A garage door spring is an essential component of your garage door system, responsible for lifting and lowering the heavy door. When a spring breaks, it can be a significant inconvenience and a safety hazard. Understanding how to identify a broken spring, the steps you should take, and how to prevent future issues is crucial for homeowners. In this blog post, Jonathan’s Garage Door helps guide you through the process, offering a detailed understanding of garage door springs, the implications of a broken spring, and the steps to take when faced with this issue.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage doors typically operate using two types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door as it opens and closes. These springs wind up and store energy as the door closes, releasing this energy to help lift the door when it opens. Extension springs, on the other hand, are mounted on either side of the garage door, running parallel to the tracks. These springs stretch as the door closes and contract when the door opens. Both types of springs are under immense tension, making them susceptible to wear and tear over time.
Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring
Identifying a broken garage door spring is essential for taking prompt action. One of the most obvious signs is that the garage door suddenly becomes extremely heavy and difficult to lift manually. If you have an automatic garage door opener, you may notice that the door only opens a few inches before stopping or the opener struggles to lift the door. Another telltale sign is a loud bang or snapping noise coming from the garage, which is the sound of the spring breaking. Visually inspecting the springs can also reveal the problem, as you may notice a gap in the torsion spring or a visibly stretched or broken extension spring.
The Dangers of DIY Spring Repair
It may be tempting to try and fix a broken garage door spring yourself, especially if you consider yourself handy around the house. However, repairing or replacing garage door springs is a highly dangerous task that should only be performed by a professional. The tension in these springs is enormous, and one wrong move can result in severe injury or even death. Professional technicians have the proper tools, training, and experience to safely handle spring replacement. Attempting a DIY repair without the necessary expertise can lead to serious consequences, including damage to the garage door system and costly repairs.
DIY garage door spring repair poses significant dangers, including the risk of serious injury or property damage. Springs are under high tension and can cause severe injury if they snap or are improperly handled. Incorrect installation can lead to further damage to the garage door system or create unsafe operating conditions. Understanding these risks highlights the importance of hiring a professional for spring replacement to ensure safety and proper functionality. For detailed insights, explore the dangers of DIY garage door spring replacement.
Calling a Professional Garage Door Technician
The safest and most effective course of action when dealing with a broken garage door spring is to contact a professional garage door technician. These professionals have the knowledge and experience to assess the situation, recommend the appropriate course of action, and perform the necessary repairs safely and efficiently. When choosing a technician, ensure they are licensed, insured, and have a good reputation in the community. A qualified technician will also be able to inspect the entire garage door system for any other potential issues and recommend preventive maintenance to avoid future problems.
The Importance of Spring Calibration
After the new springs are installed, it is crucial to calibrate them correctly. Calibration ensures that the springs are providing the correct amount of tension to lift and lower the door smoothly. If the springs are not calibrated properly, the door may not open or close correctly, and the new springs could wear out prematurely. A professional technician will have the expertise to calibrate the springs accurately, ensuring the longevity of the repair and the safe operation of your garage door.
Testing the Garage Door
Once the repair and calibration are complete, the technician will perform a series of tests to ensure that the garage door is functioning properly. This includes testing the balance of the door, the alignment of the tracks, and the operation of the automatic opener. The technician will also check the safety features of the garage door, such as the auto-reverse mechanism, to ensure they are working correctly. If any issues are found during testing, they will be addressed before the technician completes the job. It is essential that all aspects of the garage door system are functioning correctly to ensure safety and prevent future problems.
Testing your garage door is crucial for ensuring its safety and functionality. Regularly check for smooth operation by opening and closing the door, listening for unusual noises, and observing its movement. Ensure the sensors are aligned and the auto-reverse feature works properly. For commercial doors, routine testing is equally vital to prevent disruptions in business operations and to maintain security. Regular maintenance and professional inspections can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems, ensuring a safe and efficient commercial environment.
Preventing Future Spring Breaks
While it is impossible to prevent garage door springs from breaking entirely, there are steps you can take to extend their lifespan and reduce the likelihood of a sudden failure. Regular maintenance is key to keeping your garage door system in good working order. This includes lubricating the springs and other moving parts, checking the balance of the door, and inspecting the springs for signs of wear or damage. It is also important to avoid overloading the garage door opener, as this can put additional strain on the springs. Scheduling regular inspections with a professional technician can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems.
