What is the best material for a garage door? When you buy a garage door for your home, you may need to make several decisions. But choosing between garage door materials is easy when you look at the benefits of each and which works best for you. Residential garage doors traditionally come in steel, wood, or aluminum. Obviously, their appearances differ. However, each garage door material has its own price point, climate attributes, and aesthetics. Let’s review the three options here.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel doors are popular because of their adaptability, durability, and value for the money. They are also flexible in terms of style. They are available in many design options. You’ll find these doors relatively inexpensive and low-maintenance compared to other materials. If you like the look of wood but not some of its other features, some steel doors come in faux wood to look like wood!
Adding garage door insulation to steel garage doors reduces noise, saves energy in more extreme temperatures, and can strengthen the door itself. They are also lighter in weight compared to wood doors.
The main downfall of steel garage doors is that they are prone to rusting and corrosion. In areas where winter comes with snow, de-icing agents contact the bottom of the garage door, causing rusting. Simply washing your garage door at least twice a year can significantly reduce the potential for rust.
Wooden Garage Doors
Talk about curb appeal. Wood garage doors work best in mild climates, providing a naturally beautiful look. They are also an eco-friendly option. Wood garage doors are available in various customization options, from door designs to the type of wood. You’ll find that garage doors are a popular option for homeowners wanting a unique look. Additionally, they are excellent natural insulators.
Where you may save time and money on insulation, the upfront cost can be steep. These doors require ongoing maintenance to remain beautiful. They can begin to fade, rot, or warp without continued maintenance. Wood garage doors are less prevalent in areas with significant weather changes between seasons or an abundance of moisture, which damages the wood. Also, you should know that wood garage doors can be pretty heavy.
Aluminum Garage Doors
Aluminum garage doors can give your home a contemporary look. They are corrosion-resistant, lightweight, customizable, and won’t warp, crack, or rot like wood doors. The possibility of adding glass panels allows for more light than any other door. Plus, aluminum can withstand sunlight without fading.
For the budget-conscious, aluminum is less budget-friendly than steel, but it is still considerably more affordable than a wooden garage door.
However, especially when compared to steel, aluminum is less durable. In the event of strong winds or hail, dents in the aluminum are challenging to fix.
Choosing The Best Garage Door For You
Climate may determine some of your options, excluding one material or another. However, steel, wood, and aluminum all have pros and cons. You simply need to consider your style and budget. The good news is, there’s something for everyone, depending on what factors are important to you. Door Tech can provide more information and help you choose the right garage door. Once you’ve done so, our professionals can help you install the perfect door safely and efficiently.