Garage Door Spring Repair A Detailed Guide

Garage doors are an important part of any home. They keep our cars safe and protect our homes from outside weather. But like many other things, garage doors can break or stop working properly. One of the most common problems with garage doors is when the springs wear out or break. If this happens, it can be dangerous and make the door hard to open. This article will explain what garage door springs are, why they break, and how they can be repaired. We will also talk about how you can stay safe and know when to call a professional for help.

What Are Garage Door Springs?

Garage door springs are long, metal coils that help your garage door open and close smoothly. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. These springs work together with other parts of the garage door system, like the cables and pulleys, to make sure the door can lift and lower properly.

• Torsion springs are located above the garage door, usually near the center. They twist and unwind when the door moves up or down.
• Extension springs are placed on either side of the garage door tracks. They stretch and shrink as the door moves up and down.

Both types of springs store energy and use it to help lift the heavy door. When the springs break, the door may become difficult or even impossible to open.

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Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?

Garage door springs are under a lot of pressure because they support the weight of the door. They are designed to last for many years, but they will wear out over time. There are several reasons why a garage door spring might break:

• Age of the Springs: Over time, the metal in the springs can weaken. As the springs get older, they become more likely to break. Most garage door springs last for around 10,000 cycles, which equals about 7-10 years of use.
• Rust and Corrosion: If the springs are exposed to water or damp conditions, they can rust. Rust weakens the metal and makes it more likely for the spring to break.
• Misuse of the Garage Door: If you use the garage door too often or if the door is too heavy, it can put extra strain on the springs. This can cause the springs to break faster.
• Improper Installation: If the springs were installed incorrectly, they may wear out faster or break more easily. It is important that garage door springs are installed by a professional.
• Extreme Weather: Very hot or cold temperatures can affect the performance of the springs. Cold weather can make the metal brittle, while hot weather can cause the metal to expand and weaken.

Signs That Your Garage Door Springs Need Repair

It’s important to be able to tell when your garage door springs are in trouble. Here are some signs that you might need to repair or replace the springs:

• The Door Won’t Open or Close: If your garage door is not opening or closing properly, it could be a sign that the springs have broken. If you can’t lift the door by hand or the door moves slowly or unevenly, the springs may need to be replaced.
• The Door Looks Crooked: If the garage door looks crooked or uneven when it is closed, this could be a sign that one of the springs is broken or damaged. The springs help keep the door level, and if they’re not working right, the door may not sit properly.
• You Hear a Loud Bang: A loud noise, like a popping or snapping sound, can mean that a spring has broken. If you hear this noise, do not try to open or close the door. The broken spring can cause damage or be dangerous.
• The Door Opens Slowly: If your garage door is opening slower than usual, it might mean that the springs are getting weak. A broken or worn-out spring cannot lift the door as quickly or easily.
• The Door Is Off the Tracks: If your garage door comes off its tracks or seems to move at an angle, the springs might not be working properly to guide the door. This can be a sign that the springs need repair or replacement.

How Garage Door Spring Repair Works

Repairing or replacing garage door springs is not a job you should try to do yourself. Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, and working with them can be dangerous. It is always best to hire a professional who is trained to repair garage door springs.

Here is an overview of how a professional might repair or replace the springs:

• Safety First: Before beginning the repair, the technician will ensure the door is safely secured. They will disconnect the opener from the door so it won’t accidentally move while the springs are being repaired.
• Removing the Old Springs: The old springs are carefully removed. The technician will release the tension in the springs and remove them from the garage door system. This requires special tools and knowledge to do safely.
• Replacing with New Springs: New springs that are the correct size and strength are installed in place of the old springs. The technician will make sure the new springs are adjusted to the right tension.
• Testing the Door: After the new springs are installed, the technician will test the door to make sure it opens and closes smoothly. They will also check the balance of the door to ensure it is working properly.

Why You Should Hire a Professional

Garage door spring repair is a tricky and dangerous job. While it might be tempting to try to fix the springs yourself, it’s important to know that these springs are under a lot of pressure. If you don’t have the right tools and experience, you could get hurt or make the problem worse. Hiring a professional is the safest and most effective way to repair garage door springs.

A professional garage door technician has the right tools and training to handle the job safely. They also know how to properly adjust the springs to make sure your door works correctly.

How to Maintain Your Garage Door Springs

While garage door springs will eventually wear out, there are some things you can do to help them last longer:

• Lubricate the Springs: Use a garage door lubricant to keep the springs moving smoothly. This can help reduce wear and tear on the springs and prevent them from rusting.
• Check the Balance: Periodically check the balance of your garage door. If it’s not balanced, it can put extra strain on the springs. A balanced door is safer and easier to open.
• Avoid Overusing the Door: Try not to open and close the garage door too frequently. This will help reduce stress on the springs.
• Get Regular Inspections: It’s a good idea to have your garage door and its springs inspected once a year by a professional. This can help catch any problems early and prevent expensive repairs.

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FAQs

How do I know if my garage door spring needs repair?

Signs that your garage door spring might need repair include a door that won’t open or close, uneven movement, or strange noises like squeaking or snapping sounds when operating the door. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to have the springs inspected by a professional, as they can wear out over time.

Can I repair my garage door spring myself?

Garage door spring repair can be dangerous and should only be handled by professionals. Springs are under high tension, and attempting to repair them yourself can result in serious injury. It’s always safer to hire an experienced technician to ensure the job is done properly and safely.

How long do garage door springs last?

On average, garage door springs last about 7 to 9 years, depending on usage. If your garage door is used frequently, the springs may wear out faster. Regular maintenance can help extend their lifespan and prevent unexpected failures.

Conclusion

Garage door springs are an essential part of your garage door system. They help your door open and close smoothly, but they can break over time due to wear, rust, or other factors. If your garage door is not working properly, it might be a sign that the springs need to be repaired or replaced.

Remember, garage door spring repair is a job for professionals. These springs are dangerous to handle without the right tools and knowledge. If you notice any signs that your springs are broken, it’s important to call a garage door technician to fix the problem. Regular maintenance can also help your garage door springs last longer and keep your door working smoothly for years to come.

By taking care of your garage door, you can make sure it remains safe and functional, giving you peace of mind and keeping your home secure.