Garage Door Sensor and Tilt Hinge accessory
A step-by-step guide for installing the Cove Garage Hinge Accessory — so your garage door sensor detects open and close reliably every time.
Table of Contents
What this accessory does
The Garage Hinge Accessory lets your Cove Door/Window Sensor work on a sectional garage door or tilt door — surfaces where a standard flat sensor can't detect open and close on its own.
The hinge holds your sensor and magnet across the moving joint at the top of the door. When the door opens, the hinge separates the sensor from the magnet and sends an "open" signal to your system. When it closes, the hinge folds flat and the sensor reports “closed.”
What's in the box
You may also need:
- Phillips screwdriver (screw mount method only)
- Isopropyl alcohol wipe or cloth — to clean the mounting surface
- Pencil or marker — to mark screw holes (optional)
- Drill with small pilot bit — for pre-drilling in wood doors (optional)
Installation — follow these steps in order
The hinge has two sections connected by a pivot. Complete each step in order before moving to the next.
Step 1 Attach the sensor and magnet to the hinge
- Peel the paper backing off the Door/Window Sensor and magnet adhesive.
- Press the sensor into the sensor slot and the magnet into the other slot, aligning each with the marks on the hinge.
- Press firmly for about 3 seconds to set the bond.
Step 2 Check the mounting direction
Find the arrow molded into the top of the hinge. This arrow must point upward — in the direction the garage door travels when it opens.
Orient the hinge with the arrow pointing up before mounting it to the door.
Step 3 Clean the mounting surface
Wipe down the area at the top of the garage door where the hinge will be mounted, using an isopropyl alcohol wipe or cloth. Let it dry completely before moving on — the adhesive won't bond properly to a dirty or damp surface.
Step 4 Mount the hinge
Place the hinge at the top of the garage door where the top section meets the frame or header. Make sure the arrow is still pointing upward, then attach it using your preferred method:
|
📌 Adhesive method
Press the hinge firmly against the surface for at least 5 seconds. |
🔩 Screw method
Mark the two mounting holes, then fasten using the included screws. Don't overtighten. |
Step 5 Test the installation
- If you haven't already, pair the Door/Window Sensor with your system — refer to the sensor's manual for pairing steps.
- Slowly open the garage door and confirm your system shows "open."
- Close the door fully and confirm your system shows "closed."
- Open and close the door 2–3 more times to make sure it's working reliably before returning to normal use.
✓ Your garage door sensor is installed and working!
Need help with installation?
Our friendly support team is available 24/7. Chat with us anytime in the app or at covesmart.com — we're happy to help.