Can you install a New Garage Door on the Existing frame?

There are several reasons why you might decide on a new garage door onto your property. It could be that your existing door is looking old or tired, that you want to change the aesthetics of your property, or that you want to upgrade your current model, so that you can enjoy the new technology on offer.

Either way, if you’re ready to replace your existing garage door, the first step is to explore the costs and processes involved. One question that we get asked a lot is, ‘can you install a new garage door on the existing frame?’. The answer is, yes it is possible, but it depends on several factors, including the material of the existing frame and the condition that it is in.

To help you decide whether it would be better to use or lose your existing door frame when you replace your garage door, the garage installation experts at Zap Garage Doors, have shared their key points for you to consider.

Why do I need a garage door frame?

When reading this, your first question may be, ‘why do I actually need a garage door frame? Could I just replace the door without using a frame?’. Unfortunately, although it is an additional cost, it is essential that you have a garage door frame in place before you fit a door.

This is because garage doors require a frame to fit in place neatly and securely, and for the mechanics to operate successfully. For these reasons, it is vital that your door frame is in good condition – otherwise, you’ll significantly compromise the performance of your garage door.

The only doors that do not require frames are roller doors and sectional doors (because they operate using a vertical lifting system, where all the slats fold in on themselves).

In what scenarios would it be a good idea to keep the existing frame?

In some situations, you may be able to keep the existing frame. These would be if:

• The door frame is in excellent condition, with no signs of deterioration or compromised performance
• The door frame was installed relatively recently (within the last 10 years, minimum)
• Your existing door uses a steel frame, which is still in great condition
• Your existing door does not use a wooden frame

However, if your door frame does tick all of these boxes, be sure to check that the replacement door model that you have chosen doesn’t already come with a factory-fitted frame, as this would mean that you can’t keep the existing door frame anyway.

In what scenarios would it be better to remove the existing frame?

If any of the following apply, then we would recommend that you remove the existing garage door frame, before installing the new door:

• If your door frame is broken
• If your door frame is of a lower quality, or there are signs of wear-and-tear
• If the frame was fitted several years ago
• If the frame is made of wood – as this is particularly prone to rotting and weather damage
• If the new garage door that you have chosen already comes with a factory-fitted frame

In the majority of scenarios, we would recommend that you remove and replace the existing door frame. This is because, if issues with the frame were to crop up later down the line, this would be a pretty significant cost. To ensure that your new garage door is working exactly as it should, your best bet is to invest in a replacement door frame.

But don’t worry, replacing your garage door frame doesn’t have to be a headache. At Zap Garage Doors, our team of garage door installation specialists are on hand, to deliver an affordable and efficient service.

We will be able to offer you expert guidance, connect you to a range of top quality garage doors, and fit your chosen garage door to a flawless finish. So, if you’d like to find out more about our garage door installation services, contact our team.