Is your old garage door giving you trouble? A durable garage door can boost your home’s security and appearance. This article will guide you through choosing the right new garage door and the installation process.
Keep reading for tips and tricks.
Key Takeaways
- Picking the right garage door requires examining material, insulation, and style to ensure it complements your home and meets energy efficiency needs.
- The installation process includes removing the old door, setting up new tracks, installing panels, and attaching springs and cables for smooth operation.
- Regular maintenance such as inspecting surfaces, checking seals, lubricating moving parts, and testing safety features maintains your door’s condition and security.
- Choose professionals for installation and repair to guarantee safety and prevent future problems with the garage door system.
- Different types of garage doors offer unique benefits; metal provides durability while wood offers aesthetic appeal but requires more upkeep.
Ready to upgrade your garage door? With a wide range of options and expert guidance, Aaron’s Garage Door Company can help you choose the perfect door that enhances both security and style for your home. Explore our garage door services to get started, or contact us today for a consultation!
Call us at 360-609-9393 to speak with a specialist and schedule your new garage door installation today. Let Aaron’s Garage Door Company bring added durability and curb appeal to your home!
Choosing the Right Garage Door
Picking the right garage door involves considering its material, insulation, and style. These factors directly impact your home’s appearance, energy efficiency, and security.
Factors to consider: material, insulation, style
Setting up a new garage door brings a new aesthetic allure and functionality to your home.
Several key factors should be taken into account while making the right choice for a door.
- Material
- Various materials are available for garage doors and each comes with its unique advantages. Metal doors, such as steel or aluminum, are known for their durability and security, although may be prone to dents. Wooden doors offer a timeless appearance and can be custom-built but need regular upkeep to prevent weather-induced damage. Vinyl doors stand as a superb low-maintenance option with dent resistance and are ideal for homes in severe weather regions.
- Insulation
- It’s important to opt for an insulated garage door for energy efficiency and comfort, particularly if residing in extreme climates or utilizing your garage as a workspace. Double-layered doors with polystyrene sheets or triple-layered doors using polyurethane foam provide excellent insulation. They help keep your garage warm during winter and cool during summer, thereby cutting down on energy expenses.
- Style
- The garage door style should go well with your home’s architecture. Traditional paneled doors are suitable for homes with a classic look, while contemporary aluminum and glass designs blend with modern homes. Carriage-style doors bring an old-world appeal and come in manual as well as automatic operation options.
- Garage Door Springs
- The choice between torsion springs and extension springs influences the operation smoothness and the lifespan of your door sections. Torsion springs, positioned above the door opening, provide better balance, hence they’re perfect for doors that are heavier or wider. Extension springs extend along the overhead tracks’ sides; they’re less expensive but may not support much weight.
- Garage Door Opener
- Choosing the correct opener is crucial for safety and ease. Belt-drive openers function more quietly compared to chain-drive models, which makes them preferable if silent operation is desired in attached garages or living spaces above the garage opening.
- Installation Team
- Opting for professional garage door repair and installation services assures a safe installation, preventing potential issues such as misalignment or unnecessary wear and tear on door sections.
Taking these aspects into account meticulously, you can select the most suitable garage door fulfilling your functional needs and amplifying your home’s overall aesthetics.
The Installation Process
Installing a new garage door involves a precise series of steps, from removing the old door to setting up the new one with a reliable belt drive for smooth operation. Find out how you can do it smoothly by reading on.
Step-by-step guide from preparation to completion
Installing a new garage door can dramatically improve your home’s appearance and security.
The process requires careful planning and execution to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide from preparation to completion:
- Measure the garage opening to determine the size of the door needed. Accurate measurements prevent issues during installation.
- Choose the right door by considering material, insulation, style, and whether you want a belt drive for quieter operation or not.
- Purchase the best garage door that fits your needs and budget from a reputable supplier.
- Remove the old door carefully to avoid damaging the garage structure. This involves unscrewing the panels and dismantling the tracks.
- Prep the area for installing your new door by cleaning up any debris from removing your old door.
- Assemble the new tracks provided with your new door along either side of the garage opening.
- Install panels of the new door one at a time, starting from the bottom up, securing each into its track.
- Attach springs and cables as per manufacturer instructions; these are crucial for safely lifting your garage door.
- Install garage door openers if not opting for a manual lift system—belt drives are recommended for quieter operations.
