The average garage door lifespan is between 15 to 30 years but can vary depending on many factors. We’ll go over those factors and give you some telltale signs it’s time to shop for a new garage door.
Garage door lifespan factors
Garage door material quality –
The quality of materials used for your garage door greatly affects its lifespan. Garage doors are usually constructed with one of three materials – steel, wood, or aluminum. Each has its pros and cons.
Steel is the most popular material for garage doors. Steel garage doors are highly durable and their flexibility makes them a great option in areas that frequently experience high winds. Steel garage doors come in single-layer or triple-layer steel. Single-layer steel garage doors can last around 15-20 years while triple-layer steel doors can last as long as 25-30 years.
Wooden garage doors are the choice for people looking for a classic, Victorian look. However, they require a lot more care and upkeep. They have to be regular checked for rot and damage and need repainted at least every few years. Wood garage doors fall in that 15-30 years lifespan but you should really start keeping an eye on it at the beginning of that range.
Aluminum garage doors often last longer than steel doors while offering a lot of the same benefits. They’re naturally corrosion-resistant and lightweight. However, they are more prone to dents and dings. If properly maintained, aluminum garage doors can last up to 30 years.
Usage –
A garage door’s lifespan depends greatly on its usage. If it’s your primary entry into your home and is used several times per day it will wear out faster than those who use it purely as storage.
If you leave it open for long periods of time, including leaving it cracked during the summer to cool down the garage, this puts added stress on the system.
Garage door maintenance –
Having your garage door regularly maintained will help prolong your garage door’s lifespan. Garage door maintenance includes lubricating the moving parts of your door, tightening hardware, and having it inspected.
Professional installation –
Having your garage door installed by a professional ensures proper operation and reduces the risk of unnecessary wear and shortened garage door lifespan. It also ensures that your warranty remains valid.
Your environment –
If you live in an environment that routinely has harsh weather conditions, your garage door lifespan will naturally be shortened. Wood doors are especially sensitive in these environments. These factors are especially harsh on garage doors:
- Extreme temperatures
- Salt (from the ocean in coastal areas)
- Heavy and/or frequent snow
- Heavy and/or frequent rain
- High humidity
- Freezing rain/Ice storms
Signs your garage door needs replaced
If you have a steel or aluminum garage door here are the telltale signs it’s time for a new garage door:
- Your door has visible damage
- Your door isn’t opening or closing properly or at all
- You hear lots of creaking, grinding, or popping when opening/closing the door
- Your door is sagging
- The door is hanging crooked or off balance
If you have a wooden garage door, a lot of the same signs signal the need for replacement:
- It’s warped, chipped, or cracked
- It sags
- It’s unusually noisy during operation
- You’re making frequent repairs
- It doesn’t open or close correctly or at all
If you notice any of these signs it’s time to give us a call to inspect your garage door and see if it’s time for a new garage door install.
Why replacing your garage door on time is important
If you have noticed one or more of the signs above that your door is needing replaced, you really need to give us a call. Especially if you know your door is on the latter end of the garage door lifespan spectrum.
Your garage door is usually the largest moving part of your household. If it is damaged or worn out, it becomes a safety hazard. It could fall unexpectedly which could cause a lot of damage or, worse, injury.
Old or damaged garage doors could also be easier for intruders to break into.
If your garage door is attached to your home, a worn out or damaged door affects your home’s energy efficiency.
Finally, a damaged garage door affects your curb appeal and market value.
Time for garage door replacement? Call Garage Door Guy!
At the end of your garage door lifespan? Give us a call! If you’re not sure what would look good on your house, you can virtually “try on” different doors using our “Design Your Door” tool. You upload a photo of your home and you can get a look at garage doors of any type with all available styles, construction, colors, windows, and hardware.
