The Complete Guide to Faux Wood Garage Doors: Types + Pros and Cons
[Last Updated:] January 17, 2025
Are you in the market for a garage door that offers the charm of wood without the maintenance? Garage doors that look like wood could be the ideal solution.
Of all the garage door styles available, faux wood garage doors are taking curb appeal to new heights, offering the beauty of natural wood with greater strength and ease of maintenance. In this post, we'll break down the types of faux wood garage doors, the benefits, and more to help you find the right fit for your home and style.
What Is a Faux Wood Garage Door?
Faux wood garage doors combine the luxurious appearance of genuine wood with the durability and budget-friendly qualities of materials such as steel. These garage doors are crafted to mimic the natural grain and stain of wood, offering an attractive yet practical alternative for homeowners.
When comparing faux wood vinyl garage doors to traditional wood options, factors such as maintenance, durability, and cost make all the difference. Faux wood doors capture the warm, rich look of real wood without the upkeep. Reinforced with materials such as steel and insulated with high-quality nylon, these garage doors resist weathering far better than hardwood.
Homeowners can enjoy the elegance of wood’s appearance while reaping the benefits of long-lasting durability, low maintenance, and cost savings — ideal for adding timeless charm to your home’s exterior.
Faux Wood vs. Real Wood
Choosing between real wood and faux wood garage doors depends on where you live, your lifestyle, and what you value in a garage door. Both options have unique benefits, but understanding their specific features can help you make the best decision for your home. Explore key characteristics of each material type below so you can find the wood-look garage door that fits your needs.
| Faux Wood | Real Wood |
|---|---|
| Lighter, durable material(s) that can withstand years of use. | Heavy, durable material that can withstand years of use. |
| Can be moisture- and weather-resistant depending on the material used | Various types of wood finishes to choose from |
| Low maintenance | High maintenance |
| Excellent insulation | Thicker material reduces sound |
| Can add to the value of a home by increasing its curb appeal | Can add to the value of a home since real wood is often highly desired |
5 Benefits of a Faux Wood Garage Door
For homeowners drawn to the timeless style of wood garage doors, there’s no denying the natural warmth and charm they bring to a home’s exterior. However, while traditional wood offers a classic look, faux wood garage doors may be a smarter choice for those wanting the same elegance without the hefty upkeep or cost.
Here's why choosing faux wood over real wood might be the best decision for your home.
- Authentic wood appearance with less maintenance: Faux wood garage doors use advanced techniques such as gel staining to replicate the beauty of real wood grain, offering a variety of color options that resist fading, chipping, and weathering.
- Thermal insulation for energy efficiency: With materials such as fiberglass, faux wood doors provide excellent thermal insulation, making them energy-efficient. This feature can reduce heating and cooling costs, benefiting your comfort and your wallet.
- Weather resistance and longevity: Reinforced with steel and high-quality finishes, faux wood doors are designed to withstand harsh weather far better than traditional wood, which can warp, crack, or swell over time.
- Cost-effective without sacrificing style: Faux wood doors offer the elegant look of wood at a fraction of the cost, saving homeowners on both the initial investment and long-term maintenance expenses.
- Low maintenance for peace of mind: Unlike real wood, which needs regular staining or sealing, faux wood garage doors require minimal upkeep. Homeowners can enjoy their garage door’s beauty without worrying about frequent repairs or refinishing.
Types of Faux Wood Garage Doors
When it comes to faux wood garage doors, homeowners can choose from various materials, each designed to capture the look of real wood while providing unique advantages. Faux wood garage doors are crafted from durable materials such as steel, vinyl, aluminum, and wood composite — each with unique benefits to meet different needs. Whether you prioritize durability, insulation, low maintenance, or cost efficiency, exploring these materials will help you find the right fit for your home’s style and environment.
Here’s a breakdown of common faux wood garage door materials, along with the pros and cons of each.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Steel |
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| Vinyl |
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| Aluminum |
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| Wood composite |
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| Modern faux wood |
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1. Aluminum faux wood garage doors
Aluminum garage doors offer both strength and style, bringing a carriage house charm to modern homes. Clad in aluminum, these doors are embossed to replicate the intricate grain of oak, offering impressive energy efficiency that keeps utility costs in check. Their lightweight construction ensures smooth operation while the robust cladding protects against dents and the elements, proving to be a practical yet attractive addition to any residence.
