How to remove your old garage door?

If you are replacing an existing door, we advise you to replace all the parts so to avoid non-visible worn or damaged parts (rollers, screws, panels…). Furthermore, you will almost certainly need to change the springs since their dimension and strength depend on the weight of the door. Indeed the doors’ weight differs greatly whether they are made of aluminium, wood or steel.

Tools:

Thick gloves Spanner 10 and 13 mm (maybe others) 2 metal rods around 1 cm thick. Hammer and crowbar Crosshead and flat screwdrivers Ladder or stepladder

Suggested tools Screw gun and impact wrench with 10 and 13 mm sockets. Miter saw / angle grinder Allen key set

SPRINGS (IF SECTIONAL DOOR)

Do not try to remove the spring system, the parts attached to it or the cables without removing the spring system’s tension first.

The springs compensate the weight of the door. When they are under tension, any uncontrolled or sudden release is dangerous and may cause serious injuries.

You should therefore release the pressure before dismantling your garage door.

SPRINGS REMOVAL:

First, lock the door in CLOSED position. You may use the bolt installed on the door or use grip-pliers / locking pliers to prevent the door from moving up.

Then, tighten the springs’ axle with grip-pliers / locking pliers by leaning on the wall or any other available support (to prevent the spring axle/shaft from revolving during the procedure).Then, insert a metal rod in one of the holes of the spring, HOLD IT FIRMLY UPWARDS, and unscrew the setscrews with a 10 mm spanner (often 2 screws per spring).

Slowly let the spring loosen and insert the other rod in the following hole; you may now remove the previous rod (while firmly holding the new one). Continue the same manipulations until complete unwinding of the spring. Repeat the process with the second spring.

REMOVAL OF THE PANELS AND next step:

You may now detach the cables and remove the grip pliers / locking pliers, and continue detaching the panels, starting from the one at the top.

Advice: disassemble the door with the help of someone. On disassembling it, one can hold the panel whilst the other removes all the screws; indeed, as soon as the wheels and the screws are removed, the panel is no longer supported and may fall. Repeat the same process for all the panels.

You may now remove the complete structure of the door (jamb, rails, spacer bar etc.). Always start with the parts from the top.

Attention :

• If your rails are set into concrete, gently break it to avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Always beware not to damage the façade: it is best to take your time to disassemble rather than having to repair.