Key Characteristics of Traditional Garage Doors

Traditional garage doors are defined by several key characteristics that contribute to their overall appeal.

One of the most distinctive features is the use of wood and composite materials. Natural wood doors offer unparalleled beauty, with grain patterns and textures that add warmth and character to your home’s exterior. However, wood doors require regular maintenance to withstand the elements.

Composite doors provide a durable alternative. Made from steel or a mixture of wood fibers and resin, composite doors mimic the look of natural wood but resist warping, fading, and cracking, ensuring long-lasting performance with minimal upkeep. They also offer improved insulation properties, enhancing a home's energy efficiency.

Clopay offers traditional-style garage doors made from steel or natural wood, including their Gallery®, Bridgeport® and Classic® Steel collections and Classic® Wood.

In terms of color, traditional garage doors often match the palette of traditional homes.

Shades of white, from crisp and clean to soft and warm, remain popular choices. Earthy browns, ranging from light beige to rich walnut, also complement traditional architecture. For a touch of vintage charm, pastel hues can add a unique and eye-catching element to a home's exterior.

Raised panels and decorative moldings are additional elements that define traditional garage door design. Raised panels create depth and visual interest, breaking up the expanse of the door with recessed sections. The panels can be short or long, depending on the desired aesthetic.

Decorative moldings provide further customization options. From subtle to ornate, moldings can be applied to the panels or the entire door face, adding an extra layer of detail.

Clopay has many of these design options and can help homeowners select the perfect combination to match their home's character and style.