Garage door strut is a top bar which is normally U-shaped that prevents the top sections from bending. The warping of the top sections happens when there’s an opener. The strut is commonly used on the doors that are 10- foot wide hence the strut should measure up to that width. Due to exposure to moisture and other environmental factors, the strut may rust or get damaged. In this case, replacement is in order best performed by a skilled Fort Lauderdale garage door repair man. However, the following DIY steps may help:

Measure the door’s width

Before buying a strut, ensure that you’ve taken the right measurements of the width of the door. This helps in buying the correct size of the strut for adequate protection. If you aren’t sure of the required size, engage a garage door technician in Fort Lauderdale to take the measurement and advice you on the best strut material to invest on.

Disengage the power code

Close the door either using an automatic opener or by pulling it down and engaging the lock bar. Disconnect the power supply right from the ceiling. This is an important step as it prevents someone from accidently using the remote to operate the door.

Identify the hex head screws

This applies if there’s an old strut to be replaced. Place a ladder and take note of all the hex head screws holding the strut in place. At times there may be some clips which are basically small pieces of metals that hold the strut in place. Remove the screws using the 3/8 inch socket wrench and place them in a safe place as you’ll need them. Start by removing the screws holding the top edge of the strut in place and later the ones holding the bottom part.

Fix the strut

Line up the new strut along the door section ensuring that the mounting hole located at the center is just next to the screw hole on the door stile at the center. Push the edge of the strut under the fixtures ready for fastening.

Fix the retaining screws

Fix the retaining screws and fasten them with the hands first and then insert the screws along the strut. Use the socket wrench to fasten them. Assess whether the new strut is in need of more screw holes and use the ¼ inch drill bit to make them.

Plug the opener code back

Once you are certain that the strut is tightly held in place, plug in the power code back on the ceiling. Test the opener to ensure that the door is opening and closing as it should. If you notice a problem, contact Eden Garage Doors for professional strut installation.