Repair or replace?
Many problems, such as a broken spring, a worn roller or a faulty opener, can be fixed without replacing the door. Replacement usually makes sense when the door itself is the problem. A company can inspect your door and tell you which options are realistic.
Common reasons homeowners replace a door
- Damage from a vehicle, storm or impact that has bent several panels.
- Rust, rot, cracks or warped panels.
- An older door that has become noisy, drafty or hard to keep running.
- Wanting better insulation for an attached or heated garage.
- Updating the look of the home before selling or after a remodel.
Materials and style
- Steel is the most common choice for homes. It comes in many styles, with or without insulation, and thicker steel generally resists dents better.
- Wood has a classic look but typically needs more ongoing finishing and maintenance.
- Wood-look composite or faux-wood finishes aim for the appearance of wood with less upkeep.
- Aluminum and glass doors are a common choice for modern-style homes.
- Fiberglass and vinyl are less common but resist rust; ask about them if low maintenance is a priority.
Utah's climate varies a lot, from intense sun and summer heat in places like St. George to cold, snowy winters along the Wasatch Front and in mountain towns. Ask how a door's finish holds up to sun exposure and how it performs in cold weather. If you live in an HOA, check its rules on door style and color before you order.
Insulation
If your garage is attached to the house, heated, or has a room above it, an insulated door can make a noticeable difference in comfort and noise. Insulated doors usually use either polystyrene panels or injected polyurethane foam, and manufacturers often list an R-value. Manufacturers don't all calculate R-values the same way, so ask the company to explain the numbers on the doors they're quoting.
Windows and design
- Windows let in light but affect privacy and insulation. Ask about insulated, frosted or textured glass.
- Window placement in the top section keeps more privacy than windows lower on the door.
- Panel style options include raised panel, recessed panel, flush and carriage-house designs.
- Color and decorative hardware such as handles and hinges can help the door match your home.
Opener compatibility
A new door may be heavier or lighter than your old one, especially if you're switching to an insulated door. Ask whether your existing opener suits the new door, whether it has working photo-eye safety sensors, and whether replacing the opener at the same time makes sense. If your current opener is already giving you trouble, see our opener troubleshooting checklist.
Measuring and inspection
Garage doors aren't one-size-fits-all. Before giving a final price, an installer will typically measure the width and height of the opening, the headroom above it, the side room on each side and the depth of the garage. They'll also look at the framing, the existing tracks and springs, and whether the opening needs any repair. Your own measurements are fine for a rough idea, but the installer's measurements determine what gets ordered.
Getting a written quote
Ask for a written quote that lists exactly what's included. Useful questions:
- Which door is it: manufacturer, model, insulation, color and windows?
- Are new tracks, springs and hardware included?
- Does the price include removing and disposing of the old door?
- Is a new opener included, or will the existing one be reused?
- Is new weather seal included?
- Is any trim or framing repair needed, and is it included?
- How long from order to installation?
- What deposit and payment terms apply?
- What warranties cover the door, the springs and hardware, and the installation labor, and who provides each one?
When you compare quotes, compare what's included, not just the total.
Warranties
Warranties on a new garage door come from the door's manufacturer and from the independent company that installs it. Utah Garage Door Connect does not provide or guarantee any warranty. Get the warranty terms in writing from the installer before you commit.
How we connect you with an installer
- Submit the request form and choose "New door installation," or call (385) 276-2164.
- We pass your request to an independent garage door company that installs doors in your area.
- That company contacts you to talk through what you're looking for and set up a time to measure.
- They give you a quote, and you decide whether to go ahead.
Our matching service is free. The garage door work itself is quoted, scheduled, performed and billed by the independent company you're matched with, and you're under no obligation to hire them. Learn how our referral service works.