If you own a home for long enough, garage door replacement is inevitable, eventually. Most homeowners only buy one — maybe two garage doors their entire lives. This makes sense consider the average overhead door can last up to 30 years with the proper maintenance and attention. Buying a brand-new overhead garage door can be difficult as there’s been many innovations as of late. With so many options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. The good news is it’s one of the soundest investments you can make with a 97% ROI — virtually dollar for dollar — because a new door will dramatically improve your property value. Beyond property value, a garage door replacement can make life so much easier. You simply can’t put a price on quality-of-life improvements, especially when it comes to the largest entryway to your home.
It’s understandably difficult to know when exactly you should be in the market for garage door replacement. You might be dealing with frequent garage door spring repair or parts replacement, but that may not be enough to convince you to bite the bullet for an upgrade. Here are a few signs that you should be in the market for a new door.
Speed
Garage doors aren’t designed to move lightning fast — that could actually be dangerous. But you should also get an immediate response when you push the button on your opener. If your door is opening or closing much slower than usual, you might need a new door. A slow overhead door signals multiple issues. You might have faulty garage door springs, which is a recipe for disaster. Your garage door opener might even require repair. If you upgrade your garage door, there’s no reason to install a new garage door opener. The latest overhead door opener models are filled to the brim with “smart” features that will make life all the more convenient. Ever forget to lock or close your garage door during stressful days? With a smart opener, you can simply lock and close your door straight from the app. This is a fantastic security feature in addition to cameras and sensors. If you’re selling your home, buyers will bid with top dollar if they know that you’ve gone to great lengths to maximize security.
Noise
There are things you can do to quiet a noisy garage door such as tighten loose parts and oil your door regularly. Use a lubricant specifically made for garage door parts and you’ll be surprised by how effective and quiet your door will be. However, overtime this will only have a minimal effect. It’s important to keep in mind that wear and tear is a guarantee, especially if you use your garage door multiple times throughout the door. If your door creaks, grinds, or rattles even with regular maintenance, you might need a new one. A shaking or rattling overhead door is a major safety concern. Because of the vibrations, you can have a door off track. With a new door, you’re guaranteed a smooth experience.
Appearance
This can be the biggest deciding factor when choosing to replace your garage door. Curb appeal can have a huge impact on property value. And sometimes a paint job only goes so far to freshen the look of your door. If your door is rusty, has missing panels, or falling apart, you should consider buying a new one. Modern trends have shifted and your boring old aluminum door isn’t as classy as it used to be. Consider a brand-new fiberglass door that maximizes security and is easy on the eyes. These doors require very little maintenance in terms of aesthetics.
Taking Care of Your New Garage Door
If a new overhead door is going to be a part of your home, there are certain steps you can take to ensure it operates as best as possible. Regularly oil/lubricate all moving garage door parts for maximum smoothness. Be sure to clean your garage door tracks on a semi-annual basis. Wipe away dust, grime, or debris that has built up over the seasons. A filthy garage door rail can lead to a door jumping its tracks, which can be a costly repair. Be sure to tighten down all nuts and bolts every few months. A new garage door will not vibrate as much as an old door, but it’s still a great idea to tighten things down. Loose garage door parts can lead to even more wear and tear and costly repairs.
Get Proper Installation Done
The easiest way to make sure your garage door replacement is working as intended is to do business with a reputable company. Ignore shady Craigslist ads and consult garage door installation companies in your area that have a good track record. A licenced professional can get your door replaced in a few short hours. Proper installation will lead to a door that doesn’t go through many issues over the initial few hours. Speak with your friends and families about garage door services they’ve worked with in the past. If you have any questions about new doors, don’t hesitate to ask a company for help. They can guide you through the buying process and point you towards possibilities you likely wouldn’t consider.