Can four grand buy a multifunctional garage that is home to hobbies and a set of wheels? That’s the challenge greater Philadelphia homeowners face on a new episode of the DIY Network series “Money Hunters,” which airs Wednesday, June 16th at 8:30pm.

Rae and Adina have a detached garage with an interior that’s in shambles, crumbling walls, unfinished ceiling and moldy smell. For $4,000, they would like to transform it into a functional space to support each of their hobbies – and still fit a car. Rae has big bucks tied up in her DIY tools and would love an all weather space where her toys could live year round. Adina, on the other hand, would love a space to house and organize all her gardening goodies. The pair wants a garage that’s not only functional but inspirational. That’s where Clopay comes in.

NJ-based Clopay dealer Hunter Door Service put the finishing touches on the interior/exterior garage makeover by installing a Clopay GalleryâCollection vintage style door with a Dark Oak Ultra-Grain™ finish and a LiftMaster opener.

“Ultra-Grain is a new option for homeowners who like the look of stained wood, but not the upkeep,” says Hunter. “It’s essentially a stained wood look paint finish for steel garage doors and requires no special maintenance beyond standard garage door manufacturer recommendations to wash and rinse the surface periodically.

Ultra-Grain is popular with Hunter’s customers because it’s a less-expensive, low maintenance alternative to high-end wood garage doors, and unlike wood, it won’t rot, warp, crack or separate.

The “grain” runs in two directions, both horizontally and vertically, following the stiles and rails. “This detailing, along with the stucco surface texture on the door, provides a more authentic wood appearance,” adds Hunter.

From Functional to Fashionable – Going Shopping
If you’re in the market for a garage makeover, Hunter offers this advice on the factors to consider when choosing a garage door.

Budget. Like everything, budget dictates options. Garage doors range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the size, materials and design you choose. Even if you have a small budget you can still get a great looking door that is going to enhance the look of your home.

Design. A garage door can be a prominent focal point so it’s worth matching the design of the door to the style of your home. It’s a good idea to visit dealer show rooms and review manufacturer web sites to get a sense of the options available. Clopay offers a web-based Door Imagination System that allows homeowners to upload an image of their house and try on a variety of door styles to find the perfect fit.

Insulation. Doors can be insulated or non-insulated. If your garage is attached to your house you want to purchase an insulated door. This will help reduce utility bills – both in hot and cold weather. An insulated door is especially important if you have a regularly occupied room above the garage. In addition to being more energy efficient, it will also block out noise. Many models qualify for the Energy Tax Credit if purchased and installed before December 31, 2010.

Upkeep. Maintenance is another consideration. Every door needs regular check-ups to maximize its life and reliability. Steel doors are very durable and resilient, but some people prefer the warmth and character of wood. Depending on the climate and exposure, wood doors will need to be painted or stained every few years.

“Money Hunters” Challenges Homeowners to Stay within Their Budget
Each episode of “Money Hunters” challenges a couple to beat their home renovation budget. If the homeowners get the job done in the black, they earn $1,000.00. If they bust the bank, they’re on the hook for the overages, but they’ll still have a fab renovation anyway. And all along, view ers see new products, and learn valuable do-it yourself tricks and money saving tips. So will Rae and Adina celebrate with an extra grand or will they be clipping coupons? Tune in Wednesday night to find out and weigh in on their renovation results.

Resources: 
Clopay Ultra-Grain: Gallery
Money Hunters: www.diynetwork.com/money-hunters/show/index.html
Hunter Door: www.hunterdoor.com