What Are the Signs of Damage or Splitting in Garage Door Panels?
The most common signs of damage in garage door panels include visible cracks, sagging when the door is open, and a "popping" sound during operation. In Florida’s heat, steel and wood panels can experience "splitting," where the layers of the door begin to separate or crack due to intense UV exposure. Door Master Clinic recommends inspecting your panels monthly; if you notice the door looks crooked or the sections don't meet tightly when closed, your panels may be structurally compromised and require professional repair or replacement to keep your home secure.
4 Warning Signs Your Panels are Failing
You don't always need a new door, but you shouldn't ignore these four warning signs that your panels are in trouble:
- Stress Cracks and Splitting: Look closely at the "stiles" (the vertical supports) and the center of the panels. Small hairline cracks can quickly grow into deep splits that weaken the entire door.
- Panel Sagging: When your door is in the open (horizontal) position, look up. If the center of the panels is bowing or sagging toward the floor, the internal reinforcement is failing.
- Light Leaks: On a sunny day, stand inside your dark garage. If you see light peeking through the joints between panels or through the center of a section, the material has likely split or warped.
- Separating Layers (Delamination): On many modern doors, the exterior skin can begin to peel away from the internal insulation. This creates "bubbles" on the outside of your door and ruins your home’s curb appeal.
Why Florida Weather is Tough on Garage Door Panels
At Door Master Clinic, we see specific types of damage caused by our local St. Augustine and Jacksonville climate:
- UV Degradation: The Florida sun can bake the paint and finish off your panels, causing the material underneath to become brittle and split.
- Salt Air Corrosion: For homes near the coast, salt air can eat away at the bottom panels, leading to rust that eventually causes the metal to flake and crack.
- Wind Pressure: High winds can put "stress loads" on panels. Over time, this constant pushing and pulling can cause the metal to fatigue and develop cracks around the hinges.
Can I replace just one panel, or do I need a whole new door?
In many cases, yes! If the rest of your door is in good shape and the model is still being manufactured, Door Master Clinic can replace just the damaged section. This is a great way to save money while restoring the safety and look of your garage.
What causes a garage door panel to split in the middle?
This usually happens because the door is being lifted by the opener without proper spring tension. If the springs are weak, the opener "pulls" too hard on the top panel, causing the metal to flex and eventually split.
Is a cracked panel dangerous?
Yes. A cracked or split panel loses its structural integrity. This can cause the door to bind in the tracks, fall unexpectedly, or allow a burglar to easily break through the weakened section.
How do I prevent my panels from splitting?
The best way to prevent damage is regular garage door service. Ensuring your door is balanced and your hinges are lubricated reduces the "flex" on the panels. Also, keeping the exterior of the door clean and waxed can protect the finish from the Florida sun.
Will insurance cover a damaged garage door panel?
If the damage was caused by a sudden accident (like a car bumping the door) or a storm, it is often covered by homeowners' insurance. However, splitting caused by age or lack of maintenance is typically not covered.
Restore Your Curb Appeal with Door Master Clinic
Don’t let a split or sagging panel ruin the look of your home or compromise your safety. Door Master Clinic specializes in matching and replacing garage door panels for all major brands. Whether you have minor rust or a major split, our team in St. Augustine, Jacksonville, Palm Coast, and Tampa is ready to provide a professional solution.
