Repairing vs Replacing Your Garage Door: When is it Time?

Deciding whether to repair or replace your ageing garage door can be a tough call for homeowners. With frequent daily use and exposure to the elements, garage doors inevitably show signs of wear. Determining if repairs are sufficient or if it’s time for a full replacement isn’t always straightforward. But considering a few key factors can help you make the right choice for your home and budget.

Assessing the Condition of Your Current Garage Door

The first step in deciding whether to repair your existing door or invest in a new residential garage door installation is doing a thorough assessment of its current condition. Some key things to check:

• Door balance and alignment: Does the door open and close smoothly without veering off track, or does it feel heavy, stick, or move unevenly? Problems here can indicate worn springs, rollers or cables.
• Noise and vibrations: Listen and feel for any grinding, squeaking, rattling or shaking as the door operates. These noises signify a need for lubrication or new hardware.
• Rust and dents: Inspect the door panels and tracks for any signs of rust corrosion or dents. Rust can weaken integrity, while dents may obstruct proper movement.
• Cracks or rotting: Examine the door panels, especially wooden doors, for any cracking, splintering or rotting wood. Damage will require replacement of that specific section.
• Hardware condition: Check pulleys, rollers, cables, springs and hinges. Signs of significant wear like broken or sagging parts will require repair or replacement.
• Door seal: Ensure the bottom weatherstripping seals tightly against the floor with no gaps or cracks. Faulty sealing impacts insulation and energy efficiency.

Conducting a hands-on inspection helps you determine whether issues can be remedied with basic repairs and maintenance or if the door is beyond fixing. If repairs seem extensive, replacement may be the wiser option.

When is it Time to Replace Your Garage Door?

There are a few clear signs that indicate it is time to replace rather than repair your garage door. First, if the total cost of repairs exceeds around 60-70% of the cost of a new door, replacement is likely the better value – it doesn’t make financial sense to pour money into repairs that approach the expense of a whole new system.

It’s also worth checking the age of your current door. If it’s over 10-15 years old, the end of its lifespan is nearing. All of the opening and closing over the years causes wear and tear, so upgrading it to a new model may be worth the investment. You may also want to check if parts for your specific garage door model are still being manufactured if you have an older door. Replacement may be your only option otherwise to ensure it remains in working order.

Understanding Garage Door Replacement Costs

One of the first questions homeowners ask is “how much does a garage door replacement cost?” Understanding the typical prices for replacing a garage door helps you budget appropriately and assess whether repair or replacement offers better value.

Average Garage Door Replacement Costs (Professional Installation, UK)

Garage door replacement costs vary significantly based on the door type, material, size (single or double), and whether it’s automated or not. Here are typical price ranges for professional supply and installation:

• Up-and-Over Doors: £750 – £1,100 for a standard single door, professionally fitted. These represent the most economical option, with steel versions at the lower end and GRP or insulated versions commanding higher prices.
• Roller Doors: £1,600 – £2,500 depending on size and material, with double roller doors being more expensive. Electric roller doors with insulated slats sit at the upper end of this range, whilst basic manual aluminium doors cost less.
• Sectional Doors: £1,400 – £5,000 for supply and installation. Insulated, automated sectional doors with premium finishes approach the higher end.
• Side-Hinged Doors: £1,800 – £4,000 depending on material and size. Timber versions command premium prices compared to steel or GRP alternatives.

Important Cost Factors

• Garage door materials: Premium materials like cedar timber, insulated steel, or custom-finished GRP significantly increase costs compared to standard materials.
• Automation: Adding an electric opener and remote control system typically adds £300-£600 to the project cost but dramatically improves convenience and security.
• Custom sizing: Non-standard door sizes requiring bespoke manufacturing increase costs by 20-40% compared to standard sizes.
• Additional features: Security enhancements, windows, decorative hardware, and smart connectivity all add to the overall investment.

These estimates include professional removal of your existing door, supply of the new door, and complete installation. Whilst this represents a significant investment, a quality garage door typically lasts 15-25 years when properly maintained, making it a worthwhile long-term improvement.

What to Look for in a New Garage Door

If you determine it’s time to replace your garage door, there are several important factors to consider when selecting a new one. Look at the available materials and how they work for your climate.

Steel, aluminium, fibreglass and wood each have their own pros and cons – for example, steel is typically affordable and durable but can dent, while wood has an aesthetically pleasing look but requires heavy maintenance. Also consider the door’s insulation value or R-value, as higher values provide increased insulation from heat and cold for improved energy efficiency and comfort inside your garage.

The inclusion of automation features like keypads, motion sensors and automatic openers can significantly boost convenience and security, so factor those desired elements into your decision. You’ll also want to decide on the overall appearance – maybe you want a modern style, something more traditional or a door with decorative features such as windows or panels.

Finally, read reviews and ratings of specific brands and models to gain helpful insight on real-world quality and durability. Taking the time upfront to properly understand all of these aspects will help you select the best new garage door for your needs in terms of functionality, aesthetics, safety and long-term value.

Booking a Professional Replacement

Hiring a professional installer is highly recommended to ensure proper operation, safety and code compliance. With our professional team’s expertise handling all aspects from start to finish, you can feel confident your new garage door will protect your home and vehicles for over a decade to come. Get in touch with us today to arrange a free, no obligation quote and find out more about our repair and installation services.