How to Know if Your Garage Door or Gate Needs to Be Replaced: Warning Signs to Watch

Broken Garage Door

Does your garage door or gate system constantly need repairs? Do you not remember the last time your garage door was serviced or inspected? Does your garage door make loud, strange noises that you just ignore? Don't ignore these issues — they could be warning signs that your garage door needs to be replaced. While it’s easy to let that weird noise slide, you risk suddenly losing the ability to use your garage door completely if the underlying problem isn't addressed. Here are some warning signs to look out for that your garage door in Jacksonville, FL, may need to be replaced:

Frequent Repairs

Regular maintenance and inspections can decrease the frequency and risk of gate and garage door repairs. However, if you find that something stops working every month or that repairs have increased significantly over a short period (especially for a recurring issue), it’s time to seek a more permanent solution. Repair costs can add up, and every repair you make to your old door or gate is money that could have been invested in purchasing a new one. When you schedule maintenance appointments with our team at Coastal Door & Gate, we’ll inspect your garage door or gate, discuss needed repairs, and provide guidance on its longevity.

Age

Like anything in your home, garage doors and gates only last so long. Most garage doors have a lifespan between 15 and 25 years. If your garage door or gate is older than that, it's time to consider a replacement, even if it appears to operate correctly. Older garage doors lack modern safety features and don't adhere to newer building codes, which increases the risk of injury or damage if something were to break unexpectedly.

Wear and Tear

Visible damage unrelated to a storm or hurricane indicates an underlying issue. For example, if your gate appears to sag and bend in the middle of your yard, you may have grading issues that cause water to run off around your gate, eroding the ground underneath it. Rust spots and peeling paint may indicate that water is seeping through the inner parts of the gate. Dents, cracks, and other visible panel damage can hinder your garage door's operation and make it unsafe to use. If your garage door in Jacksonville opens crooked, sags, or feels increasingly heavy, there may be an issue with the door’s springs.

Loud Noises

Unusual grinding, squeaking, popping, and rattling sounds when you open or close your garage door are usually a sign of worn-out equipment and parts. Don’t ignore these sounds. Instead, call in a professional garage door service in Jacksonville, like Coastal Door and Gate, to address the issue and make the necessary repairs before it gets worse.

Safety Concerns

One of the most significant indicators that it’s time to replace your garage door is visible damage that compromises the door’s integrity and safety. Broken springs make the garage door open unevenly or slam shut. If this occurs, don’t attempt to lift the garage door manually, as it can cause more damage or increase your risk of injuries. Broken sensors increase the risk of injury, as they fail to perform their typical function of preventing the door from closing if there's an obstruction.

Repair vs. Replace: Making the Smart Choice

With regular maintenance and proper care, many issues can be resolved with minor repairs. Some of the most common garage door repairs include broken springs, panel damage, and misaligned sensors. These repairs can often be resolved without requiring further action. While repairs may address minor issues, they aren't a permanent solution for an old door or gate that's constantly in need of repair. Each broken hinge, rotting panel, or malfunctioning door opener adds to the expense. In these situations, it’s more cost-effective to replace the door than to continue to repair the old one.

Coastal Door & Gate: Garage Door Replacement and Repair in Jacksonville, FL

Addressing problems early and ensuring your garage door is regularly maintained is the best way to prevent unexpected replacement. When you need a garage door repair or replacement in Jacksonville, FL, contact Coastal Door & Gate. We have over 20 years of experience in maintaining, repairing, and replacing garage doors throughout the Northeast and Florida. We offer superior quality garage doors and gates from brands like Amarr, Wayne Dalton, Haas, and Clopay. Call us today at 904-300-7799 to schedule your appointment or request a quote online!