If you travel often, you know the comfort of returning to a home that feels safe and dependable. Itâs easy to overlook general maintenance, including the garage door.
This component is one of the largest moving parts of the house. It might make you wonder how long garage doors truly last before they start causing trouble. Whether youâre trying to spot signs of wear or figure out if itâs worth repairing or replacing, here are the factors that can affect your garage doorâs lifespan.
What Impacts the Life of a Garage Door?
The average garage door can last from 15 to 30 years, which is a relatively wide range. What makes the difference? To begin with, materials play a significant role. Steel doors tend to last longer with less maintenance. Wood doors are visually appealing but require more upkeep, especially in humid climates.
Then thereâs the number of cycles the door runs; each time the door opens and closes, itâs considered a cycle. If you open your garage door four times a day, thatâs over 1,400 cycles a year. Standard doors typically withstand around 10,000 to 20,000 cycles over their lifetime. Over time, the hardware, springs, and opener wear down, even if the panels themselves look great.
And letâs not forget about the weather. Some states that endure cold, snowy winters and humid summers can take a toll on garage doors if they arenât properly sealed or maintained.
How To Tell That Your Garage Is Aging
Garage doors age quietly until they donât. Maybe they creak loudly or donât close all the way. If youâre unsure of how old the door is, there are at least five ways to tell how old your garage door is. Common signs of aging can include sluggish or noisy operation.
Also, take a look at the opener. These usually last 10 to 15 years and are crucial to the overall safety of the system. If itâs acting up, the issue may not be the door itself, but rather an outdated opener or worn-out springs.
Repair or Replace?
The good news is that not every squeaky spring or dented panel means itâs time to replace the whole garage door. Surface damage, such as peeling paint or a bent panel, is typically repairable. A broken spring or roller may only require a service appointment.
However, if the door has warping, cracks, rust, or recurring operational issues, it may be time to consider a full replacement. A new door can also enhance insulation, boost curb appeal, and provide better security when youâre away for extended periods.
How Long Should Garage Doors Last?
The truth is that garage doors donât come with a countdown clock. Determining how long garage doors should last depends on their composition, their frequency of use, and how often theyâre maintained. But when they start acting up, donât ignore it. Take action before they fail to keep the doors in great condition.
