Handy Man Fix Home Repair

Having a garage door opener makes life a lot easier and it can add safety features to an existing door. There are numerous kinds of opener and more kinds of doors, but for the sake of brevity, we’re going to cover installing a garage door opener that mounts on the wall above the door. This type of installation allows for more head room and can be a lot safer. The type of door for this opener is usually the type that will either fold up, or that can be raised on a track.

First, you’ll need to follow the instructions that are included with your opener. All openers are different, and while we can supply some general tips, you’ll need to make sure you are using the right tools and techniques for your particular opener. Keep these instructions in a safe place when you’re done in case you ever need to repair your opener.

Ok, let’s get started. Before you go any further, disconnect the power to the garage. First, you’re going to need to mount that opener above the garage door. Make sure that the wall is sturdy enough to handle the weight since some openers can be quite heavy. Using countersunk screws, attach the provided mounting brackets to the wall. You will need to make sure that you are attaching these brackets to a stud and that the screws are firmly in place.

Attach the wires in the motor to the switch on the wall. You may need some additional help from a qualified electrician if this is a brand new installation. If you’re just replacing an opener, follow the instructions to hook up the wires correctly. Make sure that you do everything correctly - wiring is not something you want to mess with. IMPORTANT: make sure that you properly hookup the emergency disconnect device. This will save a life if someone gets trapped under the door.

Now, attach the motor to the brackets, taking special care to make sure that it is secure. Attach the motor to the door using the provided belts or chains. Again, all openers are different, so at this point you will need to refer back to your instructions. Set that emergency disconnect device to MANUAL before going any further.

Raise up the door until it is completely up and then put it back down until it is completely down. Make sure that there aren’t any hitches in its movement. It should be fluid and as noise free as possible. Keep in mind that belt attachments are usually much quieter than chains.

Plug in the opener and then set up the remote control. Follow your unit’s instructions. Clean up the area and double check all connections. Turn the power back on and test the unit. Please note that it’s best to be outside of the garage during testing to avoid getting trapped inside. (It does happen.) Once you’re sure everything is working properly, you’re all set - go have a cold drink and celebrate!

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Creative Homeowner’s series on home improvements includes this title and it is well worth the read. It’s a short read, coming in at around 80 pages, but don’t let the size fool you. Basements Step by Step Projects is packed with information and projects that will have you turning your basement into a paradise during your weekends. It’s intended audience is beginners or those with at least some DIY experience. It probably won’t have enough information for a professional, but for the right audience, this is an invaluable book.

It starts with how to plan out your basement changes in a logical manner. One of the best parts is that it includes information that a lot of us may not know about. For example, if you are planning on adding a bedroom to your basement, there is one safety feature that you absolutely have to have - a window or an outside door. Most people don’t even consider this, and it’s incredibly unsafe. You need to provide that occupant with a safety exit or you may even risk a fine from your housing authority.

It’s little tips like this that make the book well worth the time and purchase price. You’ll get step by step instructions on how to plan out your changes, and put them into action. Pretty much everything is covered, from how to figure out minimum square foot requirements for different types of rooms, safety features, water hazards and much more. Before you get started, read the chapter on existing basements so that you can find out how your basement was constructed. You’ll need to know this before going any further since it will affect the type of improvements that you can add.

Possibly the best feature of this book is that it includes projects that are truly useful for every day life. From building a sump pump to getting those stairs fixed, you’ll find countless tips that will make it a lot easier to safely and effectively modify your basement. Instructions on how to frame out doors and windows are included, which is vital if you plan to add living space to your basement, as mentioned above.

Too many how to books throw out information and projects and never really get into exactly how you’re supposed to do it, or the dangers that you need to keep in mind. This book definitely breaks that mold and provides absolutely everything you could ever need to get a project done. It’s like having a contractor right there with you, without having to pay the exorbitant fees.

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