garage door replacement

[Fred]

Hello,

We have an up-and-over door which is causing some problems.

First the wires have got tangled on the left hand side.

Another day, the wire on the right hand side got tangled.

Ok, it was a DIY job to untangle and refit but these things always happen at the worst time, when you are rushing to get somewhere, and it really helps to have a second man to help lower the door.

Now one of the rollers keeps falling out of the track.

I know I could but a replacement roller and wire kit but I don't know whether it would be easier to rip it all out and start again. At least then I could have some trouble free months.

I think this would give me the opportunity to replace the frame. I think the frame is not true at the one side, which means there is a slight gap along the pone edge of the door. I worry that this is a security risk. I think this is responsible for the roller jumping out now and again.

Also the piece of wood across the top of the frame does not look too secure. I think it is just nailed into the side pieces and I am sure it seems to twist a little as the door goes up and down.

I would like to take it all out and fit a more sturdy frame.

Do you think I am overreacting? Should I repair what I have got and save some time and money?

If I have to remove the old door, how easy is that? I'm worried about the spring.

I presume the new door comes pre-tensioned and I just remove a locking pin when I am finished?

Thanks.

[Stuart Noble]

Might be worth checking to see what a contractor would charge IIRC it's one of those areas where it's less than you might think.

[A.Lee]

Fred wrote: Garage up and over door woes.

I have only dealt with Henderson doors, but I think the majority are very similar in design.

The spring tension is held by putting a split pin, or other suitable piece of metal through a hole at the left hand end (from the inside of the garage, loooking at the rear of the door) of the shaft, usually between the metal bracket that is screwed to the lintel (top beam).

Always make sure this shaft is locked when taking them apart, as they are a bloody swine to get retensioned.They do swing up fast if not locked, but IMO, it isnt dangerous, unless you have your head directly in line with it. The cone rollers and wire strings are £20 for a new set. The runners that are screwed to the door uprights are held by 2 screws - top and bottom. If they are not true with the door, then one of the rollers on the door will continually come out. They should be a close, but not tight fit all the way up. A new door is £175 upwards. Your door is probably still ok, but just needs a little adjustment to get it straight and secure. Alan.

[A.Lee]

I still dont know my left from right - the hole in the shaft is at the RIGHT hand end, when inside the garage. Alan.