We’ve all experienced opening our garage door only to find that it’s sagging in the middle or along the sides. At first, it may not seem like a big deal but over time, a sagging garage door can become hazardous and lead to more serious issues if not addressed. In this post, we’ll discuss the signs it may be time for a garage door replacement and tips to help determine when replacement is needed.
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Is Your Door Sagging?
One of the clearest signs it’s time for a new garage door is when you notice it sagging even when closed. This sagging is often most visible in the middle of the door but can also occur along the sides. Minor sagging may still allow the door to function but becomes a safety concern if it’s severe. Over time, sagging will worsen and lead to problems opening and closing the door smoothly.
Roller and Track Issues
Pay attention to how well the door rolls along the tracks. If it’s making a lot of noise or feels like it’s scraping or sticking, this indicates underlying issues with the rollers or tracks. Worn rollers can no longer smoothly guide the door and may lead to accidents. Bent or damaged tracks will have the same effect over time if not addressed.
Door Doesn’t Open or Close Properly
Problems opening and closing the door are a tell-tale sign it’s reached the end of its usable life. This includes issues like the door not responding to the opener, moving unevenly, requiring extra force or getting stuck. It may start out requiring minor adjustments but will continue getting worse as components wear out.
Broken Springs or Cables
The garage door springs and lifting cables are put under immense tension day after day. Over 10-15 years of use, they will eventually start to break or show signs of wear like fraying. Broken springs or cables can no longer safely support the weight of the door and must be replaced. Discovering this issue requires a qualified technician.
Weather and Sun Damage
Continuous exposure to sunlight, rain, snow and temperature extremes takes a toll on garage doors over the years. Look for cracks, peeling paint, rot or rust which allows moisture to seep in and further deteriorate the door’s structural integrity. This damage shortens the lifespan dramatically and increases safety risks if ignored.
Is It Economical to Replace?
Replacement may make financial sense compared to ongoing repairs if any of the above signs are present. A new insulated door like the Clopay doors can help lower heating and cooling costs in the long run. It’s also worth getting a Garage Door Replacement in Portsmouth to provide an estimate for a like-for-like replacement versus repairs. Sometimes replacements are more affordable than trying to repair or retrofit an older failing door.
Preparing for Replacement
When the time comes, there are some things you can do to prepare for replacing your garage door. Measure the opening accurately and note any special considerations like headroom clearance. Research styles, materials, window options and insulated doors to choose the right fit. Get quotes from 2-3 reputable local companies for installation. Finally, clear debris from the area and disconnect any existing openers in preparation.
Safety First
Ultimately, the goal is to avoid accidents by addressing issues promptly. Don’t take chances with a sagging or failing door that could fall or not function properly in an emergency. Setting up garage door replacement sooner than later ensures easier access in and out of your garage while also improving energy efficiency and curb appeal for years to come. With regular inspection and maintenance, most garage doors can easily last 10-15 years before needing replacement.
I’m Aurelia Brown! I blog about tech, how to use it, and what you should know. I love spending time with my family and sharing stories of the day with them.
