Understanding Strength Levels for Steel Garage Doors

If you’re looking into a new garage door, the use of steel materials may have caught your eye as a good approach. If you’re planning to utilize steel for your garage door, always a great choice due to its incredible durability and limited maintenance, there are a few different steel strength levels to be aware of and choose between for your needs.

At Price’s Guaranteed Doors, we’re proud to serve as your one-stop shop for all things garage doors, entry doors, Pella windows and more around Utah and Idaho. We maintain locations in Salt Lake City, St. George and Boise, and our garage door repair and garage door installation specialists are here to assist with both commercial and residential garage doors of any kind. Here is some basic information on each of the three common strength levels used today for steel garage doors, plus how to make your choice between them.

Why Steel?

Before we go into the different strength levels, let’s briefly discuss why steel is such a popular material for garage doors. There are several reasons:

• Durability: Steel is an extremely strong material that can withstand heavy impact and resist dents or scratches. It also holds up well against extreme weather conditions, making it a great choice for areas with harsh climates.
• Low maintenance: Unlike other materials like wood that require regular painting or staining, steel garage doors are low maintenance. They only need occasional cleaning and lubrication to keep them in top shape.
• Cost-effective: Compared to other materials like wood or aluminum, steel is relatively inexpensive. This makes it a cost-effective option for those on a budget.

Single-Layer Steel Garage Doors

As the name suggests, single-layer steel garage doors are made from a single layer of thin, galvanized steel. These are also known as “pan” garage doors and are typically found on thinner openings.

The chief benefit of many single-layer steel garage doors is their low cost, which can be perfect for those watching their budget. On the other hand, they are also more prone to denting and may not offer as much insulation or energy efficiency as other options.

Double-Layer Steel Garage Doors

Double-layer steel garage doors are made by creating a single layer of steel, then backing it with polystyrene thermal insulation that allows for enhanced energy efficiency. These types of doors may also feature a thin internal layer of steel or vinyl backing for additional insulation.

Double-layer garage doors are more durable and offer better insulation compared to single-layer options, but they do tend to cost more upfront. They are also energy efficient and more environmentally friendly than single-layer doors, as they can help reduce energy consumption.

Triple-Layer Steel Garage Doors

Triple-layer steel garage doors are referred to as the “sandwich” garage door, with a steel front, polystyrene middle and another layer of steel on the back. This is the strongest and most efficient option when it comes to steel garage doors. These doors are designed to withstand heavy impact and provide excellent insulation, making them ideal for harsh climates.

The main drawback of triple-layer steel garage doors is their higher cost. However, they offer the highest level of durability and energy efficiency compared to other options, making them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners.

Which is Right for You?

How do you determine which steel strength level is right for your garage door? Consider the following factors:

• Your budget: As mentioned, single-layer doors are the most affordable option while triple-layer doors are the most expensive.
• Climate: If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, a triple-layer door may be the best choice to protect your home and provide insulation.
• Energy efficiency: If reducing energy consumption is important to you, consider investing in a double or triple-layer steel door as they offer better insulation compared to single-layer options.
• Home value considerations: If you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, investing in a durable and energy-efficient garage door can increase its value.

Ultimately, it’s important to weigh all these factors and choose the steel strength level that best fits your needs and budget. Choosing the right garage door will not only enhance the appearance of your home, but also provide safety and security for your family.

Contact Price’s Guaranteed Doors today to learn more about our steel garage door options and to schedule a consultation with one of our experts. We’re committed to providing quality products and superior customer service to help you find the perfect solution for your home, whether you’re in Utah or Idaho.