Replacing garage door rollers is a task that many homeowners face at some point. Depending on the type of roller and how well you maintain them, they will last at least 5 and up to 20 years.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of rollers and how to go about replacing them. We will also discuss the importance of regular maintenance to extend the lifespan of your garage door rollers.
How Often Do Garage Door Rollers Need To Be Replaced?
Garage door rollers should be replaced when they show signs of wearing out. At a minimum, they should last 5 years but well-maintained high-quality rollers can last up to 20 years. However, if you notice that your garage door is not opening and closing as smoothly as it used to or that the door is making a lot of noise, it might be time to replace them sooner.
Types of Garage Door Rollers
There are three main types of garage door rollers: Plastic, nylon, and steel. Nylon rollers are the most expensive but they last the longest (12-20 years) and are the quietest.
Steel rollers either include ball bearings or they don’t. Ball-bearing rollers will last the longest but they are also the most expensive.
Plastic rollers are far less popular. Plastic rollers are not as long-lasting or robust as nylon or steel, and they must be replaced more often.
Lifespans of Different Garage Door Rollers
Plastic rollers have the shortest lifespan with an average of 3-5 years. Nylon rollers will last 12-20 years on average. Steel rollers also have a lifespan of 10-15 years, but some can last up to 20 years if properly maintained.
Signs That Your Garage Door Rollers Need To Be Replaced
If you notice that your garage door is not opening and closing as smoothly as it used to, this is a sign that your rollers need to be replaced.
Another sign that your rollers need to be replaced is if the door is making a lot of noise when it opens and closes. This noise is usually due to the roller bearings becoming worn out.
If you notice any cracks or chips in the roller, this is also a sign that they need to be replaced.
When Do Rollers Need to Be Replaced?
If you notice any of the above signs, it is time to replace your garage door rollers. Replacing your garage door rollers is a relatively easy task that you can do yourself.
The Importance of Replacing Defective Rollers
Your garage door is one of the most important components of your home. Not only is it a key part of your home’s curb appeal, but it also helps keep your family safe and secure. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that all the parts of your garage door are in good working order.
One of the most crucial parts of your garage door is the rollers. The rollers help the door open and close smoothly, and if they become damaged or defective, it can cause many problems. Here are just a few reasons why you should never neglect damaged or defective garage door rollers:
1. Safety Concerns: One of the biggest concerns with damaged or defective garage door rollers is safety. If the rollers are not working properly, it can cause the door to jam or jerk, which can be extremely dangerous. A sudden stop could cause the door to fall, which could seriously injure anyone who is underneath it.
2. Damage to the Door: Another reason why you should never neglect damaged or defective garage door rollers is that they can cause damage to the door itself. If the rollers are not working properly, it puts unnecessary stress on the door, which can cause it to warp or become damaged.
3. Inconvenience: Damaged or defective garage door rollers can also be very inconvenient. If the rollers are not working properly, it can make it difficult to open and close the door, which can be frustrating.
4. Damage to Your Property: Another problem with damaged or defective garage door rollers is that they can cause damage to your property. If the rollers are not working properly, it can cause the door to open or close unevenly, which can put stress on the door and frame. This can cause the door to become warped or bent; in some cases, it can even cause the door to come off its tracks.
5. Increased Wear and Tear on Door Hardware: Damaged or defective garage door rollers can also cause increased wear and tear on the other parts of your garage door. If the rollers are not working properly, it can cause the door to open and close more forcefully than it should, which can damage the springs, cables, and other parts of the door.
4. Higher Energy Bills: One last thing to keep in mind is that damaged or defective garage door rollers can also lead to higher energy bills. If the rollers are not working properly, it can cause the door to not fully close or close unevenly letting out warm or cool air from your home.
How to Choose New Garage Door Rollers
Now that you know why it’s so important to replace your damaged or defective garage door rollers, you might be wondering how to choose the right ones. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for new garage door rollers:
1. The Size of the Roller: One of the most important things to consider when shopping for new garage door rollers is the size of the roller. You need to make sure that the roller is the right size for the weight of your door and the size of your tracks. If it’s too small, it won’t be able to properly support the weight of the door, and if it’s too big, it could cause damage to the tracks.
