Why should you consider steel for your next garage door upgrade? If you're ready to replace your garage door, take a look at what you need to know about steel.
What Are Steel Garage Doors?
Garage doors are available in a variety of materials and styles. Along with fiberglass, aluminum, and other materials, steel is a popular pick for many homeowners who want to replace their garage doors. Like the name implies, steel garage doors are made from a steel material, making them strong and durable.
Are Steel Doors Energy Efficient?
The answer to this question depends on several factors. Any garage door material can provide an energy efficient barrier. Whether the door truly holds heated/cooled air in and keeps the exterior air out depends on the quality of the product and the amount of insulation.
While some doors may naturally have superior insulation properties, low-quality products may fail this area (regardless of the material). As you explore door options, you'll find a selection of steel products that range from cheap, poorly made products to more expensive, superior models. If you're tempted to sacrifice quality for a low price tag, consider the potential costs of added energy-related expenses.
Along with the quality of the door, the thickness or strength level of the steel may affect energy efficiency. Steel doors are available in multiple layers with different insulation options. A single layer steel door with no added insulation is the least efficient choice. Even this selection may save you money in upfront costs, you may pay more to heat or cool the garage or your house.
Double and triple layer steel doors provide better insulation against the elements and tend to hold heat/cooled air inside better than single layer models. A triple layer door sandwiches an insulated layer in between steel or steel and another material. Higher R-values of interior insulation will add to your door's energy efficiency.
If you're not sure which door is right for your home's needs, a garage door contractor can help you to explore the layer and insulation options.
Do Steel Garage Doors Require Much Maintenance?
Every type of garage door requires some maintenance. Like other entry doors, garage doors face constant exposure. The sun, rain, sleet, and snow can all affect your garage door. The same goes for mud, muck, dirt, and debris that the wind may blow onto your door.
Even though steel is subject to damage from the elements or debris, these models typically require less overall maintenance than doors made from other materials. Painted steel doors are easy to clean and won't require constant (or expensive) care.
Are Steel Doors Easy to Damage?
What happens if you accidentally back into your garage door? A major impact will dent or destroy any door, regardless of the material makeup. But less extensive accidents (such as a flying baseball or bump with a bike tire) aren't likely to damage steel.
Like with energy efficiency, a thicker (or insulated) steel door provides added damage protection. This means a triple layer door is more likely to resist dents or damage. To add even more protection, choose a thicker gauge steel. A thin layer of steel may dent easily. But a high-quality thick gauge steel product can resist some types of (not all) impacts, especially if the outward-facing layer is thick.
Are Steel Garage Doors Secure?
Security is a major factor to consider before you invest in a garage door upgrade. A flimsy, poorly made, or improperly fitted door allows easy entry into your garage — and possibly your home. Steel is known for its strength and durability. These factors make the material a top security choice.
Again, like with energy efficiency and damage resistance, the thicker the door, the better security it provides. A would-be thief can't easily cut through a multi-layer thick-gauge steel door.
Are Steel Garage Doors Stylish?
Garage doors aren't purely functional. Even though superior opening ability and energy efficiency are crucial in your decision to buy a garage door, aesthetic issues are equally important.
Even though steel may sound like an industrial type of material, don't expect these doors to look like they belong in a factory or commercial building. Steel garage doors come in an array of styles and color options. These doors combine strength and beauty to add instant curb appeal.
These garage doors are available in countless styles to match almost every exterior home décor. The exterior panels are often finished in special textures or paint colors. Along with the steel panels, you can also add windows, hardware, or other standout accents.
Discuss style options with a garage door contractor to learn more about the specific products and brands available in your area.
