Garage door manufacturers are coming up with new ways to create authentic wood looks with more reliable materials. Amarr has abandoned overlays with its Classica Collection, opting instead to press patterns directly into the steel. Wayne Dalton debuted its fiberglass-clad doors, which can be painted or stained just like wood, at the International Builders' Show this year. And although the carriage house style is still at the top of the most-wanted list, companies like Clopay are venturing into new territory with streamlined, modern looks to complement urban locales.

Raynor. Inspired by the heritage of custom-made carriage doors, the American Rivers collection offers four distinct models, including the Potomac (shown). The doors are built around a solid, 1 3/8-inch-thick Douglas fir frame with a Western red cedar surface material. Several decorative hardware options are available, as are several window designs. 800.472.9667. www.raynor.com.

Amarr. Each of the six designs in the Biltmore Estate collection was inspired by the doors and design elements at the real Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. Insulated with polystyrene and covered with Luan paneling, the doors boast a ¾-inch Western red cedar overlay. An array of decorative hardware is available. 800.503.3667. www.amarr.com.

Wayne Dalton. The idrive opener mounts to the wall above the door, eliminating the overhead rail. Because it needs no turning chain, belt, or screw drive, it requires less space and operates more quietly than conventional models. Two versions are available; the idrive for Torsion is compatible with most traditional doors. 888.827.3667. www.wayne-dalton.com.

JELD-WEN. Showcasing the Old World look of many of the company's entry doors, the Estate Series garage doors are available in five widths and two heights. The 1 3/8-inch-thick doors won't crack, sag, separate, or shrink, the maker says. Clavos, door knockers, straps, and handles can be added for a custom effect. 877.535.3936. www.jeld-wen.com.

GADCO. The Freedom 9001 Series garage doors are constructed of high-density polyethylene that promises never to rust, delami-nate, dent, or warp. The doors are impact- and abrasion-resistant, the maker says, and the all-aluminum framework is designed for corrosion-free operation. Available in white or brown, the doors are also insulated with expanded poly-styrene. 630.859.3000. www.gadco.com.

Clopay. The Avante collection combines aluminum and glass in a sleek, contemporary design that makes for extraordinary curb appeal. The company took one of its commercial doors and modified the design to come up with the Asian-inspired look. Several window options are available to control the degree of light transmission and privacy. The glass is supported by a durable, 2 1/8-inch-thick, rust-free, aluminum frame that can be custom-painted or sealed with a clear, white, or brown finish. 800.225.6729. www.clopaydoor.com.

Designer Doors. The Timbercraft Doors collection presents an authentic wood look at a lower price point. Available in the company's standard sizes and styles, the doors are handcrafted with hard-board frames and clear Western red cedar surface material. 800.241.0525. www.designerdoors.com.

For more product information, visit ebuild, Hanley Wood's interactive product catalog, www.ebuild.com.