While your garage door functions fine, its appearance may be showing signs of wear over the years. Faded or damaged panels detract from your home’s curb appeal.
Fortunately, upgrading just the panels is an affordable way to update your garage door’s look without a full Garage Door Replacement in Virginia Beach. Panel replacement is also simpler than you might think when following a few basic guidelines.
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Measure Carefully
To ensure fit, take accurate measurements of each existing panel opening before shopping to guarantee proper sizing of new panels. Measure width by height and mark anything unique like windows. Your garage door brand also factors into compatible panel styles. Write down panel quantities so you purchase enough without leftovers.
Choose Panel Materials
Common panel materials include steel, aluminum and wood. Steel holds up well but may dent or rust over time in some climates. Faux wood-grain steel mimics a natural appearance. Aluminum doesn’t rust or dent and comes pre-finished, but it may dent with heavy impact. Wood panels give a rustic look but require periodic sealing or painting. Fiberglass has low maintenance plus it won’t corrode, dent or rot like other options.
Select Panel Designs
In addition to solid panels, consider panel window options if your original design permits replacement. Popular windows include raised, crossbuck and arched styles. Windows allow natural light entry while maintaining security and privacy. Stained or frosted glass creates attractive accents. Embossed woodgrain panels imitate carriage house details too. Browse catalogs or websites for a full assortment of styles.
Prepare the Door
Carefully remove each existing panel by sliding straight out from tracks if a horizontal panel design. For vertical sections, gently pry panel pieces apart from the stiles using a flat bar. Note how panels interlock for easier reinstallation later. Clean any dirt or debris from grooves. Lay out removed panels to reference order and reinstall properly. Have a helper ready for large panels.
Install New Panels
Place the first replacement panel into position by lining up grooves with installed tracks or stiles. Gently tap into place using a rubber mallet to avoid scratching finishes. Continue adding panels side by side, making sure seams fit snugly without gaps. Secure any window styles according to manufacturer instructions as well. Check all panels are flush and even.
Enjoy the Upgrade!
With new attractive panels in place, your garage door takes on a fresh appearance that matches or enhances your home’s curb appeal. Panel replacement is a budget-friendly upgrade over full door replacement in many cases when performed carefully. Regular seals or paint as needed will keep your panels protected for years ahead.
When it comes to garage repair, Grace is the go-to guy. He’s been tinkering with garage doors since forever, and his knowledge is second to none.