Door Sections, Hinges & Hardware
Section installation, hinge numbering and spacing, roller types, struts, stiles, and fastener selection for various substrates.
- Install door sections with correct top fixture placement
- Identify hinge numbering positions and proper fastener spacing
- Select roller types including long-stem rollers for specific applications
- Determine when struts and center stiles are required for reinforcement
Lesson 1
Section Installation & Top Fixture Placement
Door Section Assembly
Garage door sections are installed from the bottom up. The bottom section is placed first, followed by each subsequent section stacked on top. Each section connects to the adjacent section through hinges that allow the door to bend as it transitions through the track curve.
The top fixture (also called the top bracket or top roller bracket) mounts on the top section and holds the top rollers. These top rollers ride in both the vertical track and into the curve section. The top fixture placement is critical - it must be centered on the section width and positioned at the correct height to align with the track.
Section Alignment
As sections are stacked, check that they are level and that the hinge barrel holes align properly. Misaligned sections cause binding and premature hinge wear. The sections should be flush on the interior face with no step between panels.
Door sections install from the bottom up, with the top fixture placement being critical for proper track alignment. Verify each section is level and flush with adjacent panels before proceeding upward.