Your garage door may look simple when it comes to its functionality. However, there is a powerful system that works behind the scenes to make this possible. This is particularly true when it comes to the garage door spring. This is the part of the garage door that does the heavy lifting, literally. This is the part of the garage door that provides it with balance, thus facilitating the smooth opening and closing of the garage door.
In a garage door spring broken situation, not only is it inconvenient, but it is also dangerous. It is of paramount importance to note that there is a common misconception among people regarding garage door spring and safety. This article seeks to provide information regarding garage door spring and safety.
You Must Know Your Garage Door Spring
A garage door spring is a tightly coiled metal wire that stores mechanical energy. Essentially, the purpose of the garage door spring is to counterbalance your garage door, which may weigh as much as 150-300 pounds.
How Garage Door Springs Work?
The working principle behind garage door springs is based on tension. The tension is stored when the garage door is closed. When it is time to open the door, the stored energy is released.
What happens if your garage door spring is not working:
- Your garage door becomes very heavy
- Your garage door opener burns out quickly
- Manual operation is no longer safe
Why Springs Are Critical for Safety?
Springs are under extreme pressure. If they snap or are handled improperly, they can cause severe garage door spring repair injuries, such as:
- Deep cuts
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
This is the reason why it is vital to comprehend the working of the springs and when they should be left alone.
2 Types of Garage Door Springs
Not all garage door springs are the same. Understanding the type of garage door spring that you have can help you better understand your garage door maintenance requirements.
Garage Door Torsion Springs
Torsion garage door springs are mounted horizontally over the garage door.
Key Features
- Use a torque to operate the garage door
- Long-lasting and durable
- Provide smooth and controlled door movements
Why They’re Safer?
Garage door torsion springs are generally considered to be much safer than garage door extension springs. The main reason for this is that they are held in place and will not fly off in pieces in case they snap. However, even though they are much safer than extension springs, it is still important to choose a high quality of torsion springs for your garage door.
When You Need Replacement
A garage door torsion spring replacement is necessary when:
- The garage door torsion spring is cracked
- The garage door is not opening
- There is a loud snapping noise from the garage door
Garage Door Extension Springs
The extension springs are mounted on both sides of the door, along the tracks.
Key Features
- Expand and contract during operation
- Generally used in older garage door openers
- More affordable but have a shorter lifespan
For your safety:
In the event that the garage door extension springs snap, they can do so abruptly, especially if they are not fitted with safety cables. If you want a high quality extension springs for your garage door, you may check them out on Amazon.
Common Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring
Knowing the signs of a broken garage door spring will help you prevent major problems from occurring.
Here are the Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring:
- The garage door won’t open, or it will only rise a few inches
- There is a loud “bang” sound coming from the garage
- The garage door feels unusually heavy
- The garage door opener has trouble or won’t work at all
- There are gaps in the spring
Having a broken garage door spring is a problem that should not be taken lightly.
Several Causes of Spring Failure
It is helpful to know the common causes of spring failure. This can help extend the life of your springs.
Normal Wear and Tear
The life of a spring is only good for 10,000 cycles. A cycle is defined as opening and closing the spring. Eventually, they wear out.
Rust and Corrosion
Rust causes the coils of the spring to weaken. This causes friction, which eventually causes the spring to break.
Poor Maintenance
The spring must be lubricated. If it does not receive this maintenance, it will wear out.
Extreme Temperature Changes
The spring can also break in cold weather because of the temperature.
Garage Door Spring Safety Risks
One of the most hazardous parts of the garage door’s mechanical system in your house is the garage door spring.
Why DIY Repairs Are Risky
DIY garage door spring replacement is risky because:
- Springs are under a lot of tension
- The task requires the use of special tools
- Improper handling may cause the spring to snap back
Real Risks of Injury
If the spring is mishandled, it may:
- Snap back with high speeds
- Cause severe lacerations
- May even cause disability
This is the reason why experts strongly advise against DIY garage door spring replacement.
Can You Change Out Garage Door Springs Yourself?
If you are wondering how to change out garage door springs, it is best not to try it yourself.
When DIY Might Be Considered
- By experienced and professional individuals only, with the right tools and safety equipment available
Why You Should Hire a Professional
- They have the right tools for the job
- They know how to calculate the tension in the springs
- They know how to balance the springs correctly
If you are searching for garage door spring replacement near me, it is a clear indicator that it is best not to try it yourself.
Professional Garage Door Spring Replacement
Replacing a garage door spring is not just an issue of changing parts; it is an issue of ensuring safety.
What Professionals Do?
- Inspect the entire garage door system
- Identify the correct garage door spring type and size
- Relieve the tension of the old garage door springs
- Install new garage door springs
- Test the garage door’s balance and operation
Cost Considerations
Replacing the garage door torsion springs is more costly than the garage door extension springs but offers more longevity. Wondering what professional spring replacement typically costs? We break down pricing in detail: Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost: Figuring Out Fix vs. Entire Replacement
Maintain Your Garage Door Springs
Regular maintenance is a great way to increase the lifespan of your garage door springs.
For Regular Inspection You Must Look For:
- Rust or corrosion
- Gaps in coils
- Unusual noises
Lubrication
Apply a garage door lubricant every few months to minimize friction.
Balance Testing
Disconnect the garage door opener and try lifting the garage door manually:
- If it remains halfway, it is balanced
- If it falls or goes up, it is a spring problem
Professional Tune-Ups
Schedule a tune-up annually.
Note:
You may also check out this article “Garage Door Safety: Maintenance Tips for Sensors, Cables, and Springs” for garage door springs maintenance and safety.
Call a Professional Immediately!
There are times when your garage door needs immediate attention:
- A broken garage door spring
- The door does not open at all
- There is a loud snapping noise
- The door slams shut quickly
Springs are under extreme tension, if yours shows signs of wear, our garage door spring repair service can resolve it safely.
Selecting a Garage Door Repair Service
Not all garage door repair services are the same. Here are some guidelines in selecting the best garage door repair service:
Experience and Certification
One should ensure that the person doing the garage door repair has the necessary experience in repairing the springs of the garage door.
Transparent Pricing
One should be wary of a garage door repair service that has hidden fees. It would be best to get a detailed estimate of the fees involved in the repair before the actual work starts.
Emergency Services
While it may not be considered an emergency to have a faulty garage door spring, it may happen at the most unexpected hour. It would be best to choose a garage door repair service that offers emergency services.
Safety Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow
While these tips are directed at people who are not necessarily involved in repairing their garage doors, they are still essential in ensuring that one’s safety is not compromised:
- Do not touch a spring that is still under tension
- Children should not be allowed near garage door mechanisms
- Do not use your garage door if a spring is broken
- Safety cables should be installed in extension springs
Conclusion
The garage door spring is among the most important parts of a garage door. Garage door springs are crucial in ensuring that one’s garage door is functioning properly and that one’s home is secure. Garage door springs are not any ordinary springs. One should be able to recognize various types of garage door springs, such as garage door torsion springs and garage door extension springs. One should also recognize a broken garage door spring.
Although it is desirable to repair one’s garage door spring individually, it is not advisable because of the risks involved. Garage door torsion spring replacement is best done by a professional.