When it comes to replacing or upgrading your Boise, ID, home’s current garage door rollers, one critical decision you must make is the rollers’ material. This component is essential for your garage door to safely and smoothly move along its track.
Some roller-related issues that local homeowners wish to avoid include a squeaking garage door and one that does not operate smoothly. Selecting the correct high-quality garage door rollers can reduce the likelihood of such problems occurring. Here is a closer look at how nylon and steel rollers differ.
Steel Garage Door Rollers
Steel garage door rollers are popular for several reasons. Steel, of course, is a highly durable metal. Due to their strength, those with hefty garage doors, such as those made of solid wood, may find steel rollers a more suitable choice.
If there is one thing that attracts homeowners to steel garage door rollers, it is their remarkable toughness. Tough steel rollers often have a relatively long lifespan, which is advantageous for those who want to use them as long as possible without the hassle of replacing them.
However, there are some key drawbacks to keep in mind regarding steel garage door rollers. Despite being long-lasting and strong enough to support a heavy-duty door’s weight, noise is a key issue that homeowners who choose steel rollers will have to deal with.
Another factor to consider is the weather. Steel does not have the same level of weather resistance as nylon. Rust can become a concern for homeowners with steel garage door rollers, especially during heavy rain or humid conditions.
Nylon Garage Door Rollers
Nylon garage door rollers have some unique characteristics when compared to steel garage door rollers. Nylon is a variety of plastic. However, it is far tougher than most forms of this material. While not quite as strong as steel rollers, homeowners can trust that the nylon garage door rollers they install will be sufficiently tough for their needs.
One of the best things about purchasing nylon garage door rollers is their low noise profile. Nylon rollers have a reputation for being incredibly quiet. For those of you who may find the early morning screeching of a heavy garage door a nuisance, this will not be an issue with nylon rollers.
Homeowners should consider weather resistance as another critical attribute of nylon garage door rollers. Even in rainy or highly humid weather conditions, you do not need to worry about your garage’s nylon door rollers rusting or corroding.
Affordability
As with any home upgrade, affordability is a factor when choosing garage door rollers. If price is your top concern, nylon rollers are likely the best choice. In most cases, they will be far cheaper than the steel ones.
Maintenance
Aside from the price, maintenance requirements differ between garage door roller types. In general, nylon rollers are easier to take care of.
Lubricant is crucial to ensure optimal functionality and minimal noise. Spend some time reviewing the rollers’ manual. This will inform you how often you must apply lubricant to your garage door rollers.
Nylon rollers typically require less frequent lubrication compared to steel rollers. This is because nylon is smoother and less prone to friction, resulting in reduced wear and tear. In addition, this type of roller is resistant to corrosion, so homeowners do not need to protect them from moisture.
On the other hand, steel rollers need to be lubricated with a silicone or lithium lubricant every six months. This schedule reduces friction and noise. Frequent application of lubricant is also necessary to prevent rust and corrosion.
Replacing Garage Door Rollers
The longevity of your garage door rollers varies depending on the material and whether you keep up with maintenance demands. Steel rollers have an expected lifetime of 10 to 15 years, while nylon ones last between three and seven years.
Do You Need New Rollers?
Although approximate expected lifetimes are helpful, your garage door rollers may reach the end of their lifespan prematurely. This is most often the result of a lack of maintenance of the rollers and other garage door components.
Observe your door’s rollers and look out for any clear indications of damage. Chips, cracks, and corrosion all indicate the need to replace them. You will also know you might need new rollers if the door opens and closes slowly or makes screeching noises.
Contact Legacy Garage Doors Today
At Legacy Garage Doors, we offer comprehensive garage door services in Boise, ID for both our residential and commercial customers. We have the expertise to help you with installations, repairs, garage door openers, and more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced team members.
