Replacement & Choosing a Garage Door
When should I replace my garage door?
A garage door should be replaced when it no longer opens or closes safely, when the panels or structure have deteriorated or when repairs are becoming frequent. A door that is sagging, cracked, badly rusted or extremely noisy often indicates that the system is reaching the end of its service life. If the door is very heavy to lift manually or if the opener strains to move it, this can also signal worn springs or hardware.
Homeowners also choose replacement over repair for financial reasons. Garage door replacement has a high return on investment. A new door improves curb appeal and can make the home look better-maintained overall.
Some issues can be repaired, especially if the door is newer or the damage is minor. Asheville Garage Door can evaluate your current setup and help you compare garage door replacement vs. repair, so you understand which choice will hold up best long-term.
What is the best garage door for my home?
The best garage door material and style depend on your home’s design, how your garage is used and how much maintenance you prefer. Clopay® offers several materials, each with a distinct set of advantages. Steel and steel-composite doors are the most common because they are low-maintenance, durable and available with or without insulation. Wood doors are chosen for their natural appearance, and modern aluminum-and-glass styles work well on contemporary homes.
The location of your garage also matters. If it’s attached or sits below a living area, insulation and quiet operation become more important. If your garage is detached, you may not need a high level of insulation, unless you use the space as a workshop or storage area for temperature-sensitive items.
Design is another consideration. You can choose from traditional raised panel, carriage house or modern flush designs. Window options, colors and decorative features allow accurate matching to the home’s exterior. During an estimate, we explain the differences clearly so you can compare appearance, performance and cost without confusion.
Insulation & Energy Performance
What are the benefits of an insulated garage door?
An insulated garage door helps reduce heat transfer between the garage and outdoors. This is especially important when the garage shares walls or ceilings with living space. Insulation keeps the garage temperature more stable and can help improve overall comfort inside the home.
Insulated doors also tend to operate more quietly. Their multilayer construction reduces vibration, which helps when rooms are located above or beside the garage. Many homeowners also prefer the interior appearance of insulated doors because the inside surface looks more finished and solid.
Even when the garage is detached, insulation adds strength to the panels and generally improves durability. For these reasons, insulated models are often recommended for long-term performance, regardless of garage location.
What is R-value and how much insulation do I need?
R-value measures resistance to heat flow. A higher R-value indicates better insulation. For attached garages or garages beneath living spaces, a mid-to-high R-value is usually recommended. Detached garages may not need a high R-value unless the space is used frequently.
We can help you compare insulation options during your consultation so you understand the performance difference between door models.
Materials & Styles
Steel garage door vs. wood garage door: which is better?
Many homeowners compare steel garage doors and wood garage doors when selecting a new model.
Steel is the most practical option for most homes. It requires very little maintenance, resists warping and is available in many designs. Steel doors can be insulated, and modern steel-and-composite models can mimic the appearance of real wood.
Wood doors offer a natural look but require more care. They must be painted or stained regularly and are more sensitive to moisture changes. Homeowners who prefer a traditional appearance sometimes choose wood, but steel or composite doors are usually the better long-term choice because of their durability and reduced maintenance.
What is a carriage house garage door?
A carriage house door is a sectional garage door designed to look like old swing-out carriage doors. It is available in steel, composite and wood-look materials and can be ordered with decorative hardware and various window styles. This design works well on many traditional and Craftsman-style homes.
Sizing & Space Requirements
Are custom sizes available?
Yes. Most residential garage doors can be ordered in a wide range of heights and widths. During your estimate, we will measure the opening, confirm available space for track and hardware and recommend the correct size to ensure proper operation.
Can you install a sectional door in a garage with little headroom?
In most situations, yes. Standard track configurations call for more clearance above the door opening — however, there are lower-headroom track systems. Depending on the height and angle of the ceiling, higher-lift or follow-the-roofline track systems could be used. We will assess your garage and determine the best option based on the space you have.
Do windows have to be placed at the top of the door?
