Almost everything wears out over time, and garage doors are no exception. Canada’s harsh winters accelerate wear and tear significantly. This raises a common question among garage owners: can damaged garage doors be repaired, and when does it make sense to do so? To answer this, let’s explore the most common issues that can occur with garage doors. There are six main types of problems:
- Physical Damage
Physical damage can result from accidents or natural disasters that harm the door panels. - Broken Springs
Springs are crucial for balancing the door and ensuring smooth operation. When they break, the door becomes nearly impossible to lift or may slam shut dangerously. Broken springs can also strain other components, such as rollers, tracks, or automatic openers, leading to additional repairs. If an automatic opener is used with broken springs, the motor may overheat or fail, causing further issues. - Damaged Tracks or Rollers
Misaligned or worn tracks and rollers can make the door difficult to open or close and may cause it to move unevenly. - Actuator Failure
The automatic opener can wear out over time due to frequent use. Canadian winters, with their extreme temperature fluctuations, can accelerate wear on internal components like gears and chains. A failing opener might overheat, stop working, or become costly to repair, especially if other components like springs or tracks are not in good condition. - Rust and Corrosion
Winter de-icing salts commonly used in Canada can corrode metal components, especially if the garage door materials are not high quality.
Can a Garage Door Be Repaired?
Fortunately, most of these problems can be solved by professionals, and in many cases, repairing the door is a more cost-effective solution than replacing it completely. If the repairs seem too complicated for you, you can always contact a service specializing in garage door repair in Calgary, Ab for expert advice and assistance. Let’s break down the repair possibilities:
- Panel Repairs
If only one or two panels are damaged, replacing them is often a cost-effective solution. However, if 30-40% of the door is damaged, replacing the entire door may be necessary. A professional inspection can help determine the best course of action. - Spring Replacement
Springs typically last 7-10 years or about 10,000 open-and-close cycles. Replacing springs within this lifespan is reasonable, but frequent spring replacements may indicate it’s time to consider a new door. - Track and Roller Repairs
Tracks and rollers can often be repaired or adjusted to restore smooth door operation. However, if tracks are severely damaged, corroded, or heavily worn, replacement is the better option. Similarly, severely worn rollers may require replacement. - Automatic Opener Repairs
Automatic openers can often be repaired by replacing worn mechanical parts or reprogramming electronics. However, if the motor is burned out or electronic components are severely damaged (e.g., from a power surge), repairs may cost as much as or more than a new opener. If the opener has frequent breakdowns, replacing it is more practical than ongoing repairs.
When Is Repair Not Worth It?
If the garage door is over 10-15 years old, repairs may be less practical due to the likelihood of further wear and tear. For older doors, replacing major components or the entire door often makes more financial sense.
Why Hire Professionals?
Garage door repairs, especially involving springs or tracks, require expertise to ensure safety and effectiveness. Attempting DIY repairs can be dangerous and may worsen the issue.
If you need a new garage door in Calgary or repair, reach out to WinCal Garage Doors at 403-690-8966 for professional assistance.
