Struggling with Your Old Wood Garage Door? Make the Switch to a Modern Steel One

If your garage door is showing its age with warped or rotting wood panels, constant need for repairs or just general deterioration, it may be time for an upgrade. Switching to a new modern steel garage door is a smart investment that will boost your home’s curb appeal and provide decades of reliable, low-maintenance service. But with numerous style and material options available, how do you pick the right door that fits your needs and budget? Here are some things to check into before making the switch.

Consider Your Needs

When replacing your old wood door, first evaluate your requirements. Do you need a basic door for access or something more insulated? Do you need full visibility or partial windows? Take measurements to ensure the new door’s size is a fit too. Steel doors offer durability, insulation value and low-maintenance appeal that make them a top choice for Garage Door Replacement in Suffolk.

Material and Construction

Steel garage doors come in a variety of materials from standard steel to reinforced steel, stainless steel or composite wood-grain options. Thicker gauges provide greater durability against dents and dings. Insulated doors have rigid polystyrene or polyurethane cores for added insulation. Check warranties which typically range from 10-25 years. Lift system options include belt, chain or screw drives. Sectional and one-piece up-and-over styles are common.

Design and Windows

Browsed prefab styles for something stock or consider a custom color and window configuration. Choices include flush, raised and embossed panel styles with varying window designs. Windows boost natural light but reduce insulation value, so consider how much glass you need. Tinted, tempered and decorative options are available. Hardware like hinges and rollers should match the door material.

Installation and Cost

Get quotes from local installation companies to compare costs. Average price for a basic steel garage door replacement ranges from $1,000-2,000 installed depending on size, material and extras. More elaborate designs may cost a few hundred dollars more. Warranties only apply when professionally installed, so opt for companies specializing in garage door installation. Ask about permits and completion timeframes.

Safety Features

All modern doors include safety features like pinch-resistant sections and photo eyes for automatic reverse if an object breaks the sensor beam during closing. Remote openers add another level of safety and convenience. Keyed locksets further secure the exterior of doors. Ask about warranties on locksets, opener systems and safety sensors too.

Reliability and Maintenance

Once installed, a high-quality steel door requires minimal long-term maintenance just occasional lubrication and adjustments. Wood doors demand constant touch-ups and repairs. Steel is also highly durable against weather, dents and damage from outdoor elements. Request service and tune-up plans from installation companies like Garage Door Replacement in Suffolk too for maximum reliability.

Energy Efficiency

Modern insulated steel garage doors significantly boost thermal insulation over older wood panels. This saves heating and cooling costs by reducing air infiltration. R-values of around 12-17 are standard for energy efficiency. Consider upgrading to R-values closer to 20 for even better thermal performance in extreme climates.

With these factors in mind when shopping for a new garage door, homeowners can make a purchase that enhances both style and function for many years to come. Steel is a smart long-term choice that eliminates the drawbacks of aging wooden doors. Be sure to compare local installation companies and deals to find the best overall value.