In the event that you have a hurricane heading your way, you should install a wind load post on your garage door. The team here at Neighborhood Garage Door Service of New Haven, CT wants you to be safe during storms. We put together a guide to help you reinforce your garage door.
Here’s what you need to do to install a wind load post.
1. Identify The Parts From Your Wind Load Post Installation Kit
After you purchase a wind post installation kit, you will need to take out all of the parts. Make sure you read the instructions to identify what each part does. Many kits come with parts such as:
- Half Hinges
- Header Lock Brackets
- Strap Brackets
- Plate Extensions
- J-Struts
- Straps
- Wing Nuts
- Windload Post
- Carriage Bolts
- Slide Lock Kit
- Bottom Bracket Assembly
- Slide Lock
- Plastic Plug
- Screws of Various Sizes
Each of these parts will help you to install your post in the center of the door. Make sure you have all parts before you begin.
2. Gather The Necessary Tools
In addition to the parts in your kit, you will need certain tools to make the installation. Here are the tools you will need for this project:
- Drill
- 3/16 Drill Bit
- 7/16 Drill Bit
- ⅝ X 4 Masonry Drill
- Tape Measure
- Step Ladder or Chair
- Level
- Safety Glasses
- Pencil
3. Install The Top Bracket
To start the installation process, you will need to place the header lock bracket.
- Use your pencil to mark a vertical line on the header.
- Make sure it is aligned with the J-struts.
- Take the tape measure and mark a line 2 inches above the door jamb.
- Screw in the lock bracket.
4. Install The Bottom Bracket
After you have the top bracket in place, you will need to install the bottom bracket. It has the same steps as the top bracket.
5. Mark the Post Hold Placement
Take your pencil and mark a centerline on the floor in line with the J-struts. You will need to use a masonry bit to drill into the concrete. After you drill the hole, clean it out completely.
6. Top Plate Extension and Strap Bracket Installation
Find the top plate extension and the top strap bracket in your kit. Use the ¼ x ⅞ self-drilling screws to put the parts together. Don’t tighten the strap bracket completely until the wind load post is in place. Then you can tighten the screws on all of the straps.
7. Install the Side Lock
After the post is in position, drill holes to install the side lock. This square lock assembly is designed to reinforce the post. Make sure you leave ⅛ inch from the section edge when you screw it into place.
Contact Us Today For Garage Door Damage
If your garage door is damaged in a hurricane, call the team here at Neighborhood Garage Door Service of New Haven, CT. We will send one of our technicians out to your address as soon as we can. Our company is available to you any time of the day.
