If your automatic garage doors are sticky or creaking, it’s possible you can get away with a simple garage door repair service. You might even be able to solve the problem yourself by using a light household oil on the tracks, hinges, rollers and springs (don’t use a petroleum-based product or get lubricant on the opener itself).
But sometimes, replacement is simply a better investment. How do you know when you should be replacing garage doors, instead of repairing them?
While immediate cost should always be a factor, there are quite a few valuable benefits you should calculate into your decision. Here are some reasons to consider replacing garage doors:
Increased Home Value
Replacing garage doors can vastly improve curb appeal and the overall appearance of your home. When combined with the appeal of newer, lower-maintenance technology, this means new garage doors can increase the value of your home. In fact, 71% of homeowners who installed new garage doors recently believe their home value went up as a result.
Heating and Cooling Efficiency
Newer garage doors are better insulated and more wind-resistant than older models. For houses with attached garages, this can lead to an improvement in heating and cooling efficiency — leaving you with a lower utility bill each month.
Reduced Maintenance
New garage doors are designed to be almost effortless to care for. A finished metal garage door requires nothing more than an occasional wash with soap and water. If your wooden door has been flaking, leading to a frequent need to repaint, this should definitely be considered if you’re debating when to replace garage doors.
Safer Storage
A new, secured garage door can give you the confidence that anything you store in your garage — anything from your cars and motorcycles to expensive power tools — is safe. Most new garage doors are equipped with security measures so that thieves can’t generate codes to open them.
Restricted Home Access
In addition to providing access to your garage, most garages also provide access to your home (and many people don’t lock the door between the garage and the house). A solid, secured garage door can give you peace of mind knowing that no one is in your house who shouldn’t be.
Lower Accident Risk
Garage doors are heavy, weighing up to 1,000 pounds, and can fall and cause serious injuries if they’re not properly maintained. By replacing garage doors, you can be sure that it’s in top condition and has all the latest safety features.
Improved Insurance Outlook
By making your home more secure against both criminals and the elements, you may find that a new garage door can help you lower your homeowner’s insurance rates.
Do you have any tips to share on when to replace garage doors? Join the discussion below.
