Can Garage Door Panels Be Replaced?

As Calgary’s best-rated garage door repair company, we know that garage door mishaps happen more often than you might think. One of the most frequent questions we hear is, “Can garage door panels be replaced?” The answer is yes, but it’s not always as straightforward as it seems. Depending on the brand, model, and type of your garage door, the process can range from simple to nearly impossible.

In some cases, opting for a full garage door replacement may be the more economical choice. For instance, the cost of replacing panels on some doors can run as high as half the price of a brand-new door. Additionally, certain garage door models may no longer be in production, making it difficult or impossible to find matching panels.

When Can Garage Door Panels Be Replaced?

If your garage door has a basic, standard design, you’re in luck. Many local garage door repair companies in Calgary have access to standard door panels, making replacements relatively easy. However, global supply chain issues have impacted the availability of garage door parts, which might cause delays in getting the replacement you need.

It’s also worth noting that some manufacturers only sell complete garage door sets rather than individual panels. Smaller garage door companies in Calgary may not be able to absorb the cost of purchasing an entire door to replace just one panel.

Garage Door Panel Replacement Challenges

Garage doors come in various designs, colors, insulation levels, and thicknesses, all of which must be considered for a successful panel replacement. The replacement panel must match the original door in appearance, insulation value, thickness, and thermal locking system. Without this perfect alignment, your door’s functionality and aesthetics could be compromised.

With so many manufacturers and unique door models, finding an exact match can be a challenge. For homeowners in Calgary, this can turn into a time-consuming task.

Replacing Wood Overlay Garage Door Panels

Wood overlay garage doors can elevate the curb appeal of your Calgary home. However, if a panel needs replacing, you may face unexpected hurdles. Since wood overlay doors are often handcrafted, even factory-made panels can have slight variations. This means a replacement panel might not align seamlessly with the existing design, making the repair noticeable.

Matching Colors When Replacing Garage Door Panels

If your garage door isn’t white, you might need to repaint the entire door after a panel replacement. White panels are easier to source, but matching factory-applied colors is often tricky. Even if you find a panel in the right color, factors like sun exposure can cause the original paint to fade over time, making the replacement panel stand out.

For a cohesive look, consider hiring a local Calgary garage door painter or repainting the door yourself.

Can Used Panels Be an Option?

Replacing a damaged panel with a used one is a possibility, but the same challenges regarding compatibility apply. Some smaller garage door contractors in Calgary may keep used panels on hand, or you could explore options on platforms like Kijiji or Craigslist. However, larger, more established companies typically don’t stock used panels.

Is Replacing Panels Worth It?

In some cases, the cost of replacing a panel may not make sense. If replacement panels are unavailable, a company may need to purchase a complete door to extract the section, significantly increasing the cost. This could make panel replacement as expensive as 50% of the cost of a new door.

A brand-new garage door, priced around $2,600 in Calgary, comes with all-new hardware (springs, rollers, hinges, etc.) and peace of mind thanks to warranty coverage—making it a more practical long-term investment.

Costs of Garage Door Panel Replacement in Calgary

For most Calgary homeowners, replacing a garage door panel starts at $700-$900. Factor in an additional $300-$350 for professional painting to ensure a uniform look, and the total cost can climb to $1,000 or more. Considering the price of a new garage door, many homeowners opt for a complete replacement instead.

Can Garage Door Panels Be Repaired?

At Calgary Garage Door Fix, we believe in offering practical solutions. In many cases, panels don’t need replacing; they can be repaired. If the damage is minor, our team can often restore the panel’s functionality without the expense of replacement. By evaluating photos of the damage, we provide tailored solutions to save you time and money.

If you’re unsure whether panel replacement, repair, or a complete door replacement is the best option for your situation, our experienced team at Calgary Garage Door Fix is here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and reliable service across Calgary, Chestermere, Airdrie, Cochrane, and Okotoks.