Replacing your garage door based on damage: When making your decision about replacing your garage door based on damage, the first thing to consider is do you trust those advising you? Some contractors will sell you a door you don't really need, convincing you that it is better to replace than repair. When possible, however, it is often better to repair what you already have rather than to spend the money to replace that garage door.
One way to avoid unnecessary up-selling is to develop a solid, working relationship with a garage repair company for general service before you need a major repair. That way you can get to know them and decide if you trust them on the bigger decisions, such as when to replace your garage door.
As mentioned in an earlier post from this blog, there is a point where the cost of repairing the garage door approaches the cost of replacing it. If you are repairing only a few panels, it typically is less expensive to go that way. If you are replacing four panels or a significant amount of the hardware for the garage door opener the cost of a new door may make more sense.
Older doors deteriorate over time and need replacing. Wood panels eventually rot. They provide a great look to the door but if not cared for correctly, they deteriorate. Steel panels will rust, especially older designed steel panels. In these instances, replacement is the only real option.
Replacing your garage door based on aesthetics: Sometimes homeowners will want to update the look of their house and/or garage. Replacing your garage doors can provide a significant cosmetic upgrade to a home. With many homes in Northern Illinois the garage doors make up 30-to-40 percent of the front view of the home. An update to the garage doors creates quick curb appeal; this is something to consider if you are planning to sell your home.
In the realm of cosmetic or aesthetic choices, the garage door may be structurally fine, but the desire for a new look may drive the decision to replace it. For instance, the desire to add window panels to the garage door will require replacing the whole door not just the panel that would have the window. This also increases the weight of the door which will require upgrading hardware for your garage door opener, which will also drive up price.
Replacing your garage door based on changes in lifestyle: Sometimes lifestyle changes convince homeowners to replace their garage doors. For instance, a homeowner may decide they want to use the garage more frequently such as in the winter. Doing so will probably compel them to insulate the garage, which will lead to the logical conclusion to also insulate the garage door.
While it is possible to insulate an existing garage door, this is not always the best option. Insulating an existing garage door can diminish the effectiveness of the insulation in the rest of the garage.
Whatever your reason for replacing your garage door, make sure you use a reputable installer to ensure that you are getting the best fit for your garage and that the garage door opener operates properly when raising and lowering the door.
