An overhead door, commonly known as a garage door, is a large, motorized or manually operated entryway designed for vehicles and storage access in residential or commercial garages. These doors consist of multiple panels, hinged together, which run on tracks or rails affixed to the garage's ceiling and walls. When opened, the panels slide upwards, retracting horizontally into the garage's interior, thereby maximizing the available space. Overhead doors come in various materials, including wood, steel, aluminum, and fiberglass, and can be customized in design, insulation, and window options. Their primary function is to provide security, weather protection, and aesthetic appeal to a property.

The history of garage doors can be traced back to the early 20th century, coinciding with the rise of automobiles. Initially, carriage houses with outward-swinging wooden doors were adapted for vehicle storage. In the 1920s, C.G. Johnson invented the sectional overhead garage door, enabling efficient use of space and easier access.

The subsequent invention of the electric garage door opener in the 1930s revolutionized convenience and security. Over the decades, garage doors evolved in materials, designs, and functionalities, incorporating steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and insulation. Today, they offer improved security, energy efficiency, and aesthetics, catering to diverse architectural styles and preferences.

Overhead doors, often seen in garages, are gaining both style and smarts. Today's models can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing remote access and monitoring. Materials like tempered glass or frosted panels add a sleek look, transforming once-plain garages into design focal points. Insulation advancements ensure better temperature control, saving on energy bills. With homes becoming smarter and more design-conscious, overhead doors will continue to elevate both the function and curb appeal of our homes.