For many homes, garage doors are a key access point and must be secure as well as efficient. We all take them for granted until they slack off on us, and we just can not open or close our garage door anymore.
The mechanics of a garage door relies heavily on the garage door spring. Without it, raising or lowering your garage door would be a lot more work than you think.
This article explores how garage door springs work, how to tell when they need maintenance, and the importance of servicing these critical parts to keep your door safe and working efficiently.
Garage Door Spring Mechanics Explained
Your garage door springs perform a complicated high-wire balancing act every time you open or close your garage door. The mechanics of garage door springs generally involve storing mechanical energy that is then used to counterbalance the weight of your door.
This is what allows a 150- to 300-lb door to feel as light as a feather when it is opened. Those springs are wound tight to create pressure that allows smooth movement when you press that button on your remote.
Those springs are at their maximum tension while your garage door is closed. When the door opens, that tension is released, making the process smooth. Every time you open or close the door, this process of absorbing and releasing energy takes place.
Although it may seem like a simple process, the precision with which garage door springs work has to be tailor-fit to match the machinery. They must be properly maintained, installed, and adjusted for your door to operate correctly.
Misaligned or wore-down springs are virtually a disaster waiting to happen and simply not worth trying to manage without expert help. A professional repair service like California Garage Door Repair should be called upon to deal with spring-related issues such as misaligned or damaged springs.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: What’s the Difference?
All garage door springs are not equal and do not work in the same way. There are two types: torsion springs and extension springs, and each has its unique role in the system.
Torsion Springs
They are fixed horizontally on the top of your door. As the door opens or closes, these springs wind up around a shaft, providing force to help lift or lower the door. Torsion springs are known to be reliable and precise. They typically last longer than extension springs and are used in both residential and commercial garage doors due to their ability to handle heavier weights.
Since torsion springs are tightly wound and under a lot of pressure, they usually provide better, smoother movement. However, they can be dangerous if they fail and snap with explosive force. This is why it’s best to leave the job of garage spring door replacements to reliable professionals such as California Garage Door Repair.
Extension Springs
In contrast, extension springs stretch along the sides of the door’s tracks. These springs work by stretching and contracting to lift the door. While they’re generally more affordable than torsion springs, they can wear out more quickly due to the constant stretching. You’ll find extension spring garage doors more commonly on lightweight garage doors or older models.
Extension springs offer less control than torsion springs, making them slightly less efficient. Their visible location along the side also makes them more susceptible to damage.
However, whether you have a torsion or extension spring system, both types of springs perform a critical job: lifting and lowering your garage door with ease.
Broken Garage Door Spring Symptoms
Knowing when your garage door springs are in trouble can save you from larger, more costly repairs and even safety hazards. Here are some key symptoms of a broken garage door spring that indicate it’s time to take action.
1. The Door Won’t Open Fully
If your garage door only opens partway or slams shut unexpectedly, a broken spring is likely to blame. Garage doors are heavy, and the springs bear most of the door’s weight. Without functioning springs, the system can’t operate efficiently. This can also cause strain on the opener, leading to potential motor failure. At this point, professional help from California Garage Door Repair is essential to avoid further damage.
2. Unusual Noises
Loud bangs or squeaky sounds are common signs of a failing spring. When a spring snaps, it can make a loud “bang” similar to a gunshot, as the tension in the spring is suddenly released. Additionally, ongoing squeaks or grinding noises suggest that the springs are worn or misaligned. These noises are warning signs that shouldn’t be ignored.
3. The Door is Off-Balance
If the door lifts unevenly or appears crooked, it’s a clear indication that one of the springs has failed. When one spring breaks, the door becomes unbalanced, causing it to lean to one side. An unbalanced door also places stress on the opener and cables, accelerating wear. If you notice this, it’s best to contact California Garage Door Repair to correct the issue.
4. Visible Gaps in the Springs
A gap in the coil is a clear visual sign that your spring has snapped. Torsion and extension springs are tightly wound so that a broken spring will have a noticeable separation in the coils. Operating the door in this state can further damage the system and increase the risk of injury. Getting the spring fixed immediately is crucial for both the safety and the longevity of your door.
5. Slow or Jerky Movements
If your garage door moves slowly, stops abruptly, or operates in a jerky manner, it could be due to a worn or broken spring. Without proper spring tension, the opener struggles to lift the door, resulting in slow or erratic movements. This not only signals a failing spring but also puts extra strain on the entire system.
6. Cables Are Loose or Hanging
If the cables on your garage door appear loose or are hanging down, it could indicate a spring issue. Cables work with the springs to support the door’s movement. When the spring breaks, the tension in the cables is lost. Handling these high-tension cables can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave the repair to a professional like California Garage Door Repair.