2. The Material of the Roller: Another thing to consider when shopping for new garage door rollers is the material that the roller is made out of. The most common materials are nylon and steel. Nylon is a great option because it’s durable and low-maintenance, but it can be more expensive. Steel is a more economical choice, but it’s not as durable as nylon and will require more maintenance.
3. The Bearing Type: Another thing to consider when shopping for new garage door rollers is the bearing type. There are three types of ball bearings: no bearings (most common on plastic rollers), 5-7 bearings, and 10-12 bearings. The number of bearings will determine how smooth the roller is and how long it will last.
4. The Price: Of course, one of the most important things to consider when shopping for new garage door rollers is the price. Rollers can range in price from a few dollars to a few hundred dollars depending on the size, material, and bearing type. You need to find a roller that fits your budget and needs.
5. The Warranty: You should also consider the warranty when shopping for new garage door rollers. Most reputable companies offer a warranty on their products, so you can feel confident that you’re getting a quality product.
How to Replace Your Garage Door Rollers Without Bending the Track
Replacing your garage door rollers is a fairly easy DIY project that anyone can do with a little patience and the right know-how. You’ll need to purchase new rollers (they typically come in a pair) that are the same size and weight as your old ones. Once you have the new rollers, follow these steps:
- Close the garage door and disconnect the opener (and unplug it as well to be safe).
- Unbolt each hinge one at a time, remove the old roller and add the new one.
- Reattach each hinge after replacing the roller.
- Reconnect the opener, plug it in, and test the door.
Watch this video to see this in action.
How to Replace Your Garage Door Rollers By Bending the Track
If you have an older garage door where you can’t unbolt the hinges you’ll need to bend the track to release each roller using these steps.
- Open the garage door and disconnect the opener (if you have one).
- Pry open one side of the track near the front with pliers. You want just enough space so you can pop out each roller from the track.
- Pull out and replace the roller.
- Slowly pull down the garage door then pop out and replace each roller in turn from the gap you made in the track with the pliers.
- Repeat for the other side.
Watch this video to see it in action.
Average Cost of Materials and Labor to Replace Garage Door Rollers
If you’re planning on replacing your garage door rollers yourself, you can expect to pay an average of $13-$50 for each roller. If you’re hiring a professional to do the work for you, expect to pay an average of $200-$300 for labor.
Extending the Lifespan of your Garage Door Rollers
To extend the lifespan of your garage door rollers and avoid having to replace them prematurely, follow these tips:
- Inspect and clean your rollers regularly (about once a month) to remove any dirt or debris.
- Lubricate your rollers with WD-40 or a similar product every few months to keep them operating smoothly.
- If you have steel rollers, use a rust inhibitor every few years to prevent rusting.
Do Garage Door Rollers Need Lubrication?
Yes, garage door rollers need to be lubricated regularly to keep them operating smoothly and prevent premature wear. You can use WD-40 or a similar product for this purpose. Apply the lubricant to the roller shafts, not the rollers themselves.
How Many Rollers Does a Garage Door Have?
The number of rollers on a garage door depends on the size and weight of the door. A typical single-car garage door may have anywhere from 6 to 12 rollers. Heavy duty or double doors may have as many as 18 rollers.
What Are The Best Garage Door Rollers?
The best garage door rollers are the ones that are made of nylon. Nylon is a material that is known for its durability and strength. It is also resistant to moisture and rust, which makes it the perfect choice for garage door rollers.
Another benefit of using nylon rollers is that they are quiet. This means that you will not have to worry about waking up your neighbors in the middle of the night when you open or close your garage door. Plus, nylon rollers are easy to install, so you can do it yourself without having to hire a professional.
What Are The Best Brands for Garage Door Rollers?
If you’re looking for the best brands for garage door rollers, XiKe, Dura-Lift, and Surpass are all great choices. XiKe offers a wide range of roller types and sizes to suit any need, while Dura-Lift is known for its high quality and durability. Surpass provides both standard and premium roller options, so you can find the perfect fit for your budget and needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, garage door rollers need to be replaced every 10-15 years, on average. However, there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. Be sure to inspect and clean your rollers regularly, lubricate them with WD-40 or a similar product, and use a rust inhibitor if they are made of steel. You should also make sure to buy the best quality rollers you can afford, from a reputable brand like XiKe, Dura-Lift, or Surpass.