• Basic Steel and Wood

Basic Steel

Most garage doors installed today fall under this least expensive category. Manufacturers will generally offer a non-insulated steel garage door as their base model. 25 gauge steel is typically used, although some “builder’s grade” doors can be thinner (remember, the smaller the number, the thicker the metal). Basic steel doors usually have a raised panel effect with a wood grain design pressed into the steel.

Basic Wood

Basic wooden garage doors are only slightly more expensive than their steel cousins. These are made from pine and composite materials. The construction of these doors gives them a recessed panel effect.

Depending on what options are added, the “basic model’s” cost can add up quickly, but the least expensive garage door will usually be of this type. Different levels of insulation (with or without steel covering the inside of the door), and decorative widows are a commonly purchased upgrade.

• Steel Carriage Style Garage Doors, Composite, and Wood

Steel Carriage Style

Made to look like a old-time carriage house door, these steel garage doors are becoming more affordable as their popularity continues to grow. They are usually a step up from the basic doors, and tend to have warranties and qualities that reflect that price difference. Just as before, options, such as insulation and windows, can be added to these doors.

Raised Panel

The next step up in wood doors would be to move to an insulated, composite model. Insulation is sandwiched between the composite front and back. These will still have a woodgrain texture, and can have windows, as well. Sometimes a wooden, raised panel garage door can be in this middle price range, as well.

• Custom Doors

Custom

It’s not really fair to say a custom door can cost more than the last set of doors. The variety of materials available for building really makes these doors versatile in more ways than one, including price. They’re a great way to add some curb appeal to your home, but they do tend to be more expensive than a basic steel or wood.

• Vinyl and other specialty materials

See-Through

These garage doors have been around for awhile, but their high cost seems to deter most customers. They are scratch, dent, and fade resistant, and have extensive warranties. Most of these will be insulated, and will have an exterior similar to how a raised panel steel door looks. Some garage door manufacturers have begun selling “green” garage doors, made from recycled materials. Even ornamental iron doors are available. Glass, or see through, doors are also available. This last category will always be a little pricier than the others.

Clopay's Avant Line

Clopay’s Avant line features a contemporary look with transparent sections. Different levels of transparency, from clear glass to a white or mirrored finish, are available for privacy and versatility. More information on these garage doors can be found at Clopay’s website.

We’re always happy to provide free estimates for new garage doors. If you’re interested in a quote on the Avant series pictured here, or a different model door, please call us at 678-714-7393, or contact us online.

Steel is the most commonly installed type. Their lower costs, maintenance, and a variety of available designs make them the obvious choice for most homeowners. No painting is required, although they can be painted, and most manufacturers offer different finish warranties. Styles include, but are not limited to, raised panel designs, flush panels, and various carriage house designs. Most have insulation options, as well. Considering the fact that most garages share an interior wall with the home, upgrading to an insulated model can help conserve on heating and cooling costs.

While their not as common as they once were, wooden doors are still readily available in most places. They are available in the same standard styles as steel models, and can be built to suit. Their costs are generally slightly higher than steel, and they will need to be painted or stained to prevent water damage. There are still benefits from using wood. A standard model can provide a better R-value than a basic non-insulated model. They can also take a little bit more punishment than the steel types-something to consider if you have kids that play near the garage, or work in or around it yourself. Options for insulation are available. Their versatility is probably their best point. Homeowners wanting custom garage doors for their home typically go with wood.

Vinyl is beginning to make a larger impression on the market as a more durable material. These models won’t rust, and are more resistant to dings and scratches than the steel. Prepare to pay substantially more for this type of product. Many dealers don’t carry any in stock, so a lead time of 2-4 weeks can be expected. They usually look like just like the steel types as far as exterior styles are concerned. They also have similar insulation options to a steel model.

Composite products are becoming more mainstream as consumer demand for environmentally-friendly options grows. They are typically made from recycled wood, and are insulated in most cases. Again, opting for insulation can provide a higher R-value. They can be painted, or even stained.