Choosing the Right Type of Garage Door

Three Central Guidelines for Proper Garage Door Installation

The process of removing an old garage door and installing a new one is time-consuming and dangerous. Therefore, if you are planning on acquiring a replacement garage door, consult a professional for help during setup. Proper installation requires skill and experience. Keep in mind that if the structure is not placed correctly, the risk of malfunction will increase. Consequently, operating the door will be dangerous due to the risk of injuries in case of failure. If you are confident in handling the task, consider following these guidelines for garage door installation.

Plan for the Old Door

When preparing to remove your old door, clear the space inside and outside the garage. This precaution is crucial because the unit might not detach with ease, especially if it is damaged and old. Broken pieces might fall, so a clear space is essential. The most complex part of taking down a garage door is removing the torsion spring. This component is installed under high tension to support the heavy door. Therefore, its removal is dangerous because of the potential forceful detachment. Therefore, consider using a professional garage service person or even a handyman for the task to prevent accidents.

Check for Damage

Under ideal circumstances, you should refurbish the framing to your old door before installing your new one. This consideration is important because old homes might have damaged framing. For instance, wooden frames might have experienced rotting or pest damage. Also, it is not uncommon for the door framing to become warped due to accidental impact. Therefore, opt for frame repair or replacement before beginning. Make sure the frame matches your newly purchased garage door perfectly.

Follow the Manual

When installing a garage door, avoid making assumptions based on past experience. Garage doors might look similar, but the operational mechanisms can differ widely. If you choose the wrong setup method, you might damage components, cause accidents and even experience losses due to premature failure. Therefore, check the manual with care and follow the guidelines precisely. Begin by checking the condition of all components before beginning.

Also, acquire the recommended tools instead of improvising to prevent damage. Simulate the assembly to avoid using the wrong parts or overlooking certain steps. Additionally, remember to fasten all hardware attached to your garage door. If a component is damaged or goes missing, replace it with a spare from the original manufacturer. Finally, test and inspect the new garage door with care before commissioning it for use. If there are anomalies, consult a specialist for troubleshooting. 


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