Aside from aesthetic value, a garage door is one of the most essential parts of your home for several other reasons. It keeps your belongings safe and secure and protects you from the weather. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your garage door is in good condition.
If you’re wondering how often you should replace a garage door, this blog post will discuss the different factors that affect how often a garage door needs to be replaced. You’ll also learn some tips on choosing the right replacement garage door for your home.
Garage Door Replacement Guide
No matter how regularly you get garage door maintenance and repair, at some point in time, it will have to be replaced. It’s unavoidable that it will break down due to the natural wear and tear process.
Here are some situations where a garage door replacement is the only remaining solution to your problem.
So, when should you replace a garage door?
Signs it is Time to Replace A Garage Door
- Difficult or impossible to open
Garage door springs keep a lot of tension, which is one of the primary reasons they tend to wear down naturally. On average, garage door replacement springs usually range from $150 to $350, but commercial grade springs may cost even more. - Making strange noises
If you’re hearing strange noises coming from your garage door, it could signify that there’s something wrong with the belt. A belt drive garage door opener is far quieter than a chain drive. In this case, a garage door replacement belt could be the best option for an almost silent garage door. - Stalls or gets stuck
One of the most common problems with garage doors is getting stuck or stalled. If this happens frequently, it’s definitely a sign that you need a garage door replacement motor. Depending on the brand and labour installation cost, it usually costs $130 to $380 or more. Often homeowners overlook the garage door until it becomes a problem. To avoid future expenses, hire a professional to check your garage door more frequently than usual.
What is the Average Lifespan of a Garage Door?
A typical garage door may last for 30 years, not considering external factors. But, each part of the system has its own lifespan.
● A garage door spring usually lasts up to 14 years.
● Garage door replacement remote control may vary depending on the keypad’s wear and tear, if it’s lost, misplaced or stolen, etc.
● The belt drive system may have a lifespan of 10 000 to 20 000 cycles or up to 7 years.
● And finally, the garage door opener motor may last up to 15 years.
Generally, how long your garage door system lasts depends on how often you use it and maintain it. It’s always better to be prepared to replace a garage door and have a budget allocated for it.
Avoid Potential Safety Hazards & When to Replace A Garage Door
These are some potential hazards that you should be aware of and avoid to keep your garage door working correctly. Otherwise, it could lead to safety issues that would force you to replace a garage door immediately.
- Playing with the garage door remote control can be dangerous when the door is open or partially open. It’s best to always have the garage door completely closed before activating the remote control.
- Leaving your car in the garage with the garage door opener is another potential safety hazard. Ensure you’re shutting off the opener when you’re done driving and not just putting it in the park.
- Doing DIY repairs on your garage door can also be dangerous. If you’re not an expert, it’s best to leave the repairs to the professionals.These are just a few potential safety hazards that you need to know. If you’re experiencing any of these problems with your garage door, it’s time for a replacement.
Objects, dirt and leaves can get caught in the tracks and affect the door’s opening and closing. Neglecting maintenance and repair can also lead to dangerous situations.
If you’re not sure how to do something, it’s always best to leave it to the professionals. Remember, safety should always be your number one priority. Prevention is key, so be sure to keep a close eye on your garage door and take care of any potential problems as soon as you can.
Other Considerations When Replacing A Garage Door
There are other things to consider when replacing a garage door, such as:
1. The climate in your area and the weight of the door.
If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it’s essential to get a garage door that can withstand those conditions. The same goes for if you have a lot of objects stored in your garage – the garage door will need to be able to hold the weight.
2. Material is also something to consider.
Most garage doors are steel, but other options like wood, aluminium and fibreglass. You’ll need to decide which material is best for your needs and budget. Steel garage doors are the most common material that lasts long and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
3. Motor vs. Non-Motor Garage Door
When you’re replacing a garage door, you’ll need to decide if you want a motorised or non-motorised door. A motorised garage door opener will open and close the door for you while a non-motorised garage door opener requires manual operation.
4. The overall look of your home.
If you have a modern home, you may want to consider a stylish garage door that matches the style of your home. For a traditional home, you might want to get a conventional garage door.
There are many things to consider when replacing a garage door, and it’s essential to take your time before making a final decision. If you’re not sure what to do, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help. An informed decision is always better than making a rash decision that you may regret later on.
Final Thoughts
Garage doors are a vital part of your home, and they should be chosen wisely. Take some time to consider what you really need and what suits your budget before replacing a garage door.
The Garage Guys can help you with all the different options to get exactly the right garage door system for your home.
