Choosing the right garage door material is crucial when it comes to enhancing your home’s functionality, aesthetics, and security. With various options available in the market, it’s essential to understand each material’s unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you prioritize durability, insulation, or a specific design, finding the perfect garage door material can significantly impact your property’s overall value and appeal. We will explore different garage doors and provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision about which material is right for you.
Steel
Steel doors offer a sleek and durable solution for homeowners. The best steel garage doors feature two layers of galvanized steel, providing reliable strength and protection against the elements. These doors can be customized to match the look of your home and offer the option of insulation for added energy efficiency. However, it is important to note that steel doors can be susceptible to dents and corrosion in certain environments, so making an informed decision based on your specific needs is important.
Pros
- Low Maintenance
- Durable
- Economical
- Can Choose from Many Style Types
- Cost Effective
Cons
- Not a Natural Insulator
- Can Rust and Corrode
- Could Dent Easily If Thin
Wood
A wood garage door is a classic choice for any homeowner wanting to add a touch of timeless elegance to the exterior of their home. Not only is it gorgeous, but it’s also an eco-friendly option thanks to wood being a renewable resource. Carriage house designs, wood types, and customization options provide homeowners with seemingly endless choices when creating a unique and custom look for their garage door.
Pros
- Rustic, Timely Look
- Apply Overlay Designs
- Can Be Stained, Very Customizable
- Easy to Repair
- Natural Insulator
- Long Lasting
Cons
- Heavy, Especially When Wet
- Needs Regular Maintenance
- Difficult to Open Manually
- Could Warp or Rot
- Pricey
Aluminium
Aluminum doors offer a modern, sleek look with endless design options to fit your style. You can easily customize your door, from window placement to coatings to colors to match your home’s aesthetic. However, it’s important to note that aluminum is a lightweight material that can be susceptible to dents and damage caused by strong winds or flying objects. But don’t let this discourage you from choosing an aluminum door. Adding insulation to the rails can increase the door’s R-value, providing a higher level of thermal protection for your garage.
Pros
- Low Maintenance
- Resistant to Corrosion and Rust
- Customizable
- Lightweight
- Affordable
Cons
- Not As Durable and Can Easily Dent
- Sensitive to High Heat
- A Poor Insulator, But Can Add Insulation
Fiberglass
While fiberglass garage doors may represent a smaller slice of the market, their unique advantages make them a valuable option. Encased in durable aluminum frames, these panels offer greater resistance to dents than their thin steel counterparts. And though fiberglass may not be the best insulator and can fade over time, it excels in salt-water corrosion resistance, a major perk for coastal areas. Plus, with the ability to be painted and customized to match any exterior design, fiberglass garage doors offer both function and style.
Pros
- Do Not Warp or Corrode
- Natural Light in Garage
- Low Maintenance
- Does Not Expand from Temperature Changes
- Affordable
Cons
- Susceptible to Wind Damage
- Can Crack or Turn Yellow Over Time
- Often Need Entire Replacements When Damaged
- Does Not Hold Paints Well
Vinyl
Garage doors are built with a variety of materials, including wood, steel, and aluminum. However, vinyl is a popular choice due to its ability to mimic the look of wood while being less expensive and requiring less maintenance. Made of PVC and plastic, vinyl garage doors are lightweight and easy to install, perfect for those looking for a hassle-free option. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to note that vinyl garage doors are not as strong as other materials and could be damaged by extreme temperatures or sunshine. So, before making a final decision, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
Pros
- Durable
- Low Maintenance
- Resistant to Damages
- Very Affordable
- Resistant to Corrosion and Rust
Cons
- Limited to Colors
- Warp and Develop Holes If in Extreme Weather Conditions
Wood Composite
When it comes to garage doors, homeowners want a product that functions well and looks great. Enter composite garage doors. These doors have a sturdy wood frame that is then covered with sheets of fiberboard. But not all fiberboard is created equal. Better models boast higher-density skins that include realistic overlays and grooves to give the appearance of real wood. But looks aren’t everything. These doors also come with a core filled with polystyrene insulation, making them an energy-efficient option. Composite garage doors are a smart investment for any homeowner with their winning combination of form and function.
Pros
- Similar to Wood
- Durable
- Lightweight
- More Affordable than Wood
- Resistant to Rotting
Cons
- High Maintenance
- Can Chip or Crack
- Difficult to Repaint
John’s Custom Garage Doors Can Help You Choose the Right Material for Your Needs
For over six decades, John’s Custom Garage Doors has been the premier provider of top-quality garage door services to customers in Beaverton and the surrounding areas. From replacements to installations, we offer a wide range of services that are backed by our commitment to quality. We only use high-quality products from trusted brands, ensuring that our customers receive the best possible service and value. Our commitment to excellence has helped us become one of Portland’s longest-standing sources of garage doors. With our industry-leading customer care, our experienced team adheres to the standards that set us apart.
Contact us today for a free work estimate and experience the difference our dedicated team can make for your home.
Garage door services we provide:
- Garage Door Installation
- Garage Door Replacement
- Garage Door Repair Services
- Garage Door Opener Repair
- Commercial Garage Doors and Residential Garage Doors
- Broken Spring Repair
Visit our About Us page for more information about our garage door company.