When to Repair or Replace a Garage Door: Factors to Consider

Last Updated on January 22, 2025 by Tanya Janse van Rensburg

Different types of garage doors offer varying levels of performance during their lifetimes. 

However, even the most robust garage door is susceptible to wear and tear and can fail when you need it the most. 

When a garage door fails, depending on several factors, you might be torn between repairing it or replacing it entirely with a new one. 

Below, we’ll look at some key factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your garage door. 

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Image credit: Pinterest
Image credit: Pinterest

Extent of Damage

Your garage door can sustain different levels of damage, either due to wear and tear of parts, old age, or external factors. 

Regardless of the cause of damage, you must weigh the extent of the damage sustained to know if a simple repair can solve the problem or if you’ll need a new garage door altogether. 

Minor door damage is visible but doesn’t always threaten its structural integrity. 

Simple repairs can solve these damages, often including scratches, loose hardware, large cracks, or fading paint. 

Your door may also sustain moderate damages, such as rusted or warped doors, that affect your garage's cosmetic and structural integrity. 

Replacing your door or investing in high-quality repair work is best for these damages.

Finally, severe damages prevent your door from functioning as it should and poses safety risks to users. 

For these damages, you’re better off hiring an expert like the ODC of Oklahoma City to alleviate the danger and fix a new garage door.

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Cost

The cost of fixing or replacing a garage door can also determine whether you can replace or repair it. 

If the estimated repair cost is close to or more than the price of a new door, getting a new one is the best option. 

Many economical new garage doors can upgrade your space when you choose to replace a faulty one. 

Only ensure you shop around for a perfect fit that will align with your home’s exterior features

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Aesthetic Appeal and Value

If your current garage door doesn’t match the standard of your home, replacing it can help solve this problem. 

Go for a better, aesthetically appealing door with the latest smart technologies incorporated to enhance its performance. 

You’d want a door with a smart opener for swift control that allows you to schedule its opening and closing upon your arrival according to your phone’s GPS signal. 

Smart doors also have LED lighting options and an effective alarm system to alert you when the door is attacked. 

Replacing an old door with a new, smart one improves your home’s value and gives you a higher return on investment when you decide to sell.

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Age of the Door

An older garage door, even with minor scratches and damages, might need a replacement because it’s seen better days of its structural stability. 

If you’ve been with the door for 10 to 20 years, the chances of its hinges and other components failing are high, and it could also be outdated for a modern home.

At this stage, it may not be worth investing in repairs for a door with little life left. 

Consider replacing it with a modern garage door that better matches your home style and incorporates efficient technologies.

Many homeowners choose garage door repairs even when a replacement is needed because of repairs' short-term, cost-effective benefits. 

However, with these tips, you should know when it’s beneficial to repair or replace your door and go for the right choice for a safer, functional garage.

Image credit: homestolove.com.au
Image credit: dwell.com

Conclusion

In conclusion, evaluating whether to repair or replace your garage door requires careful consideration of factors like the extent of damage, cost, aesthetic appeal, and the door's age.

By assessing these elements, you can make an informed decision that enhances your home's safety and functionality.

Whether you opt for a simple repair or invest in a modern replacement, choosing wisely will ensure your garage door serves you well for years to come.

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