Weekend DIY: Install a garage door opener

Avoiding common errors

Your door is in fine shape, you’ve got the power and you’re ready to get rolling. Wait. There’s a few more things to consider before installation. Are there light fixtures, outlets or other obstacles on the garage ceiling where the centre of the door and lift motor and assembly will go? If so, remove them first.

A common error–the lazyman’s solution–is to simply install the lift motor and assembly just off-centre rather than removing obstacles. This is a bad idea. The assembly and motor should be exactly on-centre with the door. Otherwise you’re looking at twisting and binding and ultimate failure.

Resist the inclination to tighten the screws like you’re sealing a jar. First, you’ll likely need to make adjustments as you install each component, so keep things fluid until you’re all set, like you’re putting together furniture. Also, on the topic of affixers: never use nails or cheap, weak screws. Garage doors are heavy and get used often, so always use lag screws affixed to a solid frame.

Now sit back and enjoy the ride into your garage. Yeah, it’s not exactly a glamorous project, but it beats opening the door in the rain and snow.