Installing a door installation sounds easy enough – until it isn’t. Unless you’re careful, you could end up with a door that jams, creaks, or worst of all, doesn’t fit.
But the stakes are higher than just frustration. A poorly installed garage door is a glaring safety hazard.
- Misalignments or gaps in your door can compromise your home’s security and leave it vulnerable to break-ins.
- An unstable garage door can come crashing down unexpectedly, posing serious risks of injury to you and your family.
- A botched installation job means premature damage and costly repairs.
At Filip’s Garage Doors, we always recommend leaving any and all installation jobs to reputable garage door professionals. However, if you’ve decided on the DIY route, knowing the pitfalls to dodge is as important as the steps to follow.
Below, we unravel five blunders that could derail your garage door installation, as well as how to avoid them.
1. Choosing the Wrong Type of Door
Not all garage doors are created equal. With the endless variety of materials, styles, and mechanisms available, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the biggest blunder you could make? Installing a garage door solely based on appearances.
Sure, a sleek design might catch your eye, but if it doesn’t meet your practical needs, it’s a recipe for disaster.
What to Do Instead
Think beyond aesthetics. Start by considering your climate and the overall design of your home. After Cyclones Larry and Althea, studies found that garage doors often failed, with roller doors disengaging from tracks leading to significant structural damage. So, if you live in a hurricane-prone area, you’ll need a sturdy, wind-resistant door that can stand up to inclement weather.
Also, consider functionality. How often will you be using the door? Do you need additional security features? Remember to balance looks with practicality to save yourself future headaches.
2. Not Measuring Correctly
Incorrect measurement is a common slip-up that can throw a big wrench in your garage door installation plans. A few inches off, and you could end up with gaps that invite pests and external elements inside, or a door that simply won’t fit.
An improper fit can also cause the garage door to rub against the frame or ground, leading to wear, tear, and operational issues over time.
What to Do Instead
Measure, and then measure again. Triple-check every dimension. Be sure to check the door size, the space above and beside the door frames, and the headroom and backroom available.
Precision is key here, so don’t just eyeball it. Use a good-quality measuring tape and jot down your measurements carefully.
Spend a few extra hours on measuring when you install a garage door. This can save you from big problems later. It’s best to take your time and get it right from the start.
3. Not Using Quality Hardware
You might feel tempted to cut corners and save money on hardware like springs, cables, and rollers. But, opting for cheaper, low-quality parts can lead to high maintenance costs and shorter lifespans for your garage door. The last thing you want is for your set up to snap after a few months because you chose the budget option.
What to Do Instead
When installing a garage door, invest in high-quality, durable parts. While the upfront expense may sting a bit, it’s worth every cent. High-quality hardware is designed to endure the daily grind and stand up to harsh weather conditions, enabling your garage door to operate smoothly for years to come.
Moreover, investing in good parts now can save you a bundle on maintenance and repairs down the road. In case you’re unsure, speak to a professional garage door installation service for advice.
4. Not Installing the Garage Door Opener Correctly
The garage door opener plays a huge role in how your door functions. Incorrect installation doesn’t just cause a lot of noise; it can also shorten the life of your door by putting undue stress on its parts. You must choose the right garage door opener if you want your setup to work without any hiccups.
What to Do Instead
Stick to the manufacturer’s instructions. If you’re not completely confident in your DIY skills, now’s the time to call in a professional garage door opener installation service. They will make sure the opener is installed correctly and perfectly aligned with the centre of the door for even weight distribution.
Proper installation for garage doors means effective, quieter operation. Either take the time to do it right, or hire or hire someone who can.
5. Neglecting Safety Precautions
Garage door installation involves serious physical labour, heavy lifting, and dealing with complex mechanisms. Overlooking safety can lead to serious accidents or injuries.
Every year, many enthusiastic DIYers find themselves in the hospital because they didn’t take proper precautions. You don’t want your garage door project to turn into one of those statistics.
What to Do Instead
Always prioritise garage door safety. Wear gloves and glasses to protect yourself from potential accidents. Remember to disconnect the power to the opener before you get down to work. Additionally, enlist the help of a friend or a family member and maintain clear communication with them throughout.
If any part of the process feels uncomfortable or if you’re unsure about handling the job on your own, consider hiring a garage door installation service, because they have the experience and skills to do the job safely and efficiently.
To Wrap Up
A garage door adds to your home’s aesthetics, security, and energy efficiency. But installing a garage door on your own can be challenging. We hope this post has highlighted the common pitfalls to avoid during garage door installation for a flawless and successful outcome.
Still in doubt? Why not reach out to Filip’s Garage Doors? We offer expert installation services for all types and sizes of garage doors. Call us at 08 8555 4269 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a visit.
