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While DIY is all the rage, there are many reasons garage door replacement or installation should be left to professionals. Some minor repairs can indeed be performed safely by the owner, along with general garage maintenance tasks, but installation does not fall under either of those categories.
First, selecting your new garage door can prove daunting, with various options and prices. It is crucial, however, to refrain from the temptation to get the cheapest door without first ensuring that it has all the features you require. An example is an adequate insulation when installing a garage door in colder climates, especially if the garage is attached to your home. As the single most significant point of entry to your living area, a poorly insulated door, be it due to low R-value or poor installation of the weather seal and other insulating components, could significantly heighten your energy bill due to heat loss. Furthermore, lacking safety features could leave your home more vulnerable to break-ins and theft. A professional garage door technician can advise you of the best options for overhead door replacement within your price range. Common mistakes in self-installed garage doors include inadequate size selection, severe damage in the long run, and poor torsion spring selection, which can lead to opener damage, door system damage, and emergency department-worthy injuries.
Second, garage door installation can prove dangerous in the immediate, short, and long terms if performed incorrectly. Saving a few hundred dollars may seem tempting, but the possible costs incurred due to risk to your person and property and reduced door lifespan due to poor installation warrant the use of a professional. Specialized tools are required in garage door replacement, selecting the right door, torsion springs, cables, and more, while tackling the electrical component of the installation should the opener be replaced. For example, incorrectly installing the springs could result in devastating injury as they conserve energy from weights of several hundred pounds. Poor installation can also damage the overhead door and the opener, both expensive to replace. In addition, inadequate tracks and garage door spring installation can increase your home’s vulnerability to intruders and severely decrease energy efficiency. On top of this, DIY garage door installation often voids the manufacturer’s warranty, which requires professional installation, along with the warranty on parts and installation provided by some garage door companies.
The primary concerns with garage door installation lacking professional involvement beyond immediate damage and injury include the following:
1. Expensive Repairs Down the Road
Any poorly installed garage door component, from the springs to the hinges, can result in a slew of issues cropping up unexpectedly or parts failing early. This can result in expensive repairs that could have been avoided through professional garage door installation or professional garage door replacement.
2. Performance
A professionally installed garage door isn’t excessively noisy and performs as expected regarding component lifespan, notwithstanding damage that isn’t preventable due to the environment. However, the garage door can be too slow to open or close or, on the contrary, slam up and down, damaging the overhead door and its components if it isn’t installed correctly according to safety guidelines. This can present a hazard to property and young children, mainly if the safety sensors aren’t installed according to regulations, leading to crushing injuries or even death.
The Door and Access Systems Manufacturers Association (DASMA) recommends professional installation using products conforming to safety standards. While some DIYers may possess all the skills and tools required to install a garage door safely, that is from the case for the average person. Professional garage door technicians have a wealth of experience and knowledge, allowing them to safely replace your garage door to enhance function and lifespan while minimizing issues down the road. Self-installations often require frequent repairs or a complete reinstallation by a professional overhead door technician, making a garage door installation project one you do not want to skimp on. Professional garage door installers will take care of every aspect of your garage door replacement, from measurements to removal and disposal of your old door, to professional installation of your new door system and all its components. Professional installation is well worth the cost, can save you money and can deal with avoidable repairs in the long run.
At Advantage Garage Doors, we pride ourselves on offering the highest quality garage doors from well-known manufacturers like Amarr, NorthWest Door and Steel-Craft while keeping affordability in mind. As one of the first elements of your home seen by guests, it leaves a lasting impression. In addition, our many options allow you to showcase your style truly. Our technicians will happily answer your questions and schedule an appointment to take measurements and show you our catalogue – helping you select the best garage door for your home. In addition, our garage door sales team is always ready to help you build the next eye-catching addition to your house!
You can contact us by phone at (587) 418-3911 through one of the many contact forms on our website or by e-mail at info@advantagegd.com to receive help and advice selecting your next garage door.