Your garage door has a major impact on the look of your home. Choose a style that complements your architecture. Factors to consider include climate, maintenance preferences, and energy efficiency.
Simple designs and sleek finishes work well for modern homes. Frosted or pebbled glass doors add interest and charm. Contact JCTZ Garage Doors now!
Steel garage doors provide homeowners with value by resisting dents, rust, and other damage while requiring minimal maintenance. They are also more robust and heavier than many other types of garage doors, making them harder to break into – a benefit that increases security. They are available in a variety of styles and finishes, from traditional raised panels to faux wood grain overlays and modern designs. Customization options include windows, insulation and decorative hardware.
Unlike wood, which requires regular staining and oiling to protect it from the elements, steel garage doors can be painted or finished with a protective coating that repels dirt and moisture for a long-lasting, attractive look. Some manufacturers use galvanized steel to make their garage doors corrosion-resistant, helping them hold up against harsh weather conditions and heavy traffic.
The thickness of a steel garage door affects its strength and durability, and the thicker the steel, the stronger it is. Most steel garage doors feature 24-gauge steel and a polyurethane or polystyrene foam core, which improves energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer and air movement. The insulated layer also helps regulate the temperature in the garage, protecting vehicles and tools from extreme cold or hot weather.
A steel garage door may also be layered with fiberglass or polystyrene, increasing its R-value (the higher the R-value, the more insulating power). These insulated doors are lightweight and help reduce outside noise while providing extra protection for cars and other objects stored in the garage.
Homeowners can choose from a wide range of panel design options for their new steel garage doors. Some popular choices include flush panels, short and long raised panels and carriage house style panels. The panel design can have a significant impact on appearance, strength and insulation value.
Adding windows to a steel garage door is a great way to increase natural light in the garage, as well as enhance curb appeal and create a more inviting space for guests. Depending on the homeowner’s preferences, windows can be clear or tinted for added privacy and style.
Steel garage doors are extremely versatile and come in a range of colors to complement any home. They are very durable, withstanding hail damage and heavy winds without denting or warping. They are also highly weather resistant and will not rust, meaning they can be left out in all seasons without worry. These benefits make them an excellent choice for any homeowner who wants to add a stylish and functional addition to their property. Clopay offers an extensive line of steel garage doors in various sizes, insulating levels and color options to fit any homeowner’s needs. To see our full selection, visit us online or find a Clopay dealer near you. We’ll be happy to show you all the ways our steel garage doors can enhance your home.
Wood
Often considered the epitome of elegance, wood garage doors provide a timeless aesthetic that can complement a variety of architectural styles. They also add value to your home, and are the only type of garage door that can be stained or painted for a unique look. However, real wood doors are a significant investment and require regular maintenance to prevent damage and rot.
While many manufacturers make their least expensive wood doors from plywood, the higher-end options are made with a wooden frame and panels that include mahogany, hemlock or redwood. These types of wood doors are more durable and offer a more attractive appearance, but they also come with a much higher price tag.
Wood garage doors are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, which means that they can be customized to fit your specific style and preferences. You can choose from several window and panel designs, as well as stains that match your color scheme or complement your home’s natural colors. Some manufacturers even offer a selection of specialty add-ons such as faux windows, decorative hardware and accent pieces.
One of the biggest drawbacks of a wood garage door is that it requires regular maintenance to prevent damage and rot. Your manufacturer will treat your wood door to make it resistant to rot, insects and warping, but you’ll still need to perform routine inspections. These inspections should include checking for signs of rot and moisture absorption, as well as looking for termite activity and wood-boring beetle holes. You’ll also need to re-stain your door regularly to protect the wood and maintain its beauty.
Because wood reacts to environmental changes, it’s not the best option for homeowners living in wet or humid climates. High levels of humidity can cause wood to absorb moisture, which can lead to swelling or rotting over time. In addition, extreme temperatures can cause wood to expand and shrink faster than other materials, which can create problems with the door’s structure and hinges.
The good news is that modern wood garage doors are generally more moisture-resistant than their predecessors, and there are now plenty of eco-friendly manufacturers that take sustainability seriously when sourcing wood. This makes them an excellent choice for homeowners concerned about their carbon footprint.
Ultimately, the pros of real wood outweigh the cons for many homeowners. If you’re willing to commit to the necessary maintenance, a wood garage door will provide you with years of beauty and charm. However, if you’re looking for a more low-maintenance option, consider a steel or fiberglass garage door. These doors are also more energy efficient than traditional wood doors. So if you’re worried about escalating utility bills, you may want to opt for another type of door. You can also find doors that are insulated during manufacturing for added efficiency. If you’re in the market for a new garage door, be sure to compare all of your options to find the perfect one for your home.