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Side Hinged Garage Doors in Calgary

Insulated Swing-Out Doors with European Engineering — Exclusive Ryterna Technology

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A side hinged garage door (also called a swing-out door, carriage door, or hinged garage door) is a traditional-style garage door with two panels that swing outward from hinges mounted on the door frame—similar to a pair of large exterior doors. Unlike overhead sectional doors that require ceiling tracks and headroom, side hinged doors operate entirely within the door opening, making them the ideal solution for garages with limited headroom, ceiling obstructions, or unique architectural requirements.
At Calgary Garage Door Fix, we’re proud to be Canada’s exclusive Ryterna dealer, bringing you premium European side hinged garage doors engineered for Calgary’s extreme climate. Ryterna’s insulated side hinged doors feature a U-value of just 1.2 W/(m²·K)—significantly better than competitors—making them perfectly suited for our -30°C to +30°C temperature swings. With over 2,500 five-star Google reviews and 32,000+ completed garage door jobs since 2019, we’re the best-rated garage door company in Canada.

Side Hinged Garage Door Specifications

Specification Ryterna Side Hinged Door
Panel Thickness
40mm double-skin steel
Insulation
Freon-free polyurethane (PU) foam
U-Value (Thermal)
1.2 W/(m²·K)
Steel Thickness
0.5mm – 0.7mm per layer
Maximum Size
3m wide × 3m high (standard)
Maximum Leaf Width
1,450mm (57 inches)
Split Options
50/50, 1/3-2/3, or custom
Threshold Options
Sloping, L-shaped, or Flat
Security
Hinge-bolts standard, 3-point lock available
Opening Direction
Outward (std), Inward, or Bi-fold
Automation
Compatible with swing-arm openers
Weathersealing
All-around perimeter rubber sealing
Side Hinged Garage Doors in Calgary
Ryterna Side Hinged Garage Doors in Calgary
Ryterna Side Hinged Garage Doors Calgary
Ryterna Side Hinged Garage Doors

Why Choose a Side Hinged Garage Door in Calgary?

Some competitors suggest side hinged doors “aren’t suitable for Canadian winters”—but that outdated advice doesn’t account for modern insulated European engineering. Ryterna side-hinged doors are specifically designed for extreme climates, and Calgary homeowners are discovering their unique advantages:

Perfect for Low Headroom Garages

Unlike sectional overhead doors that require 110-150mm of headroom plus ceiling tracks, side-hinged doors need zero overhead clearance. This makes them ideal for garages with ceiling obstructions like ductwork, low beams, storage platforms, or vehicle lifts that would prevent a traditional garage door from operating.

Superior Insulation for Calgary's Climate

Ryterna side-hinged doors feature 40mm thick double-skin steel panels filled with Freon-free polyurethane foam, achieving a U-value of 1.2 W/(m²·K)—significantly better than competing brands like CarTeck/Teckentrup at 2.20 W/(m²·K). Combined with all-around perimeter rubber sealing (including between the leaves and at the frame), these doors keep Calgary’s -30°C winter air out and your heated garage comfortable.

Convenient Pedestrian Access

Open just one leaf for quick entry without exposing your entire garage to the elements. This is perfect for garages used as workshops, home gyms, studios, or storage spaces where you frequently need to step inside without driving a vehicle in or out. Every time you avoid opening the full door, you save energy and reduce wear on your garage door system.

No Springs, Cables, or Tracks to Fail

With no overhead track system, torsion springs, or cables, side-hinged doors have fewer moving parts that can wear out or break. The simple hinge-based design means lower long-term maintenance costs and exceptional reliability. The aluminum alloy hinges with roller bearings are adjustable in two directions, ensuring perfect alignment throughout the door’s lifespan.

