If your garage door isn’t opening and closing smoothly or making excessive noise, it may be time to replace it. These issues indicate that the door is worn out, overloaded or just reaching the end of its lifespan. Getting a new garage door will improve your home’s aesthetics, increase its security and lower its energy costs. It’s also a good investment, with homeowners typically recouping 94% of their cost when they sell the house, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs. Value Report.
The most common type of residential garage doors are made up of a series of panel sections that connect to each other with hinges. Each section is attached to a vertical track on both sides of the door opening and to a pair of high-tension springs above it. The springs help counterbalance the weight of the panels and provide lifting power, allowing the door to sit parallel with the ceiling when open and in line with the walls when closed.
A wide range of garage doors is available, from simple stock models to custom-made wood, steel and vinyl options. The most affordable types of doors are steel and aluminum, while wooden and composite doors tend to be more expensive. Extras like windows, decorative overlays and high-end metal hardware will drive up the price as well.
Some homeowners may choose to save money on a new garage door by prioritizing function over aesthetics. This can be done by selecting a basic stock model without any extras. Other ways to limit the price of a new garage door include choosing a standard color and avoiding special finishes that require extensive maintenance.
If you’re considering a garage door replacement, be sure to shop around and get recommendations from friends, family members or neighbors who have recently had theirs replaced. This will give you a feel for the quality of work and customer service that different companies offer. It’s also a good idea to read online reviews for garage door companies.
Lastly, be wary of companies that charge low prices to perform repairs. These companies are often referred to as “door slingers” by some consumers and should be avoided. Instead, look for a company that has a solid reputation for performing quality work and offering fair pricing.
If your garage door isn’t functioning correctly, you should contact a professional for an inspection. They can recommend the best repair or replacement option for your needs and budget. They can also inspect the tracks, bearings, springs and other components to make sure they’re safe to operate. Keeping your door properly maintained will prolong its life and reduce the need for repair or replacement. For example, applying lubricant to the moving parts of your door will keep it from becoming noisy or vibrating. In addition, it’s important to clear out debris from the bottom of your garage door and check the weather stripping for damage or wear.