Garage door springs are one of the most essential components of your garage door system. They play a critical role in lifting and lowering the door smoothly, counterbalancing its weight, and ensuring its safe operation. However, despite their importance, springs for garage doors are often overlooked—until they fail. When a garage door spring breaks, it can cause serious inconvenience and even pose safety hazards.
Understanding the function of garage door springs, recognizing the signs of wear, and knowing when to replace them can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. This guide will provide everything you need to know about springs for garage doors, their types, how they work, and when to replace them.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs come in two primary varieties, each with its own function and set of advantages. Understanding the differences can help you determine the best choice for your garage door system.
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Torsion Springs
Typically installed horizontally above the garage door opening, torsion springs are the most widely used kind of springs for garage doors. These springs work by using torque (a twisting force) to store mechanical energy. When the door is opened, the springs unwind, allowing the stored energy to lift the door. When the door is closed, the springs wind back up, storing energy for the next operation.
Benefits of Torsion Springs:
- Provide smoother and more controlled door movement.
- Typically last longer than extension springs (10,000–20,000 cycles).
- Offer better balance and reduce stress on other garage door components.
- Less prone to sudden failure since they unwind gradually.
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Extension Springs
Parallel to the garage door tracks, extension springs are positioned on either side of the door. They operate by stretching and contracting as the door moves. When the door is closed, the springs are stretched and store energy. When the door is opened, the stored energy helps lift the door.
Benefits of Extension Springs:
- More cost-effective compared to torsion springs.
- Suitable for garages with limited headroom.
- Easy to install and replace.
However, extension springs have some drawbacks. They can fail unexpectedly and typically wear out more quickly than torsion springs, which may pose a safety hazard if not equipped with safety cables.
How to Identify Worn or Broken Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are subject to wear and tear due to frequent use. Over time, they can weaken, stretch, or break, making it difficult to operate the door safely. The most typical indicators that your springs for garage doors require maintenance are listed below.
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Unusual Noises
If you hear loud banging, creaking, or snapping sounds when opening or shutting the garage door, it could be a sign that your springs are worn out or about to break.
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Difficulty Opening or Shutting the Door
A garage door that feels unusually heavy or doesn’t open or close smoothly may indicate a spring failure. Springs counterbalance the weight of the door, so if they’re damaged, the door becomes difficult to lift manually or may not move at all.
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Garage Door Closes Too Fast
A broken spring can cause the garage door to slam shut suddenly. This can be dangerous, especially if there are people or objects underneath the door.
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Visible Gaps in the Springs
If you notice a visible gap in the coils of your torsion spring, it’s a clear sign that the spring has broken and needs to be replaced immediately.
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Door Moves Unevenly or Jerks During Operation
An unbalanced garage door that moves in a jerky manner or tilts to one side suggests that one of the extension springs may be failing or has already broken.
When to Replace Garage Door Springs
The lifespan of garage door springs is limited and usually expressed in cycles. One cycle equals one full open-and-close movement. On average:
- Standard springs last between 7–12 years (10,000 cycles).
- High-cycle springs can last 20,000 cycles or more.
It’s best to replace your springs before they completely break to prevent unexpected failures and costly emergency repairs. If one spring breaks, it’s recommended to replace both, as they wear out at the same rate.
DIY vs. Professional Replacement
While some homeowners may attempt to replace springs for garage doors on their own, it’s important to understand the risks involved.
Why DIY Replacement is Dangerous:
- Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if they snap unexpectedly.
- Specialized tools and proper techniques are required for safe installation.
- The garage door system may sustain additional harm as a result of improper installation.
Benefits of Hiring a Professional:
- Experts garage door repair ensure the safe removal and installation of new springs.
- Proper calibration and balance prevent strain on the garage door opener.
- Professional service often includes warranties, ensuring long-term reliability.
Maintaining Your Garage Door Springs for Longevity
Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your garage door springs and prevent premature failure.
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Lubrication
Apply a high-quality garage door lubricant to torsion and extension springs every 3–6 months. This reduces friction and prevents rust buildup.
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Periodic Inspections
Check your gsprings for garage doors for signs of wear, rust, or damage. If you notice any abnormalities, contact a professional for an inspection.
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Limit Unnecessary Usage
Reducing the number of daily garage door cycles can help extend the lifespan of your springs. If possible, use other entrances to your home instead of relying solely on the garage door.
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Perform a Balance Test
Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the door halfway. If the door stays in place, the springs are functioning correctly. If it moves up or down on its own, the springs may need adjustment or replacement.
Conclusion
Garage door springs are a crucial component of your garage door system, ensuring smooth operation and preventing excessive wear on other parts. Understanding their function, identifying early signs of wear, and knowing when to replace them can save you from sudden failures and costly repairs.
Because springs for garage doors operate under high tension, it’s always best to rely on a professional for replacement and maintenance. By taking proactive measures like regular inspections and lubrication, you can extend the lifespan of your garage door springs and ensure your garage door operates safely and efficiently for years to come.
