Want To Install a Pre-Owned Garage Door? Things To Do First

Garage doors serve as a primary gateway to many homes, a protective shield for automobiles, and often a key element to a home's curb appeal. But what happens if your garage door shows signs of age and buying a new one is outside your budget?

Here's the good news – you don't necessarily need to invest in a brand-new garage door. Pre-owned garage doors can be a fantastic, cost-effective alternative, but there are important things to consider to ensure you're making a wise investment.

Discover three crucial steps to take when installing a pre-owned garage door. Today's frugality could be tomorrow's fortune with the right approach!

Check the Condition of the Garage Door

You need to examine the physical condition of the garage door closely. Start by checking for any visible signs of wear and tear, such as dents, rust, or peeling paint. These issues might seem merely cosmetic but could indicate more significant structural problems.

For instance, rust can weaken the door's security and structural integrity, leaving it vulnerable to further damage. In addition, the door's weight distribution might be affected by dents, which can place undue stress on the operating mechanisms. Dents become serious weak points, especially if they're located near the garage door's joints and hinges.

The quality of the paint job also matters because it can protect the door against the elements and prevent premature degradation. While a simple repaint can restore the exterior appearance, deep scratches and chips could signify a deeper problem.

Lastly, don't overlook the functionality of the door's components. This includes the springs, cables, rollers, and tracks, which are critical for the door's operation. A malfunctioning spring could pose a safety risk, while damaged cables might cause the door to operate unevenly or cause it to get stuck.

Analyze the door's balance by disconnecting it from the opener and lifting it manually. If it's difficult to lift or doesn't stay open a few feet off the ground, it could indicate an imbalance, which can wear out your opener.

You should also inspect racks and rollers for signs of wear as they guide the door's movement. Bent tracks or worn-out rollers can disrupt the door's smooth operation, making it noisy or causing it to stick. Remember that each of these components ensures the door's seamless operation and their health directly impacts the overall lifespan and safety of the garage door.

Verify the Garage Door Size and Compatibility

Not all garage doors are the same, and variations in dimensions can lead to incompatibility with your garage's existing infrastructure. For instance, an oversized door won't fit in a smaller doorway. Similarly, a door that's too small would leave gaps, affecting the security and insulation of your garage.

The door's weight should also align with your current opener's capacity. Over time, an overweight door could strain or even break your garage door opener. This isn't just inconvenient, but it could pose a safety hazard as well. So, remember to take precise measurements of the opening and compare them with the door's sizing specifications to ensure a proper fit.

Compatibility extends beyond just the size of the door. The design and mechanics of the garage door must also be compatible with your current garage setup. This includes the door's track system, springs, and other hardware.

For example, a garage door with a unique track system might not align with the existing tracks in your garage, requiring a complete overhaul of your current system. Similarly, certain types of springs and cables might not be suitable for your garage door opener. They must have the correct torsion level and tension ratings to work with your existing hardware.

Need more professional insights? Contact Armor Overhead Door to learn more about the prerequisites for installing a pre-owned garage door. We'll ensure that your investment is a wise one and that your new garage door offers proper protection and performance for many years.