The average American garage door opens and closes thousands of times a year. Over time, wear and tear can take its toll on your garage door's performance and safety. Here are some signs that indicate it might be time to replace your garage door:

1. Age of the Door - Most garage doors last between 15-30 years - Older doors may lack modern safety features - Energy efficiency decreases with age

2. Visible Damage - Significant dents or cracks - Warped panels - Rust or corrosion

3. Operating Issues - Frequent breakdowns - Unusual noises during operation - Slow response time - Door becomes stuck

4. Rising Energy Bills - Poor insulation - Drafts around the door - Outdated materials

5. Safety Concerns - Failed safety tests - Missing modern safety features - Unreliable auto-reverse mechanism

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to consult with a professional garage door technician. They can assess whether repairs would be sufficient or if a replacement would be more cost-effective in the long run.