When choosing a garage door, the decision often hinges on two primary materials – steel’s durability and fibreglass’s lightweight versatility.
In this comparison, we’ll learn more about the critical differences between fibreglass and steel garage doors, helping you decide on your needs.
Table of Contents
Fibreglass Garage Door
A fibreglass garage door is an overhead door made from reinforced fibreglass materials. It consists of multiple layers of fibreglass sheets, typically reinforced with resin, which provides durability and resistance to various environmental elements.
These doors are known for being lightweight, making them easy to operate manually or with a garage door opener.
Fibreglass garage doors are priced for their resistance to rust and corrosion, making them a suitable choice for coastal or humid environments.
They also offer good insulation properties, helping regulate the garage’s temperature. Additionally, they can be customised with various finishes and styles to complement a home’s aesthetics.
Benefits of Fibreglass Garage Door
- Lightweight: Fibreglass garage doors are lighter than many other materials, making them easy to operate manually and putting less strain on garage door openers.
- Durability: Fibreglass is resistant to rust, corrosion, and rot, making it a long-lasting choice for garage doors.
- Low Maintenance: These doors typically require minimal maintenance, as they do not need painting and are resistant to pests.
- Insulation: Some fibreglass doors come with insulation options, helping to maintain temperature control within the garage.
- Customisation: Fibreglass doors can be painted and designed to mimic the appearance of wood or other materials, offering aesthetic versatility.
- Resistance to Humidity: Fibreglass is not prone to warping or swelling due to moisture, making it suitable for humid climates.
- Impact Resistance: Fibreglass doors can withstand minor impacts without denting, benefiting areas prone to hail or accidental collisions.
- Longevity: With proper care, fibreglass garage doors can have a long lifespan, providing value over time.
- Security: Fibreglass doors can be reinforced with additional security features, enhancing the safety of your garage.
Cons of Fibreglass Garage Door
- Susceptible to Impact Damage: Fibreglass garage doors can be more easily damaged by impact than steel doors. They may crack or dent when forced, potentially requiring costly repairs.
- Vulnerability to Extreme Temperatures: Fibreglass garage doors may not provide as effective insulation as other materials, such as steel or insulated aluminium. In extreme temperatures, they may allow heat or cold to transfer into the garage, impacting energy efficiency.
- Maintenance Challenges: Fibreglass doors may require maintenance over time to prevent fading or peeling of their outer finish. Harsh weather conditions and UV exposure can wear down the surface.
- Costly Upfront Investment: Fibreglass garage doors tend to be more expensive initially than some other materials like steel. While they offer certain advantages, their higher upfront cost may deter budget-conscious buyers.
Steel Garage Door
A steel garage door is an overhead door commonly used in residential and commercial properties.
It is constructed primarily of steel panels, making it highly durable and resistant to damage from impacts, weather, and pests.
Steel garage doors often feature an insulated core that helps maintain temperature control within the garage space.
Steel garage doors come in various styles, including traditional raised panels and contemporary flush designs. They typically require minimal maintenance and offer long-term reliability.
Such doors are known for their security features, as the strength of steel provides a sturdy barrier against unauthorised access.
Steel garage doors are famous for their durability, security, and low maintenance requirements.
Benefits of Steel Garage Doors
- Durability: Steel garage doors are highly durable and can withstand various weather conditions and impacts.
- Security: They offer enhanced security due to their sturdy construction, making it difficult for unauthorised access.
- Low Maintenance: Steel doors require minimal maintenance, reducing long-term upkeep costs.
- Insulation: Many steel doors come with insulation options, helping to regulate temperature within the garage.
- Longevity: Steel garage doors have a long lifespan, providing value for the investment.
- Variety: They come in various styles and designs to suit different architectural preferences.
- Cost-Effective: Their durability and low maintenance make them cost-effective in the long run.
- Paint Options: Steel doors can be easily painted or customised to match the exterior of your home.
- Resale Value: Installing a steel garage door can enhance the resale value of a property.
Cons of Steel Garage Doors
- Prone to Dents: Steel garage doors can be susceptible to dents and dings, which can occur from minor impacts, such as bicycles or basketballs.
- Rust Potential: If not properly maintained or the paint or protective coating is compromised, steel garage doors can rust, leading to aesthetic and structural issues.
- Heavy Weight: Steel doors are heavier than other materials, which may require a more robust garage door opener and potentially higher installation costs.
- Limited Design Options: While various styles are available, steel garage doors may have fewer design options than materials like wood or fibreglass.
- Noise: Steel doors can be noisier during operation, particularly if they lack proper insulation, causing vibrations and echoing sounds.
- Cost Variability: Depending on the quality and thickness of the steel, prices can vary significantly, with thicker steel doors typically costing more.
- Environmental Impact: The production of steel garage doors can have a higher environmental footprint than other materials due to the energy-intensive manufacturing process.
- Maintenance Required: Periodic repainting and maintenance may be necessary to prevent rust and maintain the door’s appearance, adding to the overall cost of ownership.
- Limited Insulation: Some steel garage doors may not provide adequate insulation, which can result in temperature fluctuations within the garage space.
Fibreglass vs. Steel Garage Door Comparison Table
| Aspect | Fibreglass Garage Doors | Steel Garage Doors |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Susceptible to impact damage | Highly durable and resistant to damage |
| Insulation | May offer less effective insulation | Provides good insulation against temperature extremes |
| Maintenance | Requires periodic maintenance for finish | Minimal maintenance required |
| Weight | Lightweight and easy to operate | Heavier and may require more robust hardware |
| Style Options | Available in various designs | Offer a wide range of design choices |
| Security | Provides reasonable security | Offers excellent security due to steel construction |
| Energy Efficiency | Less energy-efficient due to insulation | Provides better energy efficiency |
| Cost | Typically, it is more expensive upfront | Generally more budget-friendly |
Fibreglass vs. Steel Garage Door: Which is Better?
Consider your specific requirements and budget when choosing between fibreglass and steel garage doors. Fibreglass doors offer lightweight customisation for coastal areas like Northern Beaches, Sydney.
Conversely, steel doors provide durability and security, though they may entail potential maintenance needs. The decision should align with your priorities and circumstances.
Our garage door installation services are designed to provide expert guidance and seamless installation. Our technicians are trained to assist you in making the right decision by assessing your needs, budget, and preferences.
With our expertise, you can confidently choose the garage door that suits your requirements, ensuring a hassle-free and efficient installation process.
For professional garage door installation and expert guidance, call us on (02) 9971 1111.
