
Can You Install a New Garage Door on Existing Tracks?
Nov. 19, 2024Upgrading your garage door is a great home improvement project that can add to the curb appeal of your home.
Installing your new garage door on the old tracks might seem like an easy way to reuse existing infrastructure, keeping the repair costs down. However, you should reconsider – reusing the old tracks can have many risks for you as a homeowner. In this article, we’ll go over why a garage door replacement should replace the whole system, including the tracks. Contact the experts at Wayne Dalton Sales & Service to safely replace your garage door today.
Why You Should Replace the Garage Door Tracks
Many homeowners think they can save time and money on garage door replacements by having the installer use the old tracks with a new door. Here are some reasons why you should always install new tracks.
There May Be Compatibility Issues
The first issue you may encounter is that the tracks are the wrong size for the door. A garage door is designed as a system with the tracks. Different manufacturers have different specifications for their garage door systems. If you reuse the old tracks when installing a new garage door, they may have compatibility issues, leading to improper operation and even potential damage to the tracks and your brand-new door.
It Presents a Safety Risk
Reusing old garage door tracks with a new garage door can pose significant safety risks for you, your family, and your home. Over time, tracks can rust, corrode, or become damaged in some way, which can lead to malfunctions with the door. The tracks may even fail, leading to your door collapsing. Given how heavy doors are, you can see why that is a massive safety risk. It’s better to be safe than sorry and install new tracks with your garage door replacement.
It Reduces Your Door’s Lifespan
A garage door will give you between 15-30 years of good service, depending on the quality and maintenance. However, if you install a new door on old tracks, it can greatly shorten the lifespan of your garage door. Worn-out tracks may cause excessive wear and tear on the new door, leading to a much-reduced lifespan.
It May Void Your Warranty
Most garage door manufacturers require that you use their tracks and other components when installing one of their doors. Failing to do so can void your door’s manufacturing warranty. If you reuse your old tracks instead of installing new ones with a new garage door, you risk voiding your warranty, something that could cost you in the long run.
At Wayne Dalton Sales & Service, We Are Garage Door Replacement Experts
Wayne Dalton Sales & Service provides expert garage door replacement services across America. With 14 convenient locations across the country and the expertise to match, you can rely on us to ensure you can get the most out of your new garage door. With 70 years in the industry, we have an in-depth knowledge of garage doors and their mechanics, offering high-quality products and commitment to customer satisfaction with every garage door installation project we take on.
Contact us for a free quote at one of our many convenient locations serving Akron, Albuquerque, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Colorado Springs, Houston, Kennewick, Lewiston, Missoula, Peoria, Quad Cities, Raleigh, Spokane Valley, and Tempe.