1. Pre-Installation Assessment

J.D. Griffiths offers free assessments and estimates to all prospective customers! This step allows you to ask questions and receive all cost information upfront to help you make a timely and informed decision on your garage door installation. Once you reach out, we’ll solidify a day and time for your initial assessment. These are done in-home and in-person for your convenience.

When we arrive, we will assess the garage dimensions, mechanisms, and overall integrity to rule out any additional services and repairs associated with the garage as a whole. From there, we’ll talk to you about your design preferences, desires, budget, and timeline. After taking precise measurements, we’ll explore different door options with you and walk you through the entire process so you know what to expect. Finally, you’ll receive a clear, detailed quote along with an estimated installation timeline. Our goal is to make the process as smooth, transparent, and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to get started!

2. Removing the Old Garage Door (if applicable)

Installing a new garage door typically takes anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on factors such as the opening mechanism, existing infrastructure, and wiring requirements. Once we’ve solidified a timeline, our team will arrive to begin the process.

First, we will disconnect the power supply to the door’s opener and ensure all safety measures are in place. Safety is a top priority for J.D. Griffiths and we want to ensure our garage experts and your family are safe throughout this entire process and beyond.

If you’re replacing an existing door, we’ll start by removing the old door and hardware, which may involve detaching the springs, cables, and panels. This process can take some time, depending on the door’s size and complexity.

The best part? J.D. Griffiths takes care of the entire removal and disposal process, ensuring your old door and any leftover materials are handled properly—so you don’t have to worry about a thing!

3. Preparing the Garage for the New Door

Once the old door has been removed, it’s time to prep the area for installation of the new door. Our technicians will check the garage frame for any necessary repairs during this time. This could include reinforcing the opening, making sure it’s level, and ensuring proper structural integrity.

A smooth and level surface is essential for the proper functioning of the new door. If necessary, we will clean the tracks or adjust the frame as needed.

4. Installing the New Garage Door

The installation begins with positioning the panels of the door. Depending on the door type, these panels might be pre-assembled or installed individually. J.D. Griffiths is well-seasoned in a variety of garage door models and our team will carefully attach them to the tracks.

Depending on whether you have a torsion or extension spring system, the next step is hooking everything up to the spring system. Our team will carefully position and secure the springs to provide the right tension for smooth operation. Then the horizontal and vertical tracks will be installed, ensuring they align perfectly with the door’s movement path.

If your new door includes weatherstripping or insulation, this will be applied at this stage to improve energy efficiency and protect against the elements.

5. Installing the Garage Door Opener

If you’ve chosen to have an automatic opener installed – a very common and popular garage door opener option for modern garages – the J.D. Griffiths technician will mount it on the ceiling, ensuring proper alignment with the door. The opener will be connected to the door via tracks, and the motor will be linked to the opener mechanism. The opener will be programmed, and sensors will be adjusted to make sure the door opens and closes smoothly and safely.

6. Final Adjustments

We always ensure our doors are installed properly and working well before we wrap up. Our technicians will ensure the door is properly balanced, so it doesn’t put undue stress on the opener or the springs. This ensures longevity and safe operation.

Expect several tests to ensure the door opens, closes, and stops at the right points. We will adjust the travel limit settings if needed. The safety sensors (which stop the door if an obstruction is detected) will be checked to ensure they are functioning correctly.

7. Clean-Up and Final Inspection

J.D. Griffiths doesn’t just install and dash! We will clean up the work area, removing any debris and materials from the installation process. After this step is done, we will perform a final inspection and walk you through the operation of the new door, explaining any maintenance tips and safety features.

Before leaving, we’ll ensure you’re happy with the installation, answer any questions, and provide a warranty for the work done. Expect to receive an owner’s manual or instructions for the opener and door system as well.

We will also provide advice on periodic maintenance, such as lubricating the tracks and inspecting the door’s operation, as well as what to do and who to call if any problems arise in the future.

Next Steps

With this step-by-step guide, you now know the general steps and what to expect from the installation process with J.D. Griffiths! J.D. Griffiths is licensed, insured, and experienced in all facets of garages including new builds, remodels, doors, service, and repairs. We guarantee a safe and accurate installation experience and strive for the highest customer satisfaction.Now all you have to do is book your FREE in-home assessment and quote. Give us a call (414-362-7222) or fill out the form >>>

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J.D. Griffiths has proudly served the greater Milwaukee area since 1947, building our reputation as the premiere detached garage and garage door experts. Check out more resources, examples, and information on our garage builds, renovations, door installation, and service jobs to learn more. Be sure to connect with us on social media, too! Follow J.D. Griffiths on Facebook.