Garage doors are, in many ways, the face of your home, so it's important to make sure you're getting one that suits your style and needs.
There are many types of materials from which these doors can be made, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here's what you need to know about steel, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass garage door materials.
Steel
Steel is the most durable, energy-efficient and easy-to-maintain of all garage door materials. Steel also offers the widest range of styles and colors to choose from, so if you're looking for something unique, then steel might be your best bet.
You'll want to install a steel door if you live in an area that gets lots of snow or rain during the winter months; it's less likely that other materials will suffer damage from these elements. One drawback of steel is that its sensitivity to rust can make it more vulnerable to damage from harsh weather.
Wood
If you're looking for a natural, beautiful door that will last and last, wood is the way to go. The great thing about wood doors is that they can be stained or painted to match your home's exterior color scheme. Another benefit of wood garage doors is their cost—they're much less expensive than steel ones, making them ideal for homeowners on a budget.
However, wood does have its drawbacks as well. Wood doors are more vulnerable to damage from water and moisture than steel, so they must be properly sealed before installation.
Aluminum
Aluminum garage doors are very popular because of their durability, affordability and ease of installation. They're made from extruded aluminum panels that are welded together to form a door frame with a rigid core. Aluminum has excellent thermal conductivity; it cools down quickly in the summer and keeps heat inside your garage during cold winter months.
One problem with this type of door is its vulnerability to denting and corrosion. The best way to protect your aluminum garage door from the elements is to apply an epoxy coating, which can be done during installation or at a later date. You can also buy specially treated doors that come with a protective film already applied.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a composite material that's made from glass fibers and resin. The resin is a polyester polymer that binds with the fibers to form an extremely strong, tough material. Fiberglass is fireproof and insect resistant, and it's used in the construction of boats and airplanes because of these qualities.
However, fiberglass has some drawbacks. It's not as durable as other materials and tends to show wear over time. It also tends to fade in direct sunlight and doesn't hold paint well.
Takeaway
As you can see, there are many factors that you need to consider when choosing garage door materials. Steel is the most durable and affordable option, while wood can be more flexible and energy efficient. Aluminum and glass doors offer great durability as well as easy maintenance. Fiberglass is a good choice if you want something that's both affordable and flexible.
Now that you know what's out there, it's time to decide which material best fits your needs!
The Right Garage Door For Your Home
The right door will make your home more energy efficient and save you money on heating and cooling costs over time. If you want to learn more about how different materials affect the cost of installing a new garage door in your home, Peter and Sons Construction is the company to call.
We offer a wide range of garage door services and are happy to help you find the right door for your needs! If you're in the market for a new door and want to learn more about what's available, contact us today at +1 773-851-3056.