Garage doors are one of the most important features of a home. Not only do they provide security for your car and belongings, but they can occupy up to 30% of your home’s visible exterior! That could mean a lot of potential curb appeal if you’re interested in selling your home, but if aesthetics are not your concern, how do you know if it just needs to be replaced?

There are a few things you should consider before making a decision. 

In this blog post, we outline some of the key factors to think about when deciding whether or not you should replace your garage door.

How Long Do Garage Doors Last?

The average garage door system has a lifespan of about 15 – 30 years. However, only considering the number of years does not tell the full story. 

Each garage door has what is called a torsion system; tracks, rollers, and cables, that are all individually rated for a different number of usage cycles. What is a usage cycle? It’s simply one opening and closing of the door. The average garage door is operated around 1,000 times per year (3-5 cycles/day). Torsion systems, for example, usually have a cycle life of 10,000-20,000 cycles, meaning they can last 10 to 20 years (or longer).

The number of cycles you use in a particular year will be determined by your individual behaviour — whether you or your family enters the house through the garage, parks your cars in the garage, or uses the space for storage.

How To Check the Age of Your Garage Door?

If you’re not sure how old your garage door is, you can check the date of manufacture on the label affixed to the back of the door. 

If your garage door is more than 20 years old, and used daily, it’s probably time to start looking into replacing it. Even if it’s working fine, a new garage door may still be a great investment to improve the look of your home. 

When To Replace A Garage Door: 8 Signs

It’s never too early to start thinking about replacing your existing garage door. If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give it a second thought until it starts to show signs of wear and tear.

Here are some telltale signs that it’s time to replace your garage door:

1. Your Door Has Damage:

The first and most obvious sign that you need a new garage door is if it’s starting to show visible wear and tear. This can include anything from cracks and dents to rust and faded paint. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to start shopping for a replacement.

Another thing to look for is hardware damage to the tracks, springs, and pulleys. These components can break down over time, and if they’re not in good working order, your door won’t function properly and problems could get even worse.

If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it’s time to start looking for garage door company to replace the old garage door opener.

You might also want to read this guide: Design A New Garage Door For Your Home

2. Your Door Isn’t Opening Or Closing:

If your garage door isn’t opening or closing properly, it’s time for a replacement. This could be due to several issues, such as broken springs or tracks that are bent or out of alignment. Regardless of the exact issue, if your door isn’t functioning properly, it’s not doing its job.

If you’re unsure whether or not it’s time to replace your garage door, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional. They can give you their expert opinion and help you make the best decision for your home.

When it comes to replacing your garage door, it’s important to choose a quality product that will last for years to come. There are many different styles and materials to choose from, so be sure to do your research before making a final decision.

3. Your Energy Costs Are Increasing:

If you have an old garage door, it might not be insulated as well as a newer model. This means that every time you open and close your garage door, heat or air conditioning escapes from your home. 

You’ll notice this most in the winter and summer when energy costs are higher.

If your utility bills have been increasing but you can’t figure out why, it could be time to replace your garage door.

4. Your Garage Door Is Making Noises:

A well-functioning garage door should open and close smoothly and quietly. If you notice creaking, grinding, or other strange noises coming from your garage door, it’s a sign that something is wrong.

These noises are usually caused by worn-out parts that need to be repaired or replaced.

5. You Want To Update Your Home:

If you’re planning to sell your home or you want to update its look, replacing your garage doors is a great option. If you’re selling your home, a new garage door can help you get a higher price.

The 2022 Cost vs. Value Report by Remodeling Magazine says that garage door replacement has the highest return on investment of any home improvement project. This means that you can expect to get back 93.8% of the money you spend on this project. In the past 5 years, garage doors have been #1 on their list four times!

Conclusion:

If any of these situations apply to you, you’ll want to look into replacing your garage door system. 

If you’re not sure whether it’s time for a replacement, it’s best to consult with a garage door professional. They can inspect your garage door and let you know if it needs to be replaced or if it can be repaired.