Whether you’re in search of a new door or you’re just curious about your existing system, it’s helpful to know what your garage door is made of. Garage doors come in a variety of materials, each with its own set of benefits. Check out the details on your garage door material.
Steel
When you think of a standard garage, a steel door is probably what comes to mind. Steel is the most common material used for garage doors. It’s very versatile and durable and is available at a number of different price points. One factor to keep in mind when shopping for a steel door is the gauge. The lower the gauge, the thicker the steel is. Your steel garage door will be at top performance when combined with quality insulation.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Customizable
- Different price points
- Low maintenance
- Can be insulated
Cons
- Susceptible to dents
- Prone to rust
Aluminum
Another common option among garage door materials is aluminum. Aluminum is very lightweight and offers qualities similar to steel, but aluminum is more susceptible to denting. Aluminum frame doors look excellent with glass panes and can be used in different multi-purpose settings. If you use your garage as an art studio, workshop, or greenhouse, an aluminum frame door will help maximize your natural light and create a seamless transition between your indoor and outdoor spaces.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Modern appearance
- Works well in indoor-outdoor areas
- Customizable
- Practical solution for extra wide doors
Cons
- Susceptible to denting
- Prone to rust
- Not well insulated
Wood
The most luxurious of garage door materials, wood offers a warm, traditional look that stands apart from its metal competitors. On top of a beautiful aesthetic appearance, wood offers durability and natural insulation that are rivaled by none. Wood doors are an elegant touch to the exterior of any home, but they come with a premium price tag and require significant maintenance.
Pros
- Gorgeous aesthetic
- Durable
- Natural insulation
- Customizable
- Won’t rust
Cons
- Typically the most expensive door material
- Requires significant maintenance
- Susceptible to rotting
Fiberglass
Though it doesn’t represent a major portion of the garage door market, fiberglass can be an effective option for those looking for a lightweight yet study door. Fiberglass is an excellent choice for those in areas with mild climates, particularly along the coast. Because it isn’t metal or wood, fiberglass is not susceptible to rust or rotting like its competitors and thus is a useful material in areas with heavy moisture.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Not susceptible to rust
- Not affected by moisture
- Customizable
- Can mimic wood
Cons
- May fade over time
- Not ideal for cold climates
- Not particularly sturdy
If you’re ready for a new garage door, contact WD Door. The experts at WD can help you determine the garage door material, style, and model that is best for your Iowa home. Our outstanding line of residential garage doors makes it easy to find a door that’s right for you. From repair to replacement, count on WD for your garage door needs!