Should I Repair or Replace My Garage Door? (UK Guide 2025)

Deciding whether to repair or replace a garage door in the UK in 2026 comes down to age, condition, and long term value. If a repair costs more than 50-70% of the price of a new door, replacement usually makes more financial sense. But for newer doors with an isolated fault, a targeted repair can restore safe, smooth operation without the cost of a full replacement.

Repair vs replace: the core decision rule

Use this quick rule of thumb: if the repair is small and your door is under 10–15 years old, fix it. If the door is 15–20+ years old, or you are paying for repeated callouts, the total spend often overtakes the cost of a new door. This is especially true when the issue affects the door’s structure, safety, or motor reliability.

When to repair your electric roller or sectional door

• Minor cosmetic damage: Small dents, scratches, or faded finishes can often be fixed with a respray or a replacement slat or panel.
• Single component failure: Springs, rollers, sensors, or small control parts are usually cheaper to repair than replacing the full system.
• Sticky or noisy movement: Cleaning and lubrication can resolve many movement issues before they develop into bigger problems.
• Minor electrical issues: Remote sync problems or sensor alignment faults are often quick fixes.

When replacement is the smarter long-term choice

• Old age: Doors over 15–20 years old often lack modern safety features, insulation, and reliable parts support.
• Frequent breakdowns: Multiple repairs in a year usually indicate deeper wear or alignment issues.
• Severe damage: Warping, heavy rust, or sagging that affects locking or safe movement is a replacement indicator.
• Obsolete parts: If parts are no longer available, replacing the door avoids long waiting times and repeat failures.
• Energy efficiency upgrades: Newer insulated doors can reduce heat loss in attached garages.

Typical 2025 cost ranges in the UK

These are typical installed price ranges. Use the garage door builder for a fast, accurate quote.

Safety, access, and smart control

While all our doors are electric, safety features and access options are often the deciding factor. Safety edges protect people, pets, and vehicles. If your garage has no other access, an external manual override is recommended for power cuts. If you are upgrading controls, the typical automation add-on (with us it’s between £119-£150) depends on the setup.

Retrofitting and smart upgrades

If the door is structurally sound, you can retrofit smart control with a smart garage door controller. This can extend the useful life of a good door and add remote access without a full replacement.

Repair vs replace: comparison

Get accurate pricing for your door

For accurate pricing, use the garage door builder to size and price a roller door. If you plan to fit it yourself, the DIY roller garage door order form shows current options. Please note that we only provide installation services within Norfolk and Suffolk.

FAQs

How do I know if I should repair or replace my garage door?
If your door is under 10-15 years old and the fault is isolated, repair is usually best. If repairs are frequent or the cost is heading past 50-70% of a new door, replacement tends to be better long-term value.

What does a typical garage door repair cost in 2026?
Minor repairs commonly land around £100–£200. Complex repairs involving motors or multiple components can reach £800+ depending on parts and labour.

How much is a new electric roller garage door in the UK?
A new electric roller door typically starts around £1,400 installed for a single size, with wider or insulated options higher. Double doors often land between £2,600 and £4,000 depending on slat size and finish.

Is it worth replacing just the motor?
If the door frame, guides, and curtain are in good condition, replacing only the motor can be cost effective. If the door is noisy, warped, or worn, a full replacement is usually smarter.

Will a new door improve insulation and comfort?
Yes. New insulated slats or panels reduce draughts and heat loss in attached garages and cut noise during operation.

How long do roller and sectional doors typically last?
With regular servicing, many doors last 15-20 years. In coastal or exposed areas, lifespan can be shorter without maintenance.

What if parts are no longer available?
When parts are obsolete, replacement usually avoids long delays and repeated callouts. A new door also adds modern safety features and stronger security.