When to Repair or Replace Your Garage Door

The Average Lifespan of a Garage Door

A garage door’s lifespan depends on several factors, such as how often it’s used, climate, the quality of the installation, and more. That said, garage doors usually last 15 to 30 years on average. Annual inspections and regular maintenance can help extend the unit's lifespan.

Are you interested in garage door maintenance or repair? If so, look no further than Uplift Garage. We specialize in garage door repair, maintenance, installation, and more! We’re the garage door experts in Aurora, IL. Contact us today to make an appointment!

Key Factors in Choosing Repairs or Replacement

Deciding whether to repair or replace can be a steep mountain to climb. Luckily, some key factors can better prepare you for this decision.



Here’s what you should consider:

Level of Damage

First things first, you need to know the type of damage you’re dealing with. You should understand if the issue impacts the door's functionality or if it’s only cosmetic. If there’s only minor damage like chipped paint or small cracks, then a repair will be your best bet. However, you should consider a replacement if the problem starts to affect the door’s function. If you notice warping or rusting, this may indicate it’s time for a new garage door, as these problems can lead to operational and security issues.

Another common issue with garage doors is a loose garage door chain. Luckily, you only need to repair or replace the chain and not your entire garage door. The type of issue, age, and other factors should determine if you repair or replace the chain.

Age of Garage Door

Have you always had the same garage door at your house? Is it over 20 years old? If so, you should consider a replacement. Most garage doors last for 10 to 20 years. If you wait too long, your garage door may need more frequent repairs, which can get expensive. While a new garage door is a bigger investment than a repair, you’ll get a brand-new, modern garage door that should work perfectly for many years to come.

Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is a huge factor to consider, especially if you’re focused on creating an energy-efficient home. Today, newer garage door models are designed to provide you with energy savings. This compares to older models that involve a lot of energy consumption. That’s because these old doors have aging insulation that becomes less effective over time. Your garage door can also develop cracks, which can let in unwanted air. Both of these problems can cause rising energy bills. Consider replacing your garage with an energy-efficient model if you’re experiencing these issues.

Home Value

If you want to get the most out of your home when it comes time to sell, consider a garage door replacement. Although replacements cost more than repairs, a new garage door will drive up your home’s value. Also, this can be a huge selling point when people are shopping around for a new home. A new garage door could be the upgrade your property needs! If you have questions, Uplift Garage is always here to help.

Style

While functionality is vital for any garage door, aesthetics are also important. That said, if you’re tired of the look of your garage door, consider a replacement. There are several garage door options today with various styles, making it easy to find something to suit your needs. Aside from the appearance, a new garage door will also have modern materials, advanced technology, and better insulation.

Budget

Are you short on cash at the moment? Can’t fork up the money right now for a replacement? If so, a garage door repair may be the right move. However, before scheduling service, consider the average costs of garage door repairs. If the repair cost is high, a replacement may be the better choice. This is especially true if you have an older model that needs to be replaced soon anyway. To make the right decision for your wallet, do a comparison of the repair and replacement costs.

Deciding to repair or replace garage doors comes down to cost for many homeowners. However, while a repair may be cheaper, you may need frequent repairs if the problem is recurring, which can lead to higher costs than a new unit.

To make this decision, you should do a cost analysis. This involves understanding how much repairs would cost, and then comparing these prices side-by-side to the cost of a replacement.

As an example, say you need to repair a dented door and replace a damaged panel. This job could run you around $1,000. On the other hand, a garage door replacement could be in the ballpark of $1,200. That said, as it’s only $200 more for the new garage door, you may opt for the replacement instead of the repair. Keep in mind these are average costs for homeowners; you’ll need to have an inspection to get accurate pricing for your situation.

If you need garage door service in Aurora, IL, or the surrounding area. Uplift Garage is the name you can trust! With several years of experience in the industry, we have what it takes to provide the trusted service you need. Our team is extremely knowledgeable about garage doors, and we can handle any garage door problem. Contact Uplift Garage today to make an appointment!