Garage Door Materials: Know the Pros and Cons

At Performance Building Products, we’ve been helping homeowners throughout Oregon and Washington choose the right garage doors since 1992. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when installing or replacing a garage door is selecting the right material. From durability and maintenance to appearance and insulation, each material offers its own set of advantages—and a few trade-offs.

To help you make an informed choice, we’re breaking down the pros and cons of the five garage door materials we install and service: aluminum, fiberglass, steel, vinyl, and wood.

Aluminum Garage Doors

Aluminum garage doors are a popular option for homeowners looking for a lightweight, rust-resistant door with a modern look.

Pros:

• Rust-Resistant: Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, making it an excellent choice for humid or coastal environments.
• Lightweight: Easier on garage door openers and ideal for larger doors due to less strain on components.
• Modern Aesthetic: Clean lines and metallic finishes offer a sleek, contemporary look.

Cons:

• Less Durable: More prone to dents and dings than heavier materials like steel.
• Lower Insulation Value: Without added insulation, aluminum doesn’t provide the best energy efficiency.
• Best For: Homeowners seeking a modern look and minimal maintenance in mild-to-moderate climates.

Fiberglass Garage Doors

Fiberglass offers a unique balance of style and strength. While not as widely used as other materials, it’s a solid choice for those seeking versatility and weather resistance.

Pros:

• Lightweight & Durable: Easier to operate and resistant to cracking, warping, and insect damage.
• Moisture-Resistant: Great for damp environments where other materials might swell or rot.
• Customizable Appearance: Can mimic the look of wood grain without the upkeep.

Cons:

• Brittle in Cold Weather: Can become more fragile and prone to cracking in extremely low temperatures.
• Fades Over Time: UV exposure may cause color to fade without proper finish or regular maintenance.
• Best For: Homeowners who want the look of wood without the high maintenance, especially in wet or coastal regions.

Steel Garage Doors

Steel is the most common garage door material—and for good reason. It offers strength, durability, and versatility at a reasonable price point.

Pros:

• Exceptionally Durable: Resistant to impacts, wind, and extreme weather.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and available in many finishes.
• Energy Efficient Options: Can be insulated for excellent thermal performance and soundproofing.

Cons:

• Susceptible to Rust: If the finish is scratched or damaged, steel can rust—especially in coastal climates.
• Heavy: Puts more strain on hardware and openers, especially if not balanced correctly.
• Best For: Homeowners looking for a strong, long-lasting door with lots of style and insulation options.

Vinyl Garage Doors

Vinyl garage doors are often considered the “set it and forget it” option due to their extreme durability and low maintenance needs.

Pros:

• Weatherproof & Durable: Won’t rust, dent, crack, or fade. Perfect for variable climates.
• Child-Friendly: Its resilient surface is ideal for families—resists dings from sports equipment and rough use.
• Minimal Maintenance: No painting, staining, or refinishing required.

Cons:

• Limited Color & Style Options: Less customizable than wood or steel doors.
• Difficult to Repair: If damaged, entire panels may need to be replaced rather than repaired.
• Best For: Homeowners seeking a tough, low-maintenance garage door solution that will look good for years to come.

Wood Garage Doors

Nothing beats the timeless beauty of a real wood garage door. It offers unmatched curb appeal and design flexibility, but it does require a bit more care.

Pros:

• Premium Aesthetics: Natural grain, rich finishes, and custom design options give your home an elegant look.
• Fully Customizable: Choose the wood type, panel design, and decorative hardware for a one-of-a-kind door.
• Good Insulation: Wood naturally provides better insulation than some materials.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Requires regular staining, sealing, or painting to prevent warping and rot.
• More Expensive: Both the upfront cost and maintenance costs are higher than other materials.
• Best For: Homeowners prioritizing curb appeal and willing to invest in regular upkeep for a standout look.

Which Garage Door Material Is Right for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—it depends on your climate, lifestyle, budget, and aesthetic preferences. At Performance Building Products, we’ll help you weigh your options and choose the best garage door material to suit your home.

Whether you’re replacing an outdated door or upgrading to something more energy-efficient and stylish, we offer a wide range of options from top manufacturers like Clopay, Wayne Dalton, Windsor Door, LiftMaster, and Genie. And with decades of experience installing garage doors in Oregon and Washington, you can count on us for expert guidance and flawless installation.

Ready to Get Started?

Contact Performance Building Products today to schedule your garage door consultation. We’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each material, answer all your questions, and help you choose the perfect door for your home. Let’s make your garage door upgrade a smooth, stress-free experience.