Garage doors take a lot of daily wear and tear, and over time, it’s not uncommon for the panels to get dented, cracked, or bent. Whether it’s from a minor fender bender, weather damage, or everyday use, a damaged garage door panel can impact more than just your home’s appearance. It can affect security, functionality, and safety. AAA Action Garage Doors will walk you through what to do when you notice damaged or bent garage door panels and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Assess the Garage Damage
The first step is to inspect the damage to determine how severe it is. You will want to determine:
• Is it a small dent or a major bend?
• Does the damage affect the door’s ability to open and close?
• Is the damage purely cosmetic, or is the structural integrity compromised?
If it is a minor dent and the door is functioning normally, you may be able to fix it yourself. But if the damage causes the door to stick, sag, or look like it’s off-track, it’s best to get it checked by a professional.
Don’t Force the Door
If your garage door panels are bent or warped, resist the urge to force it open or closed. If you force the door to open or close you can damage the garage door opener, make the problem worse and throw the door off track. Turn off the automatic opener and operate the door manually, if possible. If you notice resistance or hear grinding noises, stop immediately and call a technician.
Replace a Single Panel
You don’t always have to replace the entire garage door. If only one or two panels are damaged, you may be able to replace just those sections. Panel replacement makes sense if the damage is limited to one or two panels, or the rest of the door is in good condition. A garage door professional can help you match the color, style, and size to make the repair nearly invisible.
When to Replace the Entire Garage Door
Sometimes replacing the whole door is more cost-effective than repairing or replacing individual panels. Consider a full replacement if:
• Multiple panels are damaged
• The door is old and already showing signs of wear
• The damage affects the door’s structure or operation
• The manufacturer no longer makes matching panels
Modern garage doors also offer benefits like better insulation, quieter operation, and increased curb appeal, which can add value to your home.
Call a Professional Garage Door Technician
If you’re unsure how bad the damage is or how to proceed, your best bet is to call a licensed garage door technician. They will:
• Inspect the entire door system
• Recommend repair vs. replacement
• Ensure the door is safe and secure
• Provide accurate cost estimates
Trying to fix major damage yourself can be dangerous, especially when dealing with heavy doors and high-tension springs.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
A damaged or bent garage door panel isn’t just an eyesore it can compromise the safety and functionality of your garage. For help replace or repair your garage door panels, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
