When it comes time to replace your garage door entirely, one of the biggest decisions you will need to make is your garage door material. When it comes to selecting the best garage door material, there isn’t always a one size fits all answer. The best material for your garage door may depend on the climate you live in, how you use your garage door, the style of your home, and your budget. 

With all those things considered we have gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about common garage door materials to help guide your personal decision. 

For more guidance on selecting the best material for your home, contact our team of garage door professionals at Springfield Overhead Door near Dayton Ohio. 

What is the most durable garage door material?

When we look at what people are looking for in durability it usually revolves around wanting something to last and be used for a long time without damage. For homeowners a durable garage door will withstand the elements whether that’s hot, cold, wind, hail, snow, etc… as well as general wear and tear from kids, toys, pets, and mishaps. 

However durable needs to look for you, your best bet in a durable garage door material is steel. Steel garage doors offer maximum durability with minimal maintenance. 

What is the most common garage door material?

Since durability is usually top of mind with a garage door, steel is also the most common and popular choice of garage door materials. Steel garage doors are not only long-lasting, and very reasonably priced, but require the minimum of maintenance. They come in various styles and a range of colors, so you can tailor the door to match your home’s exterior color scheme.

What is the cheapest garage door material?

Again, steel rises to the top when it comes to affordability. Aluminum is also an affordable garage door material. When working within a tight budget steel or aluminum will give you the best bang for your buck. For an estimate on any garage door material for your home, contact our team at Springfield Overhead Door. 

How can you tell if the garage door is steel or aluminum?

If you want to know if your garage door is made from steel or aluminum, the quickest way to find out is to disconnect the garage door opener and try to open the door manually. A standard double steel garage door weighs approximately 200 – 250 pounds, while an aluminum double door may weigh around 135 pounds. If you can raise the door relatively easily, then the chances are your door is aluminum. If, however, you struggle to raise the door manually, it is probably steel.

How important is insulation in a garage door?

There are numerous reasons to have an insulated garage door, but the more obvious ones are that an insulated garage door allows less heat to escape in the winter and less heat to get in the summer. This helps save money on your utility bill. Also, an insulated garage door dampens incoming noise and adds strength to your door. Most garage door materials can be enhanced with an insulation feature should you decide you need it. 

Selecting Your Overhead Door Material

When it comes to durability, versatility, and affordability steel garage doors rise to the top of the list as the most popular. You really can’t go wrong. For more guidance in choosing the best garage door material for your home, contact our team at Springfield Overhead Door.