If you plan to replace your old, squeaky garage door, you may already be looking at different options and assessing their potential durability. Or you may already be leaning toward a more traditional timber door to accentuate an existing rustic aesthetic. With high costs and specialised maintenance, you may be looking for an alternative.
Faced with similar challenges, many Australians are opting for timber-look garage doors that offer the right appearance without the high cost. Not sure how timber looks matches up to traditional variations? Are timber-looks as durable as your conventional garage door? Keep reading as we explore the answers to these questions.
The Timber-Look Garage Door Concept Explained
Timber-look garage doors have been designed to mimic the appearance of traditional hardwood doors. Typically, these types of doors are made of more durable and affordable materials, such as steel or composite and only have a timber-look finish.
This wood-like aesthetic is achieved by using various techniques, which can include wood grain finishes and paint applications to achieve the desired effect. In some instances, aluminium frames are used in conjunction with steel panels to create strength and longevity.
More Popular than Ever
A quick look around your neighbourhood will emphasise how trendy wooden garage doors still are. However, if you’re looking at a quality door, you may not even realise you’re looking at a timber-look option, rather than a traditional hardwood variation.
Once you see the workmanship that goes into these doors, you may give a “fake wooden door” a second thought. We’ve compiled a few of the top reasons why this option should make it to your shortlist.
1. Well-Known for Durability
When you’re shortlisting the features your new garage door must meet, durability will undoubtedly be a top requirement. Fortunately, timber-look doors have a reputation for being durable. This is because they’re actually made from steel and also boast a thick and durable powder-coated finish that easily bonds to the underlying metal.
Opting for powder-coating ensures that your timber-look door has significant protection against moisture and rust. If you live in a rainy area, it’s a good idea to speak to your installer about Timber Coat or Knotwood finishes as these offer maximum durability without compromising the natural timber look.
2. More Affordable than Traditional Doors
Choosing a traditional hardwood door can be quite costly because these need to be treated and maintained before being installed. These costs often make a quality timber door too expensive for many homeowners.
Fortunately, timber-look doors are more affordable than conventional wood. Your initial quote will be based on the size and overall timber finish. You can always downgrade the type of finish without sacrificing quality. Speak to your installer for various quotes to match your budget and décor choice.
3. High Weather Resistance
No matter where in Australia you live, your garage door is going to bear the brunt of the harsh local climate. High winds, piercing temperatures, and pouring rain and hail can seriously affect the quality of your garage door.
A combination of these weather elements can lead to cracking, damage, wood shrinkage and even rot if you’ve opted for real hardwood doors. Since timber-look doors are made of steel and boast durable finishes, there’s no chance of any of these issues affecting your door.
4. Highly Customisable Design Options
A feature that makes these doors popular is that they are highly customisable. Doors can be tailored to suit any space and décor design. You can also choose from a range of texture finishes that will convince the most keen critic that a timber-look finish is as durable as a hardwood door. Explore more ways to customise your garage door.
Most timber-look doors have finishes that resemble common Australian hardwood types such as Black oak, Cedar, and Caoba. Discuss your specific customisable requirements with your installer to find the best option for your budget, space size, and décor requirements.
5. Can be Incorporated in Home Security
A huge concern many homeowners may have when it comes to timber doors is how they will incorporate them into existing security systems. Luckily, this isn’t a concern with timber-look doors as these can easily be connected to smart security systems.
In addition to this, steel doors also can’t be as easily pried or broken as may be possible with hardwood doors. If you’re keen on getting the most secure door possible, speak to your installer about constructing a door with a steel base and be sure to add a superior locking mechanism. Installers may also have a range of other security features on offer that will instantly make your door more secure and provide additional protection for your garage contents.
Final Thought
Opting for a timber-look garage door means you will easily be able to maintain the rustic décor in your outdoor area. Not only are these doors easier to maintain than their traditional hardwood counterparts, but they are also more affordable and durable. With a wide range of customisable features on offer, you will easily be able to find the perfect aesthetic to enhance your space!
