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How to Know When to Replace Your Garage Door?

How to Know When to Replace Your Garage Door?

Mehr’s Garage Doors has been helping people in St. George for over 40 years when it’s time to replace a garage door. Your garage door is crucial to your home’s security, energy efficiency, and public appeal, serving as more than just an entry point. Based on our many years of experience in the field, this guide will show you the clear signs that it’s time to think about a replacement.

Signs of Wear and Tear: 

Here at Mehr’s Garage Doors, we’ve seen many garage doors in different levels of disrepair. These parts of your home that work so hard can get very worn out over time and show the signs. Knowing what to look for when it’s time for a replacement can help.

Cracks, dents, or warping in door panels:

One of the most obvious signs that a garage door needs to be replaced is noticeable damage to the panels. Minor dings and dents are typical for things to get worn down, but significant cracks or panels that bow outward indicate something is wrong.

These issues also jeopardize your door’s structural integrity and security, which impacts its appearance. A broken panel can make your door easier for thieves to enter and cause it to break down even more.

Rust or corrosion on metal components:

Another clear sign that your garage door might need to be replaced is rust or corrosion on metal parts. Over time, steel doors or gear exposed to water often develop this problem.

That ugly rust is a sign that the metal is getting weaker. Rusty parts have the potential to break quickly, hurt you, or leave your garage unsafe if not fixed.

Sagging or uneven appearance when closed:

A garage door that works properly should close flush and level. If you see gaps or other signs of imbalance, one side of the door should hang lower than the other.

The uneven spread of weight stresses the opener and tracks, causing early wear and potential failure. A noticeably sagging door is usually a sign that it’s time to replace, though small balance issues can sometimes be fixed.

Performance Issues: 

While appearances are important, how your garage door works is even more critical when deciding whether to replace it. Mehr’s Garage Doors has seen numerous functional issues that usually mean a door is past its prime.

Door struggles to open or close smoothly:

A clear sign that something is wrong is if your garage door hesitates, jerks, or stops in the middle of operation. While there are times when this can be resolved with lubrication or simple repairs, chronic smooth operation issues frequently point to more severe problems.

This could be due to worn-out rollers, broken tracks, or an opener that won’t work. When these issues persist, it’s usually more cost-effective to invest in a new, well-functioning door.

Excessive noise during operation:

Even though garage doors aren’t quiet, they shouldn’t make much noise either. Sounds like grinding, scraping, or banging coming from your door are signs that it wants to tell you something.

Problems with the rollers, hinges, or springs may be the source of these sounds. A constantly loud door is usually a sign that significant parts are worn out, and replacement may be the best choice, even though some noise issues can be resolved with maintenance.

Safety sensors or auto-reverse feature not working correctly:

Sensors that prevent the door from closing on objects and an auto-reverse function are just two of the essential safety features that modern garage doors are equipped with. It’s a big problem if these safety features must be fixed or have stopped working.

This poses a risk to your family and pets and means that your door does not meet current safety standards. Upgrading to a new system with fully functional safety features is frequently the safest and most practical option, especially with older doors.

Age Considerations: 

Mehr’s Garage Doors knows that age is more than just a number when it comes to garage doors. Even if your door works fine, its age is a solid reason to consider replacing it.

Typical lifespan of different garage door materials:

Different materials last for different amounts of time. Although beautiful, wood doors usually only last 15 to 30 years with the proper care. Metal doors typically last between 20 and 30 years, while steel doors can last up to 30.

If your door is getting close to or past these areas, you should immediately start thinking about a replacement. When doors age, they may not meet current safety standards and are more likely to break suddenly.

Benefits of modern insulation and energy efficiency:

In recent years, garage door technology has come a long way, especially regarding sealing and saving energy. Newer doors frequently have better insulation materials and tighter locks, which can significantly lower heat movement.

As a result, your garage stays more relaxed in the summer and warmer in the winter, possibly lowering your energy costs. If your garage is connected to your house, this better insulation can also help keep the temperature in the rooms next to the garage in check.

Improved security features on newer models:

Modern garage doors have security features that older models simply cannot match. There may be signs of integration with smart home security systems, more robust locking mechanisms, and tamper-proof decals. A newer model can give you peace of mind and better protect your home and things.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Weighing Repairs vs. Full Replacement

At Mehr’s Garage Doors, we believe in giving our customers the truth about whether to repair or replace their garage door based on cost. Sometimes, the numbers point to replacement as a better long-term investment.

When repair costs approach replacement prices:

As garage doors age, repair costs can add up. If you frequently need repairs or if the cost of a single repair is close to half the cost of a new door, it’s time to replace it.

We’ve seen people spend more on fixes over a few years than they would have on a brand-new door that didn’t break.

Long-term savings from increased energy efficiency:

The cost of a new garage door may seem high initially, but it’s essential to consider how much you’ll save in the long run. Modern, well-insulated doors can significantly reduce heat movement, possibly lowering energy costs.

Plus, if your garage is connected or you use it as an office, this is even more important. Over time, these energy savings can cover a big chunk of the cost of replacement.

Added home value from a new garage door:

A new garage door is an investment in your home’s value and a functional improvement. According to recent real estate studies, a new garage door can add up to 94% of its cost to the value of your home.

Because of this, it is one of the most cost-effective projects you can do to improve your home. If you’re considering selling your home in the future, a new door can significantly increase its street appeal and make it more appealing to potential buyers.

Safety Concerns: 

 At Mehr’s Garage Doors, we prioritize safety. We want to ensure that our customers are aware of the potential risks of using a broken garage door.

