If you’re looking for an evergreen look for your garage door, wood may be the way to go. Wood garage
doors add a traditional, warm look to the exterior of your home. They’re also highly customizable.
Interested in learning more about what wood doors have to offer? Check out our guide below
to see
whether wood doors are the right fit for your home.
Wood Garage Door Types
Since different types of wood tend to have distinct appearances, wood doors are a versatile option for even the eco-friendly consumer. Here are a few common types:
- Plywood: A less expensive but common wooden door type, plywood is made from thin layers of wood that are fitted together to form firm sheets. Plywood offers the same painting and staining capabilities as any other wood does.
- Hardwood: Most popular hardwoods such as cedar, mahogany, or oak contain natural properties that make them resistant to rotting and insect damage—though it’s important to mention that this doesn’t mean they are impervious to rot. Each hardwood naturally has a distinct tint but can be stained or painted to your preferred color. Hardwood is more expensive than other woods are.
- Reclaimed wood: If you’re concerned about how your new wood garage doors may affect the environment, you may want to consider using reclaimed wood. It’s made when manufacturers source wood that is no longer being used, from places such as old barns or buildings. Reclaimed wood tends to create a one-of-a-kind look for your garage door since the wood that’s sourced isn’t always uniform. This material also tends to be a bit pricier.
- Wood Composite: Although wood composites aren't 100% wood, we’d be remiss if we didn’t bring this choice to your attention. Wood composites are wood alternatives usually made from wood scraps and plastic fibers. If you want the classic look of wood garage doors without the maintenance, this choice may appeal to you.
Wood Garage Door Styles
You may think that wood garage doors can only be flat, plain panels — typically referred to as solid panels. While solid panels are a popular choice, take a look at a few wood door styles that add more design possibilities into the mix:
- Raised panel: Raised panel garage doors are designed with rectangles or other common shapes that slightly protrude from the surface of the door. This style creates a classic or traditional look and works well with hardwoods such as cedar.
- Carriage-style: Having a vintage feel, carriage doors mimic the design of barn doors or old carriage houses. They take a little more work to maintain due to the intricacy of their design but can be well worth the effort.
- Windows: While this technically isn’t a style unto itself, it is a trending design element that many homeowners use to give a more modern flair to their wood doors.
The Pros and Cons of Wood Garage Doors
If you’re still on the fence about whether you should give wood garage doors a try, consider the pros and cons below.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adds a warm, traditional look to the exterior of your home | Some wood types are more inclined to be infested by pests |
| More durable compared to other materials due to its heavier weight | Heavier than most doors so installation can be a bit more complex |
| Provides natural insulation for reduced energy costs | Typically costs more than other material types do |
| Numerous opportunities for customization | Requires more maintenance to avoid rotting and warping |
FAQs about Wood Garage Doors
How long do wood garage doors last?
Despite what many people may think, a well-maintained wood garage door can last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. Of course, the lifespan of a wooden door may also be impacted by climate conditions in your specific area.
How can I maintain the wood sections on my garage door?
To maintain your wood door, we recommend doing the following regularly:
- Clean it using a soft cloth and a mild detergent. Be sure to rinse off the soap and dry your door afterward.
- Apply a fresh coat of stain or paint every few years to help prevent sun or moisture damage.
- Pay attention to any cracks or splits in your door. If you do notice any signs of damage, have it repaired immediately.
What kind of mechanical maintenance do garage doors require?
Similar to other garage doors, wood garage doors require regular maintenance once per year to the moving parts, such as springs, cables, and hinges, including regular lubrication and inspection. Wood doors also require regular checks of your garage door opener motor, as well as checks on your safety sensors to ensure proper alignment. Doing these tasks takes significant time and knowledge. Let our service professionals help with our garage tune-up service.
Let Precision Garage Door Service Install Your Wood Garage Doors
Wood garage doors can add a unique, distinctive look to a home. And with a variety of styles and designs to choose from, you are sure to find one that will compliment that look of your home. Our garage door professionals can help you choose and install the right wood garage doors to fit your preferences. To get started, give us a call at (877) 301-7474 or find the Precision Garage Door Service® nearest you.
