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How to Replace Panels for 9x7 Garage Doors

Garage doors come in a variety of dimensions, but 9 feet by 7 feet is a common size. Garage doors are composed of multiple panels joined together; each panel is narrow enough so that the the wheels on either side of it can navigate the 90 degree curve in the door track. If a panel warps or suffers impact damage, you'll likely have to replace it rather than repair it. It is usually cheaper to replace an individual panel than it is to replace an entire door. Replacing the panels on a 9-by-7-foot garage door requires a few basic tools.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape measure
  • Screwdriver or wrench
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Instructions

    • 1

      Shut off power to the garage door while you work on it to prevent the risk of injury. This eliminates the possibility of the door moving accidentally during the repair.

    • 2

      Measure the dimensions of the individual panels on the 9-by-7-foot door that need replacement, using a tape measure. The panels themselves may differ slightly in size, depending on the door model, even though the overall door dimensions are the same. Use these measurements to get replacement panels that fit appropriately.

    • 3

      Loosen any bolts holding the panel in place on the door, using a wrench or screwdriver. Each panel is held in place by a hinge, so pull the panel off the hinge once the bolts are loose. The panel slides off the track on some models, meaning you'll possibly need to pull off lower panels to get to the ones you want off the door.

    • 4

      Slide the replacement panel into the frame and lock it into the hinges on both sides. Secure any bolts back in place and restore any panels around it that required removal.

    • 5

      Open and close the door several times to make sure it operates correctly and the panels aren't getting stuck.