Choose What Your Modern Garage Door Is Made Of For Maximum Curb Appeal and Longevity
Modern garage doors come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. In this guide, we will explore the pros and cons of steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood residential garage doors to help you make an informed decision for your home.
Steel Garage Doors: Durable and Cost-Effective
Steel garage doors are popular because they’re durable. Steel doors can endure severe weather conditions with minimal wear and require very little maintenance over years of ownership. In terms of garage door cost, steel doors are some of the most affordable, depending on size and brand.
The flexibility in design is another benefit of opting for steel. Modern advancements in manufacturing allow for a variety of styles, finishes, and colors that can complement any home, including the highly modern and the timeless classics.
There are a few downsides to steel doors. First, they can be susceptible to dents from impacts, like hail. Steel can also develop rust. However, regular inspections and prompt treatment of any signs of rust preserves your garage door’s function and appearance.
Aluminum Garage Doors Are Lightweight and Rust-Resistant
Aluminum garage doors offer a unique combination of features that cater to homeowners looking for both style and functionality. Their most notable advantage is their resistance to corrosion, making them an ideal choice for areas with high moisture levels. With a long lifespan and minimal maintenance, aluminum doors look fresh and new even when they aren’t.
Like steel, aluminum doors come in a variety of colors and textures, so you can customize them to match your home’s aesthetic. Some even resemble wood, one of the most costly garage door materials. They also have similar downsides; any metal door will be prone to denting.
Choose Fiberglass for Versatile Aesthetics
Fiberglass is the top choice for homeowners who want the warmth and elegance of wood without the price or maintenance. Fiberglass is also highly resilient, unaffected by rust and less prone to denting than its metal counterparts. It requires very little maintenance aside from cleaning.
Because it doesn’t corrode and can withstand harsh conditions, including the temperature fluctuations the Midwest is known for, fiberglass garage doors are extremely popular in Kansas City.
Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and intense heat can fade your door’s finish. In extremely cold temperatures – rare in our area – cracks can form.
Classically Beautiful Wood Garage Doors
Wood garage doors exude a natural elegance that can be rustic, modern, or anywhere in between. With distinct wood grain texture and organic colorways, wood garage doors come with a set of unique responsibilities.
To maintain their charm, wood doors necessitate a commitment to regular care. This includes periodic painting or staining to shield the wood from the elements, which if neglected, can lead to issues such as rot, warping, or termite infestations. The frequency of this maintenance largely depends on factors like climate and the door’s exposure to direct sunlight, with more demanding conditions requiring more frequent upkeep.
While the initial garage door cost might be higher compared to some other materials, and the ongoing maintenance more labor-intensive, the durability of well-kept wood doors can be extensive, often spanning decades. This longevity, combined with the timeless appeal of wood, can make them a worthy investment.
Make the Right Choice
Deciding on the perfect garage door material requires thoughtful balancing of various factors unique to each homeowner’s situation.
- Reflect on the level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to, as well as the initial investment you’re comfortable with.
- The climate in your area plays a significant role, too, influencing the material’s longevity and performance over time.
- Aesthetic preference is another crucial aspect; whether you’re drawn to the sleek and modern appeal of aluminum, the robust and cost-effective nature of steel, the traditional elegance of wood, or the versatile and durable characteristics of fiberglass, there’s a material that aligns with your vision.
Assessing these factors alongside your lifestyle can guide you to the material that not only meets your practical needs but also complements your home’s overall design. By weighing these considerations carefully, you’ll find a garage door that not only enhances your home’s curb appeal but also serves you effectively for years to come. For help finalizing your garage door choice, talk to a reputable Kansas City-area garage door service provider.
