Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Garage Door? A Real-World Cost Comparison
Your garage door is on the fritz: now, do you repair it or replace it?
How do you know which option is better and will save you more money in the long run? Whether you decide to repair or replace your garage door, both have benefits, and the better option depends on your situation.
There are some situations that clearly indicate when you should repair or replace, and we’ve laid them out below.
When to Repair a Garage Door
Damaged panel
If one of multiple panels of your garage door is dented or damaged, you will probably want to replace that panel. Your garage door will still function properly, so a repair is usually sufficient. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the whole door.
Garage door stops working
If your garage door suddenly stops working one day but has been operating normally until this point, calling a technician to repair it will typically be enough to get it up and running again.
Unbalanced door
If one side of your garage door seems to be sagging more than the other, it is unbalanced, and a cable may have broken. If this is the case, it can lead to more extensive damage over time. If you catch it early on, you’ll limit damage and save money with a fairly standard repair.
Worn or broken springs
Over time, springs that aid the lifting mechanism wear down and break, adding an extra burden to the lifting mechanism. Repairing and replacing these springs is an affordable repair.
When deciding to repair your garage door, you’ll want to consider the level of damage and the age. The more damage and the older the door, the less money you’’ll save by repairing as opposed to replacing your door.
When to Replace a Garage Door
Significant damage
If multiple garage door panels are damaged or the door has experienced significant damage, repair costs seriously add up and it becomes better for your wallet and your garage to fully replace the door.
Old garage door
Garage doors aren’t immune to wear and tear, and as part of your exterior, they experience all the harsh weather of a Buffalo winter. Over time, you’ll likely start seeing your garage door slow down or be more prone to breaking down. When you start noticing this, it might be time to start looking for a new door.
Door hasn’t worked properly for a while
If your garage door hasn’t been working properly for a while, it’s time to start looking for a new one.
High energy consumption
Energy costs are on the rise, and when your garage door has ineffective insulation or poor energy efficiency, you’ll feel those costs even more. Newer garage doors are designed to be more energy efficient and help lower those costs. It might be worth it for you to upgrade to a new door to see some of that savings for yourself.
Ultimately, age and damage determine when it’s time for a new garage door. If your door is constantly breaking down, a new garage door will save you money in the long run.
A Price Comparison
It’s no secret. Garage door repairs are cheaper – up front. But that doesn’t mean it’s the more cost-effective way to go.
Most garage door repairs cost somewhere between $150 to $600, depending on the repair, while a full replacement typically costs $1,500 or more, varying on the door you choose.
When put like that, a repair seems like a no-brainer. But if your door is constantly breaking down, you’re only delaying the time until you get a new garage door while increasing the amount of money you put into your existing door.
