If you're in the market for a new garage door, it can be confusing whether to opt for a metal door or a more traditional wooden one. Both types of doors are versatile and durable, and they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The type of door you finally decided on really depends on your style of house, your budget and your family's lifestyle.

Pros and cons of metal garage doors

Steel and aluminum garage doors offer a durable, sturdy entry to your garage. In addition, this type of door is very easy to care for. All it needs is to be washed with a power washer every once in a while to remove stubborn dirt. Metal doors are also more lightweight than most wooden doors, which is safer and a plus if you ever have to open the door manually (e.g. during a power outage). Unlike wooden doors, steel and aluminum doors can be recycled when it comes time to replace them.

However, metal doors can be easily dented by things like hail stones or an errant basketball. While dents can be pounded out, the door will never look quite new after a dent. In addition, a metal door can be scratched and then rust if you aren't diligent about repairing and sealing any scratches quickly.

Pros and cons of wooden garage doors

The chief advantage of a wooden garage door is the warmth and beauty it lends to most any property. A wooden garage door adds a big boost to any property's curb appeal. Wood is also a better insulator than metal, a consideration if you live in a cold climate and heat your garage in the winter. What's more, a wooden door can be planed for a more perfect fit, a big plus if you live in an older home where the door frames may not be exactly parallel.

However, wooden garage doors are generally more expensive than metal doors. Such doors are also subject to water damage, such as warping or splitting, as well as insect activity. Wooden doors also require more maintenance than metal doors to keep them looking sharp. A wooden door needs to be sanded and repainted or re-stained every few years.

Your garage door is one of the biggest parts of your home's exterior appeal as well as a sizable investment. Make sure to weigh the pros and cons of metal vs. wooden doors before you purchase a new door. Contact a garage door company, like Quality Door Service, to see what option best fits your home and lifestyle.