Your garage door is an important part of your home, protecting your car, belongings, and adding to your home’s curb appeal. But how long does a garage door last? The lifespan of a garage door depends on several factors, from the materials used to how well it’s maintained. In Bakersfield, where the climate can be hot and dry, it’s essential to understand these factors to keep the lifespan of a garage door or Bakersfield garage doors in good working condition.
1. Material of the Garage Door
The material for lifespan of a garage door or Bakersfield garage doors plays a major role in how long the door will last. The most common materials used are steel, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass. Here’s how they compare:
- Steel doors are durable and can last 20 to 30 years with proper care. They’re also the most popular choice because they’re affordable and low maintenance.
- Wood doors, while aesthetically pleasing, have a shorter lifespan of 15 to 20 years. Wood is more prone to damage from moisture, which can lead to rotting or warping.
- Aluminum doors last about 20 years but are lighter and more prone to denting.
- Fiberglass doors are similar to aluminum in terms of longevity and are great for energy efficiency, lasting around 20 to 25 years.
Choosing the right material for your garage door can make a big difference in its lifespan.
2. Climate and Weather Conditions
The climate in Bakersfield can be very hot and dry, which can affect the garage durability. Extreme temperatures can cause the metal in your garage door to expand and contract, leading to warping or cracking over time. If you live in an area where the temperature fluctuates drastically, your garage door may face more wear and tear.
To protect your Bakersfield garage doors, consider installing insulated garage doors, which help protect the door from extreme temperature changes. Regular garage spring care and ensuring that seals are intact will also help protect your door from weather damage.
3. Maintenance and Care
One of the most important factors in extending the lifespan of a garage door is regular maintenance. Just like any other part of your home, your garage door needs attention. Here’s what you can do:
- Lubricate the moving parts every 6 months to prevent rust and wear.
- Check the balance of the door regularly. A door that isn’t balanced puts extra strain on the springs and opener.
- Inspect the weatherstripping to make sure it’s intact. A good seal keeps out moisture, dust, and pests, preventing damage to the door.
For a long-lasting garage solution, scheduling a professional Long Beach garage service for regular inspections can help spot issues early before they turn into costly repairs.
4. Usage Frequency
How often you use your garage door also affects how long it will last. Heavy usage can wear out parts like the springs and opener faster. On average, garage doors are opened and closed about 3 to 4 times a day, but this can be higher if you use your garage for extra storage, as a workspace, or for multiple vehicles.
By keeping an eye on how frequently the door is used, you can determine if it’s time for a check-up or replacement of key components.
5. How Garage Door Maintenance Affects Longevity
When it comes to extending the lifespan of a garage door, one of the most important factors is maintenance. Regular upkeep can help prevent early wear and tear and allow your garage door to function properly for many years. This includes simple tasks like lubricating moving parts and checking for alignment, as well as more complex checks performed by a professional. Let’s dive into how regular Southern CA garage maintenance can keep the lifespan of a garage door or Bakersfield garage doors in top shape.
1. Lubrication and Cleaning
Regular lubrication is one of the easiest and most effective ways to extend the life of your garage door. The moving parts of the door, such as the springs, rollers, and hinges, need to be lubricated to reduce friction. Over time, the buildup of dirt and dust can wear down these parts, causing the door to operate more slowly or unevenly.
You should clean and lubricate your garage door system at least every 6 months. You can use a silicone-based lubricant for the springs and rollers to prevent rust and ensure smooth movement. Keeping the tracks clean and free from debris also prevents the door from sticking or jamming, which can strain the system.
2. Inspecting and Adjusting the Door
The balance of your garage door is crucial for its longevity. An unbalanced door puts unnecessary strain on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. You can check the balance of your garage door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door. If the door is difficult to lift or doesn’t stay in place, it may need adjustment.
Additionally, regularly check for any loose hardware, including bolts and nuts. Tightening loose parts ensures the door operates smoothly and prevents wear on the springs and opener.
3. Weatherstripping and Insulation
Weatherstripping is another important part of maintaining the durability of your garage door. The rubber seals around the door prevent drafts, dust, and moisture from entering your garage. If these seals are damaged or worn out, the door’s performance may decrease, and moisture can get in, leading to rust on the metal parts.
Replacing damaged weatherstripping is simple but can help protect your Bakersfield garage doors and keep your garage insulated, reducing the need for extra heating or cooling. It’s especially important in areas like Southern CA, where the temperatures can vary.
4. Professional Inspections
While DIY maintenance is crucial, it’s also a good idea to schedule professional inspections. A Long Beach garage service professional can thoroughly inspect your garage door, test the opener, and adjust the springs as needed. They can also spot potential issues before they become serious problems.
Professional inspections can catch problems early, such as misaligned tracks, worn-out springs, or a weakened opener, which could significantly reduce the lifespan of a garage door if not addressed promptly.
7. Upgrading Your Garage Door for Better Longevity
In addition to regular maintenance, upgrading certain aspects of the lifespan of a garage door or Bakersfield garage doors can help extend their lifespan. Whether it’s adding insulation, upgrading to higher-quality materials, or investing in more durable components, these upgrades can provide long-term benefits. Let’s look at some smart upgrades that can enhance the garage durability and protect your investment.
1. Insulating Your Garage Door
In Southern CA, where the temperatures can range from hot summers to cooler winters, adding insulation to your garage door can make a huge difference. Insulated doors help maintain a consistent temperature inside your garage, which reduces the strain on the door’s springs and opener. Insulation also prevents extreme temperature fluctuations that can cause damage to the door and its components.
An insulated garage door can also improve energy efficiency, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which is especially useful if your garage is attached to your home. Insulation helps to maintain the temperature inside the garage, which reduces wear on the door’s components.
2. Upgrading to Durable Materials
Another way to improve the lifespan of a garage door is by upgrading to more durable materials. For example, steel doors are more durable than wooden doors, which can warp or rot over time, especially in areas with high humidity. Steel doors are resistant to dents, rust, and wear, and they last longer with less maintenance.
High-quality fiberglass doors are another option. They are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, and less prone to warping. While fiberglass doors might cost more upfront, they can save you money in repairs and maintenance over the long run.
3. Replacing the Springs with High-Quality Springs
The springs are one of the most important parts of your garage door system. Replacing old or worn-out springs with higher-quality ones can help your door last longer and perform better. Springs that are designed to handle heavier loads or that have a higher cycle rating (e.g., 25,000 cycles instead of 10,000) will last much longer.
If you use your garage door frequently, investing in durable garage springs is a smart decision that can save you from having to replace them every few years. A professional Long Beach garage service can help you choose the right springs for your needs and install them correctly.
4. Smart Garage Door Openers
Upgrading your opener to a smart garage door opener can also help improve your door’s lifespan. Modern openers come with built-in diagnostics, so they can notify you when the system is under strain or when maintenance is due. This allows you to catch issues early and avoid major repairs later. Additionally, these openers are often quieter and more energy-efficient than older models.
Conclusion
The lifespan of a garage door depends on several factors, from the materials and components used to regular maintenance. By investing in regular Southern CA garage maintenance, choosing durable materials, upgrading components, and making the right choices for your climate, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your garage door.
If you’re ready to extend the lifespan of your garage door and improve its performance, contact our team for professional Long Beach garage service. We specialize in garage durability and long-lasting garage solutions, ensuring that your garage door stays in top condition for years to come. Call us today for an inspection or to schedule your upgrade!