Potential for sudden failure or collapse:

An old or failing garage door can pose a significant safety risk. The most concerning potential risk is a sudden failure or crash. This can happen when wires split, springs break, or other vital parts give way.

Anything in its way can get seriously hurt or damaged by a garage door that falls. We’ve been on emergency calls where doors have crashed into cars or just missed people. The risk is just not worth it.

Finger and hand pinch points on old designs:

Older garage door designs frequently have more visible moving parts, posing potential pinch points for fingers and hands. People with kids should be cautious with this.

Modern doors are built with safety in mind, with pinch-resistant joints and protected rollers to reduce these risks. If your old one has visible rollers or holes between panels that pose safety risks when in use, it’s time to think about getting a new one.

Outdated safety features posing hazards:

Over the years, garage door sign technology has dramatically improved. If your door is more than 20 years old, you may not have some essential safety features on it.

These include auto-reverse devices, which cause the door to open back up if it hits something while closing, and photo-eye sensors, which prevent the door from closing if something is in its way. Without these features, your door could pose a significant risk to kids, pets, or even adults who might not be able to clear the way in time.

Aesthetic Factors: 

At Mehr’s Garage Doors, we know that your garage door is more than just functional; it’s also an essential part of your home’s overall appearance. An old or worn door may significantly impact your home’s general appearance.

Matching door style to the current home exterior:

Architecture styles change over time, so what looked great 20 years ago might not match the way your home looks now. By providing a garage door that better complements their newly updated exterior, we’ve helped many homeowners change their homes’ appearance.

A new garage door sign can nicely complement your home’s exterior design, whether you’re going for a modern, classic, or transitional look.

Improved window options for natural light:

Modern garage doors have many window choices that weren’t available in the past. These options let in more natural light, greatly altering the appearance of your door while simultaneously letting natural light into your garage area.

We can help you choose a design that enhances the appearance and functionality of your garage, from small top-row windows to full-view glass panels.

Custom design possibilities with new doors:

Today, garage doors offer more customization options than ever. With options for materials, colors, textures, and artistic hardware, we can help you create a standout door. With a new design, you can get almost any door you want, whether you want one that fits in with your home or stands out.

Technological Advancements: 

At Mehr’s Garage Doors, we’re excited about the new features of modern garage door systems. These developments can significantly improve your door’s ease, security, and integration with your home.

WiFi-enabled openers and smartphone control:

With WiFi-enabled openers and smartphone control, you no longer have to worry about whether you close the garage door. With new WiFi-enabled openers, you can use your phone to check on and control your garage door from anywhere. Customers have told us how much they love the peace of mind, especially when they’re not at home for long periods. 

Built-in security cameras and motion sensors:

There are now many modern garage door systems that come with security features already built in. These features can include cameras that record people coming and going from your garage and motion sensors that can set off lights or sound alarms. These features can be incredibly useful for keeping an eye on supplies or your property, in addition to improving the security of your home. 

Integration with home automation systems:

A new garage door can be a big step toward brightening your home. You can handle your garage door, lights, thermostat, and other smart devices with modern systems that can connect to famous home automation platforms. We’ve helped many people make their garages the start of a smooth, linked home experience. 

Professional Assessment: 

At Mehr’s Garage Doors, we believe that people should have the power to make decisions based on accurate information. Sometimes, though, it is important to get a skilled opinion for your safety and peace of mind. 

Signs that indicate immediate inspection is needed:

Some issues need to be dealt with immediately by a professional. Examples include doors that fall more quickly than usual when dropped by hand, doors that close unevenly or with gaps, and doors that make strange noises during operation. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call us for an inspection. If you ignore these signs, more significant problems or safety risks may occur. 

What to expect during a garage door evaluation:

When you call us for an evaluation, our experts will carefully inspect every part of your garage door system. This means checking the opener, springs, wires, rollers, tracks, and rollers. We will also examine the door’s balance and all of the safety features’ functionality. Our goal is to give you a full idea of the condition of your door and any potential issues. 

Questions to ask about replacement options:

We encourage you to ask questions if a replacement is suggested. The variety of materials accessible, energy efficiency ratings, warranty choices, and potential customization are a few important things to discuss. We’re here to help you make an informed choice, considering your finances, taste, and functional needs. 

Conclusion:

Here at Mehr’s Garage Doors, we want to help you make the best choice for your home. We will carefully and expertly guide you through the process, whether it’s a repair or a replacement. 

Remember that a new or well-kept garage door enhances the appearance and value of your home and ensures its safety and security. Do not wait until there is a problem; if you notice any of the signs we’ve discussed, please call us for a professional evaluation. 

FAQ’s:

How often should I have my garage door professionally inspected? 

We suggest having a professional inspection at least once a year to ensure that all parts are working safely and effectively. 

Can I replace my garage door myself?

While doing it yourself is possible, we highly advise against it because of the safety risks and the need for specialized knowledge. The professional fitting ensures balance, tension, and safety feature configuration. 

How long does a typical garage door replacement take? 

Standard repairs can usually be done in three to five hours, but installs made just for you may take longer. Our estimates always include a time frame before we begin the job. 

Are smart garage door openers worth the investment?

For many people, yes. They provide more comfort, security, and peace of mind. It’s beneficial to be able to handle and keep an eye on your door from afar. 

What’s the most energy-efficient type of garage door?

The most energy-efficient doors are usually made of insulated steel or metal with a high R-value. We can help you choose a door that meets all of your needs and wants while also saving you money on energy bills.