Handle with Care
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. They do the heavy lifting every time you open or close your door, and when they fail, the results can be inconvenient, costly, and even dangerous. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the types of garage door springs, the warning signs of wear and tear, and why professional replacement is critical for your safety and the longevity of your garage door.
Types of Garage Door Springs
- Torsion Springs Torsion springs are the most common type used in modern garage doors. They are installed horizontally above the door and work by twisting to generate the torque needed to lift and lower the door. Torsion springs are durable, capable of handling heavy loads, and generally have a longer lifespan compared to extension springs. However, their installation and adjustment require precision and specialized tools, making them best handled by a professional garage door company. These springs come in various sizes and strengths, depending on the weight and type of your garage door. A garage door repairman will select the right spring to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Extension Springs Extension springs are mounted on either side of the garage door and stretch to provide the counterbalance necessary for door operation. While they are often less expensive than torsion springs, they tend to wear out more quickly and can be more prone to snapping. To prevent accidents, safety cables are typically installed alongside extension springs to contain them in case of failure.Extension springs are commonly used in older garage door systems or lighter doors. Despite their simplicity, replacing these springs is not a DIY-friendly task due to the high tension they hold.
Signs You Need Spring Replacement
- The Door Won’t Open or Close Properly A broken or worn-out spring often results in a garage door that struggles to lift or doesn’t close evenly. If your automatic opener seems to be straining or if the door feels extremely heavy when opened manually, it’s likely that the springs are compromised.
- Visible Gaps or Damage Torsion springs often develop a noticeable gap when they break, while extension springs may appear stretched or frayed. Rust or corrosion on the springs can also indicate that they are nearing the end of their lifespan.
- Loud Snapping Noise A sudden loud noise from your garage could indicate that a spring has snapped. This is not only disruptive but also leaves your door inoperable until the spring is replaced.
- Slow or Uneven Movement Springs that are no longer functioning properly can cause your garage door to open or close more slowly than usual or move unevenly, which can strain other components like the tracks and opener.
Why DIY Spring Replacement is Dangerous
Garage door springs operate under extreme tension, which makes them highly dangerous to replace without the proper tools and training. A mishandled spring can snap with enough force to cause serious injury or damage to property. Additionally, incorrect installation or adjustment can lead to further issues with your garage door system, resulting in higher repair costs down the line.
Professional garage door repair companies are trained to handle these high-tension components safely. They use specialized tools to remove and replace springs without risk and ensure that your door is properly balanced and aligned after the repair. Attempting a DIY spring replacement is not worth the potential hazards or complications.
The Professional Spring Replacement Process
- Assessment and Diagnosis A professional technician will first inspect your garage door system to confirm the issue and determine whether the springs need replacement. They will also check other components, such as cables, tracks, and the opener, to ensure no additional problems exist.
- Spring Selection Based on the weight and size of your door, the technician will select the appropriate torsion or extension spring. Using the wrong spring can lead to poor performance or premature wear.
- Safe Removal of Old Springs The damaged or worn springs are carefully removed using tools designed to release tension gradually. This step is critical to avoid accidents.
- Installation of New Springs The new springs are installed and adjusted to provide the correct tension. Proper alignment and balance are checked to ensure smooth operation.
- Testing and Final Adjustments Once the springs are installed, the technician will test the door’s operation and make any necessary adjustments to optimize performance. Safety features, such as the auto-reverse function, will also be tested to confirm compliance with safety standards.
How to Prevent Spring Damage
- Regular Maintenance Keep your springs in good condition by lubricating them with a silicone-based lubricant every six months. This reduces friction and prevents rust.
- Annual Inspections Have a local garage door company inspect your garage door system annually to catch any potential issues before they lead to spring failure.
- Avoid Overuse Limit excessive opening and closing of your garage door to prevent unnecessary wear on the springs. If possible, use a side entrance for quick access instead.
- Replace Both Springs Together If one spring fails, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing both at the same time ensures balanced operation and reduces strain on your door.
Why Choose Stateline Door and Lift for Spring Replacement
At Stateline Door and Lift, we understand the critical role that springs play in your garage door system. Our team of experienced technicians provides safe, efficient, and reliable spring replacement services tailored to your specific needs. We work with top-quality springs to ensure durability and performance, and we stand by our commitment to customer satisfaction.
Don’t let a broken spring disrupt your day or put your safety at risk. Contact Stateline Door and Lift today to schedule your spring replacement and restore your garage door to peak performance.
