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With good maintenance, garage doors can last for 15 to 30 years. You might consider a replacement if yours is approaching that age and struggling to work properly. For instance, if your garage door is slow to open or close (or doesn’t open or close at all) or is loud even after lubricating the parts, you might need a new one. Similarly, if it’s sagging, uneven, or has other visual signs of wear and tear, it may be time for an upgrade.

While the benefits of garage door screens usually outweigh the downsides, there are some cons to installing one. First off, they can be quite expensive, especially if you’re having a professional install a retracting screen or a custom size screen. Second, they let fresh air and natural light in, but they also don’t provide the same privacy from people in the neighborhood that a solid door does. As you might guess, screens also won’t insulate your garage, so they’re often not usable in colder weather.

Garage doors generally last between 15 to 30 years, depending on many factors. Your location plays an essential role in your garage door’s lifespan—doors exposed to harsh elements like heavy rain or intense heat might not last as long as those installed in a milder climate. How often you use your garage door also factors into its overall lifespan. Generally, standard garage door springs can withstand 20,000 cycles, whereas tension springs typically last between 5,000 and 10,000.

If you also have a standard door leading to your garage, install a robust deadbolt lock and reinforce the frame with security plates. Then, secure any windows with shatterproof glass or film to deter break-ins. Consider a smart garage door opener for your car entrance, enabling remote monitoring and control through your smartphone. Motion-activated lighting around the garage to deter intruders is a great way to amplify these security efforts. Lastly, educate your family on security practices, such as keeping the garage entrances closed and locked.