Your garage door is an important part of your home’s security. Our team specializes in repairing garage doors. The task of replacing your garage door panels can be a complicated process. LiftWise has over twenty years of experience and expertise. Our company provides every kind of garage door panel repair and replacement services. Our trained technicians are available round the clock to assist you. Our team completes every job according to the highest quality standards.
Types of Garage Door Panels
There are a variety of panel options available in garage doors. Each type of panel caters to different needs. Choosing the right panel can enhance the functionality of your garage. When choosing a panel, it is important to pay attention to many important things.
- Single-Panel Doors: One-panelled doors are known for traditional and classic designs. Such doors are made of a large panel that opens wide. One-panelled doors are easy to care for and repair. These doors prove to be the perfect choice for small garages.
- Sectional Panels: Sectional panels are most commonly used in modern garage doors. Such panels are divided into several small parts that open upwards. Sectional panels help in saving space. These panels last for a long time and require less maintenance.
- Roll-Up Panels: Roll-up panelled doors are more commonly seen in commercial buildings. Such panels are turned round and round towards the ceiling. Roll-up panels prove to be very effective in saving space. These panels are made of sturdy metal which provides protection.
- Carriage Style Panels: Carriage style panels are traditional and attractive-looking options. Such panels look like a classic barn door. Carriage style panels enhance the aesthetics of your home. These panels are available in various designs and materials.
Benefits of Replacing Garage Door Panels
Replacing garage door panels offers several advantages. Replacing the old panel with the new one increases the safety of the home. New panels help in saving energy. Changing panels on time can avoid major problems.
- Enhanced Curb Appeal: New garage door panels give your home a new and attractive look. Replacing old and damaged panels with new panels enhances the beauty of the house. Panels with modern designs help increase the value of your home. The new panel makes the first impression of your home better.
- Improved Functionality: The new panels help in better operation of the garage door. Newer panels work more smoothly than old panels. There is less noise in opening and closing the door with the new panel. Improved functionality facilitates daily use.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern garage door panels provide better insulation. Good quality panels help to keep the heat and cold out. Better insulation saves on electricity bills. Energy efficient panels are an environmentally friendly option.
- Increased Safety: Panels made according to the new safety standards are more secure. Modern panels have safety features such as crush protection. Panels made of sturdy materials help prevent theft. New panels ensure better protection of your family and property.
Common Causes of Garage Door Panel Damage
Garage door panels can be damaged for a number of reasons. The effect of weather can weaken the panel. Accidents may cause cracks or wear and tear in the panel. Lack of regular maintenance can also cause the panels to deteriorate.
- Weather Exposure: Constant exposure to sunlight and rain reduces the strength of the panel. The heat and cold cause the panel to expand and contract. Moisture can cause the metal panel to rust. The color of the panel may fade due to the influence of the weather.
- Accidental Impact: Collision with vehicles can cause serious damage to the panel. A ball hit by children while playing can cause cracks in the panel. The panel may hurt when placing heavy items. Even small accidents can damage the panel.
- Aging Material: The strength of each material decreases over time. Old panels can develop cracks and wrinkles. Weak panels can easily break or twist. The functionality of the old panel is lower than that of the new one.
- Improper Maintenance: Lack of regular checks and maintenance leads to the panels deteriorating quickly. Not lubricating at the right time can cause tightness in the panel. Accumulation of dirt can reduce the lifespan of the panel. Incorrectly cleaning can also damage the panel.
Steps to Replace a Garage Door Panel
The process of replacing the garage door panel should be done very carefully. It is important to use the right tools and materials. Only trained technicians can do this work. Checking the panel is necessary after replacement.
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Assess Damage
First of all, the damage to the panel is properly assessed. The depth of cracks and wear and tear in the panel is measured. Depending on the damage, the decision to repair or replace is made. Accurate evaluation helps in choosing the right solution.
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Gather Tools
All the necessary tools for changing the panels are collected. The use of safety equipment is mandatory. New panels of the correct measurement are selected. All tools, big and small, are kept ready in advance.
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Replace Panel
The old panel is carefully removed. The new panel is fitted in the exact place. All nuts and bolts are fastened tightly. Special care is taken of safety during replacement.
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Test Operation
After installing the new panel, its functionality is checked. The door is seen to be opened and closed several times. All parts are confirmed to be connected correctly. Any malfunction is corrected immediately.
Costs of Garage Door Panel Replacement
The price of a garage door panel depends on a number of factors. The material and quality of the panel affect the price. The expense also depends on how complicated the replacement job is. The need for additional repairs can increase the price.
- Material Type: Panels made of different materials have different prices. Steel and aluminum panels are available at a moderate price. Wood panels are a bit expensive but look attractive. Fiberglass panels are durable and require less maintenance.
- Labor Costs: The services of a trained technician are to be appropriately charged. Complex replacement work takes more time and effort. Additional fees may be charged for emergency services.
- Panel Size: Larger panels naturally cost more. Standard size panels are readily available. It costs extra to get specially shaped panels made. The size of the panel also affects the complexity of installation.
- Additional Repairs: Sometimes repairs to other parts along with the panel are also necessary. Repairing springs or rollers can add to the additional expense. If there is a problem with the electric motor, there is a separate cost of repairing it. The cost of upgrading security equipment can also be added.
Maintenance Tips Post Garage Door Panel Replacement
Regular care of the new panel is very important. With the right maintenance, the panels last longer. Regular check-ups don’t make small problems bigger. Special care is needed to protect against the weather.
- Regular Cleaning: It is very important to keep the panel clean regularly. Dust and soil should be wiped with a soft cloth. Water and mild soap are safe to use. The use of harsh chemicals can damage the panel.
- Lubrication Needs: It is important to lubricate all moving parts regularly. Springs and rollers should be oiled every three months. Silicone-based lubricants are best used. With the right lubrication, the panels move smoothly.
- Inspection Schedule: A detailed examination of the panel should be done every month. Check for loosening of nut-bolts. Note any cracks or wear and tear. Timely checking can prevent major malfunctions.
- Weatherproofing: Weatherstripping should be used to protect against the weather. Check the seal and gasket regularly. Take special care during the rainy season. Protects from the weather extends the lifespan of the panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, only the faulty panel can be replaced. It depends on the availability of the panel and the amount of damage. Sometimes multiple panels may need to be replaced at once.
Yes, most major manufacturers have older model panels available. Special orders can also be placed to match the color and design. The option to get custom panels is also available.
Avoid hitting the door, make regular checks, and keep the sensor correct. Keep the panel surface clean and have any cracks repaired immediately. Use a sealant to protect against the weather.
No, a trained technician can change the panel in 2-4 hours. Complex designs or custom panels can take longer. With the right tools and experience, the job gets done quickly.