A new garage door can be more than just a functional upgrade; it can enhance your home’s curb appeal and boost its overall value. Whether you’re looking to replace an old door or install one for the first time, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether to attempt the installation yourself or hire a professional.
At Lakeside Doors, we simplify the experience, from choosing the door and having it installed to routine maintenance down the road. We have over 40 years of experience in making garage door installation fast and easy. Here’s a guide to what you need to know about getting a new garage door, how it’s installed, and what to consider when choosing between DIY or professional installation.
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Choosing a New Garage Door
Of course, the first step in getting a new garage door is choosing one. Modern garage doors come in a variety of types and materials. The most common type of residential garage door is sectional, but you can also choose from roller doors, tilt-up, or side-hinged. For material, you’ll likely choose from various styles of wood or metal.
You might have a clear vision of your perfect garage door, or you may be unsure where to start. Either way, Lakeside Doors can help you find the right fit based on your functional requirements, home aesthetics, and budget. We offer top-quality doors in various types and styles, or we can even custom-build a garage door for your needs.
How to Install a Garage Door
Garage door installation is a fairly simple process but involves multiple steps and a lot of hardware. Here’s a simplified overview of the installation process.
- Removing the old door and preparation: After releasing the tension, each panel will need to be removed. All the materials and tools should be gathered and organized before starting installation.
- Assembling the new door: Many garage doors come in sections that need to be assembled on-site. Most likely, each panel will be installed individually.
- Hanging the door: This involves placing the tracks and hinges, then hanging the door in the opening and securing it, and installing springs and cables.
- Installing the opener: If you’re adding a new opener, it must be mounted and connected to the door mechanism.
- Testing and adjustments: Finally, the door is tested to ensure it opens and closes smoothly, and adjustments are made for proper balance and alignment.
Depending on the door and who’s installing it, garage door installation may take just a couple of hours, or it may be a project over multiple days. It involves working with heavy materials and springs that are under high tension, requiring caution and precision.
Garage Door Installation: DIY or Hire a Professional?
When it comes to installing a garage door, you have two main options: doing it yourself or hiring a professional. Some choose the DIY approach to save money but often find that the overall cost is the same, especially if a poor installation leads to repairs down the road. Keep these considerations in mind when deciding between DIY or professional garage door installation.
Time and Convenience
Installing a garage door yourself can be time-consuming and complex. DIY garage door installation is often a full weekend project. A professional team, like Lakeside Doors, can complete the job quickly and efficiently. We handle all the logistics, from delivery to final adjustments, allowing you to focus on other important tasks or simply enjoy your free time.
Safety
Garage door installation involves heavy lifting, precise measurements, and the handling of high-tension springs and complex mechanisms. The door itself may weigh a few hundred pounds and is under even higher pressure. An incorrectly placed component could result in the door collapsing. Even if nothing goes wrong during the installation, a subtle mistake could lead to safety hazards later on.
Our expert team has the experience and equipment to install your door safely and correctly. We strongly recommend hiring professional garage door installation to avoid unnecessary risk of injury.
Long-lasting Quality
A professional installation ensures that your garage door has the highest quality hardware and is installed correctly, for smooth, lasting operation. Proper installation reduces the likelihood of future problems such as misalignment or mechanical failures. Additionally, professional installation typically comes with a warranty, giving you peace of mind that any potential issues will be addressed promptly.
Why Choose Lakeside Doors for Garage Door Installation?
At Lakeside Doors, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service and high-quality installations. We’ve been repairing and installing garage doors for residential and commercial properties in the Puyallup and Tacoma areas for decades.
- Expertise: Our team is highly trained and experienced in all aspects of garage door installation. Regardless of the size or garage door type, you can rely on impeccable workmanship.
- Customer-Centric Approach: We prioritize your needs and preferences. From helping you select the perfect door to a hassle-free installation, we are committed to providing a seamless experience.
- Efficiency: We understand that time is valuable. Our team will have your new garage door installed quickly and effectively, with fast scheduling and minimal disruption to your day.
- Quality: We use only the highest quality materials and equipment, ensuring that your garage door performs well and stands the test of time. Our commitment to quality is backed by comprehensive warranties and ongoing support.
Find Your Perfect Garage Door Today!
While DIY installation might seem like a cost-effective solution, the benefits of hiring a professional far outweigh the risks and may save you money in the long run. With Lakeside Doors, you’ll work with a team of experts dedicated to providing a fast, safe, and high-quality garage door installation experience.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help transform your garage with a new door that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal.