Understanding the Role of a Garage Door Reinforcement Strut
The reinforcement strut is a crucial yet often overlooked component of a garage door. It provides vital structural support to the door, helping to prevent sagging, cracking, and other damage over time. Many homeowners remain unaware of its existence until it’s pointed out during repairs or inspections. Installing a reinforcement strut can be a cost-effective way to extend the lifespan of your garage door, potentially saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars in future repairs.
What Is the Purpose of a Garage Door Strut?
The primary function of a garage door strut is to bolster the strength of the top section of the door. Typically, a top reinforcement strut comes standard on all double-width garage doors, and it is an optional upgrade for single-width doors. When the door sustains impact or begins to sag due to age, the strut helps distribute the load evenly across the door’s panels, especially during operation. Specifically designed for garage door applications, a U-shaped reinforcement strut effectively transfers load to the end stiles and rollers, maintaining the structural integrity of the door over time.
Is Reinforcement Strut Necessary for Your Garage Door?
Yes, in most cases. Double-width garage doors that are over 18 feet wide require at least two reinforcement struts to maintain stability, especially if they are taller than standard 7 feet. For single-width doors, the necessity of a top strut largely depends on whether an automatic opener will be installed. If you plan to add an automatic garage door opener, installing a reinforcement strut becomes highly recommended to prevent cracking and sagging over time. While some may consider skipping this step, it’s a preventative measure that ensures long-term functionality and safety.
Does Installing a Reinforcement Strut Improve Garage Door Opener Performance?
Absolutely. When an automatic opener is added to a garage door, a reinforcement strut is essential. It provides additional support to the top section, reducing stress on the door’s structure during frequent opening and closing cycles. Without this reinforcement, the top panel may develop cracks or begin to sag, which can cause operational issues and reduce the lifespan of the door. Thus, installing a top strut not only enhances structural stability but also promotes smoother, more reliable operation of your automatic opener.
Optimal Placement of the Garage Door Strut
The first reinforcement strut should be installed on the top section of all double-width garage doors and single-width doors with automatic openers. Typically, this strut is positioned immediately beneath the hinge at the top of the section. When repairing or reinforcing a door, it’s best to install a full-width strut spanning the entire section, attached at the ends to the end stiles. Proper placement ensures the load is evenly distributed, reducing stress on hinges and rollers, and maintaining the door’s shape and functionality over time.
Reinforcing Sagging Garage Doors
If your garage door is sagging in the middle, adding a reinforcement strut can be a cost-effective solution that significantly prolongs its life. A quality, thicker gauge (such as 20 gauge) steel strut can restore the structural integrity of the door, preventing further sagging and damage. This inexpensive upgrade can save you from costly replacements and repairs, especially if the sag is caused by cracks or weakened panels.
Using Punched Angle as a Reinforcement Option
While some may consider using punched angle steel as a reinforcement method, it’s important to do so correctly. Improper installation—such as placing an angle only in the middle of a section—can cause more harm than good by adding unnecessary weight and causing further sagging. For optimal strength, the angle should span the full width of the section and be securely attached to the end stiles. If you choose to use punched angle, select at least 14 gauge steel, with 12 gauge being preferable for durability and longevity. Avoid using shorter pieces or partial reinforcements, as they won’t provide the necessary support and may compromise the door’s structural stability.
Full Reinforcement for Large Garage Doors
For wider doors, such as 17 or 18 feet in width, installing full reinforcement struts on each section is highly recommended. Standard doors typically come with one top strut, but requesting full-length reinforcement on all sections significantly enhances durability. For doors with four sections, three full-length struts (one per section) are standard, but adding an extra strut can further strengthen the entire structure, extending its service life and reducing the likelihood of damage from impacts or wear.
Longevity of Garage Door Struts
High-quality garage door reinforcement struts can last many years, provided they are made from durable material. Historically, 20-gauge steel was the standard, but as material costs have risen, 22 and 24-gauge options have become more common. For optimal durability, it’s advisable to specify or purchase struts made from 20-gauge steel, which offers superior strength and longevity. Proper installation and regular maintenance will ensure your strut remains effective for years to come.
Installing Multiple Struts: How Many Are Too Many?
When reinforcing a garage door, you can typically add up to two additional full-length struts without needing to replace the existing springs. This is especially useful if the door feels heavy or unbalanced after reinforcement. If the door becomes difficult to operate manually or with the automatic opener, a professional can adjust the springs to restore proper balance, ensuring smooth operation and reducing strain on the opener and other components.
Where to Purchase Garage Door Struts
Locating quality garage door reinforcement struts can be challenging, especially for longer lengths such as 16 or 18 feet. Big-box retailers like Home Depot and Lowes usually do not stock these specialized parts. Instead, your best option is to consult a local garage door dealer or specialty supplier. These businesses often sell parts directly to homeowners and can recommend the right gauge and length for your specific needs. Visiting a local dealer ensures you get a durable, properly sized reinforcement strut that fits your garage door perfectly.
Purchasing Garage Door Struts Online
While some sellers list multi-piece or segmented struts on platforms like Amazon, their use is generally discouraged. Because a garage door strut bears significant load, a single, solid piece is far more reliable than assembled segments, which may weaken over time. For critical load-bearing applications, always opt for a one-piece, high-quality steel reinforcement to ensure maximum strength and durability.
Final Thoughts
The garage door reinforcement strut is an unsung hero that plays a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and longevity of your garage door. Although it often goes unnoticed, its importance cannot be overstated. Remember to select a 20-gauge steel strut whenever possible, and if your door is wider or shows signs of sagging, investing in full-length reinforcement on each section can dramatically improve performance. Proper placement and installation will guarantee years of reliable service, making your garage door safer, stronger, and more durable.