2. Vinyl faux wood garage doors
Vinyl faux wood garage doors are a savvy choice for homeowners looking for sturdy construction minus the upkeep of real wood. These doors are often constructed with a metal core wrapped in a polyurethane coat, which gives them resistance to wear and a brushed finish for that authentic wooden look. They stand up to the elements and remain resilient against dings and scratches, making them a cost-effective option for busy households.
3. Modern faux wood garage doors
Modern garage doors are a fusion of contemporary design and the timeless appeal of wood aesthetics. Most of these doors are made of steel or aluminum, providing strength and stability, which is then clad with high-quality, wood-look overlays made from fiberglass, vinyl, or engineered wood composites. These materials ensure resistance to warping, rotting, and weather-related damage while maintaining a premium wood appearance. The use of such composites also means doors can be custom-finished with various stains or textures to mimic the visual appeal of real wood.
4. Painted faux wood garage doors
Painted faux wood garage doors bring the beauty of a wood finish to life with the added benefit of a protective layer that withstands the test of time. The intricate design is achieved with a base of durable polystyrene that's sculpted and textured, then treated with paint for a wood-like appearance. With the promise of easy maintenance — requiring nothing more than the occasional swipe of sandpaper for touch-ups — homeowners can relish the sophistication of these doors without the upkeep commonly associated with wood.
5. Faux light wood garage doors
Faux light wood garage doors take an environmentally friendly approach thanks to their engineered wood construction. These garage doors impart a bright and airy feeling to a home's exterior while offering insulative properties that help regulate heat. These doors are great for those looking to enhance their home's curb appeal and efficiency without the heavy maintenance and environmental impact of traditional wood.
6. Composite garage doors
Composite garage doors blend multiple materials to produce a structure that's both sturdy and striking. Often resembling walnut, these doors are impervious to termites, warping, and rot — concerns commonly linked with real wood doors. The composite's resilient nature means nearly eliminating touch-ups with a paint brush, allowing for a pristine appearance year-round without the hefty price tag associated with natural wood.
7. Faux dark wood garage doors
Dark faux wood garage doors add striking curb appeal with rich, bold finishes that beautifully contrast with lighter exteriors. Beyond looks, they offer practical advantages, such as water resistance, fade resistance, and compatibility with various garage door openers. These doors are often designed for easy maintenance, allowing quick access to key components such as the bottom bracket, making upkeep straightforward for hands-on homeowners.
8. Steel faux wood garage doors
Steel faux wood garage doors offer homeowners the enduring beauty of hardwood without the susceptibility to warping or rotting that true timber presents. These doors blend the robust security of steel with the rustic charm of wood, making them great for adding a touch of sophistication to your porch or garage.
Their lightweight design and consistent structure help simplify garage door installation and reduce the need for garage door repair. In addition to being low maintenance, steel faux wood garage doors boost curb appeal by offering the authentic, rich look of real wood with the added benefits of modern design elements, such as realistic grain patterns, custom finishes, and color options.
9. Farmhouse faux wood garage doors
Constructed of steel or wood grain composite materials, farmhouse faux wood garage doors capture the quintessential country charm, enhancing curb appeal with their rustic allure. These doors also have versatile customization options. Homeowners can select from a variety of finishes, decorative accents, and window configurations that evoke classic barn-style elements while fitting their specific aesthetic preferences. These doors meld with a wide range of color palettes, offering homeowners a durable, attractive alternative to real wood.
10. Traditional faux wood garage doors
Traditional faux wood garage doors infuse homes with a classic charm and modern functionality. These doors are a wise choice for homeowners who want the timeless appeal of wood without the fragility that can lead to a broken garage door. The color options available with traditional overhead garage door models complement various architectural styles.
Faux Wood Garage Door Finishes
When choosing a faux wood garage door, the finish plays a significant role in defining the overall aesthetic and complementing your home’s architecture. With options designed to replicate the beauty of natural wood, these finishes blend style and practicality, elevating your home's exterior without the maintenance of real wood.
