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When you experience an issue with your garage door, you might ask yourself: Does it need to be repaired or replaced? Because a new garage door can be a big investment, it’s important to know when your door needs a quick fix, an emergency repair, or an entire replacement. Before you search for a replacement, learn the difference between garage door repairs and replacements, so you know when it’s time to call in the experts.

When you need a garage door repair

If you run into a problem with your garage door, make sure that it isn’t a common issue you can troubleshoot yourself. More often than not, you’ll need a quick fix or repair if:

Your garage door won’t open or close all the way

If your garage door won’t close all the way, it’s likely due to misaligned or dirty photo-eyes, which create an invisible beam to prevent your garage door from closing on something or someone. Check to make sure they’re properly aligned and cleaned off.

If your garage door won’t open, it may be that: 

• Your operator has no power
• Your door is off-track
• You have a broken cable or springs

In these instances, it’s best to call a technician to help out. Pro tip: If you discover a major issue with your operator, don’t shop for a replacement garage door just yet. Check out our top picks for garage door openers to help save time and money.

Your transmitter isn’t working

If you push the button to your transmitter and your door won’t open or close, the likely culprit is dead batteries. First, check or replace the batteries on your remote, then check the wall transmitter. If that doesn’t solve the issue, call a garage door technician to come out and inspect it. There’s a small chance your transmitter may need replacing, especially if it’s older or damaged.

Your door is making a lot of noise

Garage doors go up and down thousands of times a year, causing a lot of friction. If you hear a lot of squeaking and grinding, chances are some parts need to be lubricated or screws that need tightening. You can usually solve this without needing a full repair, but if those solutions don’t help, get the second opinion of an expert to see what’s going on.

Your garage door has a broken or cracked window

No garage door is exempt from an accident or the elements, both of which might be the reason for a cracked or broken window. That doesn’t mean your entire garage door needs replacing; more often than not, the broken window itself can be replaced, saving you lots of money on a garage door replacement.

Emergency repairs

While emergency garage door repairs are more serious, they’re still just that: repairs. Some of those issues may include:

• A broken cable or spring
• An unbalanced garage door
• A non-working emergency reversal system isn’t working
• Cracked rollers
• Broken panel (minor damage)

In any of these cases, call a technician to inspect the problem right away. They can help determine if the issue can be resolved with a repair, or if they recommend a full replacement.

When you need a garage door replacement

Although most garage door issues can be resolved through repairs, there are signs when it’s time to replace it altogether.

Your garage door sustains major damage

Whether the culprit is an accident or severe weather, a heavily damaged garage door is virtually impossible to repair. If your door sustains major damage or has several broken panels, you’ll likely have to replace the entire thing.

Your garage door is leaking insulation

An insulated garage door is designed to regulate the temperature in your garage, saving you money and energy. If you notice major temperature swings in your garage or a spike in your bills, your door may be leaking insulation. Make sure to call in a technician for a second opinion to confirm the leakage before you move forward with a garage door replacement.

Your garage door continuously breaks down

Garage doors are used every single day, so it’s natural to deal with minor issues or repairs every once in a while. However, if you continuously experience breakdowns and major repairs, it’s likely time to consider a replacement. The best way to decide? Calculate how much you’ve spent on repairs and compare that to the cost of a new garage door. If the cost of repairs is more (or close to) the cost of a replacement, it is probably worth investing in a new door altogether.

Your garage door is old or outdated

One of the best reasons a garage door is a great investment is it’s lifespan. Typically, a new garage door lasts anywhere from 15 to 30 years. While that’s a long time, a garage door eventually runs its course and needs replacing. The good news? We already know a new garage door is a great investment, but it will also operate much better and have the latest safety technology to keep you and your family safe.

Still not sure whether you need a repair or replacement? Call American Garage Door

If you’re still not sure whether your Denver-area garage door needs repaired or replacing, turn to American Garage Door. With over 35 years’ experience, our trained technicians can help every step of the way — from routine maintenance and minor fixes to major repairs and replacement. Explore all of our garage door repair services now, then get in touch with us for your free estimate!