Choosing the right garage door for your home is about more than looks.
The material you choose will affect the door’s durability, the amount of upkeep required, and even potentially your home’s property value.
With so many garage door options on the market, it helps to understand the tradeoffs before making a decision.
Keep reading to learn more about the four most common garage door materials: steel, wood, aluminum, and composite. We’ll discuss the pros and cons of each so you can decide which one is right for your home.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel garage doors are the most popular choice among homeowners. And for good reason.
Pros
- Strong and durable enough to withstand everyday use
- Wide range of styles and finishes, from sleek modern panels to designs that mimic natural wood grain
- Can be insulated to improve energy efficiency and comfort
Cons
- Prone to dents if hit by bikes or vehicles
- Without a proper protective coating, steel can rust in coastal or humid climates
- Heavier than some other options, which can put extra strain on springs and openers if not balanced correctly
Steel doors are a great fit for homeowners who want a long-lasting, versatile option that combines strength with design flexibility. Adding insulation makes them even more practical for attached garages or homes where temperature control is a priority.
In coastal environments, a high-quality protective coating and consistent maintenance are key.
Wood Garage Doors
Wood garage doors are the classic style that never goes out of fashion. They bring warmth, richness, and natural curb appeal that’s hard to beat.
Pros
- Distinctive, high-end look that elevates a home’s curb appeal
- Highly customizable in design, stain, and paint finishes
- Naturally strong and sturdy material
Cons
- Requires ongoing upkeep like sealing, staining, or painting to prevent warping, cracking, or rot
- More expensive than steel or aluminum
- Heavier weight means more wear on springs and openers over time
Wood doors are ideal for homeowners who want timeless beauty and don’t mind a little extra upkeep to keep their garage door looking its best. For historic homes or neighborhoods with strict design standards, wood can be the perfect choice.
Aluminum Garage Doors
Aluminum doors are lightweight and versatile. Their sleek frames and glass panel options make them a popular choice for contemporary homes.
Pros
- Much lighter than steel, which reduces wear on springs and openers
- Rust-resistant, making them especially appealing in humid or coastal environments
- Available with glass panels for a sleek, modern look
Cons
- Easier to dent than steel, so they may not be the best option for busy households
- Not as strong overall, which can mean a shorter lifespan without reinforcements
- Insulation is limited unless upgraded with higher-end construction
Aluminum works well for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance, modern design that resists rust. But in households where the garage door is the main entry point and gets constant use, aluminum may not hold up as well over the long term.
Composite (Faux Wood) Garage Doors
Composite garage doors are made from a mix of materials, including fiberglass, steel, or recycled wood fibers. They’re designed to deliver the look of real wood without the same maintenance demands.
Pros
- Capture the warmth and beauty of wood while resisting warping, rotting, and cracking
- Lighter weight than natural wood
- Can be insulated for energy efficiency
- Low maintenance compared to solid wood
Cons
- Higher cost compared to steel or aluminum
- While realistic, composites don’t perfectly replicate the authenticity of natural wood
Composite doors are a smart choice for homeowners who love the look of wood but prefer something easier to maintain. They combine durability and design appeal, making them a practical middle ground.
Choosing the Right Door for Your Home
Every garage door material has its tradeoffs.
Steel is durable and affordable, but prone to dents. Wood is beautiful but requires consistent upkeep. Aluminum offers a sleek, lightweight option but may not last as long under heavy use. Composite garage doors strike a balance, delivering the look of wood with less maintenance but at a higher cost.
The best choice comes down to your lifestyle, budget, and the overall style of your home.
At L & L Overhead Garage Doors, we’ve been helping homeowners in our community make the right decision for more than 65 years. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons, show you real-life examples, and help you find a door that fits your home, your needs, and your budget.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options.