Your garage door takes a lot of abuse over the years – it opens and closes multiple times a day, dealing with extreme temperatures and weather conditions. After 15-20 years of constant use, it’s not surprising that your garage door may have reached the end of its lifespan. Here are 5 signs it could be time to replace your garage door.
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1. Difficulty Opening and Closing
One of the earliest signs your garage door needs replacing is if it becomes difficult to open and close. Over time, the springs and rollers wear down, making the door heavier and harder to operate. If you need to put in extra effort or use a lot of force to get it moving, it’s a sign the internal mechanisms are wearing out and replacement parts may not fix the underlying issues. A new garage door will open and close smoothly with minimal effort.
2. Noisy Operation
As the moving parts inside a garage door age, they will inevitably start to make noise. Squeaks and squeals during operation are a tell-tale sign it’s time for an upgrade. Loud banging or grinding noises indicate more serious problems that could compromise safety. A well-maintained new garage door will operate quietly without disturbing neighbors or waking household members.
3. Damage and Deterioration
Extended sun exposure, weathering, small accidents and general wear-and-tear will eventually take their toll on any garage door. Look for warping, cracks or holes in the panels, especially around the edges. Rusted or damaged tracks or rollers are also a sign it’s reached the end of its lifespan. A new garage door is built to last with durable materials that hold up to the elements for many years.
4. Safety and Security Issues
An old garage door may start to develop problems that compromise safety and security. Cables or springs could break without warning. Sensors may malfunction. Locks could fail. Panels could detach. These issues increase the risk of accidental injuries. A new garage door provides enhanced safety and peace of mind through improved designs and features.
5. Inefficiency
The insulation and seals on an older garage door have likely deteriorated over time, allowing heat and cold to leak in and out. This puts more strain on your home’s HVAC system and increases energy bills. A new insulated garage door provides excellent thermal protection for greater comfort and lower utility costs year-round.
In summary, if multiple signs point to underlying wear issues, it’s usually time to replace your garage door rather than spend money on repeated repairs. Investing in a new garage door protects your home and family while adding curb appeal and value. Contact a local garage door company today to schedule an inspection and quote.
FAQs
How long do garage doors typically last?
A well-built and properly maintained garage door can last 15-20 years on average before needing replacement. However, factors like climate, usage frequency, material quality and any past damage or repairs can affect lifespan. Signs of deterioration usually start appearing around the 10-15 year mark.
What is the average cost to replace a garage door?
The national average cost to install a new garage door ranges between $850-$2,500 depending on material type (wood, steel, fiberglass), design features, size and number of doors. Basic steel raised panel doors start around $850 installed while high-end insulated doors with openers can exceed $2,500. The door itself typically accounts for half the total cost.
I’m Earl Rauch! I blog about tech, how to use it, and what you should know. I love spending time with my family and sharing stories of the day with them.
