Full Door Installation
Complete installation of a sectional overhead door system from start to finish
Warnings
Full door installation should only be performed by trained, experienced technicians. DASMA recommends that trained door systems technicians install garage doors — installing a door is dangerous and is not recommended for a novice.
Spring installation is the most hazardous part of this procedure. Torsion springs store lethal energy. Follow all spring-specific safety procedures.
The door must be properly balanced and all safety devices must be tested per UL 325 before the installation is considered complete.
Always follow the specific manufacturer's installation manual. This procedure provides general guidance — manufacturer instructions take precedence.
Required PPE
- Safety glasses
- Hard hat
- Leather gloves
- Steel-toed boots
Tools Required
- Complete door kit (sections, tracks, hardware, springs)
- Level (4-foot)
- Tape measure
- Socket set and wrenches
- Drill with assorted bits
- Hammer
- Sawhorses or door stands
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- C-clamps or vise grips
- Stepladder
- Safety cables (for extension spring systems)
- Shims
- Lag bolts for header bracket
Procedure — 8 Steps
Verify the opening and materials
Measure the rough opening (width, height, headroom, sideroom). Compare to the door specifications. Verify all parts are present per the manufacturer's packing list. Check sections for shipping damage.
Install the bottom section
Place the bottom section in the opening. Level it and shim as needed. Install the bottom bracket and roller on each side. The bottom brackets must be securely fastened — they bear the cable connection and spring tension.
⚠ Bottom brackets are under extreme tension when springs are loaded. Never loosen or adjust bottom brackets once springs are installed.
Stack and connect remaining sections
Place each section on top of the previous one, connecting them with hinges. Install rollers in each hinge. Work upward section by section. Ensure each section is level and flush with the one below it before proceeding.
Install vertical and horizontal tracks
Attach vertical tracks to the jamb brackets on each side. Ensure tracks are plumb and properly spaced from the door sections. Install the horizontal tracks and connect them to the vertical tracks with the curved track sections. Secure the horizontal tracks to the ceiling with angle brackets.
Install the spring system
For torsion systems: mount the spring shaft, center bracket, cable drums, and springs per the torsion spring replacement procedure. For extension systems: install springs along horizontal tracks with safety cables. Wind or tension springs per manufacturer specifications.
⚠ Follow the full torsion spring or extension spring procedure for spring installation. This is the most dangerous step.
Install and route cables
Attach cables to the bottom brackets. Route cables through the track and over to the cable drums (torsion) or through the pulley system (extension). Ensure cables are properly seated in drum grooves and taut when the door is closed.
Install the operator (if applicable)
Mount the operator per the residential or commercial operator installation procedure. Connect the door arm to the top section bracket. Program travel limits and force settings. Do not install the operator until the door is properly balanced.
Test balance, safety devices, and final inspection
Perform a full balance test per the door balance testing procedure. Install and test all safety devices (photo eyes, auto-reverse) per UL 325. Cycle the door 10+ times and check for smooth, quiet operation. Inspect all hardware for tightness. Document the installation with the door model, spring specifications, and safety test results.
⚠ Do not leave the job site until all safety devices have been tested and confirmed operational. A door without functioning safety devices must not be left in service.
Training Videos
Disclaimer: These videos are produced by third-party YouTube channels and are not affiliated with Doorbot. Video content may not align exactly with the procedures above, may depict techniques that differ from DASMA or manufacturer recommendations, and may show tasks that are dangerous if performed without proper training and equipment. Always follow the written procedure, your company's safety policies, and applicable industry standards. Use these videos as supplementary reference only.
References & Standards
- DASMA 102 — Specifications for Sectional Doors
- DASMA TDS-190 — Factors Affecting Spring Cycle Life
- DASMA — Installation Safety Guidelines
- Door manufacturer installation manual (always follow manufacturer-specific instructions)