7 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Garage Door

It’s estimated that the average garage door will be opened up to 1,500 times a year, and with such frequent use, it’s only natural that it may become worn over time. Although you might not think it, your garage door is vital for ensuring the security of your property and any vulnerabilities could be exploited by would-be intruders. Not to mention, a damaged garage door can pose a safety risk and impact the energy efficiency of your property, so it’s best not to take the risk and arrange a garage door replacement if you’re experiencing repeated issues.

But when should you replace a garage door? The team at Shutter Spec Security is here to talk you through the signs.

Strange noises

While it’s normal for your garage door to make a bit of noise during operation, excessive groaning, squeaking or grinding sounds often indicate a deeper problem. Firstly, you should try lubricating the moving parts of your garage door to reduce friction and help ensure smoother operation. However, if this doesn’t resolve the issue then you might want to call upon a garage door professional, like the team at Shutter Spec Security, to assess the condition of your garage door.

Slow or fast opening

If your garage door is closing much slower or faster than you’re used to, this is a surefire sign that something is wrong. Every garage door is fitted with springs that provide the tension needed to support its weight. When these become worn out or damaged, this can cause your garage door to close at an irregular speed, which poses a serious safety risk. Worn springs can also lead to increased strain on other garage door components, such as the tracks and cables, which in turn cause further damage.

Outdated design

Does your garage door no longer match the aesthetic of your home? If you’ve had the same garage door for years and it’s starting to look a little dated, the time may have come to look for a new one. Not only will a garage door replacement boost the kerb appeal of your home, but it may even increase property value. Plus, given how much garage door technology has improved over the years, you’ll have the luxury of a modern, high-functioning door that’s packed with useful features, like automation. 

Visible damage

Whether from weather damage or a parking mishap, it’s only natural that your garage door might experience a few minor knocks and scuffs over time. However, more visible damage might pose a serious problem; not only does this look shabby, but a damaged garage door represents a weak point in your home’s security and marks your property as an easy target for any potential intruders.

Misalignment

If your garage door is leaning more to one side, this is usually due to the tracks responsible for guiding it into place. Should the garage door tracks be crooked or out of place, this could lead to difficulty opening and closing your garage door and, if the damage is severe, your garage door may even come off the tracks completely and fall. Don’t take the risk and consult a garage door professional as soon as you notice any misalignment; you may require a complete replacement depending on the severity of the damage.

Changing needs

While a basic garage door may have suited your needs once upon a time, changes in your lifestyle might now call for an upgrade. Perhaps your mobility isn’t what it once was and you require the convenience of an automated garage door? Or maybe you have small children and need a modern garage door that’s equipped with the latest safety features? Whatever the reason, a garage door replacement can enhance the look, functionality and security of your home. 

Repeated repairs

A high-quality garage door should only require maintenance every so often to ensure it’s in proper working order. If you find that you’re having to arrange frequent repairs for your garage door, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a garage door replacement. Plus, repeated problems indicate that there are serious underlying issues with your garage door that are gradually compromising its performance.

Are you experiencing any of the above issues with your garage door? Whether you need to arrange repairs or you’ve decided it’s time to replace your garage door completely, the team at Shutter Spec is here to support homeowners throughout Oxford, Aylesbury, Thame, Reading, Newbury, Basingstoke or beyond – contact us to find out more.