Did you know that whatever type of garage door you have, replacing yours brings the highest return on investment of all home improvement projects? Make garage door replacement costs very much worth it.
According to Remodeling’s 2021 Cost vs. Value Report, you can expect a 93.8 percent ROI for this inexpensive task. Besides improving access to your home, replacing the garage door enhances curb appeal, which increases your home’s value. In addition, the cost to replace the door is minimal compared to other items on your list.
The average cost to replace a garage door
According to the home services website Fixr, the average cost to replace a garage door is $993. In the U.S., the door replacement ranges from $474 for a non-insulated steel door to $4,120 for a custom wood door with an automatic opener and windows. However, there are many pricing factors to look at.
Factors that influence the cost to replace a garage door
The price to replace a garage door depends on several things; the type and size of the door and your geographic location are a few. Other items that affect the price include:
Type of door–Whether a single panel, tilt-up, or roll-up, some types are more expensive than others.
Features–Garage door features like windows and trim packages add to the expense. To save money, opt for a plain door with no extras. Of course, you can always dress up a simple finish by painting a garage door yourself.
Material type–Some material choices cost more than others. For instance, according to The Home Depot , a wooden door can cost as much as five times a steel one.
Amount of garage insulation–The R-value of a door depends on the door’s thickness, its material, and the amount of insulation. If your garage is attached to your home, professionals recommend the highest R-value you can afford.
Type of opener–Obviously, a manual door costs less than one with an automatic opener, which according to The Home Depot, ranges between $128 and $390. And the installation charge for the opener runs about $97.
Labor–According to Jon Russell, Franchise Business Coach and Technical Training Manager for Precision Door Services, a Neighborly company, the labor cost to install a garage door ranges from $1,500 to $4,000, depending on your location.
Which type of garage door is most expensive?
Some doors are more expensive than others because of their construction. Here are several types of doors, their average cost, and the pros and cons of each.
- Tilt-up door–Made of a single panel, the tilt-up door doesn’t curve. Instead, it swings out and then up and over, parallel with the ceiling. Because they swing out, your driveway must be long enough to accommodate the clearance needed to open it without hitting your car. Single panel doors are the most affordable option, with prices starting at about $400, according to Fixr.
- Sectioned door–A sectioned door is made with horizontal sections that roll up and over the space. Since they don’t swing out, they’re ideal for shorter driveways. The most popular choice, they start at about $750.
- Roll-up door–The roll-up door has more horizontal sections than the sectioned door enabling it to roll up into a tube above the door opening. This type makes optimal use of space and frees up the ceiling for added storage. Unfortunately, starting at about $850, they are the most challenging option to paint.
Garage door material costs
Garage doors come in a wide range of materials. The type of material used is one factor in the door's price. Here are several door materials, their average cost, and the pros and cons of each.
Pros:
- Strong and durable
- Steel comes in a wide range of design options
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Poor insulator
- Prone to dings or dents
- Can rust
Aluminum–Slightly more expensive than steel, aluminum is a lightweight alternative for a manually operated door.
Pros:
- Lighter than steel
- It doesn’t rust or corrode
Cons:
- Prone to dings or dents
- It doesn’t last as long as steel
Vinyl–Vinyl doors run from $700 to $2,500. They’re a low-maintenance option for the homeowner who wants the look of natural wood without the upkeep.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Comes insulated
- Affordable option
Cons:
- Not recommended for extreme temperatures
- Not customizable
Wood–Wood is your most expensive option, starting at around $1,000. Homeowners choose wood doors for their beauty and versatility. Customization options are endless with wood.
Pros:
- Aesthetically appealing
- Completely customizable
- Can be painted or stained to match your home
Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Requires constant maintenance to prevent damage and deterioration
Composite–This blend of fiber and resin is the perfect choice for the homeowner who wants the look of wood without consistent maintenance. A wood composite door price ranges from $750 to $5,000.
Pros:
- Low maintenance wood alternative
- Easily insulated
- Strong and durable
- Can be painted or stained
Cons:
- More expensive than other options
- Not as customizable as wood
Fiberglass–Not as popular as other options, owners of beachfront homes choose fiberglass doors for their resistance to salt damage. And, they’re priced on par or a little more than vinyl.
Pros:
- Durable and dent resistant
- Not prone to rust or corrosion
- Require no maintenance
Cons:
- Poor insulator
- Not recommended for extreme temperatures
- Not customizable
The cost of additional garage door features and accessories
If you keep a workbench or exercise equipment in your garage, you may like a door with windows. Or, perhaps you’re partial to the aesthetics special trim kits add to your home. These extras add to the overall expense of the door. According to Russell, there are other garage door features homeowners should compare as they contribute to the overall price.
According to The Home Depot, windows can add $300 to $500 to the price. Handles cost about $100. And other accents as much as $250.
The cost of a DIY vs professional garage door install
'Replacing your door is not very DIY-friendly,' says Russell. 'And when a homeowner does attempt to, in most cases, they end up calling a professional door company to complete the project for them.' Let’s face it, garage doors are heavy and awkward and, according to Russell, at least a two-person job. You may also need special tools to wind the springs for some door types. And in some locations, a building permit will add to the project expense.
How to hire a professional
If hanging your new garage door sounds like too big a project, it’s time to find a pro who can do it right. First, ask friends and neighbors who they used to find the right contractor for you. If you need additional names, check professional websites like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Read online reviews and testimonials before narrowing it down to one or two contractors to interview.'During the interview, make sure they install the doors themselves,' suggests Russell, 'and they don’t sub-out their door installations to another contractor or individual.'
Ready to improve your home’s value and curb appeal? Use this checklist of costs and options to make the best choice for your garage door replacement. Then every time you come home, you’ll take one look and smile.
And, if you're looking for a revamp of your space overall, see our garage conversion ideas.