Fiberglass Garage Doors

When homeowners are deep in the decision process for a new garage door, certain materials come to mind. One that usually isn’t thought of is fiberglass, although that oversight is unfortunate due to numerous benefits of the material. 

Fiberglass garage doors are durable, energy-efficient and won’t have you wondering where your savings account went. Check out our guide on fiberglass garage doors, and if you are considering a new garage door, Garage.com can connect you with top-rated companies ready to put in the work to upgrade your system.

What Are Fiberglass Garage Doors?

Fiberglass doors, on the surface, are precisely what they sound like. But there is more to these customizable doors that while they have waned in popularity, provide plenty of upside for those who choose them.

Fiberglass garage doors are strengthened with steel frames, and have more natural energy efficiency than aluminum doors while being more budget-friendly than wood garage doors. They are reliable for wetter climates, but might not be the best choice for windier environments.

Fiberglass Door Construction

Fiberglass garage doors are composed of mainly fiberglass reinforced plastic with glass fibers. They are constructed with steel frames, making them durable to go along with their ability to resist inclement weather (water and heat). 

Limitations and Considerations for Fiberglass Doors

While a fiberglass garage door does have its benefits in certain situations, it’s also wise to consider drawbacks of the material, including:

• Add the pad: While fiberglass garage doors do offer some energy efficiency, they don’t have as much as steel or wood doors. It’d be best to upgrade your door with more insulation if you are truly considering it.
• Can be pricey: Not as expensive as a real wood garage door, fiberglass garage doors can be on the higher side compared to some materials – especially if you get fancy with customizations.
• Too lightweight?: While being lightweight can be good in some respects, it can be a detriment in others. Fiberglass can be brittle in very cold climates, and it breaks easier than a steel door in a collision.

Styles and Design Options for Fiberglass Garage Doors

Fiberglass garage doors can be highly customized, from a faux wood look they are most-known for to painted. They can also add glass panels for a more modern look. You can use them with a sectional garage door or with a carriage house style. In short, they are very versatile and can fit numerous styles of doors.

Cost Analysis of Fiberglass Garage Doors

A fiberglass garage door is a good investment due to its longevity. They are in the middle of the spectrum for a new system – more than aluminum but less than real wood – and relatively modest in terms of annual upkeep with regular maintenance.

Maintenance and Care for Fiberglass Garage Doors

One of the biggest benefits of a fiberglass garage door is its ease for annual upkeep. Garage.com always recommends you get regular garage door tune-ups, but fiberglass is otherwise pretty easy. It’s lightweight, and therefore easier on the hinges, springs and opener itself. It is important to do visual inspections at regular intervals, and cleaning the door with soap and water.

Selecting the Right Fiberglass Garage Door

When making your final decision for a new garage door, it’s crucial to consider your budget, your home’s aesthetics and the climate in which you reside. Fiberglass garage doors can be ideal in numerous situations and are worthy of consideration, but it’s not a choice to be made lightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fiberglass Garage Doors