Understanding Garage Door Springs: Why They Matter
If your garage door isn’t working properly, there’s a good chance the springs are to blame.
You might not think about them often, but garage door springs are one of the most crucial parts of the system.
They’re responsible for lifting the heavy door and balancing its weight so that it opens and closes smoothly.
When they’re working correctly, you barely notice them. But when they’re broken or worn out, you’ll definitely know something’s wrong!
A broken garage door spring can leave your door stuck, making your daily routine that much harder. Understanding how garage door springs work can help you avoid unexpected garage door repairs and keep everything running smoothly.
learn more about torsion spring!
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Repair
So, how do you know when your garage door springs need some attention? One of the most obvious signs is if the door suddenly becomes difficult to open.
If you press the opener button and the door doesn’t budge or only opens partway, the springs may be damaged. You might also notice the door closing much faster than usual, which can be dangerous if you’ve got kids or pets around.
Another tell-tale sign is a loud bang or popping noise coming from your garage. That sound could mean one of the springs has snapped.
While it might be tempting to just ignore these issues, broken springs can cause serious damage to your garage door if left unchecked.
You want to avoid being stuck with a door that won’t open at all, especially if your car is trapped inside! Keeping an eye out for these signs can help you catch spring problems early before they turn into bigger, more expensive repairs.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Before diving into repairs, it helps to know the two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
Typically, someone mounts torsion springs horizontally above the door.. They wind and unwind as the door opens and closes, providing balance and smooth operation.
These springs are durable and last longer but can be tricky to repair or replace without the proper tools.
Extension springs, on the other hand, are located on either side of the door, stretching and contracting to support the door’s movement.
These springs are usually found on lighter garage doors and tend to wear out faster than torsion springs.
No matter which type you have, both types of springs play a huge role in your garage door’s function, and both require regular maintenance to prevent sudden breaks.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Garage Door Spring Repair
We get it—DIY repairs can save you time and money on simple fixes.
But when it comes to garage door spring repair, this is one job you don’t want to tackle on your own.
Garage door springs are under immense tension, and trying to fix or replace them yourself can be extremely dangerous.
A spring that snaps unexpectedly can cause serious injury or damage to your property.
Not to mention, without the right tools and experience, it’s easy to make a mistake that could result in even more costly repairs down the road.
You should call a professional for garage door spring repair to ensure the best results.
They have the expertise to safely remove and install new springs, ensuring everything is balanced and working correctly.
While it may seem like a hassle to schedule a repair, trust us—it’s worth it for your safety and the longevity of your garage door.
How to Extend the Life of Your Garage Door Springs
While garage door springs won’t last forever, there are a few things you can do to help extend their lifespan. One easy tip is to avoid opening and closing the door more than necessary.
Every time you use the door, you put the springs under strain, so cutting back on unnecessary openings can reduce wear and tear.
Lubricating your springs a couple of times a year also helps keep them working smoothly. A silicone-based lubricant will reduce friction and prevent rust from forming, which is a common cause of spring failure.
Regular inspections are also a good idea—check for signs of rust, gaps in the springs, or any unusual noises when the door operates.
Spotting small issues early can save you from a major garage door repair later on.
When to Call for Professional Help
Even with the best maintenance, garage door springs will eventually wear out. So how do you know when it’s time to call in the professionals?
A general rule of thumb is that torsion springs last about 10,000 cycles (one cycle being the door opening and closing once), which translates to about 7-10 years of regular use.
Extension springs generally have a shorter lifespan, depending on how often you use the door.
If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned earlier—like difficulty opening the door, unusual noises, or visible damage to the springs—it’s time to schedule a garage door spring repair.
Attempting to use a door with a broken spring can lead to further damage to the opener, the tracks, or even the door itself, turning a small repair into a much bigger one.
The Importance of Timely Repairs
Delaying garage door spring repair might seem tempting, especially if the door still works, but it’s really not worth the risk.
Operating your garage door with damaged springs can lead to additional strain on other parts of the system, resulting in more extensive repairs. Not only that, but it also poses a safety hazard for anyone using the door.
If you’re ever in doubt, calling a professional to inspect your garage door is always a smart move.
They’ll be able to assess the situation and recommend the best course of action to get your door back in working order.
With timely repairs, you’ll save money in the long run and keep your garage door operating smoothly for years to come.