Technical Features & Options

Threshold Options

Ryterna offers three threshold configurations to match your garage’s use:

Threshold Type Best For Notes
Sloping
Vehicle use (standard)
Optional stainless steel cover
L-Shaped
Workshops, utility rooms
Rebated like the door frame
Flat
Wheelchair/accessibility
80mm wide × 5mm thick

Security Features

Ryterna side-hinged doors come standard with robust security features:

  • Hinge-bolts standard: Prevent lifting or levering the door leaves during break-in attempts
  • Euro Profile lock barrel: Includes 5 keys with built-in top and bottom secure bolts
  • 3-point lock upgrade: Available for doors over 2.1m high—single turn activates one latch plus 3 deadbolts
  • Espagnolette lock: Optional upgrade for the second leaf with high-security solid locking bars

Frame & Construction Options

  • P-shape rebated frame: Standard 2mm thick steel with mitered corners and welded reinforcement
  • Frame with mouldings: Ideal when door is fitted flush with the front wall
  • Tubular frame: 40×60mm rectangular tube for custom installations
  • On-site assembly frame: Flat-packed option for difficult access situations

Opening Configurations

  • Outward opening (standard): Doors swing out from the garage—most common configuration
  • Inward opening: Doors swing into the garage—useful for restricted driveway space
  • Bi-fold opening: Leaves fold in half to reduce swing radius—perfect for short or upward-sloping driveways
  • Left or right hand first: Choose which leaf opens first based on your preference

Side Hinged Door Design Styles

1. Traditional

A timeless classic design perfect for heritage-style homes or conservation areas. Features double-glazed panels (clear, matt, frosted, or tinted) in scratch-resistant acrylic or safety glass. Available in any RAL color or Golden Oak woodgrain. This design meets conservation area requirements while providing modern insulation.

Traditional Side Hinged Garage Door

2. Modern

Sleek, contemporary aesthetics with smooth panels and slim glazed windows that maximize natural light while maintaining privacy. Paired with brushed stainless steel pull handles for sophisticated minimalism. Ideal for contemporary homes and modern architectural styles.

Modern Side Hinged Garage Door

3. Retro

Inspired by old fortress and castle doors, these designs bring nostalgic charm while delivering modern strength, security, and insulation. Available in woodgrain and smooth textures with decorative paneling. Perfect for homeowners seeking vintage, rustic character.

Retro Style Side Hinged Garage Doors

4. Diamond/Chevron Pattern

A true showstopper featuring chevron-patterned panels arranged in a V-shaped formation. When paired with stainless steel windows, this design creates an elegant, high-end statement. Ideal for homeowners who want their garage door to be a focal point.

Diamond Shaped Side Hinged Garage Doors

5. Thermo Insulated Side-Hinged Doors

For those looking to convert their garage into a heated workspace, studio, or utility room, Ryterna offers Thermo doors with insulated aluminum frames and PU foam-filled panels. Available with double-glazed safety glass panels for extra light.
Best for: Garages used as heated spaces or workshops.

Thermo Insulated Side Hinged Garage Doors

Customization Options for a Unique Look

Colors & Finishes

  • Any RAL color: 200+ standard options plus custom color matching
  • Woodgrain finishes: Golden Oak, Old Oak, Light Oak, Winchester, Rosewood, Mahogany
  • Surface textures: Smooth, Woodgrain embossed, Stucco
  • Multi-color options: Frame and leaves can be different colors; handles/hinges can be custom painted

Windows & Glazing

  • 10+ window types: PVC, stainless steel round/rectangular, acrylic panels
  • Double-glazed: All windows are insulated
  • Glass options: Clear, matt, frosted, tinted for privacy
  • Window frames: Can be painted any RAL color or Golden Oak

Decorative Add-Ons

  • Stainless steel appliqués: Tree motifs, half-moon shapes, geometric patterns, or custom designs
  • House numbers: Stainless steel address numbers positioned anywhere on the door
  • Door stays: Spring-dampened stays hold doors securely open
  • Hardware finishes: Hinges, locks, and handles in black, silver, white, or custom colors

Ryterna Color and Surface Samples

Below you’ll find surface and most common color samples, but Ryterna garage doors can also be factory painted to any color according to the international RAL color standard.

