A house is perhaps the most expensive investment most people can make. Homeowners are responsible for protecting their home and everything inside of it, even a car. As another expensive investment, cars should be protected from the elements to keep them safe. There’s no better way of doing this than by having a garage door.
A garage door’s job is to provide security for your home by keeping your car and other belongings safe from the elements and would-be thieves. Most garage doors are heavy-duty, so this isn’t usually an issue. However, many homeowners doubt their longevity, mainly because different materials are used to make them. For this reason, we’ll discuss garage door quality and how to preserve them.
How Long Can a Garage Door Last?
Most garage door manufacturers claim that their products can last between 15 to 30 years. However, they’re not telling you that certain factors can affect a garage door’s longevity. These include:
Materials Used
Some materials are better insulated than others, affecting your energy bills. On the other hand, some materials simply look better than others. When choosing a new garage door, it’s essential to consider all of these factors to find the best option for your home.
The most common materials used for garage doors are wood, steel, and aluminum. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages that you’ll need to consider before making a decision.
Climate
The climate you live in will significantly impact how long your garage door lasts. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, your door will be exposed to the elements and must be made from materials that can withstand those conditions. If you live in a more moderate climate, your door will still be exposed to the elements but won’t need to be made from durable materials.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Garage doors may be heavy-duty, but even they can break. Maintenance and upkeep are necessary to keep them functioning correctly, so you must regularly check and maintain your garage doors.
Tips to Extend Garage Door Lifespan
If you want to extend your garage door’s lifespan, here are some measures to take:
Replace the Springs
One of the most common garage door issues is broken springs. Over time, the springs can wear down and break, which can cause the door to become unbalanced and difficult to open. If your garage door springs are starting to show signs of wear, it’s crucial to replace them before they break entirely. Otherwise, you may find yourself stuck with a garage door that won’t open or close properly.
Replacing the springs works differently among garage doors but typically requires removing the door’s panels to access the hardware. Once you have removed the panels, you will need to remove the old springs and install new ones in their place. Be sure to follow all manufacturer instructions carefully to avoid injuries while working on your garage door.
Keep It Lubricated
A garage door’s moving parts should be routinely lubricated because this helps to keep them working smoothly and prevents them from becoming corroded. If your garage door isn’t properly lubricated, its moving parts may also grind and wear down, causing the door to become less efficient and more difficult to open and close. Lubricating your garage door regularly will help keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Apply a Coat of Paint
You might think that paint won’t do much for a garage door beyond giving it a new look, but this isn’t the case. A coat of paint can help to protect your garage door from the elements, especially if you live in an area with a lot of sunlight, because it helps keep the door from fading. Conversely, the paint can help to prevent rust and other damage if you live in an area with a lot of rain or snow.
Weatherstrip and Seal Your Garage Door
Weatherstripping a garage door refers to sealing the door against the elements, such as wind, rain, and snow. This is done by attaching weatherstripping material to the bottom and sides of the door. Weatherstripping your garage door will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It can also protect your belongings from damage due to weather exposure.
Conclusion
A garage door is a worthwhile investment because it protects your home from the elements and thieves and can also increase your home’s value. However, a garage door is a complex piece of machinery, and choosing a reputable garage door company is necessary to ensure that your door is installed correctly. All that matters is getting a garage door that will last you a long time.
If you’re looking for residential garage doors, Capable One Door & Gate Services can help you! We use the highest-quality materials, so your garage doors will last you a long time. We also provide other services such as repair and maintenance for affordable prices. Simply go to our website to request a quote!
