The material of your garage door is an important consideration. It plays a huge factor in the door’s functionality and it also affects aesthetics, maintenance, lifespan, and more. 

There are several garage door materials to choose from, but wood and steel are two popular choices. This article will compare wood vs steel garage doors based on factors like security, cost, durability, maintenance, and eco-friendliness. 

Once you finish this article, you’ll be informed and inspired to make this important decision. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Wood Vs Steel Garage Doors

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether you wish to purchase a wood or steel door for your garage. They include: 

• Security: A garage door provides security for your home. It protects the items in your garage. Attached garage doors can also serve as an entryway to your home. 
• Cost: Cost is a consideration in any purchasing decision. Homeowners may not necessarily choose the least expensive garage door. Rather, they will opt for one that offers the best value. 
• Durability: Durability pertains to how long the garage door will last and the amount of maintenance it will require throughout its lifespan. 
• Eco-Friendliness: Environmental homeowners may choose a garage door material based on its biodegradability and how it contributes to the environment. 
• Insulation: Insulation properties determine how well the door maintains a comfortable interior environment. A well-insulated door can cut down on energy use and lower utility bills. 
• Longevity: A high-quality door will withstand the test of time. Replacements aren’t something you want to deal with.
• Beauty: Garage doors play a huge role in a home’s curb appeal. Homeowners should choose a garage door material that is complementary to their home design. 
• Maintenance: Homeowners must consider how often a garage door must be maintained and the type of maintenance it requires. Generally, the less maintenance the garage door needs, the better. 

Pros and Cons of Wood Garage Doors

Wood garage doors offer various advantages and disadvantages. Here are some to consider. 

Pros of wood garage doors: 

• Beauty: Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and many homeowners prefer the classic beauty and elegance of a wood garage door. 
• Eco-Friendly: Wood is an organic material. It is biodegradable and it will not emit chemicals into the atmosphere.
• Insulation: Insulated wooden garage doors will keep cold and warm air in the home to conserve energy.  The material’s natural properties and added insulation will reduce reliance on your heating and cooling systems and keep energy bills low. 
• Longevity: Wood garage doors withstand the elements. With the proper maintenance, they can last 15 to 30 years. 

Cons of wood garage doors:

• Expensive: Wood garage door costs can be a disadvantage. They are known for being pricey while steel doors are a more affordable option. 
• High Maintenance: Wood garage doors must be maintained to prevent rot and minimize fire risk. Waterproof paint can help protect your door, but applying it can be a time-consuming task. 
• Security Issues: Wood is a highly durable material that is not easy to compromise. However, it may not be as durable as steel. 

Pros and Cons of Steel Garage Doors

Steel garage doors also offer their share of pros and cons. Here are some to consider. 

Pros of steel garage doors: 

• Cost: Steel garage doors vary in price, but they are generally less expensive than wood garage doors.
• Security: Steel garage doors are very difficult to destroy or tamper with. They are an excellent choice for home security. 
• Maintenance: Steel is very durable and extremely resistant to warping, cracking, and weather damage. It will not require much maintenance during its lifespan. 
• Eco-friendliness: Steel is not biodegradable like wood, but its durability makes it one of the most recycled materials in the world. Manufacturers have also cut down on carbon emissions during production. 
• Longevity: Like wood, a well-maintained steel garage door can last 15 to 30 years. 

Cons of steel garage doors: 

• Beauty: Steel garage doors can be an attractive addition to an industrial-style home, but most homeowners agree, nothing beats wood’s timeless appeal. 
• Insulation: Steel garage doors are often insulated to put less strain on heating and cooling systems. However, the material does not have as much natural insulation as wood. 

Raynor is Your Source for High-Quality Wood and Steel Garage Doors

Wood and steel have their share of pros and cons. Steel is generally preferred for its durability and affordable pricing, but wood has a beauty that boosts curb appeal and can increase home values. 

However, there is no clear winner here. The one you choose should be based on your individual needs and preferences. 

Raynor Door Authority is your choice when you are ready to buy. We provide a wide range of steel and wood garage doors. We offer personalized advice to ensure you make the right choice for your home. 

Contact us to learn more about our high-quality products and services.