Garage door opener installation in Franklin, Tennessee

Balance comes first

With the opener disconnected, the contractor lifts the door by hand and sees whether it stays where it stops. If it drifts down or shoots up, the springs need attention first. Do not adjust them yourself.

Federal rules require opener instructions to say this: install only on a properly balanced door. Source: Federal safety standard for garage door openers, 16 CFR Part 1211.

Choosing a drive

Chain drives pull the door with a metal chain. Belt drives use a reinforced belt and are often chosen where noise matters. Screw drives turn a threaded rod. Wall-mounted units sit beside the door and turn its torsion shaft, which leaves the ceiling clear.

If a bedroom sits above or beside the garage, tell the contractor. Noise may then matter more than anything else.

What a correct install looks like

• The door reverses when it meets an obstruction, and photo-eye sensors or a similar second protection are fitted.
• The wall control is in sight of the door and at least 5 feet up, out of small children's reach.
• The emergency release, if there is one, is within reach and at least 6 feet up.

Questions to ask

• Is the door balanced now, or do the springs need work first?
• How will the opener be fixed to the framing, and is the ceiling or header strong enough?
• Is there an outlet close enough, and who handles it if there is not?
• Is battery backup included, and how does the door open in a power cut?
• What does the warranty cover, in writing?