It’s not always easy to tell when to upgrade garage door system components because they can wear out or degrade over time. If you have recently bought a brand-new garage door or are considering doing so, you might be questioning if somehow the old garage tracks can be used again. This article will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using old tracks vs. purchasing new ones. We’ll also offer you some pointers on determining when a change is necessary. Continue reading to find out more!
It may appear to be a simple solution that would save cash by reusing the old garage door tracks when repairing your outdated or broken home garage door. Many people are so eager to place the new door on their outdated track that they neglect to consider the risks and safety issues involved. Even though it is possible to reuse old tracks, it is crucial to consider the critical factors before actually seizing the chance to save some money.
Reasons why using outdated garage door tracks might be problematic
Does not fit with the new door
When you want to utilize your old garage tracks again, a few of the primary issues you may run into is that they would not suit the new door. Selecting the right tracks is critical since each kind of door and size is intended to match a particular type of track.
If you’re not sure, ask a specialist or the maker of the new door to determine whether it’s even possible to reuse your old tracks.
Old tracks are risky to use
If the new door doesn’t match the old tracks, keeping them could be more than simply inconvenient. After a time, garage door tracks experience stress and strain. They may collect everything throughout the years, from dirt to dust. If left unchecked, such build-up could result in the failure of your new garage doors and make them stop functioning.
If the opener for your garage isn’t working correctly, the door can fall off its tracks and hurt somebody or harm your property. If the garage is adjacent to your house, damaged garage door track systems could result in issues that create serious harm to both.
Older trucks make noises unlike new ones
Because the roller and tracks are interdependent, whenever one isn’t working properly, the other one starts to fail. Maintaining clean, modern, and rust-free tracks helps the rollers to move easily, reducing operational wear or sound. Instead of using the old tracks, you may prefer to think about upgrading them if you desire a quieter garage door. It’s because more recent tracks are usually created with noise-reducing components.
Old tracks will ultimately deteriorate and will require to be replaced
The old tracks will ultimately wear down, even though they are in fine shape right now. That is because the substances used to make them will degrade with time, particularly when they are exposed to the environment. You’ll have to change them whenever this occurs, which might be time-consuming and expensive. Eventually removing your new door to repair worn-out tracks, you’ll probably be spending twice as long as it did to add it.
Makes the overall appearance better
Last but not least, it’s important to note that new tracks will make the garage door appear a lot prettier. Because they are brand new, they, of course, will look better.
You would not really go out and get new footwear just to tie them up with your worn-out, unclean laces. Why would you do the same with your garage door, then? In addition to your system working more effectively, it will look much better. Old, rusted, and unclean tracks take away eyes from the gorgeous new investment you made, so get rid of them and replace them all at once.
These are a couple of reasons why you should prefer a new one over reusing the old tracks. However, if you still choose to go for the old ones, here are a few tips to help you.
Repurposing Old Garage Door Tracks: Some Tips
Fix uneven or distorted tracks
When you install a new door, the old tracks must be straightened up if they have been bent or out of alignment. You can Just use a mallet to straighten out a misaligned track.
Clean and fix rust
Prior to actually mounting the new door, you must polish and fix any rusted tracks. Carefully scrape the rust and repaint it with rust-resistant paints to complete this.
Secure all the components and screws
While mounting a new door, make absolutely sure all the nuts, as well as hardware on the tracks, are secure. It will lessen the likelihood that the door will jar when being used.
Keep the Tracks Lubricated
Lubricating the tracks beforehand and connecting a new door is also a smart option. This one will ensure that the door operates smoothly and actually decrease noise.
When should you get rid of an old track?
You must change the tracks if they are deformed, rusted, or otherwise damaged before attempting to install a new door. You’ll also have to change the tracks if they’re the wrong size and kind for the new door. Finally, if the tracks are worn out, you’ll ultimately have to consider replacing them. In order to avoid having to remove the door more than once to change them, it is preferable to do this when you add a new door rather than waiting around.
Conclusion
Reusing old garage door tracks may seem appealing, but it is not suggested. It’s not worth the threat to your garage door, security, or possessions. A new garage door track is inexpensive compared to how long you’ll use it. Cutting shortcuts while installing a new garage can damage your budget later when more significant issues occur. I hope this post helped clear up any questions you have on the subject. You can always get in touch with a specialist and seek their advice if you are still confused.