Does your garage door struggle to lift or lower? Are loud noises now a common part of its operation that were never an issue before? Problems like these may lead you to wonder if you should repair or replace garage doors.
Action Overhead Door Inc. specializes in Louisville garage door repair services and is here to share whether it’s worth fixing garage door issues or if you’re better off replacing the equipment. In this garage door repair guide, we’ll review common scenarios homeowners face and whether they should replace vs. repair doors for their garages.
1. The Door Has Dents
It can be cause for concern when your garage door becomes dented. An object hitting a panel can lead to dents or natural material deterioration can lead to noticeable damage. Having a large dent or multiple tiny blemishes on the door can affect your exterior curb appeal so don’t delay fixing the issue.
How To Address Dented Doors
Repairing damaged doors isn’t difficult if the dent affects only one or two panels. You should opt for repairs if the damage is minimal or if your door is made of metal, as this is often easier to take dents out of. Replace the door if the damage is widespread across multiple panels.
When it comes to wooden or composite garage doors, experts view large dents as one of the telltale door replacement signs. These materials are harder to manipulate so it’s not guaranteed that the dents will disappear.
2. The Door Sags
Modern garage doors follow strict safety standards that prevent injury. These include sensors that keep the door from fully closing if an object is in the way. Your safety might be in jeopardy if the door starts to sag while open.
This usually happens when the springs that help lift the door fall out of balance. The door lift will have to work harder when raising the door and the worn-out springs can prevent it from staying in place. Should you repair or replace garage doors in this scenario?
Repair the Door and Follow Garage Maintenance Tips
A sagging door is fairly simple to fix and doesn’t require replacement. A repair technician will alter the springs so they remain balanced and test the door’s position while it’s raised.
The best thing you can do following this service is to maintain your door’s equipment. Checking the springs and replacing them when necessary prevents the door from sagging along with other dangerous issues.
3. Weather Damage Is Evident
Garage doors face exposure to all of the elements. After many years of use, the door could become a canvas for different types of weather damage, including:
- Fading from the sun’s UV rays
- Dents due to hail pellets
- Rusting caused by water exposure
- Broken windows from wind-blown branches or other objects
The aftermath of severe weather can detract from your door’s appearance as well as impact its function.
Why It’s Best to Replace Weather-Damaged Garage Doors
Knowing when to replace doors with weather damage can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal and make the door more reliable. The outdoor elements can also fill the door’s tracks with dirt, leaves, and other debris. This prevents it from maneuvering up or down.
4. The Door Won’t Raise or Lower
Should you repair or replace garage doors that don’t open or close? Any number of issues can lead to this so it’s hard to say whether repairs or replacement are necessary. For example, the unit might not operate due to dead batteries, or a more serious issue, such as an overheated motor, could be to blame.
Find the Source of the Problem
Contact a trusted garage door repair technician if you can’t open or close your door. A thorough inspection will determine why it won’t lift or lower. Professionals will diagnose the underlying problem and recommend a repair or replacement service depending on the scope of the damage.
5. The Door Makes Squealing Noises
Most garage doors aren’t silent during operation. However, they shouldn’t make loud squealing or screeching sounds. Older doors tend to open and close loudly because of equipment like the springs and hinges deteriorating. Don’t ignore this issue as it not only can irritate you and your neighbors but also pose some safety hazards.
Upgrade Your Garage Door Equipment for Safer and Quieter Operation
Ask an expert if you should repair or replace garage doors that make unusual sounds and they’ll tell you that it’s best to err on the side of caution. Loud noises often accompany garage doors that are near the end of their lifespan. The performance may continue to suffer as the system ages and the door may potentially stop working entirely.
Schedule a replacement service if you hear distinct screeching or vibrating sounds coming from your garage door system. This is especially important if your door is at least 10 years old.
6. Your Utility Bills Spike
Attached garages offer safety and convenience for homeowners, but they can also lead to increased energy costs. Heat or cool air can easily flow outside your house via the garage if the door doesn’t have a tight seal while closed. This forces your heating and cooling system to work harder and results in you paying higher utility bills.
Replace Doors With Poor Insulation
Monitor your home’s energy costs and look for price increase trends. If you can trace the problem to your garage door, it’s time for an upgrade. Newer models have effective seals and insulation to better retain your indoor temperature.
Choose Action Overhead Door Inc. for Superior Garage Door Repairs and Installation Services
Knowing when to repair or replace garage doors can save you time, effort, and money. Whether you need commercial garage door repair services or an expert to install a brand-new residential system, Action Overhead Door Inc. has your solution.
We proudly serve the Louisville region and are available 24/7 for emergency repairs. Reach out to our team at (502) 955-7725 to request immediate service. Trust us to help.
