Steel, wood or composite: which garage door handles humidity?

NOAA's 1991 to 2020 climate normals for Hartsfield-Jackson show about 50 inches of precipitation a year, with roughly 76 days a year getting at least a tenth of an inch. The average summer high is 88.7°F. Wet weather and summer heat are what each material below has to live with.

Clopay says galvanized steel with protective coatings defends against rust and corrosion, but scratches or dings may need touch-ups to stop rust from starting. Its materials guide says a quality steel door can last 15 to 20 years or more with regular cleaning and occasional touch-ups.

Clopay's own care instructions for its steel doors are specific:

• Clean and wax the door at least twice a year, or four times a year in harsh environments. Skipping it may affect warranty coverage.
• Use liquid car wax, not paste. Do not use a pressure washer.
• If the finish is damaged down to bare metal, repair it to keep rust from forming.
• For darker colors in direct sun or high heat, Clopay strongly recommends solar reflective paint to keep the surface cooler.

Clopay says real wood warps and swells when it absorbs extra moisture, and constant dampness can leave black or green spots. Its advice is a new coat of exterior sealant or paint every year or two. Its materials guide calls wood the highest-maintenance option, though a well-kept wood door can last decades.

Clopay says composite resists moisture, insects and rot, won't warp, and gives the look of several wood species, though it might need occasional sealing or painting. Its composite overlay doors put a moisture-resistant overlay on an insulated steel base, and they can be painted and, in most cases, stained.

Clopay says aluminum is naturally rust resistant but dents more easily than steel, and standard uninsulated aluminum does little to keep heat out. Fiberglass won't swell, warp or rot, but it can fade in strong sun and crack if struck.

Our material guide covers looks and construction in more depth. When you are ready, book a free in-home or virtual measurement through the new door quote form. Removal and haul-away of your old door is included on every install.