Choosing the Right Replacement Springs
When it comes time to replace your garage door springs, it is important to choose the right springs for your specific door. Garage doors vary in size, weight, and construction, and the springs must be matched accordingly. Using the wrong type or size of spring can result in poor performance and premature failure. A professional technician will be able to determine the correct springs for your door based on its specifications. Additionally, it is worth considering upgrading to high-cycle springs if you use your garage door frequently, as they will last longer and provide better value in the long run.
The Cost of Spring Replacement
The cost of replacing a garage door spring can vary depending on several factors, including the type of spring, the size of the door, and the labor involved. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 and $350 for a standard torsion spring replacement, while high-cycle springs may cost more. Extension spring replacements are generally less expensive, ranging from $100 to $200. It is important to note that while the cost of professional spring replacement may seem high, it is a worthwhile investment for the safety and longevity of your garage door system. Attempting a DIY repair to save money can result in additional costs if something goes wrong.
Warranty and Aftercare
When having your garage door springs replaced, it is important to inquire about the warranty offered by the technician or service provider. A reputable company will typically offer a warranty on both the parts and labor, providing peace of mind that the repair is backed by a guarantee. Additionally, ask the technician about aftercare and maintenance tips to help extend the life of the new springs. Following their advice on regular maintenance, such as lubricating the springs and keeping the door balanced, can help ensure the springs last as long as possible and prevent future issues.
The Role of Other Garage Door Components
It is important to remember that garage door springs are just one part of a complex system that includes the tracks, rollers, hinges, cables, and the automatic opener. When a spring breaks, it can place additional strain on these other components, potentially leading to further damage. During the repair process, a professional technician will inspect the entire garage door system to ensure that all components are in good working order. If any additional issues are found, they can be addressed at the same time as the spring replacement, helping to prevent future problems and ensuring the smooth operation of your garage door.
Garage doors consist of several crucial components beyond the main door itself, including springs, cables, rollers, and openers. Each part plays a specific role in the door’s operation and overall functionality. Springs provide the necessary tension to lift and lower the door, while cables and rollers facilitate smooth movement along the tracks. Openers control the door’s automatic functions. Understanding these components is key to diagnosing common garage door problems, such as malfunctioning openers, broken springs, or misaligned tracks.
Emergency Garage Door Spring Repair
In some cases, a broken garage door spring can be an emergency, particularly if your vehicle is trapped inside the garage and you need to leave for work or another important appointment. Many garage door repair companies offer emergency services for situations like this, with technicians available to perform repairs outside of regular business hours. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, contact a professional garage door repair company as soon as possible to arrange for immediate assistance. While it may be inconvenient and costly, the safety and security of your home and vehicle are worth the investment.
FAQs
What to do when garage door springs break?
Since damaged or broken garage door springs can be dangerous, you should always call a professional before attempting to fix your garage door.
How common is it for a garage door spring to break?
The most common reason your garage door springs break is wear and tear. When properly installed, your springs can last approximately 10,000 cycles. One cycle includes both the opening and closing of the door. Technically speaking, your springs should last between 7 to 10 years.
Can you operate a garage door with a broken spring?
A garage door can still open if the spring is broken, but it will take some manual effort. Using your garage door opener could burn out the motor since the broken spring makes the garage door heavier. We recommend not attempting to open your garage door if it has a broken spring.
Can you fix a garage door spring by yourself?
While replacing the spring yourself may save you money, a professional may be able to complete the job faster while avoiding the hazards that come with this chore. If you aren’t comfortable doing this task yourself, you may want to hire it out the first time to observe how a professional makes the repair.
Why do garage doors spring break?
A garage door spring can break due to various reasons, including normal wear and tear, lack of maintenance, extreme temperatures, or using the wrong type of spring. Regular inspection and maintenance of your garage door system can help identify potential issues before they become significant problems.
Conclusion
Dealing with a broken garage door spring can be a stressful and potentially dangerous situation. However, by understanding the importance of the springs, recognizing the signs of a break, and knowing the steps to take when a spring breaks, you can handle the situation with confidence. Always prioritize safety by avoiding DIY repairs and contacting a professional technician to handle the spring replacement. With proper maintenance and care, your new springs can provide reliable performance for many years, ensuring the smooth and safe operation of your garage door. Regular inspections and timely repairs are key to preventing future issues and keeping your garage door system in top condition.