Residential garage door panels are typically made of wood, metal or vinyl. It is possible to fix a
split in a wooden garage door using wood filler and/or replacing the piece of wood.
On metal and vinyl there are ways to repair a split/dent, but the split/dent will still be present. The ability
to repair a split/dent in metal or vinyl depends on the severity of the split/dent.
If the dent/split is not to severe you can install a strut that runs the length of the garage door
panel/section. Struts are metal braces that attach to the garage door section/panel with
tapping screws to hold it in place. The struts give the door section/panel added strength and
support. Struts can be added to one or more split/dent sections.
Remember when adding struts to your garage door, it is adding weight to the overall weight
of the door. This added weight could mean replacing the spring(s) as the existing springs may
not be strong enough with the added weight.
If the dent/split is on the top of the center section/panel, where the operator “J” bar attaches,
you can add an operator reinforcement bracket (ORB). The operator reinforcement bracket
attaches to the center of the top section/panel with self tapping screws. The operator
reinforcement bracket provides added strength at the location where the “J” bar attaches to
the door section/panel. This is a point of wear because the “J” bar pulls the door up as the
opener opens the garage door and pushes the door down as it closes.
If the split/bent section is severely damaged, it may be necessary to replace the section/panel.
For replacement you will need to locate the manufacturer and model number of your garage
door. This information will be printed on a sticker inside the door or on the end of the
sections/panels.
Many times these stickers are not present or on older garage doors the
sections/panels are no longer available. In this case, replacing the garage door is the only
option. Garage door sections/panels are not universal as each manufacturer has their own
design, and the sections/panels will not connect together properly when opening and closing.
In many cases the best choice is to replace the entire door as opposed to repairing the old one.
The cost of the parts and labor to repair a damage section/panel and replace the spring(s) if
necessary, is often close to the same price as an entirely new garage door, not including the
opener.
Sample cost
2 Struts $79.00 each $158.00
2 replacement springs $109.00 each $218.00
Labor to install $125.00
Total repair bill $501.00 plus tax
Cost to replace standard 16X7 25 gauge garage door without windows $749.00 plus tax. This
replacement includes the door, tracks, rollers , hinges, spring(s), spring bar/torsion tube,
drums and cables.
Prices may vary in your area, but this is a general idea of cost for repair and replacement
options.
