Garage Door Install & Repair Business Overview
A garage door installation business provides services to install, maintain, and repair residential and commercial garage doors and their operating systems. These businesses work with homeowners, builders, contractors, and property managers to install new doors and maintain existing ones.
The work involves mechanical knowledge of door systems, understanding of safety requirements, and skills in both electrical and construction trades since garage doors connect to home electrical systems and require proper mounting to building structures.
The most common business models in garage door installation include:
- Full-Service Installation: Installation of new garage doors and openers for residential and commercial properties, along with repairs and maintenance of existing systems.
- Service and Repair Specialist: Focus on maintenance, repairs, and parts replacement for existing garage door systems without new installation services.
- Commercial Specialist: Primarily serving warehouses, storage facilities, and other commercial properties with heavy-duty door systems.
Related: Checklist To Start A Business
How Do Garage Door Installation Businesses Make Money?
Garage door installation companies earn revenue by selling and installing garage door systems. Companies purchase doors and components from manufacturers at wholesale prices and sell them to customers at retail prices, adding labor charges for installation.
A typical installation project includes the door panels, tracks, springs, rollers, and automatic opener system. Installation prices vary based on door size, material type, and additional features like insulation or windows.
- Maintenance Services: Regular upkeep, lubrication, and adjustment of garage door systems to prevent future issues
- Parts Sales: Selling replacement components like springs, rollers, and electronic parts directly to customers
- Commercial Service Contracts: Ongoing maintenance agreements with commercial properties or homeowners associations
Industry Statistics
The garage door installation industry covers companies that install, repair, and maintain garage doors for residential and commercial properties. This industry operates under NAICS code 238290 – Other Building Equipment Contractors. Here are some statistics that show how this industry has performed and where it’s headed.
Garage Door Installation Industry Size & Growth: The garage door installation industry generated $458.4 million in revenue last year. The industry has shown strong performance, with an average annual growth of 7% over the past five years. Growth projections remain positive, with an annual increase of 5.2% through 2029, supported by rising new home construction and ongoing demand for garage door replacements in existing structures. (IBISWorld)
Number of Garage Door Installation Businesses: There are 216 garage door installation businesses operating in the U.S. Two major companies dominate the market: Precision Door Service and Sanwa Holdings Corporation. Precision Door Service operates through a franchise model and has expanded its franchise locations by 30.4% over the last three years. Together, these companies control a significant portion of the market, with Precision Door Service generating $201.8 million in revenue and Sanwa Holdings Corporation generating $178.9 million. (IBISWorld)
Garage Door Installation Profit Margin: The average profit margin for garage door installation businesses is 10.3%. (IRS)
Startup Stories
Also See: Ideas for Naming a Garage Door Installation Business
Costs To Start a Garage Door Installation Business
Starting a garage door installation business typically costs between $50,000 and $125,000. The range varies based on the scale of operations and the equipment needed to perform installations.
There are several expenses when starting, but here are some of the more expensive items to plan for:
Tools and Equipment: Professional garage door installation requires specialized tools and equipment, costing between $15,000 and $30,000. This includes electric drills, levels, wrenches, track benders, spring winding bars, ladders, and power tools. A work vehicle like a cargo van or truck is also needed to transport doors and equipment to job sites.
Initial Inventory: The first inventory purchase typically ranges from $20,000 to $50,000. This includes different types and sizes of garage doors, springs, tracks, rollers, hinges, and electronic openers. Having a variety of doors and parts readily available allows for faster service and installation times.
Insurance Coverage: Insurance costs range from $2,000 to $5,000 annually. Installation businesses need general liability insurance to protect against property damage and injuries, as well as coverage for vehicles and equipment.
Training and Certifications: Training programs and certifications cost between $1,500 and $3,000. These programs teach proper installation techniques, safety procedures, and troubleshooting methods for the different garage door systems.
These estimates are rough figures and will vary depending on location and business size.