The Puget Sound region doesn't deal with extreme heat or brutal freezes, but it does deal with something arguably harder on garage doors over the long haul: near-constant moisture. Western Washington averages well over 150 days of measurable rain per year, plus consistently high humidity even on dry days. That single factor does more to determine long-term material durability here than almost anything else.
How each material holds up
- Wood: highest risk of warping, swelling, and rot without diligent, frequent refinishing — the least suited material to this climate
- Aluminum/glass: resists moisture well, but dents easily and glass panels are more vulnerable to impact than solid materials
- Composite/fiberglass: good moisture resistance, but comes at a premium price with fewer local style options
- Steel: excellent moisture resistance, doesn't warp or rot, and holds up structurally through decades of wet winters
Why steel wins for this climate
Steel doesn't absorb moisture the way wood does, so there's no rot or swelling risk from a wet winter. It doesn't require refinishing to maintain a weather-resistant surface. And when insulated (like our Therma Tech 3400 line), it holds up structurally against the temperature swings between damp mornings and drier afternoons without the material stress that affects wood over time. It's also the most cost-effective option for the durability it delivers, which is a big part of why it's the standard material across the industry.
What still matters regardless of material
- Proper weatherstripping at the bottom and sides of the door to keep water out of the garage itself
- Good drainage at the base of the driveway or garage entry to avoid standing water against the door
- Periodic hardware checks — hinges, rollers, and tracks are exposed to the same humidity as the door panel
All of our doors are steel, built for exactly this climate. Get an exact installed price for your home through our wizard in about two minutes.