Original as can B&D: the ideas behind our garage doors
Our story began with Arthur Byrne and Paul Davidson and a small steel-fabrication business. A new idea for a rolling garage door changed its direction. When we introduced the Roll-A-Door at the Sydney Home Show in 1956, it began a connection with Australian garages that continues today.
Our quote form opens on our main B&D website. For a fault, use the service or repair option in this guide; charges are confirmed separately.
From steel fabrication to the Roll-A-Door
Inventor Ben Saul approached Byrne and Davidson in 1955 with the idea of a door made from formed metal sheets that could roll and unroll. We worked to develop that idea into the Roll-A-Door introduced the following year.
The appeal was practical: a curtain that rolled above the opening instead of swinging outward. That approach remains part of the roller-door range, alongside the profiles, guides, controls and security systems developed since. A current door is its own specified model, rather than an unchanged version of the original.
Small improvements that changed everyday use
In 1961 we introduced the Deluxe Centre Lift Lock, bringing the locking point to a more convenient position. In 1968, Nylofelt running strips brought woven nylon and felt to the contact between curtain and guides, supporting smooth, quiet movement without greasing the running strips.
Our history also includes COLORBOND Roll-A-Doors in 1971 and the Controll-A-Door automatic rolling-door opener in 1975. Each step addressed something people experienced in everyday use: appearance, access or convenience.
From mechanical details to connected control
Later developments included pinch-free sectional panel technology, multi-frequency remote controls and smartphone access. We introduced AUTO LOCK in 2016, adding a compatible physical locking system to the range.
These features have different purposes. Pinchfree profiles reduce exposed pinch points but do not make it safe to touch a moving door. Encrypted remote control is different from a physical locking bolt. Smartphone access relies on compatible equipment, connectivity and the required Safety Beams. We help you choose the combination that suits your installation.
Bringing the choice to your driveway
In 2018 we introduced B&D To You, giving customers a way to compare samples at their property where the service is available. Seeing a colour beside your own brickwork, roof and front door helps make the decision more concrete.
The Total Confidence Warranty also launched in 2018. Today it remains subject to the eligible model, purchase, authorised installation, registration, servicing, time and cycle limits. The history of the program is not a blanket warranty for every product or older installation.
The next chapter is your garage
Our current range includes standard roller and sectional doors, designer finishes, compatible smart options and the separate Roll-A-Door Secure system. We’ll measure the opening, discuss how you use it and explain the differences before you choose.
Explore our story, compare residential doors or try the Door Visualiser. We’re still focused on the practical details that make coming home easier.
Talk to us about your garage
Tell us what you have now and what you want to improve. We’ll help you choose the right next step through our dealer network.
