Requirements for Handicap / Automatic Door Opener Installation

Installing a handicap (automatic) door opener requires proper door conditions, clearance, and electrical preparation to ensure safety, reliability, and a clean, professional result. Please review the requirements below before requesting an installation.

1. Door Clearance Requirements

  • A minimum of 7 inches of clear space above the door is required to install the door operator.
  • The mounting surface must be solid and free of obstacles.

2. Electrical Requirements

  • A 110V electrical power supply is required.
  • Electrical placement depends on the door opening direction (right-hand or left-hand).
  • Power should be positioned to:
    • Minimize visible wiring
    • Provide a clean and aesthetic installation

👉 Note: Today’s wireless activation systems (push buttons, wave-to-open, remotes) are the best option and help reduce wiring and wall damage.

3. Door Condition (Very Important)

Before installing an automatic door opener:

  • The door must close smoothly on its own
  • No rubbing, dragging, or resistance
  • No floor obstacles or misaligned hinges
  • Door closer must be properly adjusted

⚠️ An automatic opener will not fix a door that does not close properly.

4. Electric Strike & Lock Coordination

If the door is equipped with an electric strike:

  • The system must be programmed with a delay sequence:
    1. Electric strike releases first
    2. Door opens 2–3 seconds later
  • The maximum open time allowed is 15 seconds, according to standard accessibility rules.

5. Exterior Doors & Wind Factor

For outside doors, wind is a major factor:

  • Strong wind can force the door open or pull it violently
  • While nothing completely stops wind, installing a stronger motor reduces stress and failures
  • A stronger operator means:
    • Better performance
    • Fewer breakdowns
    • Longer equipment life

6. Additional Protection (Highly Recommended)

  • Installing 90-degree door stop chains helps protect the opener
  • Prevents damage if strong wind pulls the door aggressively
  • Significantly reduces the risk of:
    • Broken arms
    • Motor damage
    • Door frame stress

7. How to Get a FREE Estimate (Easy & Fast)

Follow these steps:

  1. Review all requirements on this page
  2. Take clear photos of:
    • Inside of the door
    • Outside of the door
    • Area above the door (showing clearance)
  3. Email the photos to us
  4. Include:
    • Installation address
    • Specify inside Montreal or outside Montreal

📩 Once these steps are completed, we will provide you with a FREE estimate.
This is the fastest and easiest way to proceed.

Contact Us

📞 Call or Text: 514-836-9097
🔐 Serrurier Shay – Automatic Door Opener Specialists

Professional installation. Clean work. Reliable solutions.
Serving Montreal and surrounding areas.