Are you trying to figure out how long the different types of garage doors will last? You can find out more by clicking here.
If you’re bored with the curb appeal of your home, or you’re noticing your house is starting to wear down, you might be wondering what you can do to upgrade the structure. Landscaping can only do so much if the house itself is in need of some updating.
Garage doors don’t nearly get as much attention as they deserve when it comes to improving the appearance of a home. A good choice in a garage door can elevate the style of your house for years to come.
There are several different types of garage doors to choose from, but one of the key factors to consider is longevity. How will your environment and usage affect the lifespan of your new garage doors?
In this guide, you will learn how different garage door types withstand normal wear and tear and the weather in your location.
What Determines Garage Door Lifespan
How long does a garage door last? The most affordable and least durable garage doors should last you 15 years. Higher-quality, durable garage doors can easily last double that amount of years as long as you take care of them.
A few factors will determine how long your garage doors last you. These factors include:
- Materials used to build the door
- Quality of the door’s construction
- Whether you keep up routine maintenance
- The frequency and intensity of using the door
- The local area’s typical weather
When it comes to the quality of the door’s construction, cheaper garage doors tend to be of lesser quality. You will want to research retailers to find reliable companies with high-quality doors.
Materials do not only include the door panels themselves but the springs that are used in the mechanisms to open and close the garage door. Garage doors can use torsion springs and tension springs, each of which has its own lifespan.
The frequency of the springs’ use will determine how long your garage door lasts. Standard springs in a garage door will generally last around 20,000 cycles (one instance of opening and closing the door). Tensions springs last only up to 10,000 cycles.
Lifespans of Different Types of Garage Doors
The best garage doors, regardless of type, have similar lifespans when in controlled environments. Their longevity, however, could differ depending on the environment and usage. Certain materials can withstand different types of wear and tear.
Glass Garage Doors
Glass garage doors are unique and provide beautiful curb appeal. They can allow you to see out from your garage while still providing tinted privacy from the outside.
Glass may sound fragile, but glass garage doors are made from impact-resistant glass. As a plus, they let in natural light.
Because of the style, materials, and benefits, glass garage doors are much more expensive. Glass garage doors can cost almost twice as much as steel garage doors.
Unfortunately, glass garage doors are not as energy efficient. They also collect and show dirt and dust buildup easily, requiring more frequent cleaning. Additionally, the impact-resistant glass will keep you safe, but will still shatter on impact, requiring replacement.
While in general, glass garage doors will last as long as any garage door, they require more frequent attention and aren’t recommended in areas where impact with the glass is more likely.
Steel Garage Doors
Steel garage doors are one of the most common choices for garage doors. They can be painted and designed to match any style of home, but are generally the more modern option. This option is strong and provides great insulation and protection against the weather.
Steel garage doors are much more resistant to the effects of weather. On average, they last about 20 years and can withstand more wear and tear. They are also a more affordable option.
Wood Garage Doors
Wooden garage doors can be beautiful additions to your curb appeal. They are unique and come in endless styles. You can pick your species of wood, stain, and even add panels, carvings, and windows.
This type of garage door can last, on average, about 20 years as well, but only if they are maintained properly. Wood is more vulnerable to the elements, so must be tended to immediately at any sign of damage. They need to be repainted or refinished at the first signs of any peeling or chipping so that the wood will be preserved from the weather.
Aluminum Garage Doors
Aluminum garage doors are a similar option to steel garage doors but can come with glass panes that allow natural light into your garage without giving up your privacy.
While aluminum doors generally last as long as other types of garage doors, they are less durable than steel doors. They require less maintenance than glass or wood, however, so they could be a more affordable and worthy option.
How to Improve the Lifespan of Garage Doors
Routine maintenance will greatly improve the lifespan of your garage doors. Routine maintenance includes regularly lubricating and cleaning the mechanisms. It is important to take the time every 3-6 months to apply lubricants to hinges, springs, and rollers.
Avoid using heavy oils too much as they will build up grime and dirt, hindering the movement of the doors. Instead, stick to spray graphite compounds or penetrating oils.
You should also clean the door itself. You can use detergent and water to clean the doors at least twice a year.
How to Know When to Replace Garage Doors
Knowing when to replace your garage door is dependent on the type of garage door you have. There are certain signs you should remember when nearing the end of your garage door’s lifespan.
You may need to consider replacing your garage doors if:
- You have a wood garage door that is warping or cracking
- You have an aluminum door with dents and other damages
- Your garage door is beginning to sag
- You have a hard time getting your garage door to open and close
- Your garage door is very noisy when moving
- Parts of your garage door are rusting
- Your garage door does not insulate and protect your garage as well as it used to
The bottom line is that if you are observing damage or decreased functionality in your garage doors, it is probably time to replace them.
Upgrade Your Home With New Garage Doors
If you are ready to greatly improve the look and functionality of your home, consider replacing your garage doors today. Browse the different types of garage doors and consider their longevity when choosing the right fit for you.
Garage Harmony has same-day service and a professional sales staff that will help you explore our many options. Contact us to get started!
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