Garage Door Prices: A Guide for the US Market

Garage Door Prices: What You Need To Know

A new garage door can be a great way to spruce up your home. Apart from the aesthetic benefits of a brand-new door, there are potential energy, safety and property value advantages, too. A new garage door is an investment; but how much of an investment? What does a new garage door cost?

The answer is: it depends.

Factors That Influence Garage Door Prices

As you probably already figured out, not all garage doors cost the same. This isn’t simply because one manufacturer charges more than another. There are many types of garage doors and various features which affect the overall cost.

Here are some important factors that can influence the cost of a new garage door:

Garage Door Material

Some materials are more expensive than others. The cost of a steel garage door compared to an aluminum one can vary. Depending on the design, insulation, and gauge of the steel, a steel door may be more or less expensive than an aluminum door. Because steel is an alloy made from a combination of metals, the cost depends on the specific type of steel used in the garage door. The price of aluminum and steel also fluctuate based on supply and demand. A real wood garage door is typically the most expensive option compared to aluminum or steel. However, faux wood offers a more affordable alternative. It provides the look of real wood without the extra cost.

Size and Type of Door

The larger the garage door, the higher the cost—just like buying a bigger piece of furniture or a larger TV. Garage door size is an obvious factor, but the type of door also matters. Do you want a more modern trending garage door or a simple more door. 

Insulation and Energy

An insulated garage door costs more, at least initially. You pay more upfront for the insulation, but this often saves homeowners money over time. The purpose of insulation is to prevent heat transfer. Insulation keeps the external cold air out in winter and the hot air out in summer. An insulated door can save you money on your energy bill over time making it a smarter investment.

Design and Style

Garage doors may also differ in their ornateness, such as a door comprising three flat panels and another door with recessed or raised patterns. Specialty styles, such as carriage house doors or custom designs, typically cost more because of the additional materials and craftsmanship required.

Additional Features

One popular feature is the addition of garage door windows. A door with one or more windows will cost more than a similar model without any. The shape of the window and the type of glass also affect the price. Hardware is another factor, such as decorative clavos or knockers vs standard handles.

Installation and Labor Costs

Installing a garage door is a complex task. It’s heavy, can be awkward to handle, and requires precise installation. That’s why it’s wise to trust the installation to the professionals. If your garage has an unusual shape or obstacles that can’t be moved, installation can become more complicated. Custom garage door designs and manufacturing can also increase labor costs impacting the overall cost of your install.

How To Choose the Right Garage Door for Your Home

As you can see, several factors impact garage door prices. When it’s time to choose your next garage door, it’s essential to consider how these elements align with your preferences and budget. This will help you select a door that meets your functional needs and enhances the overall value of your home.

As you consider your options, it’s important to remember that residential garage doors are often the face of a home so it’s important to pick the right one. The first step is to determine your price range. You’re already on the right path since you are reading this blog.  Another step you can take is to conduct some initial research so you have an idea of what you’ll have to spend. Keep in mind that a new garage door is an investment; not  just a functional upgrade. Iit can enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase the value.

Beyond your budget, consider your other top priorities because obviously, any door you pick must fit your garage. But beyond that, what’s non-negotiable? Do you definitely need windows? Is your heart set on a modern garage door? Or perhaps you want to save money on energy bills and need insulated garage doors.  

Once you have a better idea of what you are looking for, here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Average price: In 2024, the average garage door replacement cost in the U.S. was $4,513, with a resale value of $8,751. This means, on average, new garage door buyers recouped 193.9% of the cost! That’s an incredible cost vs. value.
• Cost by material type: As mentioned earlier, steel and aluminum are the most common door materials and can vary in cost. Next in line are composite, vinyl, and fiberglass, which typically fall into the midrange price category. Wood and glass garage doors are the most expensive.
• Additional costs: Insulation, windows, and decorative hardware  increase the cost of a garage door. Additionally, garage door openers will add to the price, but it's often a good idea to replace the opener at the same time for optimal functionality. Lastly, don’t forget to factor in the cost of professional installation.

When To Invest in a New Garage Door?

Now that you have a better understanding of cost, you may be wondering when is the right time to invest in a garage door upgrade? You may even be wondering if you need a garage door replacement or a simple garage door repair.

Here are a few indicators that it may be time to replace your garage door:

• It’s broken: If your garage door won’t open or close, that’s a problem as we all know. Garage door repair is always an option, or it may be you just need to replace your garage door opener and not the whole door. But sometimes a broken opener is the perfect opportunity to replace an old door so you have a fully upgraded system.
• Dents, dings and holes: Dents can be tough to hammer out and you might only cause more damage. A hole is a major issue—it can let in pests, allow heat to escape, and, of course, it’s not exactly a pleasant sight.
• It no longer matches your home: If you’ve recently renovated your home or the weather has taken its toll, an old door that no longer fits with your home's style can be a real eyesore.
• There was a collision: If someone’s taken a little too close of a look at your garage door with their car—even at a crawl—it’s likely time for a new one!

FAQs About Garage Door Replacement

To wrap things up, here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through buying a garage door:

Are insulated garage doors worth the extra cost?

Insulation costs more initially, but it can save you money over time. So how do you decide if insulated doors are right for you?

First, consider whether your garage is attached to your house. If it’s detached, insulation may not be necessary, as it won’t affect the temperature inside your home. However, if you have an attached garage, insulation becomes important for better temperature regulation and energy efficiency, helping to maintain a comfortable climate in both your garage and home.

How long does it take to install a new garage door?

Every job is different, but you can expect an installation time of four to eight hours in most cases. Of course, installing a single garage door is quicker than a double door. Custom doors can also take longer.

How much does garage door installation cost?

The typical installation cost range is $150 to $600 based on data from the homeguide.  The size and weight of the door, the door style and your location can all affect installation costs so it’s best to consult a local dealer for accurate pricing.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?

Some prices are too good to be true. Most of us are budget conscious, but going for the cheapest option can end up costing us more in the long run. Poorly made garage doors require more maintenance and you’ll probably have to replace them sooner. Furthermore, because a well-made garage door can add value to your property, you have a good chance of recouping your investment.

Also, consider how your door will look on your home. Sometimes buyers find a certain garage door style enchanting and want it right away. But something like a modern garage door will look out of place on an old colonial home.

What are some tips to save money on garage door replacement?

Being flexible with the type of material and design you want can save you money. Many people can’t even tell the difference between wood and faux wood when looking at them. An elite garage door company can satisfy different styles with just about any material, too, so you can probably get the look you want at a price that makes sense.

Last, it’s important to remember your garage door is an investment. You don’t need to spend extravagantly to get a great door, but by avoiding the cheapest options, you can actually save money over time.

Amarr’s Garage Door Solutions and Services

Amarr offers a wide range of garage doors at different price points. We make beautiful steel and aluminum doors, faux wood doors, insulated doors, modern doors, carriage house doors — you get the point. 

Ready to take the next step? Try our “Design My Door” tool to visualize different garage door styles on your home, then easily connect with a local Amarr dealer to get pricing.