Signs It's Time
- The door is 15 years old or more and the repair would cost a quarter of a new door or more.
- Panels are rusted through, cracked or badly dented.
- The hinges are flimsy and the sections lean or flex.
- It has no wind rating and you want a door that does.
- You want it quieter, cooler or better looking.
A sound steel door with tired springs and rollers usually isn't one of these. New parts make it run like new for far less money. See spring repair.
Materials That Suit the Coast
Steel is the most common choice. It's strong, comes in many styles and is easiest to get with a wind rating. Look for good coatings close to salt water.
Composite and fiberglass look like wood, won't rot or rust, and stay light, which is easier on the springs and the opener.
Real wood is beautiful and needs regular refinishing in our humidity. It's also heavier.
Aluminum and glass give a modern look. Rated glass costs more.
Style
Raised panel doors suit most ranch and traditional homes. Carriage styles look like swing out doors but roll up, and they fit craftsman and farmhouse looks. Flush and modern doors suit newer builds.
Carriage doors are often heavier and need more spring and hardware, which adds cost.
Wind Rating and Permit
A replacement door in Florida generally needs a permit and a door with the right approval for the house. Read hurricane rated doors before you choose.
Installation Day
The installer removes the old door safely, with spring tension let off first. They check the framing, hang the new sections and track, install new springs matched to the door's weight, then balance it.
If you keep your opener, they'll reset its limits and force for the new door. Ask whether the old door is hauled away.
Low ceilings may need special track, which adds a bit to the price. Standard track wants roughly ten inches of room above the door.
Warranties
There are usually two. The maker covers defects in the door and its parts. The installer covers the work. Springs often have shorter coverage than the sections.
Ask for both in writing, and keep the receipt. Skipped maintenance or home repairs on the springs can void coverage, so a yearly check is worth it.
Insulation
An insulated door makes the panels stiffer and quieter and keeps the garage cooler in summer. See insulated doors.
For typical prices, see the new door cost guide. Ready to look? Send the form or call (850) 555-0147.