Wood. The classic choice for garage doors. It’s undeniably stylish, but just how practical is it compared to its modern counterparts? Let’s take a closer look at steel vs. wood garage doors.
Steel is an incredibly durable material for garage doors, meaning it can withstand adverse weather, such as heavy winds, hail, and rain. This makes steel garage doors the clear choice for harsher climates. Not to mention that steel offers excellent resistance to daily wear and tear, making it a smart choice if you use your garage as a workshop.
Wooden garage doors are naturally strong. Scratches can be repaired fairly easily. However, wooden garage doors are more vulnerable to adverse weather. Changes in temperature and increases in moisture can cause the wood to warp and split.
Steel is strong but susceptible to rust. Regular cleaning is important to prevent it, especially if you live in a coastal area where salty air can hasten corrosion. You can provide added protection against it by applying corrosion-resistant coatings.
One of the biggest drawbacks of wood is the maintenance. Wooden garage doors typically require a yearly treatment, which involves sanding, restaining, and resealing to protect against moisture, pests, and UV damage.
Steel is inherently strong and resistant to forced entry. Many modern steel garage doors have advanced features, such as smart locks and security sensors, to strengthen security.
Wood doors are solid and heavy, which makes them an effective defense against intruders. For extra security, it’s best to add high-quality locking systems and hardware to your garage doors.
Steel offers a modern and sleek appearance – but don’t rule it out for traditional designs. Steel doors can be textured to look like wood grain and customized with different finishes. It’s this versatility that makes steel a popular choice for garage doors.
People choose wooden garage doors for their warm and traditional appearance. Whether crafted from cedar, redwood, or mahogany, wooden garage doors are highly customisable. Choose from a variety of colors, stains, or wood tones to match your style. You can even carve intricate designs into wood doors - giving them a sense of craftsmanship you simply can't get from other materials
Steel garage doors are versatile and have insulation options to suit various climates. They typically have a layer of insulation sandwiched between the outer layers of steel. Insulated steel doors are particularly effective at maintaining a stable temperature and reducing energy costs.
Wooden doors offer a degree of natural insulation due to their heavy nature. However, this depends on the door’s thickness. Solid wood tends to offer better insulation than hollow or composite doors, but this can be costly. Like other garage doors, you can add extra insulation to up the thermal efficiency. Not to mention wood acts as an effective sound barrier.
Deciding between a steel vs wood garage door isn’t clear-cut. Here are some key considerations if you’re unsure.
Choose steel if:
Opt for wood if:
In the case of steel vs. wood garage doors, it’s clear that each material has its own distinct advantages. So, will you choose low-maintenance steel or charming wood? The answer to that hinges on your location and personal preferences.