Installing a new garage door can be a daunting task for many homeowners. The process can be even more challenging if you’re not sure how to begin. Fortunately, there are several simple steps you can take to ensure that your new garage door process runs smoothly from beginning to end.
Keeping your garage door open is a hassle for everyone who has to trudge through it. When the weather is really cold and the garage is especially drafty, even the littlest of steps can feel like a battle. The good news is that once you learn how to install a garage door without really knowing how, the process is fairly simple. All you need to do is follow these few easy steps:
Determine the function of the door
Door systems come in a wide variety of functions, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, a garage door opener, on the other hand, has only one function — to open and close. In this case, the garage door’s role is more limited.
One of the most important things you can do when setting up a garage door is to determine the function of the door. Ideally, the door you choose will open into a garage that has room for your car and a few toys. If your garage is too small for that, then you might have to invest in a garage door that has a wider opening.
If your garage door is located in an attic or an upper-level closet, it’s probably too small for your needs. Garage doors that open on a ground-level mounting platform are ideal for garages with lots of space above or below the ground.
Keep in mind, though, that while many garage doors have a specific use, they can be used for many things. If you decide to install a garage door on an upper level, make sure it’s not only GRADE A+ structural integrity but also has a good story to tell.
Determine the door brand
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when it comes to installing a garage door is which brand of garage door you choose. There are many brands to choose from, and each has different benefits and disadvantages.
Some garage doors are manufactured in low volumes, which means that the doors are made of low-quality materials. Also, some garage doors are made for drive-through use, which means that the doors open and close automatically when the car is in motion.
If you’re unsure which type of garage door you have, it’s a good idea to measure the length of the garage door and the length of the car. If your garage door is shorter than the car, then you have a choice. You can either stand the garage door up on stakes or install a ground-level garage door. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and ultimately, you have to decide which one is right for your garage.
Determine the type of garage door you need
Once you’ve determined which type of garage door you need, the next step is to determine how to install that type of garage door.
Most garage doors are either independent or tandem. A tandem door has two independent doors, and a independent door doesn’t merge with the wall or garage door opener.
Independent garage doors are usually easier to install, and they have fewer steps compared to tandem doors. That’s not to say that tandem doors are bad — many homeowners choose them because they have more space above the garage floor.
But if you’re looking for more space above the garage floor, a tandem door is probably not the right fit.
Be sure you have the correct tools for the job
Having the right tools for the job can make or break your project. That’s why it’s important to know how to use them properly. Luckily, most homeowners who want to install a garage door don’t need to be an expert. In fact, most garage door installers can do the job just fine with the tools that came with their garage doors.
If you’re unsure how to use a tool, just ask. One helpful way to get your questions answered is to ask an engineer or amateur garage door installer what their questions would be and then answer those questions. That way, you’ll be better equipped to decide which tools are right for your garage door.
Be sure to measure first
One of the most important steps in installing a garage door is measuring.
Both the length and the width of the door should be measured, along with the height. This is so you know what door size to order. You’ll also want to measure the distance between the wall and the door. If your garage door is short, you may have to use a brace or an M-bracket to keep it from falling over.
If your door is long, you can simply leave it that way. That’s a good option if you want additional space above the garage floor.
Bottom line - Should you install a garage door?
In most cases, the answer to the question of “should you install a garage door?” is yes. But there are a few factors you need to take into consideration.
First, you need to decide if you want a tandem or an independent door. A tandem door has two independent doors, while an independent door doesn’t merge with the wall or garage door opener.
A tandem door also creates more space above the garage floor, so it’s likely a better option for you if you have limited storage and space above the garage floor is an issue.
If you decide to go with a tandem door, is the space above the garage enough? And, if not, is there a way to remedy that?
Second, you need to decide if you want a steel or aluminum door. Steel doors are heavier, so they are better for cold weather, but they are also more expensive. A good compromise is an aluminum door, but don’t go cheaper than the $500 price point.
Finally, once you have the door size and design selected, you need to decide if you want a track or a handle style garage door. Track doors are easier to manage, but they are more expensive, and they can be difficult to open and close by hand.
Finally, remember to seal everything up and secure it!
When it comes to closing a garage door, you don’t just close the door, you seal the door. That’s why it’s important to get your garage doors sealing and gasketed correctly. Sealing your doors correctly prevents air from getting in and air from getting out, which can lead to issues.
Keep in mind that when you’re closing your doors, you don’t just close them. You seal them, and then you use a lock to secure the door. So, make sure you use the right tools for the job. You also need to use a quality lock to secure your door. Lastly, be sure to clean the outside of your doors regularly to keep them in good shape.
That’s it! Installing a garage door is a relatively easy process. All you have to do is follow these few steps, and your new garage door will be just as beautiful as the day you installed it.
Conclusion
Your garage door may not be functioning properly, and you don’t know why. It could be due to a faulty spring, a faulty hinge or a faulty door. If the door is rusting or has other issues, it could be a serious problem and need to be repaired as soon as possible. However, if the door is old and in good condition, it may just need some TLC so that it works properly again. Your garage door may just need a little love and care before it’s back to normal.
