You may have installed doors in your house, but a garage door
installation is different. It is a task for professionals. Whether
you have automatic door or manual, you need to know some basics before
proceeding. Professionals understand that garage door installation is a
dangerous task. Here are a few tips from the professionals if you wish to
undertake minor installation and repair yourself.
1. Knowledge
Are you totally familiar with the type of garage door you are installing/repairing? If not,
you should read all about the door, instruction manual and other relative
information. Inspect every detail about the garage doors. For example, torsion
springs, openers, metal frames, metal tracks, safety mechanisms, and electrical
fittings. Know your house's parking requirements and choose a garage door
accordingly. Inquire about chain type, belt type or screw type garage doors.
If you are still not able to grasp what these things are,
it is better to get rid of the tools and call a professionals. Industry people
know how to successfully install and repair the garage doors. They have dealt
with these doors hundreds of times and don't mess around with tools/equipments.
2. Safety
Deciding to install or repair a garage door can be
dangerous for an inexperienced person. Know the safety precautions before
proceeding. Some parts of the garage doors can be outright dangerous. For
example, torsion springs can be lethal and cause severe injury if wrongly
operated. Moreover, many garage door openers have electrical systems that can
cause severe shock. Do not stand on high stairs during repair. Metal tracks
should be cleaned with utmost care and protruding metal fragments can cause
injury. Also, restraint cables and extension springs can accidently open up and
cause injury during garage door repair. Such tasks require professional care
and must be addressed accordingly.
3. Tools
Garage doors can be complex and contain intricate parts.
As such, they require a fully fledged tool kit in order to be installed or
repaired. Some of the tools you may require include:
- · Carpenter's level
- · Electrical Drill plus Drill bits
- · Hacksaw
- · Claw hammer
- · Screwdrivers of various sizes
- · Small Ladder
- · Wrench and Sockets
- · Pliers
- · Standard tape measure
Besides these tools, garage door installation may require
model specific tools. These specialized tools are available with professionals.
Such a project is more suited to individuals having complete mechanical
knowledge of the garage doors industry. It is highly recommended
that you consult with professionals for garage door installation.