Aluminium garage doors: Pros and cons explained

At Steel-Line, we've built our name on the strength of steel. But sometimes, a lighter touch is what's required and not every home or business wants or needs a steel garage door.

Lightweight, versatile, and sleek, aluminium garage doors have become the choice for modern homes and businesses prioritising design flexibility and kerb appeal.

In this article, we break down where this popular material excels and some areas of challenge, to leave you armed with the facts about whether aluminium is the perfect match for your home.

Pros of aluminium garage doors

From natural rust resistance to lighter weight, a new garage door made of aluminium has many advantages.

Aluminium doors are light

If you're looking for a garage door that's easy to operate manually, or one that won't put a lot of strain on your garage door opener, then aluminium is the best material to choose. Aluminium garage doors are much lighter than steel garage doors or wooden doors, making them easier to install and operate.

They are great for coastal areas

Aluminium is naturally resistant to corrosion, making it an ideal choice for garage doors in areas with high humidity or exposed to salt air. Even if you live many kilometres from the ocean, features of your home can still be prone to rust due to salt spray. This is because the distance salt air travels depends on the topography and local weather patterns. Therefore, if you want a garage door that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, aluminium is an excellent choice.

They don't require a lot of maintenance

Apart from an occasional clean with mild soap and a soft cloth, and periodic inspections, aluminium doors are very low-maintenance. This is especially so when compared to wooden doors, which require frequent resealing, and steel garage doors, which need to be regularly checked for the early signs of rust.

They are very energy efficient when insulated

Insulating your new garage door will protect your home from extreme weather and help reduce your energy bills. Steel garage doors are generally thicker and heavier than aluminium doors, so they naturally prevent heat transfer more effectively. However, the good news for anyone looking at an aluminium garage door is that it can often be fitted with insulation for improved thermal efficiency.

Aluminium is available in a wide range of finishes

Aluminium garage doors are available in a wide range of modern designs and finishes, making them a practical choice for both homes and commercial settings. Whether you're looking for a super sleek finish in a contemporary colour or a sturdy clearview shutter for your storefront, aluminium garage doors are a customisable and aesthetically appealing option.

Cons of aluminium garage doors

While they are corrosion-resistant and extremely durable, aluminium garage doors also have their downsides.

Not the most budget-friendly option

If budget is one of the main considerations when choosing a new garage door for your home or business, you should know that aluminium will be more expensive initially compared to a steel door. That being said, because they are low-maintenance and resist corrosion, they represent good long-term value as they don't require the ongoing upkeep of other materials.

Aluminium is more easily dented

One of the biggest pitfalls of owning an aluminium garage door is that it will dent more easily than a steel garage door. This can pose a problem for both weather resistance and corrosion prevention. For example, the protective coating on an aluminium door is more likely to be damaged during a severe hailstorm, and once that protective layer is compromised, corrosion may occur. If you live in an area prone to harsh weather like storms and strong winds, you might be better suited to a steel garage door.

Limited insulation can be a problem

Without the addition of insulation, aluminium garage doors can make your garage space (and your whole home, if your garage is attached) hotter. They are also less able to absorb sound and can transmit vibrations, which may make them noisier. For maximum energy efficiency and quiet operation, choose an insulated aluminium door.

It may not suit all architectural styles

Aluminium is a versatile material that complements many different types of homes, especially modern or industrial architectural styles. However, if you are looking for a more classic appearance, say for a Hamptons-style, mid-century or Queenslander home, you might be better off opting for a different material that better suits your design preferences.

Aluminium vs other garage door materials

In Australian homes, steel and aluminium are the two most popular materials for garage doors. However, there are other types available, including wooden doors, fibreglass, vinyl and composite garage doors.

Aluminium has the distinct advantage of being inherently strong yet lightweight and easy to care for. This means your garage door motor and opener will last longer with an aluminium door than with a steel door because there is less strain on the components. Aluminium also requires less maintenance than materials like wood or composites, and with proper care, it can last up to 30 years.

Is an aluminium garage door right for you?

Considering buying an aluminium garage door for your home or business? Here's a quick guide to help you decide if it's the right garage door material for you.

What's your budget? Aluminium is cost-effective in the long run, but the initial cost can be higher than other materials.

What sort of weather conditions will your garage door be exposed to? Aluminium is more prone to dents, so if you need something highly weather-resistant, steel may be a better option.

Is energy efficiency important? While they can often be insulated, aluminium doors may not be suitable for attached garages or those used for storage, as workshops or home gyms, as they are not as good at preventing heat/cold transfer.

Are you looking for a garage door with less maintenance? Aluminium is a very low-maintenance option, especially compared to wood and steel doors, which require regular maintenance.

How important is aesthetic appeal? While aluminium is a great option for contemporary designs, it may not be the best choice for more traditional styles of homes.

We're where strength meets style

Aluminium is a versatile material for a garage door. It's corrosion-resistant, easy to look after and requires fewer repairs. It looks just as good on the façade of a home as it does on the front of a business, and, because it's light, it's easy to install and operate.

For strong, stylish aluminium garage doors that are made to last, visit Steel-Line. See our website to view our full range or book a free measure and quote today.