How to Install an Automatic Garage Door

A new garage door can dramatically change the look of your house. It can also increase the resale value of your house should you be in the market to sell. I had mine changed two years ago and it took years off the appearance of my house. That being said, there are many variety and steps to installing different garage doors. But there are basic but detailed steps to install automatic garage doors. If possible, get the help of a professional garage installer, or someone with some knowledge of how to install electrical equipment of this kind. Otherwise, read carefully and follow the manual given by the manufacturers.

Before you start, check that all parts and tools needed for installing the garage door are within reach. Each garage door brand varies and some may come with more parts than others. Get everything needed to get the work done. Be sure to READ your owner’s installation instructional manual for more or even better guide in how to install your automatic garage door. Also, check to ensure that the garage door opener is able to work with the weight of your door, as some may need additional support.

You cannot install the garage door all alone, so get a couple of helping hands. You will need stepladder, drill, tape measure, hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, wrench, hacksaw, and other tools that may have come with your purchase.

Next, check to make sure the garage door works. Do this by checking to see how it opens; if it doesn’t open easily, then its springs have a malfunction. After all is checked, resume your work.

Start with the power unit, which should be located where it will not interfere with people going through the new garage. The power cord should be at a height an adult can reach. Be sure to also install the wall control buttons high enough for adults but out of the reach of children.

The next step in installing your automatic garage door is to locate the stud finder. The stud finder allows you to determine the location of the joists in the garage which will provide support. Once the joists are located, bolt a 2×4 cardboard against the ceiling of the garage.

Find the three holes in the garage opener head to attach the mounting straps. Attach the system following the directions of the manufacturers. Install the collars to safely hold the joists in the rails.

Find the place where you will install the garage opener motor. This should be the middle of the garage door tracks. Mark the frames because this is where you will be placing the motor. Now lift the opener head for mounting the rail part of it to the motor. Use a stepladder to reach and mark the framing spot to which you will fasten the opener motor. Cross the straps and bolt them to give the motor more support. Use rail strap nut for more secured mount.

After placing the motor in its place, check to make sure the rails are on par, and then fasten the screw to the framing. Use lag screws to tighten to the garage framing between the two door tracks. Now, attach the opener to the mounting bracket.

New automatic garage doors come with infrared system, which is a pair of small boxes that receives or sends a beam of light. These boxes are best placed by the base of the garage door jamb. These boxes are censored and stop of fail to open the door if any object is in the way of the garage door.

Remember that garage doors are very heavy. You need a couple of hands to get it done. Be Safe and be responsible.

Source:
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=howTo&p=Improve/insgardr.html