What to Expect When You Install a New Garage Door

Before you call

A little preparation makes the first conversation much more useful. It helps to have a rough idea of:

• what you want from the new door, such as security, style or easier daily use,
• the type of door you like the look of, and
• whether you want a motor and remotes.

If you are not sure which type of door suits you, our guide to roller, sectional and tilt garage doors is a good place to start.

The free measure and quote

The next step is a measure and quote. Someone visits your home or business, looks at the opening and talks through your options. This is the time to ask questions and describe how you use the garage.

The measure allows the door to be matched to the actual opening, which matters because every home is a little different. You can read more about our new door installation service.

Choosing the door, motor and remotes

Once you have a quote, you can decide on the details. These usually include:

1. The door. Type, style, colour and size. If a standard door does not suit, a custom door can be designed and manufactured to your specifications.
2. The motor. A motor lets you open and close the door without leaving the car. Our guide to motors and remotes explains what to consider.
3. The remotes. Think about how many people need access.

Installation day

On installation day, experienced technicians fit the door and make sure it is up and running. The aim is to get your door working quickly while making sure your property is secure.

It helps to clear the area around the door beforehand, and to let the installer know about anything that has changed since the measure.

Why professional installation matters

A garage door is one of the largest moving parts of a home, and it has to be fitted accurately to work safely and last. Doors are heavy, and the springs and cables that lift them are under tension, which is why installation is a job for trained technicians rather than a weekend project.

A correct installation also protects your security. A door that fits the opening properly and runs smoothly is far less likely to cause problems later, and it keeps your garage and the home attached to it better protected.

Questions to ask your installer

It is worth having a short list of questions ready for the measure and quote. For example:

• Which type of door suits my opening and how I use the garage?
• Can the door be customised in size, style or colour?
• Is a motor suitable for this door, and how many remotes are included?
• What will the installation involve on the day?
• Who do I contact if something needs attention afterwards?

Clear answers up front make it much easier to compare quotes and to feel confident in the decision.

After the installation

Before the installer leaves, check that the door opens and closes smoothly and that the remotes work. Ask how to operate the door manually if you ever need to, and who to call if something does not seem right.

If a problem appears later, our guide to repairing or replacing a garage door explains the warning signs.

Frequently asked questions