Garage doors provide many advantages, including security, aesthetic appeal, and improved property value. They also improve the convenience with which we go in and out of our properties, whether commercial or residential. On average, a garage door gets used about 1,500 times annually. This frequency of use may result in small or big problems that need attention. Titan Garage Doors Repair, a top garage door repair company, notes that garage door problems due to frequency of use may range from small issues like chipped paint and cracked panels to bigger issues like worn parts.
It’s quite easy to know when your garage door has become bad or out of shape. You can easily notice the difference in its operation through sound or sight. However, addressing this problem may require choosing between repairs and replacement. This decision is important, especially because repairs are much cheaper than replacements.
Here are the valuable tips you need to know if you’re looking for a guide on deciding whether to repair or replace your garage door.
Garage Door Repair vs. Replacement
An average garage door can last about 30 years, depending on quality, frequency of use, maintenance, and other factors. In those years, your garage door will break down. You’ll constantly have to make the best decision between repairs and replacement. Consider these factors to enable you to make the right decisions.
Type of Garage Door Damage
The damage your garage door suffered can help you decide on the next steps. Minor damages like paint chips, garage doors that have gone off track, etc., can be repaired to save costs. Major damages may require extensive and expensive repairs, necessitating a replacement.
Minor damages: Minor damages are often cosmetic. This type of damage does not affect the garage door’s functionality or affect it to a minimal extent. The repair costs are also minimal, which makes it easier to decide on a repair service rather than a replacement. Some common minor damages include paint chips, panel dents, etc.
Moderate damages: Moderate damages aren’t just cosmetic; they may sometimes affect the functional part of the garage door. Addressing this problem requires a proper cost-to-value calculation. You should compare the cost of repairing the moderate damages to the replacement cost. You can also consider the repairability of the damage and whether it’ll affect the garage door’s subsequent operation.
Serious damages: You may need to replace your garage door if the damage to it is severe. Severe damages may be caused by heavy impact from unsafe cars, broken springs, bad openers, damaged door panels, etc.
Cost Implication
Cost is an important factor when deciding between a repair or replacement job. Consider the cost of repairing the garage door problem and weigh it against the replacement costs. You should also consider the value each decision brings. Choose repairs if your garage door has a huge potential of functioning excellently after repair (which costs less than replacing it).
Garage Door Age
Older garage doors are prone to more problems. You’ll likely spend more on recurrent repairs over the coming years to keep your older garage doors in top shape.
Consider the cost of recurrent repairs and weigh your option against replacing your garage door. You should also consider the aesthetic value of a new garage door over the older one you have in your home.
It’s easier to decide on a replacement if your old garage door is between 10 and 20 years. Replacement, in this case, gives you access to newer technology and an improved garage door experience.
When to Repair Your Automatic Garage Door
Unsure what to do in the face of a garage door problem? Here are some pointers.
- Repair your automatic garage door if it has suddenly stopped working.
- Repair your garage door when the panels are damaged
- Repair when your garage door appears sagging or crooked
- Repair when your garage door feels heavy
- Repair when your garage door sensor fails
When to Replace Your Automatic Garage Door
Replacing your garage door may be expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment, especially when your old garage door has become bad. Here are some situations that may require a garage door replacement.
- If your garage door is old and has sustained multiple panel damages
- If your garage door makes strange, incessant noise and vibrates excessively
- If your garage door has suffered long-term and extensive damages
- If you wish to improve your home’s security, value, and appeal
- If you’re interested in improving your home’s energy use efficiency.
It is also important to consult with your garage door company or contractor to ensure you’re making the best decision.
