Sadly, garage doors don't last forever, especially if they're the ones that came with your property. With UK weather conditions and the fact that not every homeowner understands proper maintenance tips, most people with garages (around a third of homeowners) will eventually have to get a garage door replacement at some point.
But it's hard to know when to replace garage doors, especially if you're a newer homeowner with less experience looking after a property. This article will dig into when to seek out a garage door replacement, along with expanding on the factors that will influence the speed at which a replacement will be required.
When will I need a garage door replacement?
Garage door replacements are generally required around every 15 to 30 years, assuming that the first door was installed brand new. However, this isn't a defined rule on when to replace a garage door, as many factors can influence the pace of a replacement both positively and negatively.
The quality of the original doors
If you purchase a home with poorly crafted doors installed, you might need to think about replacing garage doors sooner. If the speed of opening/closing, insulation, electronic function (or lack thereof) or sounds produced by the door aren't up to scratch, there's no reason to wait an arbitrary amount of time before replacing it. A new door will eliminate any issues, while also increasing the value and kerbside appeal of your home.
Poorly insulated garage doors made of shoddy materials should be replaced immediately, regardless of how long you've been in the property.
The weather in your area
Weather can have a significant impact on the integrity and condition of your garage door. For example, people in Scotland live in Europe's windiest country, being no stranger to heavy rainfall and snow in winter, along with plenty of pleasant weather in the summer to boot. Living in an area with severe seasonal change will put your garage door through its paces, making replacements more regular.
Preexisting/new damage
Damage is a clear indication that you need to invest in a garage door replacement (or repair at the very least). Clear signs of damage include:
- Dents
- Lack of function
- Broken springs
- Loud noise during operation
- Difficulty opening or closing
- Visible rust
- Warping panels
This damage could come from external factors or simply indicate a lack of maintenance - either way, these signs are a clear message that garage door replacements are necessary. For hints on how incorrect fitting or misalignment can worsen these issues, see What do I do if my door isn't fitting properly? on Lathams' site.
Usage frequency
Doors that open and close more often will need to be replaced more often. However, as we know over half of UK garages aren't used for vehicles, meaning that the doors are less likely to open and close as often. People are more likely to enter through the house, or perhaps through side-hinged doors (a great choice for a replacement garage door post-conversion), in the case of garages converted into man caves and game rooms, meaning that repairs and replacements will be less regular.
Treat a garage door replacement with respect
Replacement garage doors aren't the kind of thing you want to purchase regularly, so it's important to make the right choice when it is time to invest. This means going to a highly reputable dealer with plenty of experience and positive customer feedback to ensure that it's the only time you'll have to put money down for some time. However, some of the responsibility also falls on you in terms of proper maintenance. Doors that aren't cared for are more likely to need replacements sooner.
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