The average age of the U.S. housing stock is 34 years old, according to a Harvard University study, which means many homes are candidates for a new garage door. Here are some factors to consider:

• Budget. Like everything, budget dictates options. Garage doors range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the size, materials and design you choose. Even if you have a small budget you can still get a great looking door that is going to enhance the look of your home.

• Design. Let the home’s architectural style, the shape and size of the windows and entry doors, and exterior design details influence the design of the garage door. It’s a good idea to visit retailers and review manufacturer websites to get a sense of the options available. Many companies offer doors predesigned to match specific architectural styles, which can make the selection process easier.

• Insulation. Doors can be insulated or non-insulated. If the garage is attached the house, choose an insulated door. This will help reduce utility bills – both in hot and cold weather. An insulated door is especially important if there is a regularly occupied room above the garage. In addition to being more energy efficient, it will also help block out noise. If you live in a mild climate or have a detached garage that will be used only to park the car, specify a less expensive, non-insulated door.

• Lifestyle. If you have children or use the garage as a workshop, oft for an insulated, heavy gauge steel door that isn’t going to dent every time a ball or bike hits it. This type of door will also help keep the space a comfortable temperature.

• Upkeep. Maintenance is another consideration. Every door needs regular check-ups to maximize its life and reliability. Steel doors are very durable and virtually maintenance-free, but some people prefer the warmth and character of wood and the limitless design options. Depending on the climate and exposure, wood doors will need to be painted or stained every few years.

• “Green” factor. Sustainability is a key element of green building, and with a life cycle of between 15 and 20 years, an investment in a durable garage door that can withstand the rigors of daily use is money well spent for a home and the environment.

• Look for galvanized torsion springs, which look better and last 50% longer than the industry’s standard oil-tempered springs, heavy-gauge steel to ensure a quality appearance, dent resistance and quiet operation, a hot dipped galvanized coating topped with a baked-on paint finish that resists fading and peeling, and environmentally safe, CFC-free insulation that is bonded on both sides of the door panel for improved strength and energy efficiency.

• Building code requirements. If you live in a coastal region or high wind area you may need a reinforced door as specified by the local building code authority. Because of their size, garage doors are more susceptible to wind damage than other exterior openings – especially two-car garage doors. Unless you have a tested, reinforced door installed, high winds can force it out of the opening, putting your home and property at risk.

• Materials. Today, homeowners can choose among wood, steel, composite or aluminum garage doors.

Here’s the lowdown on the pros and cons of each:

• Wood: There’s no substitute for the warm, distinctive look of wood. It offers the most design flexibility to create a one-of-a-kind door, and the species and stain options are endless. Wood doors can be expensive, with an average starting price of $1,000. They also weigh more than typical steel doors, so an opener with a higher horsepower is recommended. Depending on the climate and exposure, wood doors require more finish maintenance.

• Composite and steel: Steel doors with composite overlays offer the benefits of durable, insulated steel with added charm and design flexibility. Details like coped edging, true divided lites and embossed woodgrain texture make it an attractive, low-maintenance alternative to real wood, if you’re in the market for a carriage house style door. Price start at $900.

• Steel: Classic steel panel doors offer the broadest range of insulation and price options from as little as $300 for a single-layer, non-insulated door, up to $1,500 for a premium 24-gauge, three-layer sandwich door featuring 2" thick insulation and decorative windows.

• Aluminum: Rust-proof and corrosion resistant, this material is ideal for humid, caustic environments as well as coastal areas. And it’s incredibly durable.

This article was provided by Clopay Garage Doors. To help homeowners visualize what a new garage door can do for their home, Clopay provides a web-based Door Imagination System that allows user to see how various door designs look with their own home’s architectural style. Check it out at www.clopaydoor.com , or call the company at 800-225-6729 for more information.