Are you feeling overwhelmed choosing from the different types of garage door materials? As the trusted source of garage system installation in Louisville, KY, Action Overhead Door Inc. is here to assess your needs and make the process hassle-free. We provide the following materials and reliable installation to support them.
The Most Common Materials for Garage Panels
What types of garage doors can you choose from? Each of the following has pros and cons you should weigh carefully.
Aluminum Is Lightweight and Affordable
Aluminum is one of the most popular materials for panels because it requires little investment and doesn’t weigh much. The panels naturally resist moisture, so you won’t have to worry about rust, and they won’t crack in extreme cold.
However, aluminum garage doors also have a few drawbacks, including:
- Their low thermal efficiency can’t insulate your garage without extra features.
- They’re not the best fit for hot environments because the material softens in extreme heat.
- As a softer metal, aluminum doesn’t provide the same dent resistance as other materials.
Steel Offers an Affordable Solution That Performs Well in All Environments
Steel garage doors remain popular because they’re suitable for almost any climate. They’re relatively affordable and come in a wide variety of styles and colors. While not as lightweight as aluminum, they’re not the heaviest material, and in some ways, they have higher durability.
What are the disadvantages of choosing this material? While it has a higher resistance to dents, it’s more vulnerable to rust, especially if something scratches it. Like aluminum, steel doesn’t offer much insulation without extra treatment.
It Tips for Choosing the Best Garage Panel Material
How can you choose the right material for your garage?
Consider Your Climate and the Challenges It Presents
Your climate is among the most important factors when choosing a material for your garage. Even with an ample budget, you may not want a tempered glass panel if you live in an area where it hails frequently. You consider the three most common sources of damage:
- Severe weather: Severe weather can soak your panel or cause branches to scratch the panels. Choose a material that can resist the most common type of extreme climate events in your area.
- Extreme temperatures: Some materials are more susceptible to extreme heat, whereas others experience problems when the temperature drops too low.
- Humidity levels: If you live in a dry climate, you won’t have to worry about humidity. However, places like the Pacific Northwest or the Gulf Coast should factor it into their choice of material.
Set Your Budget and Factor in Maintenance Costs
Budget is often the most important consideration when choosing the best types of garage door materials. However, the cost of materials isn’t the only thing you should calculate. For example, you may need to add extra insulation or spend more on maintenance for certain materials.
Determine How Much Insulation You Need
How important is an insulated garage to you? A feature with a high R-factor can help the home retain more heat and increase its energy efficiency.
However, you can always add extra insulation or may have features elsewhere in your home that address this problem. Materials that don’t provide natural insulation often require a lower investment.
Consult With a Professional and Schedule Expert Installation Today
If you need help choosing from the types of garage door materials, ask Action Overhead Door Inc. We can provide additional garage insulation and install the system without complication. Our customers regularly thank us for our expertise and professionalism.
Call 502-955-7725 to schedule a consultation or installation appointment with our passionate and experienced team.
