Though there can be a mixing of materials, garage doors generally come in 5 different types of materials: Wood, steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl. Each has its advantages, disadvantages, and pricing considerations. Let’s break it all down in a nutshell.
Wood
In terms of beauty, nothing really compares to wood as a garage door material. But be aware this beauty comes at a higher cost. Wood also has more upkeep involved, including repainting and sanding every few years or so. As it ages, wood can also have a tendency to buckle and warp. Wood composite, ideal for large double doors, is a cheaper alternative.
Steel
High quality steel doors are made of 2-layered galvanized steel. There’s less maintenance required, but rust can be an issue. Dents too can be a problem, though there are some DIY repair tricks you can try which work wonders. To minimize dents, 24 to 25 gauge steel is best.
Aluminum
The advantage of aluminum is its lightweight, perfect for extra wide double doors. Today’s doors have gotten much sturdier and dent resistant than what was available just a few years ago, though these heavy-duty frames also tend to be expensive.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass garage doors offer a lightweight and low-maintenance option. It’s resistant to moisture, rot, and pests, making it ideal for humid or coastal regions. Fiberglass overhead doors can mimic the appearance of wood but don’t need the same level of upkeep. They are also energy-efficient and offer good insulation. They are not as sturdy as steel doors and can be prone to cracking upon impact. Fiberglass garage doors strike a balance between aesthetics and practicality.
Vinyl
These doors are great for kids because they are highly dent resistant and much more durable than fiberglass. Their only drawback is design and color scheme can be somewhat limited.