Wooden garage doors offer a timeless appeal for period properties and contemporary homes alike.
Installing a new garage door not only boosts kerb appeal but most importantly improves security. As an incredibly popular material choice, a wooden garage door can add the perfect finishing touch to a newly built garage or refresh the look of an existing garage.
While DIY installation of garage doors can be tempting, we strongly recommend that you consider hiring professionals to ensure a safe and expert installation.
Here’s an overview of the steps involved when installing a wooden garage door to guide you.
1. Gather Your Tools And Materials
Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
- Wooden garage door panels
- Garage door hardware (tracks, rollers, springs, etc.)
- Electric screwdriver or drill
- Screws
- Anchors
- A level
- Measuring tape
- Sawhorses
- A second pair of hands
2. Measure And Prepare
Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful garage door installation. Measure the width and height of your garage opening, and then order or purchase a wooden garage door that fits these dimensions. Make sure to account for the space required for the tracks and any necessary clearance.
3. Assemble The Door Panels
Start by assembling the door panels. Lay them flat on sawhorses, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach the panels together securely. This typically involves using screws and connecting brackets. Ensure that the panels are level and flush with each other.
4. Install The Tracks And Rollers
Next, attach the vertical and horizontal tracks to the door frame according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Use a level to make sure they are perfectly plumb and level. Once the tracks are securely in place, mount the rollers to the door panels.
5. Mount The Spring Assembly
The spring assembly is a critical part of the garage door system. Depending on the type of door you have, you may be dealing with torsion springs or extension springs. These should be installed carefully. It’s often best to leave this part to the professionals, as working with springs can be dangerous.
6. Hang The Door
With the help of a friend, carefully lift the door panels into the tracks, making sure they are properly aligned. Secure the panels to the tracks by tightening the necessary screws.
7. Attach The Hardware
Install the hinges and handles on your wooden garage door, ensuring that they are firmly in place. This hardware not only adds functionality but also contributes to the door’s overall appearance.
8. Adjust And Test
Once the door is hanging in the tracks and the hardware is attached, make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it operates smoothly. Test the door’s opening and closing to make sure it’s balanced and functions correctly.
9. Add Weather Stripping
To keep your garage protected from the elements, install weather stripping around the edges of the door. This helps maintain a proper seal, keeping your garage and its contents safe and dry.
10. Seal And Finish
To further protect your wooden garage door from the elements, apply an exterior wood sealant or paint of your choice to the surface of the wood. This will not only enhance its appearance but also prolong its lifespan.
11. Perform Regular Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your wooden garage door in top shape. Regularly inspect it for any signs of wear and tear, and make any necessary repairs promptly. This will ensure that your door lasts for many years to come.
Kay Garage Doors – Wooden Garage Door Installation
Looking to install a wooden or timber garage door, but would prefer a professional to complete the above steps for you?
Kay Garage Doors is based in Stirling. We carry out garage door installation and repairs across a wide area of Scotland including Bearsden, Dundee, Dunfermline, East Kilbride, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Fife, Glasgow, Kirkcaldy, Lanarkshire, Milngavie, Montrose, Motherwell, Perth and St Andrews.
Alongside wooden garage doors, we also specialise in other garage door materials and types.
Contact us today for a free quotation. You can also give us a call on 0178 6568 160 or email our team at info@kaygaragedoors.co.uk.
