Vinyl Garage Doors: Exploring The Pros And Cons

While vinyl garage doors are one of the newer options that the market has to offer, more and more homeowners are finding that these doors are better suited to their needs when compared to more traditional options such as wood or steel. Taking the time to consider both the pros and cons of a vinyl garage door can help you to determine if this type of door is right for you. 

The Pros Of Vinyl Garage Doors

1. Very Affordable - Vinyl garage doors are one of the most affordable options on the market. This makes vinyl the perfect option for homeowners who are on a budget when replacing their garage doors. 
2. Multiple Colors And Finishes Available - There are a variety of different colors and finishes for you to choose from when installing a vinyl garage door. These finishes include options that closely mimic the appearance of other garage door materials like wood. 
3. Easy To Maintain - Vinyl garage doors do not require much in the way of maintenance. In fact, simply washing these doors from time to time is usually all it takes to keep them looking great.
4. Resistant To Many Types Of Damage - Vinyl garage doors are very resistant to damage. These doors will not rust, splinter, rot, or swell like many other garage door materials.

The Cons Of Vinyl Garage Doors

1. Poorly Insulated - Vinyl garage doors do not offer much in the way of insulation. Consequently, you will need to address the issue of insulation separately if you wish to avoid energy waste through your garage door. 
2. Color Can Fade - The color of vinyl garage doors can begin to fade when exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time. While there are coatings that can be applied to help prevent fading, these coatings will come at an additional cost. 
3. Color Not Easily Changed - Vinyl garage doors are not easily painted. In many cases, the existing color of the door will show through even when using the highest quality paints and primers. Consequently, you will likely be stuck with the current color of the door for its lifetime. 

The Bottom Line

Vinyl garage doors are an ideal choice for homeowners who are looking for an affordable door that is going to stand up to the test of time. However, if you have an attached garage, you will need to address the issue of insulation in order to prevent energy waste. Also, if you are wanting to make changes to the color of your home, you will want to make these changes before installing your new vinyl garage door to ensure you are able to match the color of your door to the new color of your home.