How To

How to Prepare to Install an Electric Garage Door

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Installing a new garage door is a project almost any homeowner can undertake. With patience and skill, installing a new garage door will only take a day to complete. Most home improvement stores offer a wide variety of new garage doors to choose from that include detailed installation instructions, but you'll follow the same steps to prepare for installation.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Clean out the entire garage area before laying out the hardware for the new garage door assembly. Sweep out area with a large push broom and remove any debris, dust or any foreign objects.

  2. Step 2

    Inspect the torsion bar springs from any older garage door assembly. A qualified professional must repair damage to any of the springs before you continue with the project.

  3. Step 3

    Remove all of the cords or hardware from any existing unit. Keep all of the existing hardware for reference or for spare parts.

  4. Step 4

    Disconnect all power from any existing unit and remove all hardware. Keep the motor from any existing unit for potential spare parts.

  5. Step 5

    Ensure that the tracks are in good working order and wheels travel freely for the entire length of the tracks. Make sure there are no obstructions in the way of the wheels of the new garage door.

  6. Step 6

    Prepare any new hardware you need to install the new garage door. Place any framing or new structural elements to hold the track, motor unit or rails. Reinforce the area where to track attaches to the front garage wall for best results.

Tips & Warnings
  • Take an inventory of all of the new garage door hardware before you continue on the project. Many kits provide extra or more parts than needed.
  • Undertake this project in good weather. The garage will be exposed to the elements for some time when hanging the door hardware. Provide good weather stripping to the bottom of the new garage door as well.
  • Never undertake this project alone. Have someone assist in the project to better help the workflow.
  • Make certain that you've shut off all power before you start the project.

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