In Massachusetts, there are many options when it comes to getting a new garage door. Between wood and vinyl, there are good reasons for either. However, the Massachusetts area has very unique weather patterns that should affect your choice in garage doors, especially when choosing a material. This is even more true for homes with an attached garage. Energy efficiency is greatly impacted by the garage’s insulation. When contractors look at building a home especially in colder climates like New England, they have to consider the surface area of all windows and doors. Garage doors have some of the largest surface areas and therefore can cause the greatest inefficiency for heating.
Pros of Wooden Garage Doors
The main reason homeowners go with wooden doors for their garages is the look. A wooden door is a time-honored tradition and has a very unique classic element to it. Wooden doors come in a wide variety and can add value to a home. They work well with and complement stonework. Wooden doors create a natural look to a home and many homeowners agree that they feel warmer. Wooden doors are also environmentally friendly, wood is a renewable resource and if your door is damaged it can simply be repaired instead of replaced. Wood also comes in many varieties which makes it very customizable. Lastly, a wooden door is generally more durable. Although wood needs to be maintained and weatherproofed it is less susceptible to damage. A metal or vinyl door can easily get damaged if something collides with it, but a wooden door is more likely to hold up.
Cons of Wooden Garage Doors
The largest con of owning a wooden garage door is the price point. Wood is generally more expensive compared to vinyl. The more you are looking to customize your door, the higher the price. The type of wood you use will also greatly impact the price point. The second biggest con is energy efficiency. Not only are wooden doors more expensive, but they are also not designed to keep cold air out. You can buy insulated wooden doors but that also will increase the price point. Lastly, maintaining a wooden door requires more work than maintaining a vinyl door. A protective coating and weatherproofing are needed to protect wooden doors.
Contact Merrimack Valley Glass & Mirror
The team at Merrimack Valley Glass & Mirror provides garage door installation and repairs throughout Massachusetts. If you are interested in a wooden door or have questions about what kind of door would work best on your property, give us a call or send us a message online.