Installing a garage door and removing the old door is not a project for the beginning do-it-yourselfer. The doors are heavy and handling the torsion springs can be dangerous. Garage doors can vary greatly in difficulty of installation. It would be best to go to store that caters to do-it-yourselfers to pick out a door.
If you are an experienced home handy-person, then you should give this project a try. Although, you should do your thorough research before starting your project. Garage door manufacturers have responded to the DIY market by making lighter doors with lighter torsion springs. Inquire at your home builders store of the more DIY-friendly garage door kits.
Tip 1 - Clearing out the Garage
Make sure you have a clear safe working space in the garage and the top of the driveway before you begin. Remove the cars. Make sure that every thing is secure on the walls of the garage. Make sure there isn't anything on the garage floor for you to trip over or get broken by falling pieces.
Tip 2 - Removing the Old Door
Especially if the old garage door has a standard torsion spring, you should not try to remove the old door yourself. The spring can be like a weapon and cause serious injury to someone who does not know what they are doing. For this part, it is best to hire the help of a professional. A handyman with experience removing old garage doors would be the most affordable option.
Tip 3 - Inspecting and Preparing the Garage Door Frame
Once the old door is removed, you can then check for any roting in the frame and replace wood accordingly. Now you are ready to install the new door. It is important that the new door be installed in a solid and square frame. So take your time to check the door frame properly, using squares and levels. You may have to redo garage door frame.
Tip 4 - Studying the Layout of the Door Pieces
Make sure you totally understand the instruction diagram before starting. Lay out all the pieces in a simulation of how they will be configured when full assembled.
Tip 5 - Hardware and Fastening
The garage door is a very important part of your house. It secures your home and your car, and children spend a lot of time playing near garage doors. Only buy hardware approved by the manufacturer. Use all new hardware. Every fastener should be tight, but be careful not to strip anything. A fully assembled door can weigh over 400 pounds. You don't want it falling your car or any person.
Tip 6 - Preparing for Assembly
Make sure you follow the instruction manual very carefully while assembling the various parts.
Tip 7 - Leveling the First Section
The garage door is the largest mechanical device in your house, so take your time with this project. It is very important that the first section you install be level, or the sections will get even more out of level as you stack them up.
Tip 8 - Setting the Weatherstripping
Once the bottom section is installed, the weatherstripping can be set in place with nails.
Tip 9 - Spring Adjustment
The spring is the heart of the door operation and security. Be especially mindful when reading the instructions for adjusting the door springs. The door should be perfectly balanced when halfway open, if the spring is properly adjusted. It should not want to close or open in the half-way position.
Tip 10 - Final Assembly and Inspection
Check all the sub-assemblies against the diagrams in the book. Make sure everything is snug and there are no extra parts sitting on the floor or driveway. The door should have a smooth glide. Check everything for level and straightness.
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