Parts for garage door systems can wear out or break with age, and sometimes it’s hard to know when it’s time to replace them. If you recently bought a new garage door or are looking to, you may be wondering if you can reuse the old garage tracks.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the pros and cons of using old tracks versus buying new ones. We’ll also give you some tips on how to tell if it’s time for a replacement. So, read on to learn more!
Can I Use My Old Garage Door Tracks?
Yes, you can sometimes reuse the old tracks when you install a new garage door. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before doing so. If the tracks are rusty, bent, or damaged, they will need to be replaced before attaching the new garage door. Also, doors are tied to specific tracks and your tracks might not match your new door.
Problems when Reusing Old Garage Door Tracks
Doesn’t Match the New Door
One of the main problems you’ll encounter if you try to reuse old garage tracks is that they might not match your new door. Each type and size of the door is made to work with a specific type of track, so it’s important to get the right ones.
If you’re unsure, consult with a professional or the manufacturer of your new door to see if reusing your old tracks is even an option.
Old Tracks Are Rusty or Damaged
Another potential issue is that the old tracks might be rusty or damaged. If this is the case, they will need to be replaced before attaching the new door. This is because rust and damage can cause the door to fall off the tracks or get stuck, which can be dangerous.
To check for rust and damages, simply look at the tracks to see if they are bent, rusted, or otherwise damaged in any way. If they are, it’s best to clean and repair them before attaching the new door.
Old Tracks Might Not Be as Quiet as Newer Tracks
If you’re looking for a quieter garage door, you might want to consider replacing the tracks rather than reusing the old ones. This is because newer tracks are often made with materials that help to reduce noise.
Old Tracks Will Eventually Wear out And You’ll Need to Replace Them Anyways
Even if your old tracks are in good condition, they will eventually wear out. This is because the materials they’re made of can break down over time, especially if they’re exposed to the elements.
When this happens, you’ll need to replace them, which can be costly and time-consuming. You’ll end up doubling the time it took to add on the new door when you later have to take it off to remove and replace the worn-out tracks.
Safety Issues with Reusing Old Tracks
If you choose to reuse your old tracks, there are a few safety concerns to keep in mind. First, if the tracks are rusty or damaged, they could cause the door to fall off or get stuck, which could be dangerous.
Second, if the tracks aren’t the right size or type for your new door, the door could come off the tracks while in use. This could cause serious injury or damage to your property.
New Tracks Look Better
Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that new tracks will give your garage door a much nicer look. This is because they’re new and the new stuff looks better!
Tips when Reusing Old Garage Door Tracks
Fix Bent or Misaligned Tracks
If your tracks are bent or misaligned, they will need to be fixed before attaching the new door. To fix a bent track, simply use a hammer to straighten it out.
Clean and Repair Rust
If your tracks are rusty, you’ll need to clean and repair them before attaching the new door. To do this, simply sand down the rust and then paint over it with rust-resistant paint.
Tighten up All Bolts and Hardware
Make sure all the bolts and hardware on your tracks are tightened before attaching the new door. This will help to prevent the door from coming off the tracks while in use.
Lubricate the Tracks
It’s also a good idea to lubricate the tracks before attaching the new door. This will help to reduce noise and keep the door running smoothly.
When in Doubt Change Them Out
If you’re unsure about whether or not your old tracks will work with your new door, it’s always best to change them out. This is because it’s better to be safe than sorry regarding safety and function.
When to Replace Old Garage Door Tracks
If your tracks are bent, rusty, or damaged, you’ll need to replace them before attaching the new door.
If your tracks aren’t the right size or type for your new door, you’ll need to replace them as well.
Lastly, if your tracks are worn out, you’ll need to replace them eventually. It’s better to do it now rather than later so you don’t have to take the door off again to replace them.
Do New Garage Doors Come with New Tracks or Are They Sold Separately?
Yes, every new garage door comes with a new set of tracks. The tracks are usually made of steel or aluminum and they come in different sizes to fit different doors.
Are New Tracks Better Than Old Tracks?
New tracks are often quieter than older tracks because they’re made with materials that help to reduce noise. They also tend to be more durable and last longer than older tracks.
Conclusion
If you’re considering using your old garage door tracks, weigh the pros and cons first. In most cases, it’s best to just buy new ones. This is the safest option and will save you time and money in the long run.
However, if your old tracks are in good condition and you’re sure they’ll work with your new door, then you can reuse them. Just be sure to fix any bent or damaged tracks, clean and repair rust, and lubricate them before attaching the new door.
