Buyers have an array of options when shopping today’s variety of well-built garage doors. They can choose between many different styles and materials like steel, fiberglass, aluminum, and vinyl. But if you want to adorn your home with charm and curb appeal, good old-fashioned wood offers immense value. Custom wooden garage doors are naturally beautiful and add sophistication to your home.
However, these doors also require more maintenance. Are custom wooden garage doors hard to maintain? What are the deciding factors? Is it worth it to have one? (Spoiler alert: We think “yes,” but we may be biased.)
Keep reading to consider the factors and see if you may be up for beautiful custom wooden garage doors of your own.
Consider the Lifespan of Custom Wooden Garage Doors
When well-maintained, custom wooden garage doors can last just as long as steel, aluminum, or any other materials (or longer). Plus, they’re gorgeous! Check out one of our favorite recent custom wooden garage door installations in the photo above.
That being said, their lifespan can be affected by pests or weather conditions (more on that later). Wood doors typically last 15 to 30 years, while other garage door materials generally last at least 20 years.
Wooden doors are heavier due to the materials, but use the same opening system as steel doors. Openers last up to 8 years depending on how often you use your garage door. So, when determining the overall maintenance and longevity of your wooden garage door, consider the upkeep of the equipment used to open the door.
Watch for Pests
Wooden garage doors, unlike aluminum or steel, are more susceptible to termites and other pests. Termites cause costly structural damage that can ruin your entire door and spread to other parts of your home; however, they can be kept at bay with regular monitoring and maintenance.
You will have to check your door each year to ensure it is still intact and doesn’t have any of the tell-tale signs of infestation.
Some of these signs may include:
- A hollow sound when knocking on the wood
- Visible signs of bugs
- Structural damage and loose sawdust
- Discoloration that looks like water damage
- A series of tiny holes
Termites aside, there are other pests that can feast on the organic material and nest in your wooden garage door. Some to look out for include carpenter ants, beetles, woodworms, and moths. This is why proper care is important.
Take Note of the Materials and the Environment
The best materials for custom wooden garage doors range from cedar to pine; each type has different upkeep. For example, cedar is usually left with its natural look but is also naturally anti-fungal and doesn’t require the water-proofing other wood species do.
Wood doors require water-resistant coatings periodically to protect the door from water damage and rot. Also, your local climate plays a role in the material you choose and the amount of upkeep that will be necessary. The more sun, rain, or snow you experience will affect how long the finish on your wood door holds up. Taking factors such as extreme direct sunlight into account matters when it comes to the lifespan of your garage door
Have questions or are unsure which type of garage door would be best for you? Ask the pros.
So, Are Custom Wooden Garage Doors Hard to Maintain?
The answer depends on your preferred lifestyle. Owning wooden garage doors comes with some obligations to ensure they are well-cared for, but if you’re up for the task, it’s well worth the cost! Wooden garage doors are endlessly customizable, giving your home a timeless, artistic look that is incomparable.
But it’s important to make the right choice for YOU! The best part is that you’ve got options. We love garages so much, we’ve been installing and maintaining them for 30+ years. Contact us today at American Garage Door to learn more about our custom wooden garage doors and your customized maintenance plan or to talk about other garage door styles to fit your needs.
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