Installing a garage door is a significant decision that affects your home’s security, functionality, and curb appeal. Whether you’re replacing an old garage door or installing one for the first time, it’s important to follow expert recommendations for garage door installation to ensure a smooth, safe, and long-lasting result.
This guide will walk you through what to consider when it comes to your new garage door installation so you can make informed choices with confidence.
When to Install a New Garage Door
Recognizing the right time for a new garage door is key to maintaining your home’s appearance and protection. Here are some common signs that it’s time to upgrade:
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Your current door shows significant wear and tear — rust, major dents, cracks, or warped panels.
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You experience frequent malfunctions such as difficulty opening or closing, loud or uneven operation, or sticking tracks.
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The door is over 15 to 20 years old and lacks modern safety features, such as automatic reversal.
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Your current door is running up your energy bill due to inefficiency, or you just want better insulation.
You want to boost your home’s curb appeal or resale value.
If you’re unsure, consult a professional who can provide personalized recommendations for garage door installation based on the condition of your current door.
Things to Consider With a New Garage Door Installation
Prioritize Safety & Security Features
Garage doors can pose safety risks if not installed correctly. Choose a model equipped with features like photo-eye sensors, which detect objects in the door’s path and reverse automatically. Modern garage door openers with rolling code technology also add security by preventing unauthorized access.
Following expert recommendations for garage door installation ensures your new system meets today’s safety and security standards.
Professional Installation
While DIY may be tempting, garage door installation requires specialized tools and expertise. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done right, reducing risks of accidents, misalignment, or early wear. Professionals also bring experience in applying industry-tested recommendations for garage door installation to every project.
Proper Measurements and Sizing
Accurate measurements are essential for smooth operation. Professionals will measure the width, height, and depth of your opening while accounting for potential obstructions. Choosing the right fit based on these dimensions prevents costly issues down the road.
Quality Materials and Durability
The material you choose impacts both performance and maintenance:
- Steel: strong and secure
- Aluminum: lightweight and rust-resistant
- Wood: timeless appearance but higher upkeep
- Fibreglass: durable and dent-resistant
One of our best recommendations for garage door installation is to select a material that matches your lifestyle, budget, and design preferences.
Insulation and Weatherproofing
If your garage is attached to your home—or doubles as a workspace—insulation is a must. Insulated doors regulate temperature, reduce noise, and improve efficiency. Adding weatherstripping also helps block drafts, moisture, and pests.
Regular Maintenance
Installation is just the beginning. Keep your door working reliably by:
- Lubricating hinges, rollers, and tracks regularly
- Replacing worn weatherstripping
- Tightening bolts and screws
- Testing safety features
These ongoing steps complement the initial recommendations for garage door installation and ensure your garage door keeps operating for the long haul.
The Installation Process: What Happens During the Job
During a typical garage door installation, the steps are to:
- Remove the old door, hardware, and springs, then measure the opening for the new door.
- Assemble the panels, attaching hinges, rollers, bottom weather-strip, etc. Panels are then placed in order.
- Install tracks and hardware (vertical and horizontal tracks, brackets, hangers) and ensure they’re all aligned and level.
- Install the spring system—torsion or tension springs as appropriate. This step is dangerous and often best left to pros due to the high tension involved. Incorrect spring tension can lead to failure or safety hazards.
- Install the garage door opener, including the opener motor and carriage rail, and connect the arm/track to the door, safety sensors, and power source.
- Test and make adjustments to ensure the door opens and closes smoothly. Adjust spring tension, track alignment, rollers, and force settings as needed.
Common Mistakes & What to Avoid
With years of experience, we’ve seen many homeowners encounter significant difficulties when trying to install their new garage door. Here are our recommendations on how to avoid these common problems:
- Underestimating the weight of the door or panels. It’s more than you think—moving parts add up. Proper lifting and support are essential.
- Skipping or poor measurement. Even small errors in height/width, or insufficient headroom/side room, can cause misfit, binding doors, or inability to install properly.
- Ignoring safety and code requirements. Photocell sensors and auto-reverse features are mandated in many areas. Not installing them properly risks safety and may violate codes.
- Poor spring installation or mis-tensioned springs. This risk can lead to sudden failure or dangerous operation. Call in a professional for spring installation.
- Weak frame or header not addressed. If the structure around the door is compromised, even a perfectly installed door will have issues. Before installing your new garage door, ensure the surrounding structure is in good condition.
- Neglecting weatherproofing can lead to energy loss, pest issues, and moisture damage.
Expert VS DIY: When to Call the Pros
While DIY installations may look simple, they’re not as straightforward as you might imagine. Garage doors have a number of dangerous components, including springs and heavy door panels. Improper installation can cause injuries and damage to your property. Our team of professionals is certified to ensure your garage door installation is completed safely and in compliance with local safety and building codes. We’ll get it done right the first time, so you don’t have to mess around with structural, alignment, or mechanical issues and can avoid costly repairs. Save yourself the trouble and risk by calling in a professional garage door installer.
Find Professional Garage Door Installation in Your Area
With expert guidance and trusted recommendations for garage door installation, you can enjoy a garage door that’s safe, stylish, and built to last.
Our team specializes in residential and commercial garage door services, including installations, repairs, and scheduled maintenance. Whether you need a new system or reliable service, we’re here to help.
With locations in Lethbridge, Calgary, and Cranbrook, we’re ready to serve you when you need us most. Contact Overhead Door Company today to discuss your garage door needs and get expert recommendations tailored to your home or business.
