When is it time to replace your garage door? There are safety features and common repairs to keep in mind. If you are unsure which repairs to create, read on to discover the cost of a new garage door. Garage doors are an investment and need to be maintained for many years. However, here are some common repairs that will cost less and give you peace of mind.
Signs of damage to garage doors
The first step in diagnosing damage to your garage door is to discover the problem. While minor issues are easily remedied, more severe damage may need the assistance of a professional. You should be aware of some signs of wear to your garage door. You should contact a garage door repair service if you notice any of these symptoms. They can help you determine the problem and make an appointment for your garage door repair.
Broken springs or cables can cause critical damage to your garage door. The entire door could be damaged when the spring is broken or torn, or the opener may not work correctly. A loud screeching noise may also signal damage. If you hear these sounds, you should have your garage door springs replaced immediately. Also, you should replace the cables or drums if necessary. These parts can cause a dangerous situation for children and pets.
Common repairs
If you notice that your garage door opens and closes without your input, it’s time for a spring replacement. Spring-driven doors usually last for 10,000 cycles before spring breaks. Torsion-style doors need at least 15,000 cycles. A spring replacement is essential, as a damaged spring can be dangerous to open and close. The springs need to be replaced immediately, or the door may fall on you. A trusted garage door installer can perform spring replacements.
Regular maintenance for your garage door includes checking for damage and light. In addition, check all hardware, including hinges, springs, lift arm, and tracks. Ensure they are aligned, and the door hardware is working correctly. If it doesn’t roll properly, it may need repair. For minor repairs, use a gentle detergent.
Safety features
Garage doors have several safety features that protect you and your loved ones. Children and pets are especially at risk when the door isn’t closed correctly since it’s heavy and may fall on them. Aside from tripping hazards, broken garage doors can cause serious injuries. For this reason, these safety features help prevent damage caused by malfunctioning garage doors.
Motion detection. Motion detection lights are added security features that detect motion in the garage’s doorway. When a burglar opens the garage door, the lights will turn on for about four or five minutes. Besides helping in home security, motion detection also offers good lighting for entry. One of the best deterrents against burglars is good lighting. For this reason, garage doors with motion detection should also be installed in the home.
Cost
Garage door repair costs vary greatly, depending on your door type. In most cases, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $200 per hour. For example, repairs for one-panel, nine-inch garage doors will cost anywhere from $250 to $500, and the same goes for 16-foot carriage-style doors. However, some repairs may be cheaper than others, so shopping around is essential.:
One common problem is a creaky or squeaking garage door. You may need to replace the cables or even replace the garage door’s motor. While this repair will cost anywhere from $100 to $200, it’s worth it in the long run. Similarly, if the door is making a loud whining noise or is not lifting correctly, you’ll probably need to replace the pulley and chain, costing $100 to $200.
Installation
The first step in installing your garage door is to measure the opening. It is recommended that you order the panels slightly smaller than the doorway. Make sure to level the garage door on the track to ensure a smooth operation. If you’re unsure about the installation process, you can seek help from a professional handyman. Patrick Johns, the owner of Catch All Handyman Services, has 28 years of experience. He has worked on various home improvement projects and can offer advice on installing your garage door properly.
The garage door installation cost will depend on the opening size and the home’s location. A high-cost area will generally require a higher price than a lower-cost area. Additionally, garage doors with windows will cost more than doors without windows. Small windows in a garage door can help provide natural light. However, the cost of a garage door with windows can be up to 70 percent more than a similar size without a window.