7. Difficulty Opening the Door Manually
Manually opening a garage door with a broken spring is often difficult, as the springs typically make the door easier to lift. If you need to use excessive force to open the door, or if it won’t stay open on its own, it’s a clear sign the springs are no longer functioning properly.
8. Increased Wear on Other Components
When a spring fails, other components like the opener, cables, and rollers take on extra stress. If you notice faster wear and tear on these parts, it may be due to a spring issue. Replacing the springs early can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.
By recognizing these broken garage door spring symptoms early, you can prevent more serious damage and keep your door functioning smoothly. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to contact a professional as soon as possible. California Garage Door Repair offers prompt and reliable service to diagnose and fix garage door springs, ensuring the safety and longevity of your system.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is, “How long do garage door springs last?” The lifespan of your springs depends on several factors, including usage frequency, maintenance habits, and the type of spring installed.
Torsion springs typically last anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 cycles. A cycle consists of one full opening and closing of the door, meaning the more you use the garage, the sooner you’ll need to replace the springs. For an average homeowner, this usually translates to about 7 to 10 years.
Extension springs, on the other hand, usually have a shorter lifespan—around 7,000 to 10,000 cycles—due to the stretching motion that puts extra strain on the metal. Regular maintenance and adjustments can extend the life of both types of springs, ensuring your door runs smoothly for as long as possible.
DIY Garage Door Spring Repair: Is It Safe?
For the average DIY enthusiast, it might seem tempting to try and tackle garage door spring repair on your own. However, garage door springs are under extreme tension, and attempting to fix or replace them without the proper tools or experience can be incredibly dangerous.
In fact, DIY garage door spring repair is strongly discouraged. Springs can snap unexpectedly during installation or adjustment, causing serious injury or property damage. When it comes to springs, the risks far outweigh the benefits of attempting to save a little money by doing it yourself.
Hiring professionals like California Garage Door Repair ensures the job is done safely and correctly.
Their trained technicians know how to handle the tension in the springs and have the proper tools to complete the repair efficiently. We also follow strict safety protocols to prevent accidents and further damage to your door.
Garage Door Spring Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper garage door spring maintenance is key to extending the life of your springs and ensuring they continue to work efficiently. While it’s best to leave most garage door repair to professionals, there are a few simple things you can do to maintain your garage door springs.
- Lubrication: Applying a silicone-based lubricant to the springs every three months helps reduce friction and prevents rust. This keeps the springs moving smoothly and reduces wear over time.
- Regular Inspections: Look for signs of wear or damage, such as rust, fraying cables, or gaps in the spring coils. Spotting these issues early can help prevent major breakdowns later on.
- Balancing the Door: An imbalanced garage door puts extra strain on the springs, shortening their lifespan. A quick balance test can help you identify potential issues. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the springs are in good condition. If it falls, you may need a garage door spring tension adjustment.
- Tightening Loose Hardware: Over time, the hardware around your springs and door can become loose. Regularly checking and tightening any loose parts can prevent accidents and keep your springs working effectively.
If you notice any major issues during your maintenance routine, it’s time to call the professionals. California Garage Door Repair offers comprehensive spring troubleshooting and repair services to keep your door functioning safely.
The Cost of Replacing Garage Door Springs
So, what does it cost to replace garage door springs? The answer depends on several factors, including the type of spring and whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional.
The replacement garage door spring cost typically ranges from $150 to $350 for a professional installation. This includes both parts and labor. Torsion springs tend to be more expensive than extension springs due to their complexity and durability. While it might be tempting to opt for a cheaper DIY approach, it’s important to remember the safety risks involved in handling garage door springs.
Investing in professional repair services ensures the job is done right, minimizes future repair costs, and keeps your home safe. California Garage Door Repair provides transparent pricing and expert installation to give you peace of mind.
Trust the Experts for Your Garage Door Spring Needs
Understanding how garage door springs work can help you appreciate the complexity of your garage door system and the importance of proper maintenance. Whether you’re dealing with broken garage door spring symptoms or considering a full garage door spring replacement, keeping your springs in top condition is key to the safe and smooth operation of your garage door.
While basic maintenance can be done at home, spring repairs and adjustments should always be left to the professionals. Our team at California Garage Door Repair specializes in new garage door installation, emergency garage door repair, garage door spring maintenance, repairs, and replacements, ensuring your door operates safely and efficiently.
Whether you need a simple adjustment or a full spring replacement, our experienced technicians have the expertise to get the job done right. Don’t wait until a broken spring leaves your car trapped in the garage. Reach out to California Garage Door Repair today for expert help with all your garage door needs!