How to Know Whether to Replace or Repair Your Garage Door
People in the US live busy lives. They are in and out of their home everyday for work, school, doctor visits, vet appointments, soccer games, and so much more. That means their garage doors are getting a good workout. A garage door can be an investment and influence the ROI on your house as well as improve its curb appeal. It also helps protect your valuables and access to your home.
Through much use, garage doors can become damaged, chipped, malfunction, or stop working. But how is a homeowner supposed to know if it’s a matter of needing garage door repair, or if it’s time to replace a garage door altogether? Here are a few tips to help you determine if you need a new garage door, or if repairing it is reasonable.
When to Repair Your Garage Door
There are a few problems or types of damage to your garage door that don’t require a full replacement. You can save money a lot of times by opting for garage door repair. While individual circumstances can vary, generally, these types of problems can signal that a repair is in order. Repairing your garage door can save you a lot of money. Here are signs that a repair may be adequate.
Did your garage door suddenly stop working?
If your garage door was working fine, and suddenly just quit, it usually means something is broken that can be repaired. It may be something as simple as replacing the battery in your garage door opener. If you replace the batteries in the remote and it still doesn’t open properly, you should be able to open and close the door manually. That should get you in and out until a professional repairman can check it out.
Does the garage door seem unusually heavy?
Garage doors are rather heavy, but they don’t feel that way when the springs are in good working order. If the door started feeling a lot heavier than you remember it, the springs may be wearing out. They help reduce the workload and save wear and tear on the lift mechanism. This garage door repair is not a DIY project, you’ll need a knowledgeable professional.
Is just a single panel become damaged?
If your garage door has multiple panels, and just one of them become damaged, it can usually be replaced. Just be sure to get it fixed quickly as it can lead to more serious problems and damage other parts of the garage door system.
Did the garage door start looking like it’s sagging?
You back out of your driveway every morning and you haven’t noticed it before, but the garage door looks like it’s uneven. If the door seems to be sagging, it’s usually just out of balance. If you leave it out of balance, it can put extra wear and tear on the lift mechanism. Fixing an unevenly hanging garage door is usually a quick fix for experienced garage door technicians.
When to Replace Your Garage Door
Most repairs can be done quickly, and they will save you money in the long run. But in some situations, you are better off with a garage door replacement. Usually, this is because the damage is widespread, or repairs are more expensive than replacement.
Has your garage door been malfunctioning for quite some time?
A sudden breakdown is usually due to an isolated problem. It usually means a quick repair will resolve the issue. It’s important to repair your garage door as soon as you notice a problem. Neglecting an easy fix can lead to needing a full garage door replacement. If it has been slowing down, not working correctly, or having all sorts of little quirks or problems, it’s probably time for a replacement.
Is the garage door severely damaged?
If there is widespread damage to your garage door, it may need more than just a panel replacement. If a tree fell on the garage or a car was backed into it, the damage may be extensive. In these cases, you will need a new garage door installed.
How old is the garage door?
Garage doors add a lot to the aesthetics of your house and provide a useful function. But you do need to pay attention to its age. If it is only five or six years old, a repair may be adequate. However, if your garage door is over 15 years old, and showing signs of wear and tear, it’s time to look for a replacement.
Contact US Garage Door Repair
Whether you need a garage door repair or a full installation, US Garage Door Repair is at your service. You can even book your project online! We offer 24/7 garage door services. Call us at 847-994-4997 with your questions and concerns.