When it comes to customization, we’re two steps ahead of the competition. Your brand new garage door can be customized and painted to virtually any color, to perfectly match your design. 

Ryterna Garage Doors by Calgary Garage Door Fix is the next big thing in the city!

Let us bring your vision to life with a new garage door, which will get your neighbour’s jaw dropped.

Ryterna RAL Color Samples
Surface - Woodgrain, Color - RAL9016 Traffic White
Texture - Woodgrain, Color - RAL9016 Traffic White
Surface - Woodgrain, Color - RAL9005 Jet Black
Surface - Woodgrain, Color - RAL8017 Chocolate Brown
Surface - Woodgrain, Color - RAL7016 Anthracite Grey
Surface - Woodgrain, Color - RAL6009 Fir Green
Surface - Stucco, Color - RAL9007 Grey Aluminium
Surface - Stucco, Color - RAL9016 Traffic White
Surface - Stucco, Color - RAL9002 Grey White
Surface - Stucco, Color - RAL3000 Flame Red
Surface - Stucco, Color - RAL 8019 Grey Brown
Surface - Smooth, Color - Winchester
Surface - Smooth, Color - Rosewood
Surface Smooth, Color - Stainless Steel
Surface - Smooth, Color - RAL9016 Traffic White
Surface - Smooth, Color - RAL9006 White Aluminium
Surface - Smooth, Color - RAL9004 Signal Black
Surface - Smooth, Color - RAL7016 Anthracite Grey
Surface - Smooth, Color - Old Oak
Surface - Smooth, Color - Metallic Anthracite Grey
Surface - Smooth, Color - Light Oak

Create a Unified Home Exterior

Ryterna’s made-to-measure approach allows you to create a cohesive exterior design:

  • Matching entry doors: Coordinate your front door with your side-hinged garage door in identical designs, colors, and finishes
  • Walk-through door option: Add an integrated pedestrian door to your side-hinged door for even more convenience
  • Entry doors: Ryterna manufactures matching insulated entry doors with the same design and hardware

Warranty Coverage

Component Warranty Period
Panels (rust-through, foam delamination)
10 Years
Hardware (hinges, locks, handles)
5 Years

Frequently Asked Questions About Side Hinged Garage Doors

How much does a side hinged garage door cost in Calgary?

Side hinged garage doors in Calgary typically range from $$8,000 to $12,000+ installed, depending on size, design style, and customization options. Ryterna side hinged doors are premium European products with superior insulation (U-value 1.2 W/(m²·K)) and are made-to-measure for your exact opening. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your specific requirements, including threshold type, security features, color, and glazing options.

Are side hinged garage doors suitable for Calgary winters?

Absolutely. While some outdated sources suggest side hinged doors aren't suitable for Canadian winters, Ryterna's modern insulated side hinged doors are specifically designed for extreme climates like Calgary's. With 40mm PU foam insulation, a U-value of 1.2 W/(m²·K) (better than many sectional doors), and all-around perimeter rubber sealing, these doors handle our -30°C to +30°C temperature swings without issue. The ability to open just one leaf also reduces heat loss compared to opening an entire overhead door.

What is the minimum headroom required for a side hinged garage door?

Side hinged doors require virtually no overhead headroom—they operate entirely within the door opening using hinges mounted to the frame. This makes them the perfect solution for garages with low ceilings, ceiling obstructions, ductwork, storage platforms, or vehicle lifts. Sectional overhead doors typically require 110-150mm of headroom plus space for tracks, which side hinged doors eliminate entirely.

Can side hinged garage doors be automated?

Yes, outward-opening side hinged doors can be automated using swing-arm conversion kits paired with ceiling-mounted operators. Ryterna's 40mm double-skin insulated steel panels are ideal for automation because they're strong enough to handle the forces involved. Automated side hinged doors include the same safety features as other electric garage doors, including obstruction detection. Note that inward-opening configurations are not recommended for automation due to safety concerns.

