Understanding Garage Door Springs: Types, Problems, and Repair
2023-12-28 6 min read Garage Door Whittier
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. They do the heavy lifting.literally.making it possible for you to open a door that might weigh 200 pounds or more with the push of a button. Understanding how springs work and recognizing when they need attention can help you maintain a safe, functioning garage door.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of springs used in residential garage doors:
*Torsion Springs:* These are mounted on a metal shaft above the door opening. When the door closes, the springs wind up and store energy. When you open the door, the springs unwind and release that energy to help lift the door. Torsion springs are the more common type in modern homes because they're safer, more durable, and provide smoother operation.
*Extension Springs:* These springs run along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. They stretch and contract as the door moves. Extension springs are typically found in older garage door systems or lighter doors. They're generally less expensive but also less durable and can be more dangerous if they break.
Why Springs Break
All garage door springs will eventually break.it's not a matter of if, but when. Springs are rated by cycles, with one cycle being one complete open-and-close of the door. Standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, while high-cycle springs can last 25,000 cycles or more.
Several factors affect spring lifespan: frequency of use, temperature fluctuations (which cause metal expansion and contraction), rust and corrosion, and lack of maintenance. Springs that aren't regularly lubricated or that operate in humid environments will fail sooner.
Signs of Spring Problems
Recognizing spring problems early can prevent a complete failure at an inconvenient time:
- The door feels heavier than usual when you try to lift it manually, The door opens only a foot or two before stopping, There's a visible gap in a torsion spring (indicating it has already broken) - You hear a loud bang from the garage (the sound of a spring breaking) - The door closes too quickly or slams shut, The cables appear loose or are hanging on the sides of the door
Why Professional Repair Is Essential
Garage door spring repair is not a DIY project. Here's why:
*Extreme tension:* Springs are under tremendous tension. A torsion spring that suddenly releases can cause serious injury or death. Even extension springs, while smaller, can cause significant harm.
*Specialized tools:* Proper spring repair requires specific tools that most homeowners don't have, including winding bars for torsion springs. Using improvised tools is extremely dangerous.
*Precise adjustments:* Springs must be wound to the exact tension needed for your door's weight. Incorrect tension causes premature wear, can damage the opener, and poses safety risks.
*Warranty considerations:* DIY repair can void warranties on both the springs and the garage door system.
What to Expect from Professional Repair
When you call a professional for spring repair, they'll assess the entire door system, not just the springs. A good technician will check the cables, rollers, and opener while they're there. Spring replacement typically takes about an hour for torsion springs.
Many professionals recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one has broken. Since both springs are the same age and have experienced the same use, the second spring is likely to fail soon after the first.
At Garage Door Whittier, our technicians are trained in safe spring repair and replacement. We use high-quality springs and back our work with a warranty. If you're experiencing spring problems, contact us for fast, professional service.