Steel and aluminum are the two most common garage door materials in new Canadian construction. Both have genuine merits, but for Calgary’s specific climate demands, they perform differently in ways that matter to homeowners here. Here is a practical comparison.
Steel Doors — The Calgary Standard
Steel is by far the most common garage door material in Calgary for good reasons. Heavy-gauge steel handles Calgary’s freeze-thaw cycles without warping, can be manufactured with high insulation R-values, and is highly resistant to denting from typical impacts. Triple-layer steel doors — two steel skins with polyurethane insulation between them — achieve R-12 to R-18 and have excellent structural rigidity. Steel does eventually rust if the paint is compromised, so any chips or scratches should be touched up to prevent corrosion.
Aluminum Doors — When They Make Sense
Aluminum doors are naturally rust-resistant, significantly lighter than steel, and are the standard choice for full-view contemporary doors — frames with large glass panels that let light into the garage. The contemporary look of aluminum full-view doors is very popular in modern Calgary infills and newer architectural styles. However, aluminum dents more easily than heavy-gauge steel, and its thinner profiles typically achieve lower insulation R-values. For garages where aesthetics and light are priorities, aluminum full-view is the clear choice. For standard residential Calgary garages where insulation and durability are priorities, steel is better.
Cost Comparison
Standard steel doors are generally less expensive than comparable aluminum doors. Full-view aluminum doors command a price premium because of the glass content and custom fabrication. A standard insulated steel double door installed in Calgary costs $1,100–$1,700 + GST. A full-view aluminum door of comparable size starts around $2,000–$3,000 + GST.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is steel or aluminum better for Calgary garage doors?
Steel is better for most Calgary residential garages — superior insulation, better dent resistance, and handles freeze-thaw cycles well. Aluminum is the choice for full-view contemporary doors where aesthetics and light are priorities.
Do aluminum garage doors rust in Calgary winters?
Aluminum does not rust. Steel can rust if paint is compromised. Both require periodic inspection — steel for paint chips that need touch-up, aluminum for frame joint integrity.
What does a full-view aluminum garage door cost to install in Calgary?
Full-view aluminum doors start around $2,000–$3,000 + GST installed, depending on size and glass specification. Super G&R Garage Door Repairs can provide a free quote for your specific opening.
Can an aluminum garage door achieve Calgary's recommended R-12 insulation?
Most aluminum doors achieve R-6 to R-10. Achieving R-12 in aluminum requires specific thick-panel designs. For attached garages where insulation is critical, steel triple-layer construction achieves R-12 to R-18 more readily.
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