A garage door isn’t just a way to enter your home — it’s part of your home’s security, curb appeal, and daily convenience. Over time, wear and tear can take a toll, but how do you know when it’s time to replace it? If you’re unsure, here’s a practical guide to help you decide when it’s time to invest in a new one.
Lifespan of a Typical Garage Door
The average garage door lasts between 15 and 30 years. That number depends heavily on the material, climate, usage, and maintenance. For garage doors in New Orleans, exposure to high humidity, storms, and salty air can shorten a door’s lifespan—especially for wooden or untreated steel doors.
If your garage door was installed more than 15 years ago and is starting to show signs of aging—like sagging, warping, or frequent breakdowns—it’s worth considering a replacement. Keeping an old door running with constant repairs may end up costing more in the long run.
Usage Matters More Than You Think
Garage doors operate using a spring system rated for a specific number of cycles—one cycle being one open and close. Standard springs are built to last around 10,000 cycles. If your household uses the garage door several times daily, you could hit that limit in as little as 7–10 years.
Frequent usage doesn’t just wear out the springs. It affects the rollers, cables, hinges, and motor. If you’re calling for garage door repair multiple times a year, those repair bills could be a sign it’s time to install a new system.
When Repair Is No Longer Enough
Sometimes, replacing a garage door is more cost-effective than repairing it over and over again. If the door is:
- Making loud, grinding noises
- Opening unevenly or slowly
- Constantly falling off-track
- Visibly dented or cracked
…it may be better to stop patching the problem and explore garage door installation instead.
Also, newer garage doors offer improved insulation, better weather sealing, and modern safety features. If your current setup doesn’t meet today’s energy standards or is missing key safety tech, a replacement could also help reduce energy bills and increase home value.
Improve Your Home’s Look and Value
An aging garage door can make your whole home look outdated. A new door, on the other hand, adds style, increases resale value, and can even improve efficiency. With so many design options available today, it’s easy to find something that matches your home’s look perfectly.
At Ace Garage Door, we offer durable, modern garage doors that are built to stand up to New Orleans’ weather while boosting your home’s overall appearance.
Trust Ace Garage Door for Honest Advice
We understand that replacing a garage door is a big decision. That’s why at Ace Garage Door, we always start with a detailed inspection and honest recommendation. Whether you just need a quick garage door repair in New Orleans or you’re ready for a complete garage door installation, our experienced technicians are here to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s Talk About Your Garage Door
If your garage door is aging, unreliable, or just not looking great anymore, don’t wait for a full breakdown. Reach out to Ace Garage Door for expert guidance and dependable service.
Contact us today to schedule your free estimate and find out whether it’s time to repair or replace your garage door. We’re proud to be the trusted name for garage doors in New Orleans.
