Steel vs. Fiberglass Garage Doors: Which Is Better?

Are you considering a new garage door for your home in Moline? If so, choosing the right garage door can make a tremendous change in your home’s curb appeal and functionality. However, with so many options available, it can be hard to decide which material is best for you. Today, we will explore two popular choices: steel and fiberglass garage doors. This blog will compare their features, benefits, and drawbacks so that you can make an informed choice. Are you looking for a door that is both stylish and durable? Find out if fiberglass garage doors are the right fit for your home.

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Steel Garage Doors

Let us look at why steel garage doors are a popular choice for Moline homes.

Pros of Steel Garage Doors

1. High Durability and Longevity: Steel garage doors last a long time. They can handle the elements, whether it is rain, snow, or strong winds, making them a smart investment for your Moline home.
2. Superior Security: Steel is tough. If security is a top priority for you, steel garage doors provide excellent protection against break-ins.
3. Variety of Designs and Finishes: You have many options when it comes to style. Steel garage doors come in various designs, colors, and finishes, which allow you to match your door to your home’s aesthetic.

Cons of Steel Garage Doors

1. Susceptibility to Rust and Corrosion: Without proper treatment, steel can rust with time. However, many steel garage doors come with protective coatings that resist rust.
2. Potential for Dents and Scratches: Steel can dent or scratch if hit hard enough. However, garage door technicians in Moline can fix these dents, and the durability of steel still makes it a reliable choice.
3. Heavier Weight: Steel garage doors are heavier than fiberglass garage doors, which might make them harder to open and close manually. However, most modern garage doors come with automatic openers that handle the weight easily.

Overview of Fiberglass Garage Doors

Now that you know what steel garage doors are, let us explore fiberglass garage doors more. Through the years, this material has become more popular among homeowners in Moline due to its unique benefits. Here is what you need to know about this garage door option:

Pros of Fiberglass Garage Doors

1. Resistance to Rust and Corrosion: First off, fiberglass garage doors do not rust, making them perfect for areas with high humidity or frequent rain. Hence, you would not have to worry about rust ruining the appearance or functionality of your door.
2. Lightweight: The truth is that fiberglass is much lighter than steel. In fact, these garage doors are easier to open and close, even without an automatic opener.
3. Mimics the Look of Wood: Do you know it is possible to make fiberglass look like wood? Yes, fiberglass is a great alternative if you like the classic look of a wood garage door but do not want to deal with the upkeep.
4. Good Insulation Properties: Likewise fiberglass garage doors provide good insulation. They insulate your garage from cold weather and keep it warm in the winter, thus saving you money on energy bills.

Cons of Fiberglass Garage Doors

1. More Likely to Brittle: Fiberglass can become brittle in very cold weather and might crack if hit hard enough.
2. Limited Color and Design Options: When compared to steel, fiberglass offers a limited variety of colors and designs despite its ability to mimic other materials.
3. Potential for Yellowing: Over time, fiberglass can turn yellow when exposed to direct sunlight. The discoloration can make your garage door look old, but regular upkeep can help it look brand new.

Choosing Between Steel and Fiberglass Garage Doors

When deciding between these two, here are some important things to keep in mind:

Climate and Weather

Moline experiences a variety of weather conditions throughout the year. Thus, it is essential to choose a garage door material that can handle humidity, temperature changes, and potential rust or warping issues. So when making your choice, think about Moline’s weather.

Usage and Frequency

How often do you use your garage door? Frequent use requires a durable option that can withstand daily wear and tear without major damage. Evaluate how lightweight or heavy the door is and how easy it is to operate.

Personal Preferences

Of course, your garage door should match your home’s style. Look at the variety of design options available. Then, consider whether you want a garage door that can mimic the look of wood or one that offers a sleek, modern appearance. In the end, choose the garage door material that fits your aesthetic vision.

Maintenance Commitment

Now, consider how much time and effort you can and want to spend on garage door maintenance. Note that some garage doors require regular upkeep, such as checking for rust that needs repainting or replacing, while others need minimal attention. From that, decide how much maintenance you are willing to do to keep your garage door looking its best.

Which Garage Door Offers Better Value?

Consider these factors to determine which garage door provides better value:

Initial Costs

When you shop for a new garage door, the price tag is often the first thing you consider. Steel garage doors usually cost less upfront compared to fiberglass garage doors. In fact, the price of steel doors can vary based on thickness and design. Meanwhile, fiberglass garage doors have a higher initial cost because of the material’s unique properties and appearance.

Long-term Costs

However, the story does not end with the purchase price. It is also important to think about the long-term costs. When you look at how much fiberglass garage doors cost over time, they often end up being inexpensive. For instance, fiberglass garage doors from Wayne Dalton require less maintenance. They do not rust and are not as likely to get dents or scratches. That means maintenance will take less time and cost less money.

On the other hand, steel garage doors from Clopay might require more maintenance over the years, especially if they start to rust or dent. You might need to repaint or repair a steel door more frequently, which adds to the overall cost.

Garage Door Installation Near Me

Ready to upgrade your garage door? At Titan Garage Doors Quad Cities, we provide top-notch garage door services for homeowners in Moline and nearby cities. Our skilled technicians are qualified to provide you with garage door installation services that will increase the curb value of your home, whether you are considering a steel or fiberglass garage door. With our easy-pay plan, you can also get your new garage door installed now and pay for it over time. Do not wait—contact us today and give your home the upgrade it deserves!