 OW that you’ve decided you are ready to add to your home’s beauty and value by purchasing that new garage door,
the most important thing you need to remember is that you must have it installed by a professional.
This is so important, let’s say it again: have your garage door installed and serviced by a professional. This is not a job
for a DIY-er with minimal knowledge of the task at hand.
Why?
One word – safety.
For most Americans, a garage door is the largest moving object in the home. Garage doors are both large and extremely
heavy. This means that not only are they incredibly difficult to lift, but install it wrong and it can come crashing down with
unbelievable force.
The garage door springs that help the doors open are under extreme pressure and can release enough power to severely
injure or even kill someone. Specific tools and training are needed when dealing with these springs.
“Installing a garage door system is complicated, and can be a dangerous task if not done properly. A professional door
dealer will help you find the perfect door for your home, and install it correctly and safely,” said Chris Long, Managing
Director, International Door Association.
There are plenty of other jobs around your place that are perfect for the weekend warrior, but installing a new garage
door is not one of them. You want it installed correctly, functioning safely and smoothly, and you want it up right the first
time. So how do you choose a professional installer for your new garage door? Here are some questions to ask:
1. Is the installer a member in a professional association?
Look for a door dealer professional that is a member of the International Door Association (IDA). It’s the only national
association devoted to the professionalism and continuing education of garage door dealers. IDA members tend to have
more experience, more knowledge and are guided by a customer-friendly professional code of ethics. Does your local
dealer use the IDA logo in advertisements? To find an IDA member, simply provide your ZIP code at the Dealer Locator
on GarageWowNow.com and click submit.
2. How much experience does the installer have?
How long has the company been in business? If it’s a new company, do the owners have experience working in the door
and operator industry? As a general rule, the more years, the better.
3. Does the dealer have satisfied customers or reviews available?
This may be the most important checkpoint. Does the door dealer have satisfied customers? Are you willingly given phone
numbers so you can talk directly to past customers, or do you have access to letters of recommendation from customers?
4. What type of insurance coverage does the dealer have?
It is important that door dealers carry the proper insurance on their business and employees. Ask for a copy of the
company’s certificate of insurance. If it doesn’t have one or hesitates to provide it, this could be a red flag.
5. Does the dealer comply with codes and regulations?
There are many requirements that apply to safety and the installation of a garage door system. Federal, state and
local codes and regulations must be followed. Ask the dealer about how he or she complies with the codes in your city.
Selecting the right door dealer is as simple as asking a few questions. Don’t hesitate to call two dealers and ask these
same questions. They take only moments to answer, and yet they can help you find an honest, competent professional
who can solve your garage door problem.
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