What Is the Lifespan of a Typical Garage Door in Lakewood?

Garage doors in Lakewood are designed to last for many years, but their lifespan varies depending on several factors. On average, a garage door can last between 15 to 30 years. The longevity of your door is influenced by materials, maintenance, and local climate conditions.

For homeowners in Lakewood, understanding these factors is key to maximizing your garage door’s lifespan. Whether you have a steel, wood, aluminum, composite, or fiberglass garage door, proper maintenance plays a significant role in extending its life.

At Select Garage Doors, we have years of experience serving Lakewood homeowners. If you’re unsure about your garage door’s condition or need guidance on maintenance, contact us today for expert advice and recommendations.

Key Takeaways

• On average, a garage door can last between 15 to 30 years, depending on the material, usage, and climate conditions.
• Steel, aluminum, fiberglass, and composite doors tend to last longer, with proper care, compared to wood doors, which typically last 15 to 20 years.
• Frequent use, especially with non-high-cycle springs, can wear down your door faster. Regular lubrication, cleaning, and timely repairs are crucial to extending the lifespan.
• Lakewood’s humid and fluctuating temperatures can accelerate wear, so choosing rust-resistant and durable materials like fiberglass or steel is important.
• Springs, openers, cables, and rollers all contribute to the garage door’s overall longevity. Regular inspections and replacements of these components are vital to prevent costly repairs.
• Proper installation by experienced professionals ensures the longevity of your door and minimizes early wear due to poor fitting.
• Routine checks and maintenance can help spot issues early and extend the life of your garage door, ensuring it operates smoothly for years.

Garage Door Lifespan in Lakewood

The lifespan of your garage door depends on several factors, including the material of the door, usage, and local climate. In Lakewood, weather conditions such as humidity, temperature fluctuations, and precipitation play a major role in how long your door will last.

Steel Doors

Steel doors are durable and can last up to 30 years when maintained properly. However, they are susceptible to rust in Lakewood’s humid climate.

Regular cleaning, painting, and sanding help to prevent corrosion. Insulated steel doors provide better energy efficiency and are more resistant to extreme weather.

Wood Doors

Wooden garage doors offer a classic aesthetic, but they are more vulnerable to the elements. In Lakewood, wooden doors generally last 15 to 20 years due to moisture exposure, which can cause warping and rotting.

Proper sealing and staining are key to protecting them from the elements. With regular maintenance, wood doors can maintain their appearance and function for years.

Aluminum Doors

Aluminum doors are lightweight, resistant to rust, and typically last between 20 and 25 years. They can be prone to denting, but powder coating can improve their durability against weather conditions.

These doors require little maintenance and are a great low-maintenance option for homeowners.

Composite Doors

Made from a combination of wood and steel, composite doors offer durability and low maintenance. These doors last between 20 and 30 years and are resistant to both rusting and warping, which makes them ideal for Lakewood’s weather. Composite doors provide a good balance of strength, longevity, and cost-effectiveness.

Fiberglass Doors

Fiberglass doors are lightweight and offer excellent insulation. They can last between 20 and 30 years with minimal care. Fiberglass is resistant to dents, rust, and warping, making it a great option for homeowners in Lakewood who want a door that can withstand harsh weather conditions.

Key Factors Affecting Garage Door Lifespan in Lakewood

Several factors can impact how long your Lakewood garage door lasts. By understanding these factors, you can take steps to extend your door’s lifespan. Key elements include daily use, material quality, installation quality, and local climate.

1. Daily Use

The more often you use your garage door, the more wear and tear it will experience. Each time the door opens or closes, it places pressure on the springs, rollers, and cables.

If your garage door is used frequently, opting for high-cycle springs can help reduce wear on the components. Minimizing unnecessary door cycles will extend the lifespan of your door.

2. Material Quality

The material of your garage door significantly affects its longevity. Steel and fiberglass doors can last more than 20 years with proper care, while wooden doors typically last 15 to 20 years due to the risk of warping.

Insulated doors offer additional energy efficiency and strength, making them a wise investment. Choosing high-quality materials helps reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

3. Installation Quality

Proper installation is important for the long-term performance of your garage door. Poor installation can put unnecessary strain on the door’s components, leading to premature wear and malfunction.

To maximize the performance and lifespan of your garage door, hire an experienced team of professionals to install it and its components.

4. Climate

Lakewood’s climate can be tough on garage doors. Humidity, moisture, and extreme temperatures can lead to rust, warping, and other damage.

Selecting materials that resist these elements, such as rust-resistant steel or fiberglass, is important. Regular lubrication and inspection will help reduce the impact of weather and temperature changes.

Key Garage Door Components That Impact Longevity

While the garage door itself plays a major role, several internal components also affect its lifespan. Timely maintenance and replacement of these parts can prevent costly repairs and help your door last longer. Key components include springs, openers, cables, and rollers.

• Springs: Torsion springs typically last between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles, depending on the frequency of use. If your garage door is used often, high-cycle springs can extend the lifespan of this critical part. Replace springs before they fail to avoid additional damage to the door.
• Opener: The opener is another key component that typically lasts 10 to 15 years. Regular lubrication and alignment will keep it working properly. If your opener is outdated, upgrading to a smart opener can enhance functionality and performance.
• Cables: Garage door cables are under constant tension, which can cause them to wear and snap over time. Regular inspections are vital to prevent accidents. Damaged cables should be replaced immediately to avoid further damage and ensure safe operation.
• Rollers: Rollers last approximately 5 to 7 years, and regular lubrication helps minimize friction. Nylon rollers are quieter and more durable than metal rollers, making them a better choice for most homeowners.

Extending Your Garage Door’s Lifespan

Routine maintenance, including lubrication, cleaning, and inspections, helps extend the life of your garage door. Regular upkeep keeps the door operating smoothly and prevents unnecessary wear on critical components. By staying proactive, your garage door can remain in great condition for many years.

For a detailed assessment of your garage door’s condition or to explore the best maintenance options, Select Garage Doors is ready to assist. Our expert team can evaluate your door’s needs and offer advice on how to keep it in peak condition.

Call us today to schedule a service or get personalized recommendations.