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Steel vs. Aluminum Commercial Doors: Which Is Right for Your Calgary Business?

Steel vs. Aluminum: Which Commercial Door Is Right for Your Business in Calgary?

Choosing the right commercial door for your business isn't just about looks — it’s about durability, security, energy efficiency, and long-term value. In Calgary’s challenging climate, these factors become even more important.

Two of the most popular materials for commercial doors are steel and aluminum. But which one is right for your property? In this guide, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and ideal use cases of steel vs. aluminum doors, so you can make the best decision for your space — whether you're in Downtown Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks, or beyond.

Why the Material Matters

Your door’s material influences everything from weather resistance to security level, and even operational noise. For Calgary-area businesses — especially those dealing with snow, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles — choosing wisely can save you thousands in repairs down the line.

Let’s dive into the two contenders.

Steel Commercial Doors: The Heavy-Duty Choice

Strength & Security

Steel is known for its sheer durability and resistance to impact, making it ideal for businesses that prioritize security — like warehouses, industrial sites, or back entrances in high-traffic areas like Northeast Calgary or Chestermere.

Fire-Rated Capabilities

Many fire-rated steel doors are designed to withstand extreme heat and meet Alberta building code requirements for fire safety.

Cost-Effective Over Time

While steel doors can carry a slightly higher upfront cost than aluminum, their longer lifespan and minimal repairs make them a smart investment.

🔗 Explore Our Commercial Steel Door Services in Calgary »

Aluminum Commercial Doors: The Sleek & Lightweight Option

Modern Aesthetic

Aluminum doors are often the go-to choice for retail stores, office buildings, and medical clinics. Their clean lines and large glass inserts make them both functional and visually appealing.

Corrosion Resistance

Unlike steel, aluminum won’t rust, which makes it a great fit for moisture-prone areas or exposed storefronts in Southwest Calgary and Cochrane.

Lighter Operation

Aluminum doors are easier to open, especially when integrated with automatic door systems. This is helpful in spaces that require accessibility compliance, such as clinics or public offices.

🔗 Check Out Our Aluminum Storefront Door Services »

Steel vs. Aluminum: Head-to-Head Comparison

FeatureSteel DoorsAluminum DoorsSecurityExcellent – impact-resistant and heavy-dutyModerate – best when paired with laminated glass or added locksWeather ResistanceGood – with proper finish; prone to rust if uncoatedExcellent – naturally corrosion-resistantWeightHeavy – stronger but requires more effort to operateLight – easier for auto openers and ADA complianceEnergy EfficiencyHigh – often insulated for thermal performanceModerate – needs added thermal breaks to match steelAestheticsIndustrial or utilitarian lookModern, clean, and customizableMaintenanceNeeds paint/touch-ups to avoid rustLow maintenance, especially in dry climatesCostMid to high upfront; long lifespanTypically lower initial cost, depending on configuration

Consider Calgary’s Climate

In Calgary, extreme temperature swings and winter storms are the norm. This affects door performance in major ways:

Looking to install commercial doors in Northwest Calgary, Airdrie, Okotoks, or anywhere in the Calgary region? C Town Doors has you covered with options that work in every condition.

Which Door Is Right for You?

Choose Steel if:

🔗 Learn About Fire-Rated Doors and Steel Door Repairs in Calgary »

Choose Aluminum if:

🔗 Explore Our Aluminum Storefront Doors in Calgary »

Why Not Both?

Many businesses across Southeast Calgary, Okotoks, and Cochrane use a combination:

This approach balances security, design, and cost effectively.

Professional Installation Makes All the Difference

No matter which material you choose, the quality of your installation matters just as much as the product.

At C Town Doors, we provide:

✅ Custom-fit commercial door installation
✅ Fire-rated and insulated steel door options
✅ Sleek aluminum storefront solutions
✅ Handicap door button and automatic opener installation
✅ Fast emergency service across the Calgary region

Serving Calgary & Beyond

We proudly service:
Northwest Calgary, Northeast Calgary, Southwest Calgary, Southeast Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, Cochrane, and Okotoks.

Call Us (403) 668-6686Request Service Online

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What Our Customers Are Saying

See why Calgary homeowners and businesses choose C Town Doors. From fast service to quality workmanship, our team is proud to deliver results that speak for themselves. Here's what our customers have to say.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Awesome company. Fast and decent pricing and the phone person and Jesse the tech was friendly. This is the second time I’ve used them and the last time they came on a Saturday and replaced my broken springs quickly as my cars were stuck inside and we needed to get out.

Dean P.


★ ★ ★ ★ ★

With an emergency service late night call to repair our garage door, Mr. Gal responded to our phone call immediately and was at our country house on time as promised. His work was excellent and professional. I recommend C Town Doors.

Bernard F.


★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Highly recommend this company. We replaced everything, our garage door, rails, weather stripping, and motor with them. Everyone we talked to or did work at our house were professional and efficient, most importantly highly skilled.

Jenevieve C.


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