Should you replace your garage door or should you repair it? Garage doors are a bit like the cars we keep inside of them: no matter how well you take care of them, they still wear down over time. Whether or not to repair or replace may depend on a few different factors so here are some things you should consider when making your decision:
Age of the Door
The average garage door opens and closes about 1,500 times a year and has a lifespan of about 30 years with the right maintenance but an older door is likely to need replacing sooner rather than later. It may not be worth investing in repairs for a door that doesn’t have much more life left. Replacing and upgrading your old garage door can also have other benefits: Depending on the layout of your home, your garage door takes up about thirty percent of the face your house shows to the world so replacing your door would improve the overall curb appeal of your home. Newer garage doors and openers also have features that increase their convenience, energy efficiency, and security.
Wear & Tear
Sometimes, the damage to your garage door is visible but does not affect the structural integrity or function of your door. If the damage to your door is cosmetic, you’ll usually get more value out of repairing the door rather than replacing it. Minor damage like scratches and rusty hinges are easy to repair. Moderate damage like worn springs and dented panels can also easily be switched out without having to install a new garage door.
If your door has severe, structurally compromising issues such as cracked panels, labored, jerky operation or you notice a loud screeching sound then it may be time to consider upgrading your garage door. Concerns about energy efficiency may also be a good reason to look into replacing your door. If the door isn’t secure from the elements, your cost of air-conditioning and heating will begin to increase, especially in the winter and summer months. Damaged garage doors can also admit pests from outside and can pose a security threat by offering more convenient access to potential intruders.
Frequency of Ongoing Issues
A garage door is meant to be convenient to use and work on demand. How often have you been late to work or an appointment because your garage door was giving you trouble? When you begin to notice that your garage door intermittently fails to work, you should consider having a technician come out and take a look. If your garage door needs a repair job, it’s best to get it done right away. Even small issues can put major stress on the doorframe and mechanical systems.
Cost
The choice between garage door repair and replacement may also depend on cost. A new garage door can cost way more upfront to replace than simply having it repaired but if you’re shelling out a couple of hundred dollars every few months for maintenance, you might want to consider getting it replaced. If the estimated cost to repair your old garage door ends up being more than the price of a new door, then getting a brand-new door is undoubtedly your best option.
Garage door replacement may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Garage doors these days come in a variety of attractive options to suit any style of home, as well as a variety of materials. Our best advice is to get in touch with Haney Door Service. We have a team of skilled and professional garage door technicians who can provide a knowledgeable second opinion on whether to replace or repair your garage door. Click here to set up a free estimate or call our office today at 916-534-4538.