Homeownership is a wonderful journey of discovery with the occasional expensive headache to keep things interesting. So when something as big as your garage door malfunctions, you may not look forward to those replacement costs. To help you out, we’ll explain the garage door damage that can be repaired and when you need a replacement.
Broken Springs
Replacing garage door springs is a typical repair for garage door professionals. While garage doors themselves can last as long as a roof, the functioning parts receive more wear and tear. Typically your springs last for 10k to 15k opening and closing cycles. That roughly translates to 8 years for residential garages.
Your garage door springs need replacing if:
- You hear a loud snapping or popping sound when you open your garage
- The door crashes closed or closes too quickly
- Your garage door opens crooked
- Your garage door won’t open at all
- The springs have gaps or appear broken or rusty
Garage door springs are dangerous when damaged. Call a professional immediately if you think your springs are the problem. Because you can’t use your garage door when the springs are broken, our American Garage Door Team is available via our 24/7 emergency line.
Damaged Tracks and Cables
Damaged tracks and cables are also on the list of common garage door repairs. Your garage door tracks provide housing for the wheels that assist in opening your garage door. The cables work with a pulley system that opens your garage door. The door then is pulled along wheels that are housed in a track. If any of these components are damaged, your garage door can become dislodged and fall. It’s also possible for your garage door to go off the track if you bump the door with your car.
If you identify damaged tracks, do not try to open your garage door. Doing so could damage your opening system and your garage door, and/or injure someone.
Inspect your garage door and opening system regularly for wear and tear. Regular maintenance ensures you catch potential functional damage early before it becomes dire.
Damaged Panels and Windows
Broken windows and panels can usually be repaired without a full garage door replacement. Over the years kids, pets, or even accidentally backing your car into your garage door can cause some minor damage. In these cases, individual panels are replaced. However, if the damage is structural or more extensive, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire door.
Most cosmetic damage is repairable, such as:
- Scratches
- Dings
- Dents
- Chipped or faded paint
- Cracked windows
Garage Door Damage that Can’t Be Repaired
In summary, most garage door damage that affects the door’s functionality is repairable. After all, the parts that open the door receive the most tension and friction and will wear out far sooner than the door itself. Garage doors that are totaled or have wood rot or are older than roughly 15-20 years need to be replaced. But there’s no need to wait that long to call in a pro.
Regular maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major damages and extends the usable life of your garage door and its components. American Garage Door has been serving the Metro Denver area and entire front range since 1974. So we know a little about keeping garage doors in top shape. Read more about our professional 10-point maintenance service here.
Still have questions? Contact the experts at American Garage Door today.
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