Everything You Need to Know About Garage Door Spring Replacement
Garage door springs are an integral part of the garage door system. They are also one of the most common garage door repairs needed. In this article, we’ll share information about the purpose and types of garage door springs, what causes them to break, signs you need a garage door spring replacement, and more.
Purpose of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are responsible for carrying the weight of the garage door every time it is opened and closed. Depending on the garage door size, there may be one or two garage door springs to support it. Typically, a single garage door will require one spring, and a double-wide garage door needs two springs.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion springs work together with bearing plates attached to the garage door frame and cables located at each end of the garage door. The springs create leverage as they wind and unwind during opening and closing, reducing the force needed to open the garage door. This takes the pressure off the garage door opener and increases the opener’s longevity. Torsion springs typically last 15-20,000 cycles.
Extension springs are installed vertically on either side of the garage door and will last up to 10,000 cycles. Extension springs produce energy by stretching and contracting as the door opens and closes. When a garage door is closed, an extension spring remains stretched to nearly twice its regular length! The coils of an extension spring will eventually become permanently stretched, requiring a garage door spring replacement.
Torsion spring systems are safer and last longer, requiring fewer garage door spring replacements. Torsion springs are more durable than extension springs, offer quieter operation, and are more cost-effective because you will not need garage door spring replacement or garage door opener repair as often. Extension springs are easier and cheaper to install, but they are not the best option for homeowners.
Causes of a Broken Garage Door Spring
The three leading causes of a broken garage door spring are age, lack of maintenance, and unbalanced garage door parts. If your garage door spring is over ten years old, you will need a garage door spring replacement soon! Some springs wear down faster, especially if the garage door is frequently used. Others can last closer to 12 years.
Without proper garage door maintenance, you may need a garage door spring replacement sooner rather than later. During an annual tune-up, a garage door specialist will clean and lubricate your door springs. This prevents rust from building up on the springs, which can cause added friction and additional wear and tear.
Finally, if any garage door parts are unbalanced, this adds additional stress to the garage door springs. Preventative maintenance appointments are the perfect opportunity to detect and fix these minor issues before they cause more damage, and a garage door spring replacement is needed.
Signs You Need a Garage Door Spring Replacement
If you hear a loud popping noise coming from your garage, you most likely need a garage door spring replacement. A snapped spring is the most obvious sign your garage door spring is broken. Some other signs are less obvious. If you notice any of the following, contact your local garage door company for garage door replacement:
- There is a 3-4” gap between the garage door spring’s coils.
- Your garage door spring is elongated.
- Your garage door won’t open.
- Your garage door opens at an angle.
- Your garage door opens halfway and then stops.
- Your garage door tries to open, then suddenly slams shut.
- You notice loose or fallen garage door cables.
DIY Garage Door Spring Maintenance Tips
Follow these simple garage door maintenance tips in between professional tune-ups to prolong the life of your garage door springs.
- Apply a lubricant to the springs every 3-4 months (Use white lithium or silicone spray. WD-40 is not recommended for garage door springs.)
- Complete a monthly visual inspection- look for loose or hanging parts.
- Listen for changes during opening/closing. Abnormal grinding or squeaking noises can indicate an issue with garage door springs or other hardware.
Contact a Professional for Garage Door Spring Replacement
If you need a garage door spring replacement, it’s important to contact your local garage door company for help. Without proper training, garage door spring replacements can be dangerous due to the tension the springs hold and the heavy weight of garage doors.
Good Guys Garage Door Solutions provides exceptional customer service and garage door spring replacement in the Miami-Dade, FL area. Contact us today for more information!
