Should You Buy A Used Garage Door?

Do you need to change your garage door? Have you found a used garage door for sale? Are you considering buying it to save a little money? Unless you plan to install it on a backyard garage where it won’t be used often, we don’t recommend it.

However, here are a few points to consider to help you make the best decision.

• Make sure the size of the used door is the exact size of your garage door opening, for both existing and new construction projects.
• Make sure the clearance space above the door is the same. If you want to add an electric door opener, please remember that you will need two additional inches of clearance.
• It is the same thing for the depth, the room for the horizontal tracks and, if applicable, the installation of a door opener.
• If the clearance is not the same, install new, proper fitting hardware. Altering the existing hardware can be dangerous.

If you decide to buy a used garage door…

• We don’t recommend using a used garage door if it’s to be located on the front of the house. More important than appearance, its proper functioning is an important factor to consider.
• If it will be used for the garage attached to your cottage, choose a recently manufactured door, less than ten years old is best.
• If the door is made of wood, you can repair cracks and paint it to your liking. Unless you are a professional, it is more difficult to properly paint and repair a metal door.
• Remember that you will likely need to change certain components: rusted screws and hinges, worn rollers, or damaged weather stripping.
• Depending on the wear and tear on the door, the spring system may need to be replaced. The life expectancy of a door’s spring system is about 5 to 7 years, or 10,000 operating cycles.
• Finally, remember that if you plan to add windows to your garage door, you need to change the springs. A spring system is calibrated and balanced, and can only accommodate a variation of 5% of the total weight of the door. Adjusting your current springs may be dangerous. For your safety and the proper operation of your door, new springs may be in order.

Is it really worth it?

Unless you are an excellent handyman, the answer is no. Don’t forget that a used garage door has no guarantee on the product or its components. The few dollars you save with such a purchase just doesn’t offset the many years of peace of mind a new garage door can offer. Consult a garage door specialist to see how affordable a new door can be. At Door Systems Metro Boston, we can advise you on the pros and cons of each situation, and ensure your door is safe for you and your family to use. Call us today at 508-875-3508 for more information!