Preparing for a new garage door installation can significantly enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your home. Whether you’re upgrading to automatic garage doors for added convenience, replacing an outdated door, or improving your home’s curb appeal with residential garage doors, it’s important to ensure your garage space is ready. Understanding the garage door material and ensuring that your roller doors or automatic garage door are properly prepared can help streamline the installation process. By taking these steps, you’ll also minimise the garage door cost that can arise from delays or complications. Proper preparation will make the entire process smooth and efficient, ensuring your garage door openers work perfectly from the start.

Here’s everything you need to know about getting your space ready for a new garage door installation.

Measure Your Garage Door Space

Before the installation team arrives, it’s crucial to measure your garage door space accurately. A new garage door will need to fit the available space perfectly to ensure smooth operation.

• Measure the Width and Height: Use a tape measure to determine the exact width and height of the garage door opening. Make sure to measure from one side of the opening to the other, and from the floor to the top of the opening. Even small measurement discrepancies can lead to issues with the installation.
• Check the Headroom and Side Room: The space between the top of the garage door opening and the garage ceiling is referred to as the headroom. Ensure that you have at least 12 to 15 inches of headroom available, which is the standard requirement for most sectional garage doors or roller garage doors. Similarly, clear space on either side of the door to allow for the tracks and other equipment.

If you’re unsure about your measurements or want to double-check them, our team at Garage Door Solutions is happy to assist with a pre-installation consultation.

Clear the Garage and Surrounding Areas

One of the most important steps in preparing for a garage door installation is clearing out your garage and the surrounding areas to make space for the installation crew.

• Remove Vehicles and Stored Items: Your garage should be empty or as clear as possible. Move cars, bikes, tools, and other stored items out of the garage to provide ample room for the installers to work. Temporarily relocate bulky items to another part of your house or use a storage facility if necessary.
• Keep the Driveway Clear: The installation crew will need access to the driveway to park their trucks and bring in the new garage door and equipment. Ensure the driveway is free from obstacles to allow for easy loading and unloading of materials.

By clearing the garage and surrounding areas, you help ensure a safer and quicker installation process.

Disconnect Old Systems and Prepare for New Installation

If you’re replacing an old garage door, you may need to disconnect any electrical or mechanical systems that are linked to it. This will not only keep the installation safe but also make the process smoother.

• Disconnect the Garage Door Opener: If you have an existing garage door opener, make sure to disconnect it from the old door. The installation team will install your new garage door opener once the old door has been removed. If you’re unsure how to disconnect the opener, our technicians can take care of this during the installation.
• Check for Obstructions in the Tracks: Over time, dirt, debris, and small objects can accumulate in the tracks of the old garage door. Cleaning the tracks before installation day will help prevent any interruptions during the replacement process. Clear out any rocks, dirt, or debris to ensure the new door operates smoothly.

Prepare for Installation Day

The day of your new garage door installation has arrived! Here are a few things you can do to make sure everything goes off without a hitch:

• Ensure Easy Access: Make sure your installation crew has easy access to your garage. Open any gates, side doors, or pathways that they will need to pass through. Keeping the garage and surrounding areas free from obstructions will allow the crew to work efficiently.
• Keep Children and Pets Safe: Installing a garage door involves heavy equipment and tools, so it’s important to keep children and pets away from the work area. This ensures their safety while allowing the installers to focus on the job at hand without distractions.

Being prepared for installation day can significantly speed up the process and ensure that everything runs smoothly.

Inspection and Final Adjustments

Once your new garage door is installed, it’s essential to inspect the installation and ensure everything is functioning as expected.

• Test the Door’s Functionality: Before the installation team leaves, ask them to demonstrate how the door operates. This includes testing the manual opening and closing of the door, as well as checking the functionality of the garage door opener if one has been installed. Make sure the door opens and closes smoothly and that any safety features, such as safety beams, are working properly.
• Final Adjustments: During installation, the installers may adjust the spring tension and opener settings. If the door doesn’t feel quite right, or if you notice any unusual noises, don’t hesitate to ask the installers to make further adjustments. Your new garage door should operate smoothly and quietly.

Set Up a Maintenance Plan

Now that your new garage door is installed, it’s important to establish a maintenance plan to keep it in top condition for years to come.

• Schedule Regular Tune-Ups: A professional tune-up once a year is essential for prolonging the life of your garage door. Regular checks on the springs, rollers, tracks, and cables will ensure that everything is functioning properly. Garage Door Solutions can help with these annual tune-ups to prevent potential issues down the line.
• DIY Maintenance Tips: You can also take steps to maintain your new garage door between professional visits. Lubricate the moving parts, clean the tracks, and make sure the sensors are clean and aligned. Monitoring your garage door’s performance will help prevent costly repairs and ensure your door remains in optimal condition.

Make Your Garage Door Installation Stress-Free

Preparing your space for a new garage door installation not only ensures the process is efficient but also helps prevent any unexpected delays. By following the steps above, you can make the installation smooth, safe, and hassle-free.

At Garage Door Solutions, we specialise in installing high-quality garage doors that are built to last. Whether you’re upgrading to a roller garage door, sectional garage door, or need a custom solution, our experienced team is here to help. Don’t wait to transform your space—contact us today to schedule your installation and enjoy the benefits of a secure, stylish, and functional new garage door.

Visit our Contact Us page to get started and see how we can assist with all your garage door needs.