Learning About Garage Doors

If your garage door is worn and outdated, you are probably thinking about replacing it—and rightly so. While you might be tempted to just slap any old garage door in its place, it probably isn't a good idea. Garage doors are an integral part of your home, so the decision to replace it (and what type you choose) is important. So what is the first thing you should learn about garage doors? Start with the type of materials available.

If you don't know what type of materials are available for garage doors, don't worry. Here are four of the most popular building materials used for garage doors:

1. Metal

Metal is a very popular choice for garage doors. After all, metal is strong. Aluminum and steel are the most obvious choices when it comes to metal doors, as they are the lightest and strongest. If you live in an area that receives a lot of heavy storms or high winds, a metal garage door is ideal for you. Since it is resistant to most weather-related erosion issues, it is easily the best choice and can save you a lot of money when it comes to repairs. Plus, metal is easy to maintain.

2. Fiberglass

Ideal for those who live in areas with drastic temperature changes, fiberglass is another good choice. It's strong and acts well as an insulator, which will help keep your garage door at a more normal temperature regardless of outside weather conditions. It is also resistant to cracking, which is vital in areas that experience high temperature fluctuations.

3. Wood

Another option for many homeowners is wood. It is a traditional material and is quite beautiful. Although it is durable and strong, it does require a lot of upkeep to maintain its strength and beauty; so it might not be ideal for those who cannot perform regular upkeep on it. It is also susceptible to cracking, splitting, and mold, so it does need to be sealed and treated regularly. However, if all maintenance is done on a regular basis these doors can maintain their beauty for several years.

For something a little easier and cheaper, consider wood composite. Crafted from recycled wood, composite wood doors are much easier to maintain. Plus, they are far more resistant to cracking and rotting.

4. Plastic

Finally, plastic is another choice. While it might sound odd, plastic is a great option for many homeowners. It's affordable, durable, and customizable. It's also naturally resistant to rotting; however, it may crack in extreme weather conditions. What sets plastic doors apart though is their sound; they are much quieter than traditional garage door materials, so that can be a huge plus.

As you can see, there are several choices when it comes to garage door materials. If you are thinking about having a new garage door installed on your home, talk with a contractor from companies like Shank Door to learn about what material is best for you home and budget.