- Fine-tune adjustments on springs, cables, and openers to ensure smooth operation and safety features function correctly.
Once installed, test your new garage door multiple times to make sure it opens smoothly and securely locks into place.
Regular maintenance checks will keep it operating effectively; look out for common issues like misalignment or wear on moving parts.
Seek expert garage door repairs for any significant problems to keep your new investment in top working condition.
Choosing expert help for both installation and future repairs ensures long-term satisfaction with your new garage door upgrade.
This straightforward approach guarantees that transitioning from an old to a new garage door is as seamless as possible while enhancing both functionality and curb appeal of your home.
Maintenance Tips Post-Installation
Regular maintenance ensures your garage door stays in top condition. Check for wear and tear monthly, focusing on springs and cables for a smooth operation.
Routine checks and common issues
Keeping your garage door in top shape is crucial for security and efficiency. Regular maintenance and addressing common issues can save you time and money in the long run.
- Inspect the door’s surface monthly for rust or peeling paint, especially if it’s wooden or metal. These signs indicate exposure to moisture or wear.
- Check the seals around the door to make sure they’re intact. Broken seals can let in pests and weather, leading to damage.
- Lubricate moving parts like springs, hinges, and rollers every six months with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation.
- Test the balance of your garage door by disconnecting the opener and opening it manually halfway. A well-balanced door will stay in place; if it doesn’t, springs may need adjustment.
- Examine cables for fraying or wear at least twice a year. Worn cables are a safety hazard and require professional replacement.
- Clean the tracks where wheels run with a damp cloth regularly to remove debris that could hinder movement.
- Listen for unusual noises during operation, as grinding or screeching sounds may hint at problems needing immediate attention.
- Test safety features monthly, such as auto-reverse and photo-eye sensors, to ensure they function properly and keep your household safe.
- Replace batteries in remote controls and outdoor keypad once a year to avoid being locked out due to power loss.
- Review weather stripping along the bottom of the door annually before winter arrives to prevent drafts and water damage inside the garage.
Addressing these points promptly keeps your garage door working reliably while preventing larger issues from developing.
Conclusion
Installing a new garage door makes your home look better and improves security. With the right choice, you save energy and boost your property’s value. Follow the guide to install it correctly and don’t forget regular maintenance to avoid common problems.
Your efforts will pay off in durability and performance. Enjoy the benefits of your new installation for years to come.
FAQs
1. What should I consider when choosing a new garage door for installation?
When choosing a new garage door, consider the door material (steel, wood, aluminum, etc.), insulation needs, design style, and color to match your home’s exterior. Different materials offer varied durability, maintenance levels, and aesthetic options. For example, steel garage doors are known for durability, while wood offers a classic look. Insulation is also essential if you live in a region with extreme weather, as it can increase energy efficiency in your home.
2. How much does a new garage door installation typically cost?
The cost of a new garage door installation varies depending on the door type, size, material, and any additional customization. On average, a standard new garage door installation can range between $800 and $2,500, including labor. Custom or high-end garage doors, like insulated or oversized options, may cost more. Contacting a professional for a quote is the best way to get an accurate estimate for your home.
3. What are the benefits of upgrading to a new garage door?
Upgrading to a new garage door improves home security, increases curb appeal, and can even boost energy efficiency. Modern garage doors are often equipped with advanced security features and better insulation, making your home safer and reducing energy costs. Additionally, a new garage door installation can increase your property value, giving you a higher return on investment.
4. How long does a garage door installation take?
The time required for a new garage door installation generally ranges from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the door type and any customizations. Basic installations are usually quicker, while larger or more complex installations, like those with insulation or specialty finishes, may take longer. Professional installers can give a more accurate timeframe based on your garage door choice and any specific requirements.
5. Is professional installation necessary, or can I install the garage door myself?
While it’s possible to install a garage door yourself, professional installation is strongly recommended for safety and accuracy. Garage door installation involves heavy materials, tension-loaded springs, and specific alignment requirements. Professional installers have the necessary tools and expertise to ensure your door is installed correctly and securely, reducing the risk of injury or future repairs.
6. What maintenance is required for a new garage door?
Routine maintenance is essential for the longevity and performance of your new garage door. Regularly inspect and lubricate the moving parts, check the alignment, and clean the door surface. For insulated doors, periodic inspections ensure the insulation stays intact. Annual professional maintenance can help prevent wear and tear, extending the life of your garage door and ensuring smooth operation.
