A new garage door is a large moving part with springs under high tension. The door industry association recommends that trained technicians install garage doors.
Permits in Austin
Inside Austin, the City lists replacing or installing an overhead garage door on a garage as work that doesn't need a building permit. Exempt work must still meet code. Widening the opening or changing the framing is structural work, so ask whether a permit is needed. If one is, the contractor must register with the City first.
HOA review
Many neighborhoods have rules on door style and color, so check before you order. In Texas HOAs with more than 40 lots, a denied plan can be appealed to the board, with a hearing within 30 days of your request.
Hail and new doors
On September 24, 2023, storms brought baseball-sized hail to Austin, Round Rock and Georgetown. If hail damaged your door, take photos and talk to your insurer before it's replaced.
Use the right track
The industry warns against putting a new door on the old track to save money. Section thickness, door weight, headroom and the opener all affect fit, so use the track designed for the new door.
Typical prices
| Single steel door, installed | $700-$2,000 |
| Insulated single door, installed | $700-$2,300 |
| Two-car door, installed | $1,175-$4,075 |
| Haul-away of old door | $50-$200 |
Ranges from published cost guides, not a quote.
Questions
Do I need a permit for a new garage door in Austin?
Not for replacing or installing an overhead door on a garage. Structural changes to the opening are different, so ask.
Should I replace the opener too?
If your opener has no photo-eye or edge sensor, it is likely older than the 1993 federal rule. The CPSC urges replacing openers that don't reverse.
Areas served around Austin
- Central Austin
- North Austin
- South Austin
- East Austin
- Round Rock
- Cedar Park
- Leander
- Pflugerville
- Georgetown
- Lakeway
- Buda
- Kyle