Choosing the Perfect Garage Door Material for Your Home
Living in the Manawatu-Whanganui-Taranaki region means dealing with coastal winds, a temperate climate, and the occasional heavy downpour. At Alpha Doors, with locations in both Hawera and Whanganui, we understand the unique demands of our local environment—whether you're in Palmerston North, New Plymouth, or anywhere in between.
In this guide, we compare three of the most popular garage door materials—New Zealand ColourSteel, wood, and aluminium—to help you find the ideal match for your home.
New Zealand ColourSteel: Built for Coastal Toughness
ColourSteel is a leading choice for homeowners throughout the region—and for good reason. Its zinc-aluminium alloy coating provides superior resistance to coastal salt spray, heavy rain, and harsh UV rays, making it perfect for locations near the Whanganui River or Taranaki’s exposed shoreline.
Why ColourSteel?
Exceptional Durability: Fights corrosion from salty sea air and frequent rainfall—great for coastal towns like New Plymouth and flood-prone areas like Whanganui.
Low Maintenance: A simple wash now and then (see our Maintenance Tips post) keeps it looking sharp.
Stylish Options: Available in a variety of colours and finishes to suit modern and traditional homes alike.
Best For: Homeowners wanting a long-lasting, minimal-maintenance garage door that holds up in challenging weather.
Wood: Natural Warmth & Heritage Appeal
Wooden garage doors bring timeless elegance and are especially popular in rural or character-filled towns like Feilding and Stratford. Their natural texture and charm make them a standout feature, though they do require some upkeep in our humid climate.
Why Wood?
Timeless Beauty: The natural grain adds warmth and character—ideal for custom and traditional designs.
Insulation Benefits: Offers natural thermal regulation during cooler winter mornings.
Highly Customisable: Choose from solid timber or veneered options that can be painted or stained to suit your home’s style.
Eco-Friendly Options: Many of our wooden doors are made from sustainably sourced materials.
Keep in Mind: Regular sealing is essential to prevent warping and moisture damage.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a bespoke, classic look and willing to invest in regular maintenance.
Aluminium: Lightweight and Contemporary
Though not as common as ColourSteel or wood, aluminium garage doors are a fantastic option for modern homes, offering a sleek aesthetic paired with practical benefits.
Why Aluminium?
Lightweight Durability: Ideal for larger sectional doors that require easy operation.
Resists Rust: Excellent corrosion resistance makes it suitable for coastal areas like Taranaki.
Energy Efficiency: Our insulated aluminium doors help regulate garage temperature in our mild climate.
Modern Style: Powder-coated finishes come in a wide range of colours for a contemporary look.
Best For: Urban homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, modern solution with added thermal comfort.
Proudly Serving Our Region
At Alpha Doors, we’re proud to provide high-quality garage doors tailored to the homes and climate of the Manawatu-Whanganui-Taranaki region. Whether you’re after the resilience of ColourSteel, the natural appeal of wood, or the modern edge of aluminium, we’re here to help.
Contact us for a free measure, or visit our website to explore our full range. Let’s find the garage door that elevates your home.