It’s time to replace garage doors when they become severely damaged or worn to the point where they become non-functional. Some people also choose to replace garage doors when the doors have experienced severe cosmetic damage or after 20 years of service life.
Choosing to replace garage doors can be a big decision as well as a big investment into your home. Because of the expense and lasting impact replacement garage doors can have on your home, it’s best to think through the decision before hiring an installer.
Factors to Consider for Replacement
While every home and homeowner are different, there are several important factors to consider when thinking about getting replacement garage doors, including the age of your current doors and their condition.
Age of the Garage Door
When well-maintained, garage doors can last for many decades; however, the average lifespan of a garage door is around 20 years. The service life of a garage door also depends on the materials it’s made from.
Condition of the Garage Door
The condition of a garage door can be another consideration to factor into a decision to replace. Garage doors that shows signs of minor wear don’t necessarily need to be replaced, but garage doors with excessive wear that can’t be repaired easily or inexpensively may be good candidates for replacement.
Signs of Wear and Tear
Some signs of wear and tear on a garage door can include cracks, warping, dents and peeling or chipped paint. If aesthetic issues don’t bother you, you may be able to live with a garage door that shows signs of wear and tear. If that wear and tear interferes with the functionality or security of the door, it might be time to consider replacing.
Aesthetic Appeal and Design Trends
Some homeowners choose to replace doors for aesthetic reasons as design trends change over the years. This may be the case when you have a garage door style that was popular in the past but is now looking outdated.
Technological Advancements
As noted by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, garage door technology has changed greatly over the past 50 years, especially when it comes to locks and garage door openers. You might consider replacing a garage door that uses older technology if the door can’t be easily retro-fitted with new technology.
Energy Efficiency Requirements
The Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association points out that energy efficiency standards and components in garage door manufacturing have changed. An older garage door that isn’t very energy-efficient may be worth replacing with a newer model that offers better efficiency and temperature control.
Cost Considerations
The cost of a replacement garage door is often one of the biggest deciding factors when choosing whether to replace a garage door or not. What’s important to remember is that there are multiple costs to factor into your decision aside from the direct cost of parts and labor.
Repair vs. Replacement Costs
Some garage door issues can be remedied through repair instead of replacement. Repairing a garage door tends to cost less than replacement, but if a door has ongoing issues, the cost of recurring repairs may end up being more than the cost of a replacement.
Long-Term Financial Implications
You should also consider the long-term financial ramifications of replacing your garage door. For instance, how much will it cost to maintain a new door? Will your energy costs go up with a new garage door opener? Thinking about costs beyond just those associated with the actual replacement can help you make a smart decision.
Safety and Security Issues
Garage doors offer access to your interior spaces, but they also offer safety and security when closed and locked. If your current garage doors are no longer able to offer reliable safety and security, replacement may be worth the investment.
Outdated Safety Features
Some older garage doors may lack safety sensors and pinch-resistant panels. Doors that lack these features may utilize some other safety measures, but if you want to ensure your garage doors offer the latest in safety, replacement may be a good option.
Vulnerability to Break-ins
If a garage door can easily be breached for unauthorized access, replacement can be a smart move.
When to Consult a Professional
You should consult a professional garage door company if you’re considering replacement. A garage door professional can inspect your current doors and address concerns while also offering you options for replacement.
Assessing Current Condition
A garage door professional will conduct a visual inspection of your garage door to look for wear and damage, but they will also need to operate your garage door to check for safety and functionality. They may also have specialized diagnostic tools that can detect issues that may not be apparent from a mere visual inspection.
Getting Expert Opinions
If you have a professional offer advice on replacement garage doors, consider getting opinions from multiple experts. Keep in mind that garage door companies are in business to sell and install garage doors, so you will want to get opinions from multiple sources instead of someone hired just to give a sales pitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when to replace my garage door?
You can look for signs of wear, damage and security vulnerabilities in order to know whether you should replace your garage door.
Is it worth it to replace a garage door?
It can be worth it to replace a garage door if your current door has structural, functional or security issues.
What is the average lifespan of a garage door?
The average lifespan of a garage door, according to This Old House, is between 20 and 50 years, but a garage door’s service life depends on how it is treated and maintained. Some garage doors can last many decades longer, while others offer a significantly shorter service life.
Should I replace a 30 year old garage door?
Yes, you should consider replacing a garage door that is 30 years old.
