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There comes a time when your garage door should be replaced with a new one, but how do you know when that time is? Typically, people purchase a new garage door if their current door doesn’t function properly, or if they’re interested in updating to a new style.

There are a few different signs to look out for that indicate your current garage door is too worn and could be a safety hazard, or it could use at least an aesthetic makeover. Read on to learn about how to know when it’s time for a new garage door, brought to you by your garage door experts at Precision.

Damage

The most obvious sign that your garage door should be replaced is significant damage caused by extreme wear and tear, high winds, or vehicle contact. Besides the very important fact that it won’t work, a damaged garage door is usually pretty unsightly to boot.

It doesn’t take much damage for a new door to be needed, and even smaller dents can affect your door’s appearance. Also, after a few dents take hold, the door will become weaker in those sections.

This not only takes away from the appearance of your home, but it compromises your home’s security and can place added stress onto other areas of your garage door system.

Sagging or Bent Sections

One sure sign that your garage door is worn and needs to be replaced is that sections or panels are sagging or bent. To identify sagging or bent sections, close the garage door and see if you notice any gaps under the bottom of the door.

Saggy or bent sections can slow down the performance of your door, allow more air to flow in and out of the garage, affecting your energy bill. And like general damage, it raises your susceptibility for a break-in.

Lack of Safety Features

Extra old-school doors (those that were manufactured before 1992), are due (overdue, actually) for an update! In addition to bringing a much-needed renovation to the look of your garage door, replacing your over 20-year-old garage door is going to ensure a stronger, safer, more convenient door replacement.

Before 1992, garage doors weren’t required to make certain safety features standard, like the safety sensors that tell the door whether it can close or if there’s an object or person in the way. Replacing a very old door will have a ton of benefits, including safer operation for you and your family.

High Energy Bills

Older garage doors usually don’t have the state-of-the-art insulation that’s used in today’s doors, so the heat or cold air in your home can escape quickly. This demands your air conditioner or heater to work harder in order to continuously pump out more heat or cold air to keep your home at a desired temperature, raising your energy bill.

Your garage door may also lack full-perimeter weather stripping that seals out the elements, or the existing weather stripping may have worn out and needs to be replaced.

Rust

Because many garage doors are made of steel, it’s possible that your garage door will develop rust.

While some rust can be treated, too much will eat through a garage door and leave holes, making the door weak and contributing to an influx of air coming in and out. It also exposes your garage to the elements, allowing rain and dirt to enter the garage during inclement weather.

Outdated Design

If you’re adding a lot of new exterior design features to your home, the last thing you want is a worn-out garage door to drag down the entire look. Adding a brand-new garage door to your home will complete your exterior revamp, as well as provide a high return on investment.

Replacing your old garage door was cited as the #1 upscale project for homeowners looking for a way to increase the value of their home. With a recoup cost of 85%, updating your door will literally pay itself off if you plan to sell your house in the future.

Age

One way that many homeowners like to judge whether it’s time for a new garage door is based on the door’s age. The door itself should last up to 30 years. However, your garage door opener has a shorter lifespan, typically lasting 10 to 15 years before needing a replacement.

Often times, homeowners will need to get their openers replaced and would like to update their door’s design, too. Doing everything at the same time is an easy and straightforward bundle.

Finding Your New Garage Door

Now that you know it’s time for a new garage door, where should you look? Precision Garage Door of Delaware has a large selection of high-quality garage doors to accommodate any home. From carriage house to contemporary to traditional, Precision offers every garage door style so you’re sure to find something that complements your home perfectly and creates a stunning entryway for you to enjoy.

With our beautiful Delaware showroom, you have the opportunity to see the various garage door styles in person so you can better determine which one will look best on your garage. You’ll also be able to speak with the professionals about which garage door they recommend for your home.

Click here to contact Precision Garage Door of Delaware for a new garage door and to check out the showroom!

Want more information about what to look for in your new garage door? Download our Total Garage Door Buying Guide for tips on style, cost, warranty, and how to find the best provider to perform your new garage door installation.