What split options are available for side hinged doors?

Ryterna offers flexible split configurations: 50/50 (standard equal split), 1/3 to 2/3, or any custom proportion you prefer. The only constraint is that individual leaf width cannot exceed 1,450mm (approximately 57 inches). Custom splits are useful when you want one larger leaf for vehicle entry and one smaller leaf for pedestrian access.

What's the difference between SH1 and SH2 Ryterna side hinged doors?

Ryterna produces two side hinged door models: SH1 features spring hinges that ensure safe, soft door closing—ideal for residential applications where automatic closing is desired. SH2 features adjustable hinges that allow precise installation alignment and are easily adjustable in two directions for perfect long-term performance. Both models use the same 40mm insulated double-skin panels and security features.

Which threshold option should I choose?

Choose based on your garage's primary use: The sloping threshold (standard) is best for garages used for vehicles—it creates a gentle ramp and can include an optional stainless steel cover for durability. The L-shaped threshold works well for workshops, utility rooms, or hobby spaces where a rebated seal provides better dust and debris protection. The flat threshold (80mm wide × 5mm thick) is for accessibility requirements or when an even drive-through is essential, though it has higher water ingress potential.

Can I get an inward-opening or bi-fold side hinged door?

Yes, Ryterna offers both configurations. Inward-opening leaves swing into the garage and are useful when you have restricted space outside (e.g., a short driveway or public sidewalk). Bi-fold leaves fold in half, dramatically reducing the swing radius—perfect for garages with short or upward-sloping driveways where full outward swing would be problematic. Both options use the same insulated panels and security features as standard outward-opening doors.

How do side hinged doors compare to sectional overhead doors?

Side hinged doors excel in specific situations: they require no overhead clearance, have no springs/cables/tracks to maintain, allow single-leaf pedestrian access, and meet conservation area requirements. Sectional doors are better when driveway space is limited (since they don't swing outward) and are generally easier to automate. Both can achieve excellent insulation with Ryterna products. We recommend side hinged doors for workshops, garages with ceiling obstructions, heritage homes, or frequent pedestrian access needs.

What security features come with Ryterna side hinged doors?

Standard security includes hinge-bolts (prevent door lifting/levering), a Euro Profile lock barrel with 5 keys, and built-in top and bottom secure bolts that latch into the frame. Upgrades include 3-point locking for doors over 2.1m high (activates one latch plus 3 deadbolts with a single key turn) and an espagnolette lock for the second leaf with high-security solid locking bars. All locking mechanisms are concealed from outside view.

How long does installation take for a side hinged garage door?

Side hinged garage door installation typically takes 4-6 hours. This includes removing your old door, installing the steel frame, hanging the pre-assembled door leaves, adjusting the hinges for perfect alignment, installing locks and hardware, and setting up weathersealing. Ryterna doors arrive pre-hung with factory-fitted furniture, which significantly speeds up installation compared to other brands.

Get Your Free Side Hinged Door Quote

Ready to explore side hinged garage doors for your Calgary home? Whether you need a low-headroom solution, want the convenience of pedestrian access, or simply love the traditional carriage-house aesthetic, our team can help you design the perfect door.

Call us at (403) 990-9536 or request a free consultation online. We serve Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Chestermere, and surrounding areas.

As Canada’s exclusive Ryterna dealer and the country’s best-rated garage door company with over 2,500 five-star Google reviews, Calgary Garage Door Fix brings you European engineering that competitors simply cannot offer.

Related Pages

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Stan Klugman

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Stan Klugman | Founder, Calgary Garage Door Fix
Stan has over 15 years of experience in the garage door industry and has personally overseen more than 32,000 residential and commercial repairs across Calgary. Calgary Garage Door Fix is a BBB-accredited business and holds registered trademarks in both Canada (TMA1352082) and the United States (98141232).

Last Updated 2026-01-09

Side Hinged Catalog