When you need to replace your garage door, there are a few things you need to know about the process before you hire a professional to complete the installation. This will help you save time and money on the project, as well as avoid any mistakes or unintended consequences.
The first step in garage door installation is to measure your home’s opening to determine the size of the new door you will need. This will ensure that the installer has enough room to install the new door and opener safely.
Next, you need to choose a material for your new garage door. This will affect the look, longevity and maintenance requirements of your new door. Common materials include steel, aluminum, wood and composite wood.
Depending on your climate and the type of garage you have, one of these materials may be more suitable for your home than another. For example, if you live in an area that receives lots of moisture, a wooden door might be a better choice than a metal one.
You will also need to consider the weight of your new garage door and what horsepower it can handle. A garage door opener with a higher horsepower will be more durable and less likely to strain the motor during use, which can cause it to break down sooner.
Once you have determined the materials and weight of your new garage door, it’s time to choose the hardware that will be used to hold it in place. The hardware can include hinges, brackets, rollers and track mounts.
If you want a more customized look to your new garage door, you can hire a professional to design the door for you. This will usually cost more than buying a stock-looking door, but it will allow you to create the door that fits your needs and your budget.
It’s a good idea to have an electrician on-site when you have a garage door installed so that the electric system can be wired in as well. This can add a few hundred dollars to the overall cost of the job, but it will pay off in the long run by making your new garage door operate more efficiently and effectively.
The hardware you choose will also influence the cost of your new garage door. For example, you can expect to pay more for a stainless-steel, powder-coated metal door than you will for an aluminum model that is painted or stained.
Before you purchase your new garage door, be sure to research the different types and brands of doors available. This will help you decide what material is most appropriate for your home and what looks best in your neighborhood.
In addition, you need to understand your local building codes and what they require for garage door installation. These regulations are designed to protect you and your employees from injuries as they work inside your building.
The garage door you choose will have a direct impact on how much your home will sell for, so make sure you have the right type of door. For example, if you’re planning to put your home on the market soon, you’ll need to choose a garage door that is in keeping with the style and curb appeal of your home.