When something goes wrong with our trusty garage door, most of us naturally turn to repair as the first choice. It's definitely worth keeping the cost in mind when considering the possibility of repairs. If the repair cost is close to the price of a new garage door, the door should naturally be replaced. Likewise, if the door is older or in poor shape, you're better off spending your money on a new door, as the cost may not vary much. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the potential problems that can arise and whether it's worth repairing or replacing your garage door.
cosmetic damage
Cosmetic damage includes surface damage that may not necessarily affect the operation of your garage door, but looks bad and can devalue your home. Things like chipped or faded paint, dents, rot or rust can all be considered simple cosmetic damage. This may be the result of prolonged exposure to these elements and any effects the door may have faced over the years. In most cases, cosmetic damage cannot be repaired unless a simple paint job is sufficient. Depending on how bad the door makes your home look, that alone might be a good reason to consider replacing the door. Any curved wooden doors can be replaced with more modern galvanized steel units. For those who prefer the look of wood, we stock a range of steel doors with realistic wood grain finishes. If you don't mind the extra maintenance,
structural damage
Sometimes the damage can go deeper than the skin. Cosmetic damage to the untrained eye can actually be more serious structural damage. If you see cracks, rips, or bends in the door section, this usually indicates that the door should be replaced. Other components such as rollers, springs, cables and hinges are not very expensive and can be easily repaired.
functional problem
If your garage door is stuck, opens too slowly, or makes too much noise, your decision to repair or replace it should depend on the severity of the problem. Any issues affecting the function of your garage door should be investigated by a trained professional. Professional advice may end up saving you money and headaches in the long run. A trained eye will be able to isolate problem areas and suggest the best course of action. The problem can be fixed with a few simple tweaks, or it can stem from a number of issues, in which case replacement is usually a consideration.
