The question you should be asking is – why shouldn’t you inspect your garage door before moving? But we will admit, checking out the garage door isn’t the first thing or maybe even the last thing on people’s lists before moving.

To put it at the front of your mind, we’ll tell you why you should inspect your garage door before moving.

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Does it Work or Does it Need Repairs?

How does the garage door function? If it doesn’t function, you’re in a bit of a pickle.

Open and shut the door several times, listening for sounds that are out of the ordinary, too much jerking or slow movements signal some of the most common garage door repairs. A normal door that is to be opened would require no effort at all. If the garage door is heavy and it’s tricky to shut or open it might need the repair or replacement of several parts.

It’s not a big or expensive job, just contact someone before you move in because a faulty garage door isn’t a safe garage door.

Consider the costs involved in repairing a garage door after you’ve moved in versus taking care of it before settling in. You might find that some issues—like a noisy track or a loose spring—are small fixes that don’t require much time or money. However, if left unchecked, these minor inconveniences can become major expenses. For example, a garage door opener that doesn’t work efficiently could burn out faster, requiring a complete replacement. Handling repairs before moving in can save you the stress and hassle of disruptions once you’re unpacking and setting up your new home.

Is Your New House Safe?

Ok, the statistics don’t make it sound as bad as it is – 9% of burglars use the garage door as an entry point. But considering that there are 2.5 million in the US yearly, 9% is actually a lot. And if you look at the rest of the house, the garage door is one of the biggest entry points to the home – it’s a massive target.

Before you move into your new home, test if the garage door is secure and locks as it should. If the door has become outdated or has sustained wear and tear or displacement, it’s an easy security threat.

There are also some modern security threats to consider. Some modern garage doors have code/pin technology. We’d recommend installing rolling code technology that makes it impossible to reverse a code and prevents any unauthorized access.

If your new home has an older garage door model, consider upgrading to a smart garage door opener. With smartphone integration, you can open, close, and monitor the status of your garage door remotely. This feature is perfect for those moments when you can’t remember if you shut the door on your way out. Some systems even have integration with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Home. For added security, look for options that allow you to set schedules, receive notifications when the door is left open, or automatically close the door at a designated time. Investing in these technologies can turn your garage into a more secure and convenient entry point.

Safety Features and Insulation

We know we keep going on about safety – but it’s such a big thing that people underestimate a garage door, and so is insulation.

An insulated garage door means that the adjacent rooms maintain a consistent temperature, reducing the amount of energy used for heating and cooling. If the garage shares walls with the living spaces, you definitely want to start thinking about this.

Beyond basic functionality, take a closer look at the springs, cables, and tracks. These components are critical for smooth operation. Are there any visible signs of wear and tear? Rusted springs or frayed cables are warning signs of imminent failure. The last thing you want is a snapped spring causing the door to crash down unexpectedly, risking injury or damage. A thorough inspection now could mean avoiding bigger structural issues later. Don’t forget to check the panels for any warping or dents, as these can affect the door’s balance and efficiency.

An insulated garage door can make a world of difference, especially if you live in an area with harsh winters or hot summers. A poorly insulated garage door can cause adjacent rooms to feel colder or hotter than the rest of the house, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. This, in turn, leads to higher utility bills. A well-insulated door, on the other hand, can keep the temperature in the garage more stable, which is particularly important if you use the space as a workshop or for storage. This upgrade could even increase your home’s overall energy efficiency rating.

We’d also recommend looking at features like the auto-reverse. This function is so useful as it reverses the garage door action on automatic doors if someone or something is in the way. If you’ve ever seen the video of the woman trapped inside a random garage because it was closing and she was in the way, you’ll know what we mean. Follow this link if you want to see it – it’s hilarious.

So, now you see why it’s essential to inspect the garage door before moving – don’t neglect it! Above anything else, make sure it works and do any repairs before you move in.

We hope you found this blog post on Why You Should Inspect Your Garage Door Before Moving: Homeowner Tips, useful. Be sure to check out our post on Adding Smart Technology To Your Garage Door for more great tips!


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