If your garage door isn’t working as well as it once was, you may need to replace a part or two. Replacing spare parts doesn’t need to be complicated, but finding them can sometimes be difficult. Not all companies sell parts individually and you’ll find it difficult to get the part you need sometimes.
Fortunately, you have a few options when it comes to finding those elusive parts.
Second Hand Forums Look online to see if anyone has the part you need. Facebook marketplace is one good place to start looking, but there are a number of other sites that will provide you with access to a larger net of people who have garage parts to sell.When you purchase second hand or used, you need to be sure that there are no issues with the piece. Keep in mind that while it will replace your worn out part, it may also be somewhat worn and will not last as long as a brand new option.
Pros:
Buying second-hand spare parts from forums can often be significantly cheaper than purchasing brand-new parts from retail stores or dealers. This can be especially beneficial if you’re on a tight budget.
For older garage door models that might no longer be in production, second-hand forums can be a valuable resource for finding the specific parts you need.
Some sellers on second-hand forums might be open to negotiation, allowing you to potentially get a better deal on the parts you need.
Cons:
The biggest concern when buying second-hand parts is the uncertainty regarding their condition and quality. You might end up with parts that are already worn out, damaged, or near the end of their usable life.
Unlike new parts purchased from reputable dealers or manufacturers, second-hand parts often come without warranties. If the part fails shortly after purchase, you might have to spend more money on another replacement.
Garage door systems can be complex, and certain components need to be compatible with each other. Second-hand parts might not match your existing system’s specifications, leading to installation difficulties or operational problems.
Online Retailers
Online retailers and e-commerce platforms offer a wide range of spare parts for various garage door models, making it easier to find even the most specialized components. You can compare prices, read reviews, and access a diverse selection without leaving your home.
Pros:
Vast selection of spare parts from various brands.
Ability to compare prices and read customer reviews.
Convenience of shopping from home.
Cons:
Potential challenges in verifying the quality and authenticity of parts.
Shipping times and costs can vary.
Door Supply Stores Some hardware stores and door supply stores will have what you’re looking for. It’s best to call ahead, however, since they may not carry many parts. If possible, have a part number on hand when you go to call. Often, these are larger stores that carry a wider variety of options, so you may need to travel if you’re not in a city centre. This can be a bit of an annoyance, but you will have a new part that should have a guarantee and will last for a long time.
Garage Door Shops Finally, you can go directly to the source by contacting a shop that specialises in garage doors. They will have the parts you need and usually offer a wide variety so you can be sure that you’ll find what you need. Many of these shops offer online help, so you can simply write them to see if they have your make and model and the part you need.
Pros:
Genuine parts designed for your specific garage door model.
Assurance of quality and compatibility.
Some manufacturers provide online resources for part identification and ordering.
Cons:
May be pricier compared to generic alternatives.
Might require shipping time for online orders.
From there, you can see if the piece can be shipped. In most cases, the company will even come to you to install the part, unless you really want to do it yourself. The advantage of this is that the installers will be experts in garage doors, so they can complete the job much faster than you would be able to.
Are you looking for a specific garage door piece? Contact Kay Garage Doors today to find the piece you need.