Finish options for faux wood garage doors vary depending on your design preference and your home’s appearance. Selecting the right faux wood finish enhances curb appeal, adding elegance and potentially increasing your home’s value. Popular finishes include:
- Walnut: Known for its deep, elegant tones, walnut adds a touch of sophistication to any garage door.
- Golden oak: Timeless and widely admired, golden oak brings a warm, classic look that suits a range of home styles.
- Mahogany: With its rich, reddish-brown hues, mahogany makes a luxurious and bold statement.
These finishes offer the look of real wood without the upkeep, making them a practical yet stylish solution for both residential and commercial doors.
Trust Precision Garage Door Service With Your Garage Door Installation
Choosing the right style and material for your garage door is crucial, but so is selecting the best company to install it. Precision Garage Door Service® offers expert faux wood garage door installation, bringing years of experience and specialized training to get the job done right. Our service professionals make sure garage doors that look like wood are expertly installed for smooth operation.
From the warmth of walnut to the timeless appeal of golden oak, Precision Garage Door Service can replace your old garage door and install a new faux wood style.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property. Precision Garage Door Service is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Precision Garage Door Service location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQs About Garage Doors That Look Like Wood
As a garage door service, repair, and installation leader renowned for integrity and dependability, all independently owned and operated Precision Garage Door Service locations are committed to safety, quality workmanship, and your satisfaction. This commitment includes using our expertise and years of experience to answer your garage door-related questions.
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about garage doors that look like wood.
What garage doors look like wood but are not?
Faux wood garage doors offer the authentic appearance of real wood without the maintenance requirements. Many homeowners opt for steel or fiberglass garage doors with wood grain finishes.
Are faux wood doors more expensive?
On average, faux wood doors are a more budget-friendly alternative to real wood, providing durability and aesthetic appeal at a lower cost. The difference in price between faux wood, real wood, and other garage door material will be determined by the style and design you choose.
How much does a faux wood finish garage door cost?
The cost for a faux wood finish garage door typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on size, materials, and design complexity. To get a more accurate cost estimate, contact your local Precision Garage Door Service professional.
Do faux wood garage doors feel like real wood?
The feel of faux wood garage doors depends on the type of base material used. Materials such as steel and vinyl do not have the same feel of real wood, while some wood composite doors do have a texture that feels similar to wood.
What are the benefits of faux wood garage doors?
Faux wood garage doors offer the durability and aesthetic appeal of real wood at a more affordable price and with lower maintenance requirements.
Are wooden garage doors worth it?
Wooden garage doors may be worth the investment for some homeowners. They offer a timeless aesthetic that can increase property value, but be sure to consider factors such as climate, maintenance, and cost before investing.
How do I paint faux wood garage doors?
Painting faux wood garage doors can be challenging, as it requires specific primers and paints to adhere properly without damaging the finish. To properly paint your garage door, follow these steps:
- Choose the right paint for the door’s material by checking the manufacturer’s label. Using the right paint ensures proper adhesion and a lasting, polished finish.
- Plan to paint during cool weather (50-75°F) for optimal drying conditions. Inspect your garage door for damage, such as dents, cracks, rust, or loose hardware, and address any issues before starting to ensure a smooth, even finish. Check the functionality of the door as well, ensuring it opens and closes properly to avoid complications after painting.
- Carefully remove old paint and rust with a scraper or sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface. Clean the door thoroughly with a mild cleaner to remove dirt or grease, then let it air dry completely. Use painter’s tape to cover areas like handles, locks, and windows to keep them paint-free for a polished finish.
- Apply the primer evenly with a roller or brush, focusing on covering all areas thoroughly, including edges and corners. Allow it to dry for at least 12 hours to create a solid base for the paint.
- Finally, select a paint designed for your garage door’s specific material. Start at the top of the door and work your way down in smooth, even strokes, using a roller for large surfaces and a brush for detailed areas. Be mindful of overlapping edges to avoid visible lines and ensure consistent coverage. After applying the first coat, inspect the surface for any missed spots or uneven areas and address them before applying additional layers. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions to achieve a professional-looking finish.
Painting a garage door is a big undertaking. To save time and avoid the hassle, choose a pre-painted garage door from Precision Garage Door Service.
What’s the best lock for a wood garage door?
For a wood garage door, a high-quality deadbolt garage door lock paired with a sturdy handle lock offers robust protection and peace of mind.
