A garage high lift kit is an essential upgrade for homeowners who need more clearance for larger vehicles or require additional headroom in their garage. Whether you're looking to accommodate an oversized vehicle, create extra storage space, or simply want to enhance the functionality of your garage, installing a high lift garage door kit could be the ideal solution. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of installing a high lift garage door, the components involved, installation process, and how to maintain this advanced system to ensure long-term performance.
What Is a Garage High Lift Kit?
A garage high lift kit is a system designed to modify the operation of your garage door by allowing it to open higher than a standard door. This modification increases the vertical clearance of your garage, allowing for taller vehicles, more overhead storage, and greater functionality. It essentially changes the angle of the tracks and lifts the door higher, resulting in increased headroom for your garage.Why Should You Consider a Garage High Lift Kit?
A high lift kit for your garage door can provide a variety of benefits that enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your garage. Here are some of the main reasons why you might consider upgrading to a high lift system:- Accommodate Taller Vehicles
If you own tall vehicles, such as SUVs, trucks, or vans, a high lift garage door is a perfect solution. Standard garage doors may not offer sufficient clearance, making it difficult to park larger vehicles comfortably.
- Increase Storage Space
With increased headroom, you can utilize the upper part of your garage more efficiently. You can add overhead shelves, cabinets, or lofts for additional storage, freeing up valuable floor space for other uses.
- Improve Garage Aesthetics
A high lift kit can provide a modern, streamlined look for your garage, enhancing its visual appeal. This is particularly important for homes where the garage is an integral part of the exterior design.
- Better Garage Door Operation
A high lift system can improve the way your garage door opens, offering smoother operation and reducing wear and tear on the components. The door opens with a gentler curve, which minimizes stress on the springs and tracks.
Components of a Garage High Lift Kit
A high lift garage door kit involves several components that work together to achieve the desired higher opening. These components include:1. High Lift Tracks
These tracks are essential for guiding the door as it opens to a higher position. The tracks are designed with a steeper curve than the standard tracks to ensure that the door clears the desired amount of space.2. Extension Springs
To support the additional weight and height of the door, high lift kits often require stronger extension springs. These springs help balance the door, allowing it to open smoothly without putting excessive strain on the opener.3. Cables and Pulleys
Cables and pulleys help move the garage door along the high lift tracks. The cables support the weight of the door and ensure that it lifts evenly.4. Roller Assembly
The rollers allow the door to move along the tracks smoothly. High lift kits often require specialized rollers that are more durable and capable of handling the added weight and height.5. Door Brackets and Hardware
These support the tracks and the rollers, ensuring proper alignment. The brackets and hardware must be sturdy enough to handle the increased load and stress associated with the high lift system.How Does a Garage High Lift Kit Work?
A garage high lift kit works by modifying the standard garage door track system. When installed, the system raises the point at which the door begins to curve, allowing the door to open higher than it would on a standard setup.Here’s how it works in more detail:
- Standard Operation: In a standard garage door system, the door operates on horizontal tracks that guide the door as it opens and closes. The door begins to curve after a certain point, typically within the first few feet of travel.
- High Lift System: With a high lift system, the tracks are adjusted to have a steeper curve. This allows the door to travel vertically for a longer distance before the curve begins, effectively increasing the total height of the opening.
Benefits of Installing a Garage High Lift Kit
The installation of a high lift garage door system offers several key benefits to homeowners, particularly those with specific needs or preferences:1. Increased Headroom and Clearance
A high lift kit provides additional headroom, allowing you to park taller vehicles in your garage. It’s ideal for SUVs, trucks, and vans, which often need more space to park safely and comfortably.2. Better Garage Utilization
With more vertical clearance, you can make better use of your garage’s space. This extra height allows for overhead storage options like shelves, cabinets, or lofts, which help you optimize every inch of your garage for storage.3. Smooth and Efficient Door Operation
By reducing the amount of horizontal travel needed for the door to open, a high lift system can result in smoother and more efficient operation. The door opens with less effort and stress, reducing wear on components and making it easier to open and close.4. Enhanced Aesthetics and Design Flexibility
A high lift system can also enhance the visual appeal of your garage. Whether you’re designing a modern garage or simply upgrading your existing space, a high lift door provides a sleek and modern look that complements many architectural styles.How to Install a Garage High Lift Kit
While installing a high lift garage door kit is a feasible DIY project for experienced homeowners, it’s recommended to hire a professional for the installation to ensure safety and proper alignment. Here’s an overview of the steps involved:- Assess the Garage Space
First, determine how much additional height you need and make sure your garage space can accommodate the higher tracks.
- Remove the Existing Garage Door
If you’re upgrading from a standard door, the existing door, tracks, springs, and hardware will need to be removed before installing the high lift kit.
- Install the High Lift Tracks
The new high lift tracks will need to be carefully measured and installed, ensuring they are aligned properly to allow the door to open smoothly.
- Install New Springs, Cables, and Pulleys
The springs, cables, and pulleys are adjusted to accommodate the additional weight and height of the door. This step is critical for ensuring that the door operates efficiently and safely.
- Install the Door and Test Operation
Once all components are in place, the door itself is installed, and the entire system is tested to ensure it operates smoothly. Adjustments may be needed to fine-tune the system for optimal performance.
Maintenance Tips for Your High Lift Garage Door
To ensure the longevity and smooth operation of your high lift garage door, regular maintenance is essential. Here are a few tips to keep your system in top condition:- Lubricate the Tracks and Rollers
Regularly apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tracks and rollers to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.
- Check Springs and Cables for Wear
Inspect the springs and cables periodically for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any issues, consult a professional to replace them before they fail.
- Test the Balance of the Door
Check the balance of the door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, the springs may need to be adjusted.
- Clean and Maintain the Tracks
Keep the tracks free of debris and dirt to prevent jams. Wipe down the tracks regularly to maintain a smooth surface for the rollers to travel.