Replacing a garage door is not an annual or even biannual investment. Instead, garage doors are designed to last for years on end and are expected to be in use for anywhere from 15 to 30 years. This means you may be unfamiliar with what to look for and consider when searching for a replacement. From material to insulation, there is a lot to keep in mind when finding the perfect fit for your home.
To help you make a better-educated decision, we compiled a list of seven things to consider when deciding on a new garage door. Keep reading to learn more.
Is It Time to Replace or Buy a New Garage Door?
A garage door opens 1,500 times on average every year. Because they are used so frequently, they endure a great amount of wear and tear that impacts their functionality.
Signs it is time to buy a new garage door:
- Dents and damages: Having a dinged-up garage door can be more than a cosmetic issue. Cracks and rotting in the panels of a door can negatively affect everything from insulation to functionality.
- Age: How long a garage door will last depends on maintenance, use, and other factors. It is generally suggested to replace your garage doors after about 15 years.
- Mechanical issues: When your garage door breaks down repeatedly, consider buying a replacement. If sensors fail to work or your door is crooked, it is likely time for something new.
- Inefficient: If your garage door is not insulated or it is inefficient in some way, you may want to explore other options that will save you money on energy costs.
- Noises: A garage door should not wake up the neighborhood when it is opened and closed. If your door repeatedly makes strange noises, it is likely time to start looking for a garage door replacement.
- Style: A garage door contributes to the curb appeal and the overall design of a house. If your garage door looks outdated, it may be time for a new one.
7 Things to Consider When Deciding on a New Garage Door
Before making a purchase for your new garage door, review the following factors that will impact your choice!
1. Security and Door Openers
For homeowners, having a secure garage door is especially important. A secure garage door will keep out unwanted visitors like wild animals and thieves. Having a door opener is a great convenience, but choosing the right one can be confusing.
For optimal protection, find an opener that works with a rolling code. These are harder for hackers to figure out and provide an extra level of security.
2. Safety
Garage doors are heavy and involve machinery that can be dangerous if the door is not operating properly. A malfunction or safety concern may be your reason for searching for a new garage door.
There are a few safety-related features to consider while shopping. Having properly functioning sensors is crucial since these need to be properly aligned to operate and they reduce accidents by sensing people and pets below the door, keeping it from closing on them.
3. Material
Before buying, consider what material or materials you want your new garage door to be made from as this will affect other factors like price and style. There are some common materials including:
- Wood
- Wood composites
- Steel
- Glass
- Aluminum
- Fiberglass
- Vinyl
The material you choose will require different levels of maintenance. Your garage door’s materials will also impact how long the door will last before needing a replacement. For example, natural wood doors require a lot more maintenance than steel doors.
4. Insulation
Something you may overlook when considering a new garage door is insulation. Having insulated garage doors helps save energy by keeping the garage warmer. The two materials used by manufacturers for insulation are polyurethane or polystyrene. Doors with polyurethane are rated by R-values in which the highest value is the best insulation. This rating system starts at 6.3 and goes through 20.4. The higher values are also related to higher savings on energy. 
5. Price Point
For most homeowners, a garage door is an investment expected to last for years. There are a few factors that should be considered that will impact the price point. These factors include:
- Material: The price will change depending on the door’s composition. Fiberglass and steel, for example, are typically cheaper than natural wood models.
- Insulation: Choosing an insulated door will add costs. Each layer of insulation will contribute to higher prices.
- Style: Different style garage doors will cost different amounts of money, whether it is an aesthetic or mechanical difference.
- Technology: Any door opener or other technology you decide to pair with your new garage door will cost you more, but can be– worth the extra money for security and convenience.
- Installation fees: When choosing the perfect garage door for your home, do not forget to factor in installation costs because having your door professionally installed is always preferable.
6. Style
The style of garage door you choose will likely depend on the design style of your home. When it comes to the looks of the doors, everyone has a personal preference and taste. Consider the different types of doors and how they function as well before landing on a model. There are a few choices including:
- Roll-up: This type of door includes several smaller parts connected to one larger unit that rolls overhead into the garage to open the door.
- Tilt-up: In a single panel, this type of door opens and closes in one piece with a ceiling-mounted track.
- Sectional: Similar to a roll-up door, this style typically has three or four panels linked by hinges.
7. Professional Installation
Having your garage door professionally installed is always suggested. A garage door needs to be safely positioned and installed to lessen the chances of injury and malfunction. Professionals not only have the experience to properly install the door, but they also have the right tools for the job. Oftentimes, warranties for garage doors require them to be professionally installed.
Other Resources For Garage Door Buyers
- How Much Value Does a New Garage Door Add?
- 4 Benefits of a New Garage Door
- How to Choose The Right Garage Style?
- Garage Door Replacement Services
Get Your New Garage Door From AAA Garage Door
Deciding on the right garage door for your home can feel a bit overwhelming without any guidance. Finding the perfect fit for your needs and preferences can be easier with this list of seven things to consider when deciding on a new garage door.
If you are in the market for a replacement garage door, AAA Garage Door can help. Equipped with over 25 years of experience and a customer-driven approach, we can provide you with high-quality products and installation services.
Request an estimate for a new garage door from AAA Garage Door today!
Felipe Pinales
Reviewed By: Felipe Pinales - Felipe is Nebraska’s first IDEA-certified Master Technician. He has been employed by AAA Garage Door for 6+ years, and has had the Master Technician Certification in his sights since he began. Felipe has also passed four written examinations including Residential Installer Certification, Commercial Sectional Door Systems Technician Certification, Commercial Rolling Door Systems Technician Certification, and Rolling Steel Fire Door Technician Certification. Felipe is constantly looking for ways to improve his abilities within our industry. His goal is to become the best garage door technician possible to best assist his customers and fellow co-workers.