It’s time to choose a new garage door, and of the many options, there’s one type that never fails to stir up mixed emotions: the solid wood garage door. They may have great curb appeal, with countless customizations, but does the cost of upkeep outweigh their charm?
As a garage door expert with Suburban Garage Door based in Allen, Texas, I have over 30 years in the business. Our team has installed, repaired, and maintained countless doors.
From that wealth of experience, I know what the long-term results of wooden garage doors can be, and the importance of making an informed decision on which material to go with when choosing the best garage door for your home. Let’s compare the positives and negatives of solid wood garage doors.
The Beauty of Solid Wood Garage Doors
Let’s be honest, a well-crafted wood door is always an exquisite addition to any home. The natural warmth and depth of wood grain is highly appealing.
The choice of different stains, finishes, and panel designs means each door is truly unique.
A beautiful wood door can be a real selling point for a home. I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard real estate agents gush over a home’s wood garage door during showings. It’s no wonder – these doors can complement any architectural style, from Victorian to contemporary.
The Maintenance Reality of Wooden Doors
Now, let’s get real for a moment. As much as I love the look of wood doors, I have to be forthcoming about the maintenance they require. More often than not, solid wood garage doors fall into disrepair because homeowners weren’t prepared for the expensive and time-consuming upkeep.
At a minimum, you’re looking at annual cleaning and inspection. But the real work comes with refinishing. Depending on the door’s level of weather exposure, you might need to sand, stain, and seal every 2-3 years. It’s not an easy job and requires professional consultation.
Sun exposure can fade and crack the finish, turning your once beautiful driveway into an unappealing eyesore. With high humidity, I’ve seen doors practically rot off their hinges due to moisture damage. Not to mention the probability of termite infestations!
How Much Does a Wooden Garage Door Cost?
When it comes to cost, I always give my clients the full picture. Yes, the initial investment for a wood door is higher than other materials. For example, a wood garage door can cost hundreds to several thousand more than a standard steel garage door.
But it’s the long-term costs that often catch people off guard.
Over a 10-year period, the maintenance costs for a wood door can equal or even exceed the initial purchase price. This includes refinishing materials, sun damage control, and potential repairs for rot, insect damage, warping and cracking.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
In my professional opinion, deciding on a wood door comes down to balancing its beauty against the maintenance commitment. I always ask my clients to honestly assess their willingness to keep up with the maintenance.
If you enjoy home improvement projects and have the time, a wood door can be a rewarding choice.
If not, you might want to explore lower-maintenance options.
Are there Alternatives?
In my professional opinion, deciding on a wood door comes down to balancing its beauty against the maintenance commitment. I always ask my clients to honestly assess their willingness to keep up with the maintenance.
If you enjoy home improvement projects and have the time, a wood door can be a rewarding choice.
If not, you might want to explore lower-maintenance options.
Bottom Line: Are Wooden Garage Doors Worth It?
After 30+ years in this business, I can say with confidence that while solid wood garage doors may look great right after installation, the sheer long-term cost and high risk for damage and maintenance issues means they’re certainly not for everyone. They require a level of care and commitment that homeowners often aren’t prepared for.
My advice? Consider other more durable, cost-effective and equally as beautiful options. A 24 or 25 gauge steel garage door is a wise choice for a garage door that lasts. Over the years, the levels of customization for steel doors with wood grain facades has increased dramatically.
With many different aesthetic options like walnut, mahogany, cedar and oak, you can’t go wrong with a steel door that provides all the curb appeal of a wood garage door without any of the cost or hassle.
The best garage door is one that not only looks great but also fits your lifestyle and maintenance capabilities.
Whatever you choose, make sure you hire a qualified expert for installation to ensure your new door is set up for long-term success.
