Be Aware
Garage Door Installation
Can Be Dangerous
Garage Door Installation can be a complex, frustrating and dangerous for the
novice. It is not recommended to do-it-yourself, unless you or a friend are an experienced installer.
Installations by DIY homeowners can take several days and can be very frustrating experience.
Spring installation is a potentially dangerous experience.
Proper installation is a critical part of safe Garage Door operation.
You could read several articles to become more informed, but be for warned that improper
installation could void Garage Door warranties. Avoid the problems and hire one of many
professional Garage Door Installers. They are experienced and know how to make sure your door is
installed to manufacturer's standards.
Installation Basics
If you are determined to DIY, there are eight (8) main steps to installing a garage
door:
1/ Installing back door jambs. Everything needs to be square and flush with the door
framing. You will also need a straight eye and a good carpenters level.
2/ Hanging the door tracks. The door tracks need to be spaced correctly and then fasten them to
the back jamb with lag screws. A heavy duty drill is a must have.
3/ Fastening. Fasten brackets, install springs, cables and pulleys. Garage Door Spring
Installation can be very tricky without the proper tools. Be careful, follow the manuals,
installing springs can be very dangerous.
4/ Adjusting the Garage Door. Check to see if the door closes all the way across the opening at
the bottom. If it is not even across the bottom, adjust the cable on the front bracket and spring tension. When the
spring tension is correct and the door bottom is even across the opening, you are ready to install the door stops
and complete the Garage Door installation.
5/ Garage Door Openers. If you are installing Electric Garage Doors with Remote Garage
Door Openers, make sure your family, particularly children, are aware that garage door remote controls are not
to be played with. In case of an emergency, show your family how to disengage the garage door opener.
6/ Safety Inspection. Once the door is installed and operating, you are ready for Safety. Check
the up and down force. Stop the door by placing a box or other object in the doors path when it is going down. The
door should stop and reverse easily. Next, disconnect the garage door opener release mechanism and operate the door
by hand to see if it lifts easily with little resistance. If either of these tests fails, refer to the
manufacturers instructions.
7/ Educate Your Family. Because garage doors are heavy moving objects that often weigh several
hundred pounds, you should educate your family of potential hazards.
8/ Garage Door Opener Manual. Place it in an easy to find place. You may
need to refer to it for minor adjustments or repairs.
Don't Invalidate Your Warranty!
Carefully Follow the Manufacturer's
Garage Door Installation Instructions
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