Updated: December 21, 2023
Posted: October 21, 2019
Wooden vs Metal Garage Doors
If you’re looking to replace or install a brand new garage door, you may be stuck for choice and it can be difficult to know what material will best suit your needs. That’s why JB Doors are here to explain the pros and cons of wooden garage doors and metal garage doors. For all you need to know about these ever-popular materials, read on!
Metal Garage Doors
Benefits of metal garage doors:
Durable
Steel garage doors are extremely durable compared to many other materials and they can last the test of time. They offer protection against weathering because they’re water-tight, which means whatever you store in your garage, will be kept safe and free from the outside elements. If you opt for a metal door, it’s likely you’ll hear the term ‘gauge’, the lower the number of the gauge, the stronger and thicker the material. A standard metal garage door will have a 24-26 gauge but you can get gauges as low as 20.
Low maintenance
Steel doors require much less maintenance than wooden doors. Steel will require some maintenance but even less if it has a fibreglass overlay or a polyester top coat – as this reduces dents and dings. If you think your steel garage door requires a little TLC, listen to it and keep an ear open for any scraping noises – if this occurs, the nuts and bolts may need tightening. The mechanisms may be worn, you may have a broken spring, an insulation strip may be damaged, the hinges may need replacing or the door just requires simple lubrication.
If you think your steel garage door requires a little TLC, listen to it and keep an ear open for any scraping noises – if this occurs, the nuts and bolts may need tightening. The mechanisms may be worn, you may have a broken spring, an insulation strip may be damaged, the hinges may need replacing or the door just requires simple lubrication.
Ideal on a budget
Steel garage doors are cheaper to manufacture and install, which means they’re ideal if you’re on a budget. You can save money if you opt for a metal door.
Modern aesthetics
Steel doors are attractive and come in a range of colours and styles.
Drawbacks of metal garage doors:
Requires added insulation
If you wish to use your garage as part of an extension of your home, you will require added insulation. Steel doesn’t offer warmth to the room but insulation can be added easily to make this area habitable. There are different types of insulation including, batt insulation, fiberglass insulation, polyester insulation, foam board insulation and reflective insulation.
Not as energy-efficient
Since you need to add insulation for your garage to remain warm, steel doors aren’t as energy-efficient, unless you add this extra feature. Otherwise, steel doors can off energy-efficiency with the right amount of insulation. You can opt for single, double or triple-layer of insulation, depending on your requirements.
Can dent and rust
Steel doors can dent and ding over time, so you may wish to replace your door sooner, should these damages prove to be unsalvageable
Wooden Garage Doors
Benefits of wooden garage doors:
Luxury
Wooden doors offer homes a touch of elegance and luxury because of their traditional aesthetics. These doors certainly enhance a property’s curb appeal and what’s more, they have the potential to increase the value of it, too. It is much easier to find a wooden garage door that complements the rest of your home.
Variety
They come in countless colours, styles and engravings – which means there’s likely to be something for everyone. With plentiful types of wood, you can choose something truly traditional or something more modern.
Insulation
Thick wood will naturally retain the heat inside your garage – which means you can be flexible when it comes to the use of your garage. Whether you want to use it for storage, a gym, a laundry of games room – you can do as you please because it’ll be another comfortable living area.
Soundproof
Wood is a natural barrier to sound, so if you live in a noisy location or you wish to drown out the sounds of your neighbour’s dog, a wooden garage door is the right way to go.
Drawbacks of wooden garage doors:
High maintenance
Unfortunately, wood needs general upkeep to maintain its lustre but there are many natural treatments that’ll keep it in tip-top shape. Wooden garage doors need to be sanded down, stained or painted every year or so.
More expensive
Wood is costly to manufacture and takes longer to install, so these doors tend to be more expensive than steel ones. That said, their finish is impeccable and once installed, will add grandeur and a seamless finish to any property.
Affected by weather
If you do not keep an eye on your wooden garage door, the weather can deteriorate it quickly. Moisture and cold weather can cause it to crack and expand – so it’s important you keep up with its maintenance.
If you require help and assistance when it comes to garage door insulation or garage door repair – call JB Doors today. We have a wealth of experience within the field and are proud to provide comprehensive services to all customers throughout Nottingham and Derby.
