Is it time for you to get a new garage door? Here are nine signs it’s time for you to get your garage door replaced. Read on to learn more.

If all goes well and you invest in routine garage door repair, your garage door can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years before needing replacement. That being said, you don’t want to push your limits and hang onto a garage door that is no longer in good condition.

Garage doors are one of the largest pieces of machinery in residential homes. When functioning properly, they are safe and easy to use. When something goes awry, your garage door can present some serious dangers to you and other members of your household.

When is it time for a new garage door? How can you recognize the signs and act fast before matters get worse?

Read on to learn the nine signs that it’s time for a new garage door.

1. Problems With Operation

Is your garage door no longer responding consistently to remotes and switches? Does it seem to move in an irregular or awkward way? Is it getting slower when you open and close it?

General problems with operation can indicate a wide array of issues but oftentimes, this is an electrical circuitry problem.

2. Noticeable Shaking

Your garage door relies on straight tracks, lubrication, a functional belt, and a series of rollers to open and close. This should happen in a smooth, uniform manner.

If a new garage door is shaking when opening or closing, it tends to indicate improper garage door installation. If an older garage door exhibits these issues, one or several parts may need repair or replacement. In the end, it may be more cost-effective to get a new garage door.

3. Loud Noises

Just like you don’t want your garage door to rattle and shake when it’s in operation, you also don’t want it to make loud and abormal sounds. If you start to notice new sounds coming from your garage door, take it seriously. In some cases, these sounds indicate the need for garage door spring replacement–and broken springs are one of the biggest sources of garage-related injuries.

4. Sagging

When you look at your garage door from the outside, does one side seem lower than the other? Is the middle more flush with the ground than the sides?

Sagging is an issue that could indicate problems with the tracks or rollers. However, sagging may also be caused by an issue with the springs.

5. Noticeable Wear and Tear

Our garage doors are sturdy but accidents do happen. Everything from a car collision to bad weather can cause damage. Keep an eye on the panels, rubber lining, and edges, as these areas in particular can start to show signs of wear and tear.

6. Loose or Broken Cords or Wires

Garage doors receive support from a series of cords and power from a series of wires. Both the cords and wires will start to wear out over time, as they have the biggest jobs to do.

If even a single cord on your garage door breaks, it’s time to call in the experts. Without the appropriate amount of support, your garage door could come crashing down when it’s moving or in an uprigth position.

If the wires start to fray, break, or come loose, your garage door should stop responding completely. You may need to have it rewired and have the remote control system replaced. In severe cases, it may be best to replace the entire garage door, altogether.

7. Bent or Broken Tracks and Hinges

The tracks are the backbone of your garage door’s functionality. They keep your garage door properly aligned, whether it’s down, up, or in motion. The hinges between your garage door panels are what allow the track system to work when your garage door is in the upright position.

If either your tracks or hinges become bent or broken, your garage door will no longer work. Early signs of these types of problems include some of the ones we’ve named already, including slow movement, shaking, and sagging. Over time, if these issues aren’t addressed, your garage door won’t be able to open all the way–which makes it pretty hard to use!

8. Frequent Breakdowns

As we mentioned earlier, regular garage door maintenance is the best way to get the most out of your garage door. Some of the problems we’ve mentioned on this list may only need a few repairs or part replacements to make your garage door good as new.

However, you want to think about cost-effectiveness when you call in for repairs. How often does your garage door need repairs? How much are you spending to maintain the garage door that your home has had for years?

If you’re spending just as much to maintain your garage door as you would to replace it, it’s time for a new garage door.

9. Outdated Appearance

Did you know that curb appeal can raise your property value by as much as 7%? We tend to hear a lot about landscaping, windows, and exterior paint when it comes to curb appeal. However, none of these things will make a big impact if your garage door is outdated.

Nowadays, there are plenty of sleek, aesthetic garage door options to choose from. If you want to improve your property value, consider replacing your outdated garage door with a newer, more attractive option.

Why Wait? Get a Quote For Your New Garage Door Today

Do you think it’s time for a new garage door for your Washington or Oregon home? There’s a good chance that we can help you out.

We provide garage services, including new garage door installation, in areas like Portland, Bend, and Gresham, Oregon as well as Vancouver, Cama, and Battle Ground, Washington. If you’re ready for a new garage door, contact us. We’ll get you started with a free quote and in many cases, we can even set up same-day appointments.