A garage door is an essential part of many households, providing not only security but also convenience in daily life. However, when parts of your garage door system break down, it can cause serious disruptions. One of the most common and crucial issues people face is a broken garage door spring. Garage door spring repair is something every homeowner should understand, as it can prevent further damage and improve the safety of your garage.
In this blog, we will discuss the importance of garage door springs, how to identify when they need repair, and why it’s vital to hire a professional for the job.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage doors use two types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Both types play a critical role in counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier for the opener to lift it. These springs undergo a lot of tension and wear and tear, which is why they can break or malfunction over time.
Torsion Springs: These springs are mounted above the garage door opening and rotate to open or close the door. They are tightly wound and store a lot of energy.
Extension Springs: These springs are located on both sides of the door and stretch when the door is opened. They work with the door’s rollers and cables to help lift the door.
Signs That Your Garage Door Springs Need Repair
Garage door springs can break without warning, but there are a few telltale signs that indicate something might be wrong:
Door Won’t Open or Close Properly: If your garage door is struggling to open or close, or if it’s uneven when moving, the springs may be damaged or worn out.
Noisy Operation: A loud or strange noise when operating the door, especially a loud bang or snap, can signal that a spring has broken.
Visible Damage: If you can see visible gaps in the spring, or if it appears to be twisted, rusted, or worn out, it’s time for a replacement.
Broken Cables: The cables that work alongside the springs can break when the springs are damaged. If the cables are slack or snapped, it is usually due to faulty springs.
Uneven Movement: If the garage door moves unevenly or gets stuck at certain points, the springs might not be functioning correctly.
Difficulty Opening: If you’re having trouble lifting the door manually, it may be due to a spring that’s no longer working properly.
Why You Shouldn’t DIY Garage Door Spring Repairs
It might seem tempting to try repairing the garage door springs on your own to save money. However, repairing garage door springs is a dangerous and complex task. Here’s why:
High Tension: Garage door springs are under extreme tension. If you attempt to repair or replace them yourself, you risk severe injury. A spring under tension can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly or snap back with great force.
Specialized Tools and Knowledge: Fixing garage door springs requires specialized tools and knowledge of the system. Without the proper training, you may end up causing more damage to the door, tracks, or opener.
Warranty Concerns: Many garage door manufacturers’ warranties are voided if you try to perform repairs without a professional.
Why Professional Garage Door Spring Repair is Important
Hiring a professional garage door repair service ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and effectively. Here’s what you can expect from a professional service:
Safety First: Professionals have the tools and experience to handle high-tension springs safely, reducing the risk of accidents.
Expert Diagnosis: A professional will correctly diagnose the problem and ensure that the root cause of the issue is addressed, whether it's a spring replacement, cable issues, or something else.
Long-Term Solutions: A qualified technician will not only repair the immediate issue but also help with maintenance advice to prevent future problems. Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door system.
Warranty Protection: Many repair services come with warranties on parts and labor, giving you peace of mind that the repairs are done correctly.
Steps Involved in Garage Door Spring Repair
Here’s a brief overview of the typical steps involved in a professional garage door spring repair:
Assessment: The technician will assess the condition of the springs and other parts of the garage door system to determine the cause of the issue.
Unplugging the Opener: For safety reasons, the opener is unplugged before repairs begin.
Spring Replacement: The old springs will be removed and replaced with new ones. The technician will ensure the springs are the correct size and tension for your door.
Lubrication and Adjustment: The technician will lubricate the springs and adjust the tension to ensure the garage door operates smoothly.
Test: After the repair, the garage door will be tested several times to ensure it opens and closes correctly, with no issues.
How to Prevent Future Spring Breakages
While it’s impossible to prevent wear and tear completely, there are a few maintenance steps you can take to extend the life of your garage door springs:
Regular Maintenance: Have your garage door inspected and maintained by a professional every 1–2 years. This includes lubricating the springs, checking for any signs of wear, and adjusting the door's balance.
Avoid Manual Overuse: If possible, avoid using the manual lift when the door is heavy or difficult to move. Let the motor handle the load.
Clear Debris from Tracks: Make sure the tracks are clean of any dirt, leaves, or debris that could hinder the door’s movement.
Replace Springs Before They Break: If your springs are showing signs of wear or are nearing the end of their lifespan, it’s best to replace them proactively before they snap.
Conclusion
Garage door spring repair is essential for maintaining the smooth and safe operation of your garage door. It’s a job that requires professional expertise due to the inherent risks involved. If you suspect your garage door springs are malfunctioning, don’t hesitate to call a trusted garage door service provider to handle the repair. With timely repairs and proper maintenance, your garage door will continue to serve you well for years to come.
Remember, safety should always come first, so leave the repairs to the professionals and keep your home safe!
