A garage door is a big part of your home’s appearance and functionality. It protects your car, belongings, and even adds to your home’s curb appeal. But like anything, garage doors don’t last forever.
Over time, they wear out, and you may find yourself wondering whether you should repair or replace it. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide.
Residential Overhead Door Repair
When your garage door breaks down, the first thought is often repair. If it’s a minor issue, like a broken spring or a misaligned track, residential overhead door repair could be the best option. It’s more affordable than a replacement and can restore your door’s performance.
Common problems that can be fixed easily include:
- Broken springs: Over time, the springs that help your garage door open and close can snap. This is a common issue, and replacing the springs is often cheaper than a full replacement.
- Misaligned tracks: If the tracks your garage door moves along are bent or misaligned, the door might get stuck. A technician can realign or replace these tracks to get your door working smoothly again.
- Malfunctioning opener: Sometimes, it’s not the door itself that’s the problem, but the opener. If the opener stops working, it can be fixed or replaced without needing a full door replacement.
Garage Door Replacement
However, sometimes repairs are not enough. If your garage door has severe damage or is quite old, replacing it might be the better option. Here are a few signs that it’s time for a garage door replacement:
- Age of the door: If your garage door is 15-20 years old, it might be nearing the end of its lifespan. Even if it’s still working, older doors are more prone to breaking down, and they may not be as energy-efficient.
- Severe damage: If the door has extensive damage from an accident or weather, repairs might not fix it completely. In this case, replacing the door could be a safer and more cost-effective choice.
- Outdated design: If your garage door is outdated and doesn’t match your home’s style anymore, replacing it could improve the look of your home. A new door can increase your property’s value and curb appeal.
Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replace
While repairs tend to cost less upfront, they can add up over time if the issues keep happening. A replacement, on the other hand, has a higher initial cost but can save you money in the long run due to fewer repairs.
Think about how often you’ve had to repair your garage door and whether those costs might eventually exceed the cost of a new door.
Conclusion
Deciding whether to repair or replace your garage door depends on its age, condition, and the cost of repairs. If the damage is minor and the door is still fairly new, residential overhead door repair is a great option.
However, if the door is old, severely damaged, or frequently malfunctioning, a garage door replacement might be the best investment. In either case, it’s important to work with a trusted professional who can guide you through the decision and ensure your garage door works as it should.