Are you tired of your garage door’s chronic malfunctions?
You likely want it to look great, but you also want it to stay in good condition. Unfortunately, if your current garage door isn’t up to par and is falling apart, you may not be able to bring it back to its former glory.
Over time and a lot of use, the springs could break, and the wooden materials could crack and break. When this happens, you may have a tough decision to make.
But, can you install a new garage door on old tracks? Here’s what you need to know.
Benefits of Keeping the Existing Rails
Replacing a garage door without changing the rails is possible, and the benefits of keeping the existing rails depend largely on the age and condition of the existing rails as well as the type of garage door. If the existing rails are relatively new and in good condition, they can often be reused if the new door is of the same or relatively similar width.
Reusing the existing rails conserves natural resources, reduces labor costs, and saves time. In cases where the existing rails are older or not in good condition, they should be replaced with new ones.
Navigating Pre-Existing Rails
Now, when you are in the process of garage door installation, examine whether or not existing rails can be used to accommodate the door. If this compatibility does not already exist, then modifications must be made so the new door will fit properly. This involves ensuring the distance between the three vertical rails is the same.
Additionally, hinges must be re-aligned to ensure the weight of the door is distributed evenly across the three tracks. Navigating pre-existing rails to accommodate a new garage door is a time-consuming process. If done correctly, a new garage door can be installed without replacing the rails.
Common Issues that Arise When Replacing a Garage Door
When attempting a garage door replacement without changing the rails, common issues can arise. The most frequent issue is misalignment. If the existing rail alignment is not perfect, neither will the new door. The track and the new door must have perfect parallel alignment in order to function properly.
The second issue is an unlevel threshold. If the garage floor is not level, the door won’t close properly and may stick to one side of the threshold. The tension in the spring may also be off and need to be adjusted.
Installing replacement parts incorrectly, such as the cables, can cause the door to become unbalanced and destroy the door. When safety features such as the reversing mechanism are not properly engaged, the door can have a reverse operation. Finally, anything that restricts the door’s vertical or lateral movement – such as dirt buildup in railings – can cause misalignment of the door and improper functioning.
Know if Can You Install a New Garage Door on Old Tracks
Replacing a garage door without changing the rails may not always be possible, depending on the type of rails and door being used. If your rails are compatible, they can be done fairly easily.
Keep in mind that regular maintenance, such as lubrication, can prolong the life of your garage door. If you need help with the installation, be sure to seek out a professional to help you assess if can you install a new garage door on old tracks.
If you’re interested in finding out about other tips, continue reading more of our helpful guides.