Garage door springs take the most beating out of all your door components. As you open and close your door, the springs sustain wear and tear. Over time, it will break, and replacing garage door springs would be necessary. But here’s the question: what’s the lifespan of garage door springs and when is it time for a replacement?
In this post, we answer these questions to help you maintain your garage door. We will also give additional tips on increasing the lifespan of garage door springs to stretch the serviceability of your unit.
Types of garage door springs and their lifespan
Your garage door has two types of springs: torsion spring and extension spring. Both are crucial in the operation of your door and they will require garage door spring replacement at some point. On average, you can expect the following lifespan for these springs:
Torsion spring
Most torsion springs last for up to 10,000 to 20,000 cycles, which is roughly 7 to 4 years under normal use. However, if you’re operating your garage door more often than usual, this lifespan may be cut to 5 years or even less.
Extension spring
In terms of lifespan, extension springs can last for 10,000 cycles or 5 years, 7 with regular inspections for garage door springs.
Factors affecting garage door spring lifespan
- Quality of springs. As much as there are different types of garage door springs, it also comes in varying quality. Cheaply made springs break easily, which will impact its lifespan and even expose you to the risk of injuries.
- Proper maintenance. Lubricating your garage door springs will help extend its lifespan. The lubricant can reduce the friction that leads to premature wear and tear. Overall, we can’t stress enough the importance of garage door spring maintenance in extending its lifespan.
- Frequency of use. The more you use your garage door, the shorter the springs’ lifespan will be. Overall, this is a normal part of your door’s operation since the springs will eventually require replacements at some point.
- Proper installation. Another thing you have to consider is how well the springs were installed. When it comes to your garage door springs, especially the torsion type, it’s important to get the right match. Matching springs to door weight will ensure it will function properly and prevent potential accidents.
Signs of worn-out garage door springs
In this case, you should take a moment to check the following signs:
- Uneven movement of your door
- Your door is hard to close or open.
- There are visible damages to the springs
- Your door is producing excessive or unusual noises.
- Your balance tests have inconsistent results.
- The cables are detached or loose.
- Your previous garage door springs didn’t last long.
If you notice any of these damages, you should consider a replacement or repair right away. We also recommend consulting a professional for proper spring selection in case you’re opting for a replacement. Our team at California Garage Door is just a call away to fix all your garage door spring issues.
How to maintain garage door springs
- Practice regular maintenance. Preventing accidents with well-maintained garage door springs is always the best course of action. This is especially true if you have small kids or pets, who can easily get hurt by a broken door spring.
- Inspect and clean regularly. Make sure the springs are clean since accumulated dust and dirt can impede its smooth operation. Also, avoiding costly repairs with proper maintenance will save your pocket from repetitive expenses.
- Avoid overloading. Take note that garage door springs are rated based on the maximum weight they can handle. So if you’re installing insulation or support brackets, you should check if your springs can support the additional weight.
- Replace worn-out springs. Extending the life of your garage door springs is only possible to some extent. At some point, you’ll need to invest in a full replacement to restore the functionality and safety of your door.
- Invest in quality springs. While the cost of garage door springs could be higher for quality types, it’s a better investment than cheap ones. You’re assured that the spring will last longer and be safer to use.
Choosing the right garage door springs
- Consider the weight of your door. First, you have to check the weight of your door to ensure that the spring has enough tension to support it. You can refer to the user manual of your garage door to check the weight or contact us for professional help.
- Know the type you need. You also have to know whether you need to replace the torsion springs or extension springs. The torsion spring is the large beam above your door and extension springs are those installed on the sides.
- Consider professional installation. When in doubt, it’s always best to seek the help of professional garage door technicians. They can inspect your door springs and advise about the best replacement. The best part is that they can also source and install the springs for you.
- Ask about the warranty. If you’re buying a new garage torsion spring, make sure you inquire about the warranty coverage. This way, your new purchase is protected in case there are quality issues.
Need more help with garage door springs?
Whether you need garage door spring repair or replacement, our team at California Garage Door Repair is the expert to call. We can fix any spring issues, whatever garage door make or model you have. Not only that: we also offer the best pricing you can find in CA.
Contact us today for a free quote! Our specialist can also answer all your questions about garage door springs – no obligation!
