Should I repair or replace my garage door?
Depending on your location and usage a quality garage door can last from 10 to 20 years. Proximity to the ocean and salt air is a big factor in South Florida for determining how long your garage door will last. So if your door has only minor damage, but is getting on in years, you should consider getting a replacement.
A broken spring or damaged cables are the most common problems and can be repaired by replacing the springs and / or lift cables. If your door lifts unevenly, makes a loud bang (the sound of the spring failing), or only partially opens a broken spring or damaged cable is most likely your problem. Garage door springs are kept under high tension and requires special tools to repair, so it is best to hire a professional to do the job.
A single damaged panel can sometimes be replaced provided a matching replacement panel can be acquired, but in most cases it is better to get the whole garage door replaced.
If you have rust, fading or damage to multiple panels you should consider replacing your garage door completely.
In South Florida garage doors that are not hurricane / impact rated should get replaced. It is important that your replacement door meets the code requirements for your area’s minimum wind speed, exposure and structural type and to qualify for potential home insurance discounts. Broward and Miami-Dade are located in a High Velocity Hurricane Zone, which has the most stringent building code requirements in the state of Florida. You should consult a professional to make sure the door you select meets local code requirement.
Do I need a permit? Yes. A permit is required to insure the garage door has been properly installed following the manufacturer’s installation instructions and the garage door meets applicable building codes. The inspector will also need to check the manufacturer’s sticker that is affixed to the door to make sure the door meets local building code requirements.
A 2019 cost vs. value report by Remodeling Magazine lists garage door replacement as having the number one return on investment. A new garage door returns a whopping 97.5% of cost recouped when you decide to sell your home, virtually paying for itself.
Finally, as one of the largest architectural features on your home a new garage door can give your home a much needed face lift and add tremendous curb appeal. Garage doors come in many styles that will fit the architectural look of your home, be it traditional or contemporary. In addition, most doors come in standard colors, but often you can special order a door color that will give your door the perfect finish.
If your garage door need to be serviced or replaced – EDL / Gate Masters is a third generation, family run company that has been in business since 1964 serving Broward, Palm Beach and Miami-Dade County. We carry only the finest quality products with garage doors from Raynor and Haas, plus LiftMaster / Chamberlain openers. Call us at (954) 972-9300 for a free estimate.
