When to Opt For Replacement of Sections or Panels
The sectional roll-up garage door is made up of a minimum of three hinged panels- normally steel but sometimes
wooden. Every once in a awhile one of the panels might be damaged by a car. At times, environmental factors such as wind, weather as well as age are also to blame for the damage. If one or two panels of your garage door end up looking ugly, what are you supposed to do? Should you consider a repair or would it be best to opt for replacement of sections or panels. These are some of the questions that homeowners have to deal with where panels and sections are involved.
Consider the following factors before making the ultimate decision
1. How old is the garage door?
2. What has caused the damage?
3. What is the cost of repair compared to replacement of sections or panels?
Age of the garage door
Typically, a garage door is expected to last 20-25 years. In that case, if your door has only served you for 10 years, you may incline your decision towards obtaining a repair. The problem is finding a new single panel for your door because it must be similar with regard to weight, size and appearance – unless you opt for a used one. Besides, matching the panel with the door might be difficult especially due to the changes caused by weather.
Cause of the damage
The normal wear and tear may lead to minor cosmetic blemishes like dents, scratches, cracks, rust patches and warps. A professional will be in the best position to assess the extent of the damage. Experts will be able to determine if the damage is confined to only one panel. Damages caused by car, earthquake or hurricane or the act of using automatic opener while the door is locked are usually severe. Such incidents can potentially destroy and also threaten the safety of the garage users. Critical mechanisms such as track, struts, opener or spring might have been compromised – even when the damage isn’t at all apparent. One of the signs of such damage is difficulty closing the garage door, even though it opens normally.
Cost of repairing versus replacing
The cost involved is also a determining factor. Panel repair is among the most expensive fixes of the garage door. Find out what your warranty covers, obtain price estimates and then decide which option is best for you.
If you are in a dilemma and don’t know what to do with your damaged panel or section, we are here to help. Our technicians will assess the seriousness of the damage, consider your budget and then advise you accordingly. Don’t take too long to make that important decision- give us a call at your earliest convenience.
