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Steel garage doors
Average price: $700–$1,200
Steel doors are the most common choice for modern homes, often with insulation sandwiched inside. This makes them strong, low-maintenance, and good at keeping your garage temperature stable.
If you live in a wet climate or want a durable option that resists stains, a steel garage door would be a good option.
Also, steel garage doors are lighter than solid wood. However, if the finish is damaged, exposed steel can rust over time, especially in salty coastal environments.
Pros
- Cost-effective compared with real wood
- Low maintenance — doesn’t need frequent refinishing
- Good for insulation; reduces energy loss when insulated
- Resistant to pests and rot
- Wide range of styles and modern color options
Cons
- Can dent from impacts (cars, stray tools)
- Scratches can show and may require repainting or touch-ups
- Bare steel can rust over time
Wood garage doors
Average price: $1,200–$2,500
Wood doors bring a warm, classic look that really changes a home’s curb appeal. It’s available in solid wood or wood overlay on a base of engineered materials.
If your home has traditional, craftsman, or carriage-house styling, wood garage doors are definitely a fitting choice. It’s also a good option if you want a door that’s easily customized by staining or carving.
However, since wood is heavier than many alternative materials, you’ll need more durable springs and a high-powered automatic opener.
Wood also reacts to moisture and temperature changes. Without proper sealing and maintenance, it can warp, crack, or swell.
Pros
- Rich, authentic appearance that boosts curb appeal
- Easily customized with stains, paints, or carved details
- Can increase perceived home value
- Good for matching existing wood trim or architectural details
Cons
- Higher maintenance, periodic staining or painting required
- Prone to warping, cracking, or swelling in very wet or dry climates if not maintained
- Can be more expensive to install and maintain
- Susceptible to pests (termites) unless properly treated
Steel vs. wood garage door: factors to consider
If you’re still unsure which of these garage door materials fits your home, you should consider these factors next:
● Your budget. If you care about keeping initial costs and upkeep low, go with steel. Insulated steel gives you energy savings over time, so you pay less on heating and cooling. If your concern is the upfront cost, you can request a free estimate from reputable garage door company in Los Angeles.
● Appearance and curb appeal. Want an authentic, classic look that turns heads? Wood gives you that rich, natural feel. If you like that look but don’t want the maintenance, pick a high-end steel door with a woodgrain finish.
● Climate and durability. If you live in a coastal area, a well-finished steel door will stand up to salt and moisture better than untreated wood. In very dry areas, quality wood can stay stable if you seal it properly. If you plan to use the garage as a workspace, choose an insulated door for comfort.
● Maintenance and longevity. With steel, you’ll be doing light upkeep, which usually includes cleaning, touching up scratches, and checking weatherstripping now and then. With wood, expect to stain or repaint every few years, check for moisture damage, and treat for pests if needed.
● Customization and repair. If you want custom carving or easy refinishing, wood is the way to go. If a dent or scratch happens on steel, you can often patch or replace panels, but deep damage usually means repainting or swapping panels, which is more limited than wood refinishing.
Conclusion
Both steel and wood garage doors are stylish options for any home. After all, both are available in a wide range of designs, colors, and customization options to match every home.
Essentially, if you want a more affordable but still durable garage door, you’ll never go wrong with steel. However, if you want maximum curb appeal and budget isn’t an issue, nothing beats a wooden garage door.
Looking to upgrade or repair your garage door in California? RockGarageDoorRepair Company offers expert installation and repair services for both steel and wood garage doors, helping you choose the perfect option for your home.
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