Replacing your garage doors is a surprisingly affordable home upgrade. Many people replace their garage doors because they want to make their garage space more usable. Homeowners often install a more insulated garage door system that will make their garage more comfortable. Others will upgrade the garage doors because of style. When your garage doors match with the trim and roofline of your home, everything looks better and more cohesive. So, upgrading your garage is a great idea if you have recently remodeled your exterior. Not all garage products are the same. This article explains the key differences between vinyl and wooden garage doors:

Vinyl Panels

Vinyl is definitely but cheaper and easier to maintain of the two options. It is the ideal choice for homeowners who are looking for the most cost-effective garage remodel. Vinyl is lightweight and durable. It is also very easy to maintain because the surface is completely waterproof. One of the most important characteristics of vinyl is that it is dyed and not painted. This means that the individual pieces are the same color throughout, but also that they cannot be practically painted. If you do try and paint over your vinyl garage panels, the finish is not going to last very long. So, it is important that you realize that the color of your vinyl panels is pretty much what you're stuck with the kill you replace them again.

Wood Panels

Most people prefer the look of real wooden garage panels. Wood panels make your exterior look more natural and authentic. Of course, if you have matching wood trim around your home, it is deathly the best choice for your garage doors as well. If you do invest in wooden garage doors, they look best if you finish them with a clear stain instead of a solid paint color.

The only real drawback to wooden garage doors that they require more maintenance than vinyl. Wood is a beautiful material, but it will not remain that way if it is not properly maintained. Since your garage doors will be exposed to the sun and rain, they need to be refinished on a regular basis. Usually, you should refinish your garage doors at least once every five years. This is not very frequent, but the project is time-consuming so you need to keep this in mind if you want a product that will last and look great for many years.

Whether you choose vinyl or wooden garage doors, you can drastically alter the style of your home exterior. Just make sure you choose the product that is best for your needs and budget. Check out a website like http://shankdoor.com for more information and assistance.