in completely different parts of the United States simultaneously invented radio transmitter systems that were used to automatically open garage doors.

The inventors were based in Illinois and Washington and both systems were extremely similar in design and helped to progress the development of electric garage doors.  

1970s – Electric doors become commonplace 

As the decades progressed, electric garage doors started to become the norm, as people realised the range of benefits they could provide to a property. This includes convenience, additional security and, in some cases, increased property value. 

By the 1970s, many households had electric options installed and, while originally considered a luxury item, by the end of the decade many properties had them in place. 

This decade also saw an energy crisis sweep the world, and roller garage doors became the product of choice in most households. The demand for automated options soared as they also became effective insulated products. 

21st century – Automatic doors and smart technology  

Nowadays, electric garage doors are the most popular choice. In fact, there is now a whole range of different automated types available with many products coming with remote controls that mean doors can be opened at just a touch of a button and, often, even without the user having to get out of their vehicle. This includes automated roller garage doors which can be seamlessly operated in this manner. 

As well as this, the increased use of smart technology means that doors can even be voice-activated or via a smartphone app.  

Here at Rollerdor, we’re able to provide our customers across the UK with quality electric roller garage doors that can enhance any property. Extremely functional while also providing your exterior with an aesthetic boost, our team of experts can also supply you with leading installation or DIY options that come with easy-to-understand installation guides. To find out more or get a free quote, contact our team today.