A malfunctioning garage door can compromise your home’s security and energy efficiency, not to mention your daily routine. Whether it’s refusing to open, making unusual noises or showing signs of wear, knowing how to handle the situation is key.
For many homeowners, the question quickly becomes: Should you repair or replace your garage door? At Kern Door Company, we help homeowners make the right call for their specific situation.
Key Factors to Consider When Deciding to Repair or Replace Your Garage Door
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
Some of the most common repairs — like broken springs, worn cables or damaged openers — can be relatively affordable. However, if you’re facing repeated service calls or dealing with multiple issues at once, those costs add up quickly. In many cases, replacing the garage door entirely becomes the more practical and budget-conscious solution, especially for older systems.
The Extent of Damage
How damaged is your garage door? Cosmetic wear, such as small dents or chipped paint, typically doesn’t affect performance and can often be repaired easily.
If your door is warped, sagging or not opening and closing properly, a repair may be more of a temporary patch than a lasting solution. When the structure or function is compromised, replacement is often the smarter choice.
Age of Your Garage Door
Garage doors typically last 10 to 15 years. If your door is approaching or has passed that range, it’s worth considering replacement. Older models are more likely to need frequent repairs and may not meet current safety or energy efficiency standards.
Energy Efficiency
Modern insulated garage doors are designed to reduce heat transfer, which helps regulate indoor temperatures and lowers energy bills. If you’re still using an older, uninsulated model, you could be missing out on significant energy savings. Upgrading to an energy-efficient garage door is a smart investment for comfort and cost.
When Should You Choose Garage Door Repair?
If your garage door is still in good shape overall and you’re dealing with a relatively minor issue, garage door repair is often the most cost-effective route.
Problems like broken springs, squeaky hinges or misaligned tracks can often be fixed quickly. In these cases, a simple repair can restore full function without the need to replace the entire door.
When Should You Choose Garage Door Replacement?
Sometimes, garage door replacement just makes more sense — both financially and practically. Here are some scenarios where garage door replacement is likely the right call:
- High repair costs: If repairs are getting more expensive or more frequent, it may be time to upgrade. Some repairs, such as replacing a panel on an older custom door, can be so expensive that it makes more sense to upgrade to a new door.
- Energy loss: If your garage’s temperature is completely at the mercy of the weather, it might be a good idea to upgrade to an energy-saving option. Modern insulated garage doors can significantly cut heating and cooling costs year-round.
- Decreased curb appeal: Is your current garage door unattractive, dented, scraped or outdated in appearance? A new garage door boosts curb appeal and offers one of the highest returns on investment in home remodeling.
Why Choose Kern Door Company for Your Garage Door Needs?
You can trust the team at Kern Door Company for expert advice, repair and installation. We’ve served Bakersfield and Kern County for years, gaining local expertise while building a reputation for dependable service and trusted workmanship.
We proudly carry high-quality garage doors from top manufacturers, with styles and materials to suit any home or business. From your first call to the final walkthrough, our team is committed to providing excellent service at every step.
Need Help Deciding?
When weighing the choice between repair and replacement, keep in mind the condition, age, repair cost and energy efficiency of your garage door. Every situation is different, and what works for one home may not work for another. That’s why Kern Door Company is here — to offer honest recommendations and professional solutions tailored to your needs.
Are you unsure whether to repair or replace your garage door? Kern Door Company provides the expertise you need. Contact us for a free estimate!
