How Long Will A New Garage Door Last?

By Tony Hall

A typical garage door can last 30 years or longer. A modern garage door opener typically lasts between 10 and 15 years.

Garage door springs are a bit different from the door or opener. Manufacturers gauge springs in typical cycle expectancy instead of years. Torsion springs, the ones mounted over the door, have a typical life of 15,000 to 20,000 cycles. Tension springs, the ones along the tracks or on either side of the door, have a typical life cycle of 5,000 to 10,000 cycles.

One cycle is equal to one episode of opening and closing the door. So, if you open and close the door two times a day, your annual cycle count would be about 730 or so. If you have four cycles a day, your annual cycle count will be just under 1500. The more you go in and out, the sooner you will need to replace the springs.

All of these expected life cycles are dependent on taking proper care of the door and its components over the years. Years of neglect or a car backed into the door can significantly shorten the life of any of these pieces.

How can you extend the life of your garage door?

Cleaning and protection come first. Steel doors can eventually develop rust if not kept clear of dirt and debris. Washing down the door with a mild soap solution and a thorough rinse will do the trick. You can also apply car wax to the steel for extra protection. Keep wooden doors clear of dust, as well. If the paint start chipping, repaint as soon as possible. If the door is stained, keep an eye out for fading and re-stain if needed.

Keep the garage door sensors in good working order. About once a month, take a clean, dry cloth and wipe the sensor eyes. Remove any debris or cobwebs. Perform a safety test a few times a year to make sure the sensors are working properly.

Lubricate the springs, rollers and hinges every three months. This will keep things moving smoothly, which keeps wear and tear to a minimum.

Inspect the door for loose or worn parts. When lubricating the door, perform a visual inspection. Make sure all cables and connections are tight. Run the door through a cycle while listening and watching the operation. Look for any signs of loose connections or wobbly tracks. At the first sign of trouble, get a professional garage door company out to take a look.

Have a professional inspection done every one to two years. A professional can spot problems that a typical homeowner would not consider an issue. It also gives you peace of mind that your garage door is performing as it should.

Where can I find a professional garage door installer in Amarillo, Texas?

If you need someone to come out to look at your garage door, contact Willow Creek Overhead Door. We are a full-service garage door company serving the Amarillo area. We can help you keep your new garage door performing at its best.

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