Repair or replace a garage door: what drives the cost
If the panels are straight and the door closes tightly, one failed part is usually a repair. Damage to the panels themselves, or several things failing together, points toward a new door.
Signs that point each way
| Probably a repair | One failed spring or cable. A noisy roller. A sensor out of line. A remote that will not pair. A small dent that does not affect movement. |
|---|---|
| Ask about a new door | Cracked, rotted or delaminating panels. Buckled sections. A door that has left its track more than once. Hinges tearing out of the panel. Springs, rollers and cables all worn at once. |
| Replace the opener only | A sound door with an opener from before 1993, when reversal became a requirement, or one whose parts are no longer available. |
What moves the cost of a repair
- Which part failed, and whether parts that wear together are replaced at the same time.
- The weight and size of the door. Heavier and wider doors need stronger springs and hardware.
- The condition of the parts around the failure. Worn cables and brackets can turn a small job into a larger one.
- Whether the contractor charges separately for a visit to look at the door. Ask before anyone comes out.
What moves the cost of a new door
Material, panel style, insulation, windows and finish are the biggest choices. A wider opening, an odd size or carpentry on the frame adds to it, as does a new opener. The new door page covers sizing and materials.
How to compare two proposals
Ask each contractor to write down the scope, then check that both cover the same parts, removal and warranty terms. Ask whether the warranty includes labor and who to call if something fails.
Tennessee's consumer advice is to get several bids and check references. The hiring guide has the other checks.
Source: Tennessee Attorney General and Department of Commerce and Insurance, home improvement tips.
Ready to talk to a contractor?
Call this number and say what the door is doing. The contractor who answers is independent of this site.