Whether you are a professional or just a DIY enthusiast, you need to fully understand the process of installing new garage roller doors before you take on such a challenge. It is definitely something you will be able to do if you have some previous DIY experience, and by taking on such a project you can save yourself money on labour costs and get complete satisfaction from knowing you’ve done a good job. So let’s make sure you do a good job!
Why choose a roller garage door? Well, because of their design, they take up little space inside the garage as they roll up above the doorframe, leaving you more space for storage or parking, and being sealed on all four sides makes them more secure than traditional doors. They are low maintenance and don’t require frequent cleaning, and they are designed to be weather resistant and are tough, secure and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
What’s even better is that when you buy a garage door through Greg James Garage Doors you not only get the great service that comes from over 40 years of experience in the industry, but you also get Australia’s original and most trusted garage door brand – the original Roll-A-Door. B&D invented the first ever roller door back in 1956 and has been a market leader ever since, and we are proud to continue to sell and install their products.
Things To Think About Before You Begin
Fail to prepare, prepare to fail. Before you begin there are a few things to take into consideration to avoid any installation disasters!
- Ensure all supporting walls are structurally sound to avoid any damage
- Ensure the surface above the doorway is flush without any protrusions
- Check you have adequate space above the doorway to house the rolled-up garage door and fittings
- Make sure you have adequate room on each side of the doorway for the tracks
- Check and double-check your measurements to ensure correct installation
Safety Precautions
Nobody wants to get injured – safety precautions are there to help prevent any injuries from happening.
- Never remove the strapping around your roller door – the roller door is under spring-loaded tension and removing the packaging prematurely could cause injury
- Ensure your work area is free from obstruction and unnecessary clutter
- Make sure you have the appropriate safety gear to hand before you begin; gloves, boots and safety goggles, and DON’T be afraid to wear them!
- Always read the instructions and check you have everything you need BEFORE you begin. Check all the items that are included are there, like fastenings, screws, nuts and bolts, and make sure there are no extras that you need to buy before you start
Tools And Materials Needed
It is recommended to have someone available to give you a hand, and to have the following tools to hand.
- A spirit level and a laser level
- Marker pens and pencils
- A socket set
- A tape measure and a Stanley knife
- A power drill and drill bits
- Various screwdrivers and a pipe wrench
- Two-step ladders
- Softwood chocks and wedges
Step-By-Step Installation Guide
Step 1 – Installing the door brackets
Ensuring there is adequate head and side room clearance, measure and mark the holes of the door bracket, then level, drill and bolt the bracket into place.
Use a laser level to mark the height of the second bracket on the opposite wall, then drill into position.
Step 2 – Installing the axle
Check the axle length, then using a safe lifting method raise the rolled-up door onto the brackets and ensure it is facing the correct way for the roller door to roll down the front.
Push the axle into the slots and rotate the door forward.
Loosely secure the roller door in place and attach the axle to the brackets.
Rotate the door forward to apply tension to the spring, and have someone cut the strapping whilst you maintain tension as you slowly draw the curtain down.
Use the chocks to hold the door in place until the tracks are fitted.
Step 3 – Checking the roller door tracks
Make sure the roller door overlaps the doorway equally on both sides.
Slide the first track over the edge of one side of the door, and loosely secure it to the wall.
Repeat on the opposite side and check both tracks are vertical using a spirit level.
Check for the correct tension by moving the door up and down and adjust where necessary to avoid any binding. Tighten both tracks securely when you are happy with the action.
If you have a handle or a weight bar provided, attach these now.
(Always refer to your door’s installation instructions as guides vary)
After Installation Guide and Maintenance
Whilst modern garage roller doors require little routine maintenance, minimum maintenance and cleaning will still ensure and long and happy life for your garage door.
- Keep the curtain clean with a soft sponge and mild detergent, and always rinse well.
- Check the brackets, tracks and springs etc for signs of wear and tear. Be careful if adjusting springs as they are tightly wound under great tension and can cause serious injury. It is advisable to seek professional advice (Greg James Garage Doors offers maintenance checks).
- Keep springs lubricated with oil or grease.
- Perform a balance check to make sure the door isn’t moving, and the springs don’t need rebalancing.
FAQ
Can I Install a garage door myself?
Yes! But always follow recommended safety precautions and manufacturer’s guidelines.
How much does a roller door cost?
Anywhere between $2000 – $6000 depending on size and accessories.
Are all door sizes available?
Yes, a reputable dealer like Greg James Garage Doors can custom-make doors for any size opening.