When should I replace my garage door?

Replacing your garage door might seem like a hassle, but it’s guaranteed to save you trouble in the long run. Dealing with a slow, creaky garage door can be frustrating at the end of a long day. More importantly than that, though, newer models are also better at keeping rain, wind and intruders at bay. 

 

A brand-new garage door can also add thousands to your home’s value. One of the most cost-effective renovations around, replacement is now being tipped as a key way to add value to your home by renovators and realtors alike. 

 

“A front makeover and new garage door can add up to $20,000 to the selling price,” says Rose Koutoumas, director of First National Real Estate Bentleigh.

 

There’s no one-size-all rule for when you should replace your garage door–and so, in this guide, we’ll discuss some of the more common red flags. If you can’t recall when your garage door was last replaced, though, it may well be worth considering a new unit.

Signs of wear and tear

Discoloured doors

Through exposure to the elements, older garage doors can lose their character over time. Discolouration is a sure sign that it’s time to replace your garage door, as it can be an indicator of structural wear and tear. Timber-panelled doors, which are particularly susceptible to damage from UV light and moisture, can appear rotted.

Ideally, metal and vinyl doors should be checked for indications of rust after heavy weather. Panels can be replaced, on an as-needed basis, or washed with warm, soapy water.

Disfigured doors

Another reliable indicator that your garage doors need replacing, misshapen garage doors can malfunction or stop working entirely. Warping or sagging can occur as a result of long-term exposure to heavy weather; chips and dents can occur through hail storms or parking mishaps.

Poor balance

A crooked or off-balance garage door can indicate a faulty torsion spring. In this case, it’s best to call in the experts–a repair or replacement could save you from dealing with a broken door, as the issue progresses.

Noise

A squeaky–or inconsistent–roller sound can indicate built-up debris, or an issue with the garage door opener. In the latter case, upgrading to a belt-drive system with an AC motor can fix the issue.

Gaps around the panels or side

While this can result from poor installation, as well as general use, gaps allow hot air in during the summer as well as cold air in the winter. These can add to your energy bills–as well as a better-fitting unit, these can be replaced with an insulated garage door.

None of these apply to me–when should I replace my door?

A well-maintained garage door can last as long as 30 years. That said, with the return on investment offered by a new garage door, there’s never really a bad time to replace the unit. Many newer doors have features such as smartphone integration and rolling codes, which make your garage door more secure. 

Older models rely on a fixed code, which can be pinpointed by unwanted intruders. Newer garage doors generate a fresh code every time they’re opened–in this way, shoring up a potential weak point in your home’s security.  

Another common reason for upgrading is safety. The sensor and the automatic reversal system, which prevents the door from closing on anything underneath, are often less responsive in older models. If you have young children or pets regularly coming and going, this is a particularly important point to note. 

Of course, if there’s a specific issue you’re having with your garage door, a service technician can also replace or adjust individual parts. Contact one of our friendly customer service team today for an appointment. 

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