Choosing the right material for a garage door for your residence or commercial business can be a daunting decision – there are various options available, ranging from steel, wood, aluminum, and glass. At Consolidated, we are experts in choosing the right material to enhance your space. Here is everything you need to know about the wide selection available for your garage door needs.

Steel

Steel garage doors are often the most popular due to their durability, strength, and low maintenance. They are economical and available in various designs and colors, making them a versatile option for any property. Steel doors are energy efficient and can withstand harsh weather conditions, from strong winds to heavy rains, and are even fire-resistant. Insulated steel doors offer the highest R values for insulation and higher STC values for sound.

Wood

Wood garage doors offer an elegant look to any property. They are versatile, customizable, and can be painted or stained to match the exterior of the building. However, they require more annual maintenance to maintain the finish so they can endure adverse weather conditions such as fading from southern sun exposure or excess moisture, wood-boring pests, or natural aging.

In areas with high fire risk, wood doors are still an option. The Wildland Urban Interface fire rating in California requires new construction projects and remodels to meet certain fire-resistance standards. These can be accommodated by additional layers of wood, and windows with an insulated tempered glass option. Our expertise and experience in navigating WUI code help put our client’s minds at ease.

Glass and Aluminum

Glass garage doors are a popular and contemporary option for various types of buildings and architectural styles. They provide natural light and enhance the aesthetic appeal of the property. They are also energy-efficient and low maintenance, and can be customized to match your home, with options to powder coat the frames or meet specialty glazing specs. They aren’t as suitable in areas with extreme temperatures, as they offer less insulation.

Aluminum doors are lightweight, low maintenance, and offer a sleek and modern look to your space. They are rust-resistant and can withstand harsh weather conditions, and are appropriate for coastal properties. However, they may not be durable as steel and may dent or scratch more easily.

When choosing the material for your garage door, you have a lot to consider. The climate, cost, level of maintenance required, the aesthetic appeal, and the level of security needed are all factors you should keep in mind when making a selection. Fortunately, at Consolidated, we are experts in assessing these factors and helping you make the right choice for your home or business. We are proud to offer a premier selection of quality door manufacturers to create a sleek look for your home. Reach out today to get started!