Appropriately done garage
door installation can make a world of difference in the value, safety, and
carefree maintenance of a home’s garage door.
If a door is put in improperly, the moving parts can wear out more
quickly, creating the possibility of injury to people or pets, or damage to
property, as well as the need for replacement and repairs. Whether the installation is done by the
homeowner, or by professional installers, following basic guidelines and
instructions can reduce the cost and necessity of garage door repair down the
line.
Whether the homeowner is performing the garage door installation or hiring a
professional to do the installation, it is important that the manual that comes
with the door is followed correctly. The
instructions contained in the manual have been formed and tested to make sure
that the door will last as long as possible, reducing the need for costly
garage door repair down the line. If
the homeowner is installing the door him or herself, these instructions will be
vital for being sure that steps he or she might not think of are taken. Even a professional installer should follow
the manual, as some doors might have different requirements that the installer
may not be as familiar with. A
professional installer should be able to point out tips to reduce the need for
garage door repair down the line.
Also, garage door installation manuals may call for
additional supplies that are not contained in the box from the
manufacturer. Certain items, like the
metal stiffener that must be put in place if the door is to be operated by an
automatic garage door opener, are not included in some kits, as not all doors
will be used with an automatic opener.
If the door is to be fitted with a lift motor, this stiffener prevents
the mechanism from slowly bending the garage door. Over time, a door with automatic lift that
was not installed with a stiffener will bend to the point that it can jam the
system and then garage door repair will be necessary.
Other important considerations in garage door installation
would be the use of the proper screws to secure all the parts, as nails will
not hold up over time. If the door is to
be used with a lift motor, the motor should be installed in the center of the
ceiling, because if the motor is pulling from the side, it can twist the door
out of shape over time and reduce the life of the motor. Done properly, garage door installation can reduce the
frequency and cost of garage door repair over time.