Most customers prefer the upper-section windows for privacy, although the placement of windows depends on the door model. If you would like to let natural light into your garage without compromising your security or privacy, we can offer you privacy glass options.
Safety & Security
Do I need a manual lock if I already have an automatic opener?
Most current door operators keep the door secured against unauthorized entry when fully closed, so a manual lock is rarely necessary. Manual locks should be used with caution since forcing the door to open when manually locked could potentially damage the door’s springs. Should you want additional security beyond what an electric operator provides, we can advise you in determining the best course of action.
Which spring system is better?
Most residential garage door manufacturers use torsion springs. Torsion springs create a smoother motion than extension springs and offer greater stability in terms of weight distribution. Although extension springs are occasionally used today, this is generally limited to older systems. Any spring adjustments should only be performed by trained professionals since the components are under high tension.
What is a wind-rated garage door and do I need one?
Wind-rated doors are reinforced to meet specific wind load requirements. Local building regulations may require wind-rated doors in some regions. If your area or insurance company requires a specific wind rating, we can suggest a Clopay WindCode® model that meets those requirements.
How can I secure my garage door while I am away on vacation?
Some openers include a vacation mode feature that prevents the remote control from opening the door. Unplugging the opener is another option. Manual locks can be used, but they must be used carefully to avoid damaging the opener while the lock is engaged.
Installation & Hardware
Why should I hire a professional to install my garage door?
Garage door installation involves heavy equipment, electrical systems and high-tension springs. A professional installation will ensure the door is installed safely, operates properly, and satisfies the manufacturer’s warranty requirements.
Can I reuse my old track when replacing my door?
No, it is not advisable to use old tracks. The new door was engineered to work with specific track systems. Old tracks may cause problems with the door’s alignment, smoothness and warranty. When we install a new door, we will install new tracks and hardware to allow for optimal performance.
How long does installation take?
Most standard installations will take no more than a few hours. Installation for larger or more complicated door systems may take longer — however, your installer will inform you of the estimated time frame before starting the job.
Maintenance & Repairs
How can I tell if my garage door is balanced correctly?
A properly balanced door should be lifted easily by hand, remain stationary when half-opened, and neither fall nor rise quickly. If the door is heavy, lopsided or moves irregularly, it may be necessary to adjust the springs. Adjusting springs should only be done by a qualified professional due to the tension involved.
Can I replace only the damaged section of my garage door?
If the door model is still being manufactured and matching panels are available, it’s sometimes possible to replace a single damaged section. However, color variations may exist if the current door has faded with age. We can assess the condition of your door and let you know if section replacement is feasible.
Why does my garage door need service if it is still working?
Regular servicing allows us to detect worn parts and keep the system operating safely. Over time, rollers, hinges, springs and openers all undergo normal wear and tear, and early service can help prevent unexpected breakdowns. Most garage doors require annual servicing.
How should I care for my steel or composite garage door?
Cleaning the door with mild soap and water is usually sufficient. The tracks should be free of debris, and the door should be monitored for unusual movement or sounds. As mentioned earlier, any adjustments to springs or cables should be performed by a qualified technician.
How do I care for a wood or wood-look garage door?
Wood garage doors require sealing or painting on all sides prior to hanging and must be inspected periodically for signs of finish deterioration. Wood-look steel or composite doors require significantly less maintenance — they simply need periodic cleaning and inspection of the basic hardware.
Should I repair or replace my opener?
Your opener can probably be repaired if the parts are still available and the unit meets modern safety standards. Openers manufactured before 1993 lack the required safety sensors and should be replaced. Modern openers operate quietly and offer optional smart features. We can evaluate your opener and help you determine the best course of action.
Can I add a remote or keypad to my existing opener?
In many cases, yes. We can provide and program a compatible remote or wireless keypad. If your opener is too old or incompatible, replacement may be the best option.
Can I replace a one-piece door with a sectional door?
Most one-piece doors can be replaced with a modern sectional door. We will install new tracks, springs and hardware, and confirm that the frame can support the new system.
For estimates, service or further questions, contact Asheville Garage Door.
