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One of the most important considerations when getting a new garage door is material. Everyone is aware of wood, steel and aluminum, but few people know much about fiberglass. While this material has lost some popularity throughout the years, it’s an interesting material that is uniquely suited for certain environments and preferences. Here are all the pros and cons so that you can decide if fiberglass is right for you.
Advantages of Fiberglass Garage Doors
Fiberglass is one of the lightest materials that you can get for your garage door. This means that it puts much less strain on the lifting parts, and it’s easier to manually lift. A steel core is often included in fiberglass garage doors, adding strength and durability while still allowing the door to be light enough to handle.
One of the most affordable materials, fiberglass is generally much cheaper than wood and, depending on the door, can be more or less expensive than steel. It typically runs in the same price range as aluminum yet provides better insulation. With insulating layers sandwiched between fiberglass shells, a fiberglass garage door can have an even higher insulation value than wood, which itself is a great natural insulator. Polyurethane insulation layers do a great job at improving the energy efficiency of a garage door.
Another advantage of fiberglass is it won’t corrode, making it ideal for those who live by the sea. It also won’t contract or expand from temperature changes. Plus, exposure to moisture won’t cause it to warp or rot, which is often a problem with wood. Fiberglass is a very low maintenance material, so you won’t need to invest much time or money in upkeep.
Since fiberglass is semi-transparent, it will allow more light into your garage. If you don’t want more light, then you can always cover the fiberglass with dark paint. Not only that, but fiberglass is so malleable that it can take on many colors and designs. You can even add a faux-wood finish to create that classic look without the high cost and maintenance of wood.
If environmental sustainability is a priority, you’ll be glad to know fiberglass garage doors require relatively little energy to produce. A high-quality door also has a significant resale value, so you’ll recoup most of the cost when selling your home.
Disadvantages of Fiberglass Garage Doors
Since fiberglass is light and semi-transparent, it does a poor job of insulating the garage by itself. You’ll have to invest in insulation or combinations of materials to improve the total insulating value of the door. It can also get fairly brittle if continually exposed to the cold, making it bad for areas with harsh winters. You’ll find that fiberglass performs better in warm areas, like Las Vegas, where it allows heat to escape the garage.
Another potential problem is fiberglass’s susceptibility to damage in high winds, plus the noise that can occur which many people find irritating. You won’t get building code approval to install a fiberglass garage door in a windy coastal area. The material is light and can also easily become dented. Breakage is a greater risk especially during a cold spell, and fiberglass has a tendency to crack as it ages.
Compared to wood or steel, fiberglass is brittle. Thieves can more easily break in and the door can be severely damaged if you accidentally hit it with your car. If a fiberglass garage door is dented or damaged in any way, it must be replaced as there are no options to repair it. And, as sustainable as it is to produce, it is not easily recyclable.
Fiberglass may also yellow with age. Exposure to sunlight can speed up the process. This problem has largely been alleviated with newer formulations, but it may still occur in harsher environments. While you can add new paint to the garage after it yellows, this will only be a temporary fix.
Fiberglass Garage Door Installation
Composite fiberglass doors are commonplace today. They are stronger, less prone to cracking and freezing, and come in a range of styles and with numerous options. Since it’s so lightweight, fiberglass is easier to install than other materials. While this is certainly an advantage when getting a new garage door in Las Vegas, you should consider all of the pros and cons before making a decision. Accounting for all the considerations above will help determine if a fiberglass garage door is right for your home.
At Precision Door Services of Las Vegas, we specialize in fiberglass garage door installation, replacement, and repair. We offer same-day service and are available 24/7 to address any garage door emergency. Our certified technicians can fix any problem and have undergone a background check, drug testing, and extensive training in the field. They also uphold our commitment to quality service, professionalism, and prompt and efficient installation and repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or free estimate.
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