According to RAC estimates, nearly 11 million households in the UK have access to a garage, which is used daily to provide cover to a vehicle or to store valuable belongings. Most garage doors in the UK are opened and closed daily, are used far beyond the recommended 10,000-cycles mark, and are constantly at the mercy of the elements.
With so much going on, it is normal to start noticing the telltale signs of wear and tear over time. So, is this the best time to replace your wooden garage door? If you have been struggling to operate it, it does not provide insulation and does not keep your belongings safe, this might be your clue to invest in a new one. Learn all you need to know about replacing or repairing wooden garage doors in Stirling below.
6 Signs That It’s Time To Replace Your Garage Door
Undoubtedly, your garage door covers an essential role: it keeps your garage – and your house as a whole – safe and accessible. If you keep your car in your garage, that wooden door is all that separates one of your most valuable investments from risks such as theft, vandalism, and harsh weather conditions.
But your garage door also has a significant aesthetic value that should not be ignored. Investing in a high-quality garage door can significantly boost your home’s curb appeal and increase your property’s overall market value. If you are considering selling your home, replacing your garage door can add up to 5% to the property’s market price!
But when is the right time to make this investment?
Some telltale signs that your door needs replacing include:
- The wood shows signs of rot and deterioration
- The wood has started to absorb moisture and cause condensation or water damage
- The door has become increasingly hard to operate
- The frame is bent or rusted
- The door is no longer sealing out weather and high or low temperatures, thus making the garage space unlivable
- The door no longer feels safe
High-quality garage doors can last 50 years or longer. So, while investing in a new door today might seem an unnecessary expense, it can turn out to be one of the best investments you could make for your home’s safety, comfort, and accessibility.
Repair vs Replace: What’s the Best Option for You?
So, now you know that this might be the best time to replace your wooden garage door. But are you sure you can’t just repair it? When working with a wooden garage door replacement and repair specialist, you’ll be able to find the answers to all of your questions.
However, as a general rule, you can get away with repairing your door if:
- You have noticed a sudden issue with operating the door
- A single panel or component is damaged
- The door has started to feel heavier when opening it or closing it
- The door is imbalanced or not properly aligned
Unless you are dealing with long-term damage to the entire structure of the garage door, a specialist will be able to help you repair it. However, don’t forget that if repairs cost more than a new door, a replacement might be the more appropriate option – especially in the long term!
The Best Time of the Year To Replace Your Garage Doors
If you have decided to finally replace your garage door, you might be wondering when is the best time of the year to dedicate money and effort to this project. As a rule of thumb, the best season for wooden garage door replacements is late spring – or early summer.
If you get started collecting quotes early on (i.e.: at the end of winter) you might be able to also access early-bird offers and promotions. And, of course, booking your spot with your installation company guarantees you to have your new door for the summer months!
Benefits of a Multi-Layered Wooden Garage Door
Garage doors have never been as easy to maintain and operate as they are today. What’s more, new models are also an excellent addition to increase your home’s energy efficiency and add value to your home. And, while the exterior might offer the unique look of wood panels, innovative garage doors are created with several layers of materials that allow them to stand the test of time and the harshest weather conditions.
So, should you replace your old garage door with a new, updated version of the same? The answer is yes – and here are just a few of the benefits you’ll be able to enjoy!
Improved Energy Efficiency
As we all strive to design smarter, more energy-efficient homes, we are all rushing to upgrade old appliances and introduce clean energy sources. But what about your garage insulation? Your garage is often directly connected to the main area of the house and, without the right door, you might be wasting energy and money. After all, poor insulation accounts for 35-45% heat loss in UK homes!
New wooden garage doors are created to provide high levels of insulation, which can help you keep your entire home cool or warm for longer and make your garage a more livable place.
Increased All-Season Livability
Garages are a precious addition to any home. For some, they are the place to store a car, while for others they can become a storage room for valuable possessions. Other households have turned their garages into an extra bedroom, gym, home office, DIY workstation, or yoga studio!
No matter how you are using your garage, replacing your old wooden door can increase the livability of the entire room throughout the seasons.
Enhanced Aesthetics and Kerb Appeal
The right garage door picked for the specific needs of your home can elevate your home’s curb appeal, making your whole property immediately appear more looked after and loved. If you are in the process of selling your home, this simple and inexpensive investment can help you reel in greater profits.
If you are planning to live in your current home for years to come, a new garage door might just make your entire living space more welcoming and enjoyable.
Comfort, Safety, and Accessibility
According to a survey conducted by RAC, nearly 6 million households in the UK use their garages as a storage space – and they underestimate the value of the belongings contained within! A new garage door can increase the safety and accessibility to this important room of the house and protect it from theft and water damage.
Work With a Specialised Garage Door Replacement Company
Unsure whether you should replace your wooden door or what option would work best for your garage? The garage door replacement and repair experts at Kay Garage Doors have over 30 years of experience in the field. Get in touch today to find a tailored solution for your garage.
