Errors made during garage door installation projects can lead to safety hazards, equipment and property damage, as well as inefficient performance, causing frustration and stress. Keeping this in mind, let’s explore common mistakes inexperienced installers often make when setting up and installing garage doors.

1. Alignment of the Garage Door Opener

Inexperienced garage door installers may incorrectly position the garage door opener, assuming that slight misalignment won’t impact the door’s functionality. However, this is a critical mistake, as the garage door opener motor should align precisely with the point where the opener’s rail connects to the garage door and the garage’s header. Installing the garage door opener off-center can result in premature wear of the opener’s gears, sprocket, trolley, and the garage door rollers.

To ensure proper alignment of the garage door opener during installation, begin by identifying the points on the garage header and ceiling where the opener will be mounted. Lightly mark these points with a pencil; these marks will serve as your reference for mounting and alignment.

Next, attach the opener rail to the designated point on the header using the provided bracket. Lift the opener motor head to align it with the marked point on the ceiling. You may need assistance from another person or utilize a ladder or stand to support the motor during the alignment process.

2. Alignment of the Torsion Assembly

Another common mistake made by inexperienced installers is overlooking the proper alignment of garage door mechanisms, such as the torsion assembly. An improperly assembled garage door and misaligned torsion assembly can become a safety hazard, hinder performance, and result in premature wear, along with recurring issues such as door cables slipping off the pulley, binding, and the door going off-track.

The torsion assembly components, including the spring anchor bracket and end bearing plates, should be horizontally aligned, level, and parallel to each other. Ensure they are mounted at the same height, are not tilted and that the torsion tube is not bowed, resting in a straight line. You can also use a level tool to measure the alignment although it is not necessary.

3. Balance the Garage Door

Another common mistake is the failure to calibrate the garage door springs and properly balance the door. Failing to balance a garage door during installation poses serious risks, primarily centered around structural instability and the potential for the garage door coming off the tracks and slamming down. Beyond these safety concerns, improper balance puts excessive stress on garage door components, accelerating wear and tear, contributing to increased repair and maintenance costs.

To balance the garage door properly, torsion or extension springs need to be calibrated and adjusted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, taking into consideration load distribution and the garage door’s specifications.

4. Plan and Construct the Garage Interior

While this pertains to new construction homes, inexperienced installers often install their garage doors after completing the garage interior, including electrical wiring outlets and fixtures. Unfortunately, they may neglect to account for the garage door opener in their plans, leading to outlets or fixtures in the wrong positions and electrical wiring running on the walls and ceiling exterior. This not only results in an unaesthetic appearance but may also necessitates additional outlets and fixtures to be installed in the garage.

Prioritizing Safety in DIY Garage Door Installations

The goal of installing a garage door is not only to improve your property and its curb appeal but also to maximize the return on your investment by ensuring the equipment lasts as long as possible. Even if you choose to install the garage door yourself, consider hiring a licensed garage door repair and installation company to inspect the work. This ensures that the garage door, opener, and springs are functioning properly and comply with applicable safety requirements. This proactive approach may save you money in the long run and provide you with the extra peace of mind that your home and family are safe and secure.