Garage doors can be made out of several different types of materials, however, there are three popular types. Below we will give you a brief overview of the three most common types of materials used in today’s garage doors.
Real, hardwood garage doors are authentic and sturdy, their durable construction is definitely the most desirable. Wood doors can be made in whatever size you need. However, this type of material often requires frequent repainting or refinishing, especially if you live in a humid area.
Wood doors have a varying price range. The cost of the wood door will depend on specifics of how much wood you use, if it is filled with foam, etc. Wood doors typically offer a short warranty, usually only one year long.
For people looking for a low-maintenance door, metal is probably your best bet. More specifically, steel, because it is pretty inexpensive, but tough at the same time. But, bare steel can start to rust, so you may need to touch up scratches regularly and steel also dents easily.
If you are set on a steel door, you can lower your risk by choosing doors with sturdy 24 or 25 gauge panels instead of the 27 or 28 gauge. Always remember, the higher the gauge number, the thinner the metal. You can also look into getting a steel door with a fiberglass overlay that resists dents and doesn’t rust. Fiberglass still needs periodic repainting or re-staining, though. The good thing about high-quality steel doors is that they may offer lifetime warranties.
The cheaper aluminum doors have more commonly been replaced by sturdier versions with heavy-duty frames and dent-resistant laminated panels. If you can afford aluminum doors, these are considered the most rugged and rust-proof, the top-of-the-line.
There are, however, less expensive aluminum doors that feature aluminum frames and panels made of other materials, like high-density polyethylene. Since this type is so lightweight, it is a great choice if you have a wide, double door because it doesn’t put a lot of strain on the operating mechanism.
Looking to purchase a new garage door for your home or business in the Orange County area? Contact our Garage Door & Gate experts today!