Upgrading your Exeter garage door improves safety, curb appeal, and energy efficiency—but not all tasks are DIY-friendly. Learn what you can safely check yourself and when to call a licensed pro for brick-masonry or older-home repairs.
Start with a simple safety and function check you can do yourself
Before buying a new door, walk through these quick, safe checks. First, test the balance: disconnect the opener and lift the door halfway. If it stays put, your springs and cables are in good shape. Next, inspect the weatherstripping along the sides and bottom for cracks or gaps—Exeter’s damp winters can rot these fast. Finally, listen for unusual noises when opening or closing; a grinding sound often means worn rollers or hinges. These checks take 10 minutes and can save you from buying a door you don’t need. If you spot rust on hinges or a door that sags unevenly, stop and call a pro—these are signs of deeper issues. Learn more about our full list of services.
Measure twice, order once: the Exeter homeowner’s guide to accurate measurements
Grab a tape measure and a notepad. Measure the width and height of your existing door opening in three places: top, middle, and bottom. For older Exeter homes with uneven brickwork, note any bulges or misalignment—these affect the new door’s fit. Measure the headroom (space above the door) and the backroom (depth behind the door) to ensure your opener and tracks will work. If your door is part of a brick facade, measure the distance from the opening to the brick edge to avoid ordering a door that won’t align. Double-check your numbers against the manufacturer’s specs. When in doubt, bring your measurements to Lawrence & Albert Garage Door's Repairs LLC—we’ll verify them for free.
Warning signs your Exeter garage door needs professional attention, not a DIY fix
Some problems scream for a pro. If your door is crooked, sags when closed, or has visible gaps wider than a credit card, the frame or tracks may be compromised—especially common in older Exeter homes with shifting foundations. Loud bangs or sudden slams often mean broken springs or cables, which can snap and cause serious injury. If your opener cycles on and off repeatedly or the door reverses unexpectedly, the safety sensors or logic board may be faulty. Never attempt to adjust or replace springs, cables, or openers yourself—these components store immense tension and can cause catastrophic injury. Also, if your door is part of a brick or masonry facade, improper handling can crack the brickwork or damage the liner. Explore request a free estimate / contact us.
What you should NEVER DIY when upgrading your garage door in Exeter
Leave spring replacement, cable adjustments, and opener installation to licensed technicians. Springs under tension can launch projectiles at lethal speeds; a misaligned cable can slice through skin or bone. Opener wiring involves high voltage and must comply with local codes—mistakes can void warranties and create fire hazards. Brick-masonry garage doors often require specialized tools and mortar mixes to match historic Exeter styles; amateur repairs can cause water damage or structural failure. Even weatherstripping installation in older homes may require removing trim or adjusting brick ledges—tasks best left to pros who understand Exeter’s building quirks.
When to call Lawrence & Albert Garage Door's Repairs LLC for your Exeter upgrade
If your door is original to an older Exeter home, part of a brick facade, or shows signs of sagging, rust, or misalignment, it’s time to call us. We’ll inspect your door, tracks, springs, and opener for hidden damage that DIYers often miss. Our team specializes in brick-masonry garage doors and liners, ensuring your upgrade preserves your home’s character while meeting modern safety standards. We also handle permits and code compliance—critical in Exeter’s historic districts. Schedule a free estimate today and ask about our winter-ready insulation upgrades for Exeter’s damp climate. Contact us to book your visit.
Quick Exeter climate prep: protect your new garage door from damp and cold
Exeter’s winters bring salt, rain, and freeze-thaw cycles that corrode metal and rot wood. Before installing your new door, apply a fresh coat of exterior-grade paint or sealant to protect against moisture. Install a vinyl or rubber bottom seal to block drafts and water—especially important if your door sits below grade. Consider adding a thermal liner if your garage is attached to your home; this reduces heat loss and prevents ice dams. For brick facades, ensure the new door’s frame includes a moisture barrier to prevent water from seeping behind the bricks. These small steps extend your door’s life and improve energy efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I upgrade my garage door if my Exeter home has original brickwork around the opening?
Yes—if the brickwork is intact and properly supported. A pro can match the new door’s frame to the brick ledge, preserving your home’s historic look. If the bricks are cracked or shifting, repair those first to avoid misalignment. Call us for a brick-masonry specialist to assess the fit before ordering.
Is it worth replacing my old garage door opener when upgrading the door in Exeter?
Almost always. Newer openers are quieter, more efficient, and include safety features like auto-reverse and battery backup—critical for Exeter’s power outages. If your opener is over 10 years old or struggles with heavy doors, upgrading both door and opener ensures smooth, safe operation year-round.
Do I really need a professional to install a new garage door liner in my Exeter home?
Absolutely. A liner seals gaps between the door and frame, blocking drafts and pests. In older Exeter homes, improper liner installation can trap moisture against brickwork, causing rot or mold. Pros ensure the liner fits snugly without interfering with tracks or sensors—saving you costly repairs down the road.