Published by TNGD
Precision Measurements, Requirements, and Cost Considerations
A highlift garage door system is a specialized upgrade for those looking to maximize vertical space, especially in garages with tall ceilings or unique structural designs. This conversion can accommodate everything from ceiling storage to housing taller vehicles, making it a highly sought-after service. At Top-Notch Garage Doors (TNGD), we prioritize educating our clients on the intricacies involved in highlift projects to ensure an informed decision and a seamless installation.
Understanding Highlift Garage Door Systems
A highlift garage door system extends the vertical movement of the door before it transitions to the horizontal position near the ceiling. This allows for more vertical clearance, making the space under the door more usable for lifts or taller vehicles. Key components include:
- Extended vertical tracks: Allow the door to rise higher before curving.
- Heavy-duty torsion springs: Required to handle the altered load distribution.
- Longer cables: Ensure proper tension and smooth operation.
- Jackshaft openers: Mounted on the wall instead of the ceiling for better efficiency.
Please take note of the following information:
Critical Measurements and Requirements
One of the most crucial aspects of a highlift conversion is ensuring that the garage structure can accommodate the extended movement of the door. Specific measurements need to be taken to determine whether a highlift system is feasible.
Ceiling Height
The ceiling height is the most critical consideration. The general rule of thumb is that you need at least 12-18 inches of additional height above the garage door's top edge for the highlift to be effective. However, more vertical clearance often provides smoother operation and additional room for overhead storage.
- Minimum height for a standard door: 12 inches beyond the door height.
- For large doors (e.g., 10 ft or taller): At least 18 inches of space is recommended.
Roof Pitch and Layout
If your garage has a pitched roof, the height at the highest point needs to be measured. For roofs with steeper angles, the highlift conversion must take into account how the door will track along the slope. It may be possible to extend the vertical rise further, but this requires specialized track systems and potentially more reinforcement.
For example:
- Moderate pitch (5/12 slope): A standard highlift track setup works well.
- Steep pitch (8/12 or more): Custom bracing or track extensions may be needed to ensure the door doesn’t interfere with the roof's structure.
Considerations for Highlift Garage Door Conversions
Converting a standard garage door to a highlift system involves modifying or replacing several key components. The cost of the conversion depends on factors such as the size of the door, the material, and the complexity of the installation. Here are some cost considerations to keep in mind:
1. Track System: Custom vertical and horizontal tracks need to be installed. Prices range from $300 to $500, depending on the size of the garage door and the complexity of the installation.
2. Torsion Springs: The springs need to be carefully calibrated to handle the new weight distribution. Upgraded springs may be required, costing between $150 and $250.
3. Lift Cables and Drums: Longer, heavy-duty cables and specialized drums for highlift systems can add an additional $100 to $200 to the cost.
4. Garage Door Opener: If your current opener is not compatible with the highlift system, a new jackshaft opener will be needed, typically costing $500 to $700.
5. Labor and Installation: Professional installation ensures the system is correctly calibrated and balanced. Labor costs range between $600 and $1,200, depending on the complexity of the project and additional reinforcements required.
In total, highlift conversions usually range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on garage specifications and the quality of components.
Structural Reinforcement and Bracing
One often overlooked aspect of highlift installations is the structural integrity of the garage. The increased vertical rise and larger forces exerted on the tracks mean that reinforcement may be necessary, especially for older garages or those with weak walls.
Remember the following key considerations for highlift garage doors:
- Track mounting: It's crucial to secure the tracks properly. Additional bracing may be needed for garages with insufficient ceiling or wall support.
- Wall bracing: If the vertical tracks need significant extension, additional supports may be necessary to prevent lateral movement or vibration during operation.
Highlift garage door systems are particularly beneficial for:
- Storage optimization: Adding ceiling-mounted storage racks is possible with the extra overhead clearance.
- Vehicle accommodations: Garages designed for RVs, trucks, or vehicle lifts benefit greatly from the additional vertical space.
- Workshop environments: In industrial or commercial settings, highlift doors provide more workspace flexibility, allowing for large machinery or stacked equipment.
Conclusion
A high-lift conversion is a technically demanding upgrade, but the benefits in terms of space efficiency and functionality are significant. At TNGD, we handle the entire process - from detailed measurements to the final adjustments - with precision and expertise. If you’re considering enhancing your garage with a high-lift system, contact us for a full assessment.
Reach out to Top-Notch Garage Doors today for expert advice and a detailed consultation on transforming your garage space.
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