Material is one of the biggest price levers on a garage door, and it's worth understanding the tradeoffs even if steel ends up being the right call for most homeowners — which it usually is, especially in a wet Pacific Northwest climate.
Steel
The most common material by far, and what we install as our standard Traditional-style Hörmann doors. Steel is durable, low-maintenance, dent-resistant when insulated, and the most cost-effective option — our Traditional style runs roughly $1,450–$3,100 installed depending on size and insulation. It also holds paint well and doesn't warp or rot the way wood can in a damp climate.
Wood
Wood doors have real curb appeal — natural grain, custom stain options, a warmth steel can't fully replicate. The tradeoff is cost and maintenance: wood typically costs significantly more upfront than steel, and in a wet climate it needs regular refinishing to prevent swelling, warping, and rot. It's a style choice more than a value choice.
Aluminum
Lightweight and rust-proof, often paired with large glass panels for a modern, contemporary look. It's more prone to denting than steel since it's a softer metal, and full-view glass-and-aluminum doors tend to cost more than standard steel due to the glazing.
Composite / fiberglass
Designed to mimic the look of wood without the maintenance — resists rot, warping, and denting better than real wood. It typically costs more than steel but less than genuine wood, landing as a middle-ground option for homeowners who want a wood look with less upkeep.
Why steel is our standard recommendation
For Washington's climate and for value per dollar, steel is hard to beat — it's why it's our featured Hörmann style. If you're set on a different material or a premium look, our wizard's door-style step shows what that costs for your exact opening before you commit to anything.