Has anyone ever fitted one of these that was supplied by one of the well known DIY retailers..WICKES etc...if so...comments please and costs and time taken to fit.

Mucho merci.

I got mine from Screwfix:

http://www.screwfix.com/app/sfd/cat/pro.jsp?id=14766&ts=79186

180 quid, plus 50 for the canopy arm (if your door needs it, mine did not). If you are fine with DIY, it will not take you long. It took me about 3 hours plus, an extra hour to fit the additional power supply.

A word of warning - your door will be easier to break into, as you need to disconnect the catches. I did not mind, as they were pretty flimsy anyway.

I've fitted two autolok stoppas to the door, and an ingenious solution (even if I do say so myself) to stop the door from trying to open when locked with the stoppas: a simple reed switch :D

Mikey, I think you'll find that the door is actually MORE secure as the operator is acting as a lock, and people can't see it, so they may not know it's there, I have seen door destroyed b4 entry was gained!!

Just make sure that the release catch which connects the door to the chain isn't accessible from outside...

Fitted a couple myself - it's not too difficult unless you need to re-hang the door (as I did). Automatic openers are generally only suitable if the door is horizontally tracked, (i.e. will not work with vertical tracks). If you have a vertically tracked door, if we have to be re-hung.

With regards to disconnecting the catches, you can buy a fitting that automatically opens and closes latches, thus making the door much more secure. Look here (http://www.amourelle.co.uk/securidor.htm) for more info.

Another "trick" is to attach the emergency release catch to the existing door handle, such that turning the handle triggers the release. This means that if something fails, you can use your key to unlock the handle and open the door manually.

Thanks for the advice...I will be looking into it further.

Russ

Fitted loads of them ..... What with being a garage door fitter and all .... The one from Screwfix would be my choice if I was you , made by Chamberlain (and is I think the 4410, which is what I fit all the time) has 800N power (80Kg lift) , I would advise though , DO NOT FIT ONE TO A CANOPY DOOR (with a spring along the top of the door) . you get them set up , but there will always be trouble lurking!!

If you need any more info , give me a cal on 07786 077 329 , and I'll be happy to point you in the right direction.

Nathan.

Nathan,

Could you recommend a good secure make of garage door, or are they all much of a muchness?

Ta,
Nick./

Nick

Henderson retractable comes with four point spring latching as standard (and is THE action if you want it automated) ... Canopy door comes with two point spring latching as standard with the addition of roller bracket restraints as well , so the door can't be forced open ... I always fit Henderson as they are very strong.

Nathan

click here for Henderson operating gear (http://www.pchenderson.com/pages/content.php?menu_id=3.2.1.4)

Nathan.

Thanks Nathan, most appreciated. Might think about DIY if I'm feeling brave...

If you follow the instructions, you'll be okay ... But doing it all the time , I know all the shortcuts (as you probably do with your trade).

Nate.