Garage Door Opener Installation

It's not uncommon for advertisements for garage door openers to suggest that installing such items is a good do it yourself project. Before we go further here, be aware that garage door opener installation can be a dangerous undertaking. One should frankly assess one's ability and the existing door and supporting hardware before launching.  It would probably not be a bad idea to learn a little bit about the different types of garage doors too.  It might help you to assess what materials you will need.


Garage doors are heavy, and some of them (although not so much with residential models) rely on torsion springs that can be dangerous if not properly handled. Remember, garage door opener installation cost by a professional will be less than the cost of a severe injury.

Having said that, start by reading and comprehending the instructions all the way through. Locate and have on hand all the tools listed before starting, and take an inventory of the parts supplied.

Then, check the door for balance. If you raise the door to around chest level and release it, it should stop on its own before falling to the floor. That reflects the tension on the springs. If out of balance, it's time to check with a knowledgeable professional. Check to make sure that the glides move smoothly and uniformly through the rails. Rails that are out of alignment can put undue strain on any opener.

When mounting your garage door opener, be particularly careful to mount it to a structural component that can withstand some force being applied to it. Never consider mounting an opener with expansion type fasteners even of a heavy duty nature. With regard to mounting components, never install the switch or keypad where it can be reached by very young children. You don't want your garage door to become a toy to a toddler.

If your model of garage door opener requires being hard wired into the electrical system and you aren't quite sure of your ability to do this job properly, consult a professional. Also, if you are clueless about matters electrical, you might not want to deal with even the low voltage aspects of the system, such as the connection from the switch to the power unit or the electric eye sensors to be installed to reverse the downward movement of the door if it becomes obstructed at all.

Be sure to test your garage door opener installation thoroughly before going into the house and putting your feet up. Ensure that the door reverses direction if it hits any obstruction on its way down. Ensure that it stops running when the door is fully up or fully down and that the motor doesn't run on.

For the do it yourselfer of at least moderate experience, installing a garage door opener can generate some substantial savings in return for a few hours of work. For those less experienced or competent, the cost of professional garage door opener installation can be a long term bargain in terms of money and regrets.