From auto accidents to extreme weather to simple rust buildup, there are many causes for a damaged or destroyed garage door. But when disaster strikes, don't delay a moment longer.

Here are 3 important reasons to repair, or replace, your garage door:

Home Security

If your garage door has been damaged or fallen into disrepair, getting it taken care of quickly is the smart thing to do. You owe it not only to yourself, but to your loved ones as well.

Think about how often you enter your home through the garage. For many of us, it's more frequently than we use our front doors. And the garage is a very tempting target for thieves and other criminals, in part because they aren't usually well lit or secured with heavy-duty locks.

Be sure that the door itself is fully intact, and that the lock functions properly. If you do need to replace the door entirely, consider steel or steel-core alternatives for maximum toughness and resistance to warping.

Energy Savings

Garages are the largest entryways into the home by far. This means that if yours lacks a proper seal due to damages, you could be losing huge amounts of heated or cooled air. The problem is even worse if your garage itself is heated. All this spells bad news for the environment, and for your wallet as well.

Although repairing or replacing your garage door does mean a small initial investment is needed, the savings on your monthly utility bills can make up for it over time. And you'll feel better knowing that your home is much more eco-friendly.

Curb Appeal

Your garage door is one of your house's most prominent features – especially if it faces out towards the street. And you certainly won't impress anyone with big dents or a crooked frame.

Of course, curb appeal isn't just about showing off to the neighbors: it's also an important way to raise your home's value. Future buyers need a strong first impression of your home, and good upkeep is a huge part of that. They're sure to appreciate the lowered utility bills as well!

According to the 2015 Cost vs. Value Report from Remodeling.hw.net, garage door replacement boasts an impressive average return-on-investment of around 88.4%. That means it'll largely pay for itself over time! In fact, this may be a great opportunity to consider a replacement door that more closely matches your home's overall aesthetic.

For more information, contact a company like Doors Unlimited.