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Garage door panel replacement may look like an easy DIY project, but is it really the best option for homeowners? In this blog, we go into detail about the factors to think about when you want to replace garage door panels yourself. Discover the risks you might face, the costs, and how it compares to professional services. Read on to figure out what is best for you.
Common Reasons for Garage Door Panel Replacement
Garage doors are not only useful parts of a house, but they also make it look better from the outside. However, garage door panels can get broken or worn down over time and need to be replaced. Understanding the common reasons for panel replacement can help homeowners spot problems early and choose the best way to fix them. The major causes of garage door panel replacement are:
Wear and Tear Over Time
Garage doors wear out over time, just like any other part of a house, and can happen after a lot of use. This wear and tear could show up as paint that is fading and with small cracks. It could also show as wooden garage doors that are bent or metal garage doors that are rusting. Some of these problems may only be bothersome to look at, but others could compromise the door’s structure and make it less useful.
Accidental Damage
Most of the time, accidents, like a car running into the door, damage the garage door panels. Such impacts can lead to dents, deep scratches, or even major structural damage. But when you find damage only to one or two panels, a panel replacement is a good choice instead of replacing the whole door.
Weather-Related Damage
Garage doors can get damaged with constant exposure to the weather. If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, hail, or strong winds, your garage door could get damaged badly. Too much water can cause wood garage door panels to rot, and metal panels can corrode or rust. Also, changes in temperature make things expand and contract, which can cause cracks or issues with alignment.
Pros of DIY Garage Door Panel Replacement
It can be scary to think about doing a job yourself, especially when it comes to the garage door. However, there are many good reasons for many homeowners to choose to do their projects.
Cost Savings
The chance to save a lot of money is one of the best reasons to think about doing your garage door panel replacement. For labor costs alone, hiring a professional to do this job can be expensive. You can save a lot of money by doing the task yourself because you will only have to pay for the materials you need. So, if you are on a tight budget, this can be a great way to save money.
Learning Experience
It can be a rewarding learning experience to perform a DIY garage door panel replacement. It gives you a chance to learn new things and get a better sense of how your garage door system works. With this new information, you will be able to do more complicated home repairs and maintenance jobs in the future.
Customization Opportunities
You have full control over the materials and style when you replace a garage door panel yourself. As a result, you can change the way your garage door looks to match the style of your home better. You will also have the chance to get a better quality material than what you have installed before.
Immediate Action
There are times when it is inconvenient to wait for a professional to be available when there is a security risk. A DIY approach lets you deal with the issue right away, on your own time, without waiting for a professional to become available.
The Cons and Risks of DIY Garage Door Panel Replacement
It can be fun and save you money if you replace a garage door panel yourself. However, it is also vital to consider the disadvantages because some things could go wrong, and injury could happen.
Safety Risks
- Risk of injury: Typically, garage door panels are large and difficult to move. Improper handling can lead to personal injury or further damage to the door or property.
- Electrical hazards: Electrical parts in your garage door system can harm someone who does not know how to use them safely.
- Dangers around spring tension: Garage doors use springs that are under a lot of tension to move. You could seriously hurt yourself if you handle these springs improperly while doing a DIY task. These springs hold enough tension to cause harm if they snap or are let go the wrong way.
Be careful while working on a DIY project involving these springs, which can be really dangerous. For your safety, you can always call a reliable garage door expert around.
Risk of Incorrect Installation
- Alignment issues: It is important to be careful when installing a garage door panel. Gaps, uneven wear, or even the door falling off its track can happen when the door is out of alignment.
- Operational problems: These panels, when poorly or incorrectly installed, may cause issues like jamming or uneven opening and closing.
- Problems with security: Thieves can easily get into your home through a garage door because of poor or wrong installation.
Potential for Future Costs
- Voiding warranty: A lot of garage doors come with warranties that might not be valid if a professional does not do repairs. DIY repairs can leave you without support if future issues arise.
- Long-term costs: Although DIY might seem cheaper at first, mistakes can cost you more in the long run. A garage door professional fixing a botched DIY job may cost more than hiring them in the first place.
Effects on Resale Value
If you plan to sell your home in the future, keep in mind that buyers might worry about key parts like garage doors. When you decide on a DIY project, you might end up needing to hire a professional to redo the work. Sadly, it could mean additional costs before you can sell your property.
When to Hire a Professional to Replace Your Garage Door Panels
It is usually a good idea to hire a professional for garage door panel replacement. Why? Licensed garage door experts have the knowledge and experience that is key to the safe and effective operation of complex garage door systems. They provide warranties on their work, covering any post-repair issues without extra costs.
Additionally, skilled professionals are able to handle the safety risks that come with heavy doors and high-tension mechanisms. They can also find and fix problems that DIY enthusiasts might not notice. On top of that, when you hire a garage door professional to do the job, they can ensure quick and accurate work. That is very helpful and saves a lot of time.
Garage Door Service Near Me
Want to improve the look of your home’s exterior with the best garage door panels? For quick garage door services, trust Titan Garage Doors NE experts to fix any damage or signs of wear on the panels. Our skilled team can help you—whether you need a garage door panel replacement, maintenance, or repair service in Omaha, Nebraska, or around the Council Bluffs area. You can count on us to help you transform the look and function of your garage with simple and affordable fixes. Call us right away to get the most stylish and perfect garage door look you have ever wanted!
