Nice Cookies

Looking to replace the non-insulated tin can that is on my house now. I have the time and will to replace the door myself. It’s a 16×7 basic door. How hard is this to DIY? Is it as easy as bolting the sections together, bolting the rollers in the track and adjusting the force control? Can I reuse the existing tracks and springs or should I get new?

Any helpful hints would be appreciated.

Thanks!!
Just get a complete kit with the correct track, rollers, and helper springs you’ll be way ahead in the long run, not to mention that you can complete it with one trip (or delivery from) the home improvement center.

There are kits out there (Wayne Dalton among others) that use a modified torsion spring that you wind up with a cordless drill and don’t have to worry about using the two steel rod hope to hell you don’t let go and chop your head off death trap old style torsion springs.

Yes, it can be a DIY project. Just follow the instructions and take your time. Having an extra set of hands or two when it comes time to stack the panels will also be helpful.
Many door options exist. Uninsulated, insulated, insulated with inner skin, insulted with inner skin and powder coated track, fancy lites, embossed panels, carriage house look, on and on.

Tosion springs aren’t a deal for first timers, but they can be learned. Better taught by a buddy who has been there than a video.

Seriously, I do overhead doors on a regular basis, and unless there are wind issues, or it’s over 8′, I do them solo. That being said, I have a system for capturing the panels so safety is preserved.
I have done this project twice, both times replacing two 9′x7′ doors. The first time I tried to use the original tracks and it caused so many problems. You want to replace the tracks unless your are certain the doors are the same. Extension springs are very easy. Torsion, not reccomended by a DIYer. Cloplay, holmes, wayne dolton are all good brands. Just read the instructions carefully and watch the installation video as well, if included. I would search the net for an install video to see if it is something you want to do. By the way a drill with a socket adapter makes the job 10 x’s easier.
Thanks for the tips guys. Did it last weekend and it wasn’t too bad. Clopay uses a DIY Torsion spring that winds with a drill. Couldn’t be easier.

Now I just have to track down a stupid roler squeal when the door operates!

No related posts.

Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.