A high-quality garage door is an important investment in home security that keeps houses, families, and possessions safe. But, no matter how well made a garage door is, it will always be prone to breaking down at some point, as most things do. When this happens, it’s important to call a specialist who can assess the damage and properly install a new garage door for you.
Wherever you are from, it will be easy to find reputable companies that offer garage installation anywhere from Boise to California. But, it’s crucial to identify the warning signs yourself before disaster hits so you can avoid more serious troubles. Here are some signs to look out for that signal the need for you to replace your garage door:
Noise
One telltale sign that your garage door may be in need of repairs or replacement is that it is noisy when you open or close it. This could mean a fault in the tracking mechanism and motor in a mechanical garage door, or in the joints and brackets in the case of a manual garage door.
Visible damage
Severe warping, broken panels, and even almost imperceptible dents and scratches are enough to warrant a replacement or repairs. Once you notice any defects, it’s recommended that you have it checked out. What looks like minor warping to you could completely throw off the balance and alignment of a garage door, making it less efficient.
Leakage
When water, drafts, stray debris, and snow get into your garage, they could damage your stored belongings and jeopardize the security of the rest of your home. It’s important to properly assess the condition of your door for any leaks and drafts. If you do notice any problem, you will most likely need to install a new garage door or repair your old one, depending on how severe the problem is.
Old age
Once your garage door reaches a certain age, they will start to be less efficient and durable. A typical lifespan for a garage door is about 10 to 15 years, but signs of age and damage could start appearing even years before that depending on how well you take care of it. If your garage door is approaching this age, it’s most likely time to call in for a repair or a replacement. A garage door’s appearance is already enough to tell you this, as well, as ratty and rusty garage doors indicate that it is quite old.
Lack of safety features
A significant advancement in garage door technology is the introduction of child safety features in motorized doors. Sensors detect when children or pets cross a certain threshold while the door is closing, which causes it to immediately stop. If you have a child or a pet, it’s important to always check if these features are working properly to avoid unnecessary injuries.
An investment in replacements or repairs of problematic garage doors is an investment in the safety and security of your family, possessions, and home.