DIY Tips Archives – Page 2 of 7

You know those ugly tracks that your garage door is raised onto when it opens? Some people don't want to see them. How can you hide them? There are two common ways you can hide garage door tracks. One is to build a dummy ceiling over the garage door tracks and railing. The second alternative is to cover the garage door tracks using fabric. Here is a step-by-step guide using either of the two alternatives to help you cover your garage door tracks. Whether you are looking for a DIY solution or a professional, the process is the same. How To Hide Garage Door Tracks The first option to hide the tracks is to create a dummy ceiling, where the ceiling hides the tracks of the garage door. This way, the door slides above the dummy ceiling. The benefit of this option is that the ceiling blends into the interior. The disadvantage is that you have to install it throughout the whole garage. The second option of covering just the tracks may not blend in as well, but covers are cheap and easy to install. How To Hide Garage Tracks Using A Dummy Ceiling Before we dive into the step-by-step guide, you will need a measuring tape, material, or fabric to cover the tracks, drill, and screws. Step 1: Determine The Material To Use When determining the material to use, you can get creative and push the boundaries with versatile materials that can spruce up your interior. Some of the materials you can use are plywood, PVC ceiling boards, gypsum boards, and fiberglass. One important tip is to choose a durable and affordable material that blends well with your garage interior. Now that we have determined what material to use, the next step is to take measurements of the garage tracks. Step 2: Measure the Garage Tracks Use a measuring tape that is at least 100 feet long* to take your measurements. If you are putting up a dummy ceiling, measure the length and width of your garage. Then measure the height of about 2-3 feet from the garage door tracks. This measurement is the height you should leave between the garage door and the ceiling to allow the garage door to retract without any problems. Once you are done taking measurements, the next step involves preparing your materials for installation. Step 3: Material Preparation To install the ceiling, you will need to prepare the material you intend to use first. This involves cutting into the required shape. Any other preparation that is required, like sanding the wood, is also done at this point. If the support beams for the ceiling are not installed, the next step is to install them as you install the ceiling. Step 4: Installation After you have installed the ceiling support beams (if needed), it’s time to install the dummy ceiling. You will need a drill and some screws to ensure the ceiling boards are well-fastened. Once you have installed the ceiling, you can paint it your desired color. Now that you are done installing the ceiling, it is safe to say that all the garage door tracks are completely hidden. When you open your garage door, the door retracts into the ceiling. How To Hide Garage Door Tracks With Fabric Although an effective way of hiding garage door tracks, this method may not give you the seamless results of the other method. However, it is affordable and very easy to install. For this method, you will only need fabric, measuring tape, and a staple gun. Step 1: Clear The Garage Remove the car or any items you may have stored from your working area. A clear working space will make it easier for you to work. The next step is to measure the door tracks and rails accurately. Step 2: Take and Record Measurements Using a tape measure, measure the garage door tracks. Accurately taking the measurements will ensure that you create a suitable inside garage door cover. Be sure to take into account that you want to leave some space between the tracks and the fabric cover so that the garage door can move. After taking accurate measurements, it is time to cut the fabric to the necessary dimensions. Step 3: Cut The Fabric It is advisable to use a soft but durable fabric like canvas*. Cut the fabric to the required dimensions referencing the measurements taken in step 2 above. Once you are done cutting and prepping the fabric, the next step is to start the installation. Step 4: Installation You may need to use a ladder for you to easily reach the ceiling. Ensure the ladder is secure on the ground to avoid falling and getting injured. Line the fabric on the ground to match the orientation of the tracks to make it easier for you to install it accurately. Starting from one side of the track, take one corner of the fabric and secure it to the ceiling using your staple gun. Repeat this process to secure the fabric to all the corners and the perimeter of the rail until all the garage door tracks are hidden. It is now safe to say that your task is complete, and you have accomplished your goal. At this point, your garage tracks should be out of sight. Garage Door Care Hidden garage door tracks not only improve the look and feel of your garage. It protects rust and dirt from accumulating on the covered parts. Accumulated rust on garage door tracks can make opening or closing your garage doors a daunting task. Your garage, like any other part of your home, needs equal care. You may still need to troubleshoot issues like your garage door opening partially, so be sure you can access the tracks if needed. The above-listed methods are affordable, inexpensive, and easy ways to hide garage door tracks. *Paid Link: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Should you decide to purchase a tool through this link, I will get a small commission. The price of the tool won’t be any different for you.