Dealing with a garage door spring broken can feel like a daunting task, but don’t worry, you’re not alone in this. We at The Garage Door Company understand how important it is to get your garage door back in working order quickly and safely. Here’s a friendly guide to help you navigate this situation
Step 1: Safety First
First and foremost, safety is key. A broken spring can be dangerous due to the tension it holds, so it’s crucial to avoid trying to open or close the garage door. Also, keep children and pets away from the area to prevent any accidents.
Step 2: Identify the Problem
Garage door springs are either torsion springs, located above the door, or extension springs, which are found alongside the door. Identifying which type you have is important because it affects how the repair is handled. Look for visible signs of damage like gaps in the spring or sagging.
Step 3: Don’t Try to Fix It Yourself
While we love a good DIY project, repairing a garage door spring is not one of them. Due to the high tension these springs are under, attempting a repair can be extremely dangerous. It’s a job best left to professionals who have the right tools and knowledge.
Step 4: Secure Your Garage Door
If you can, disconnect the garage door opener from the door by pulling the emergency release cord. This will prevent anyone from accidentally opening the door while the spring is broken. If your door is stuck open, consider propping it up with something sturdy to prevent it from falling.
Step 5: Call the Professionals
Now it’s time to call in the experts. At The Garage Door Company, we’re equipped to handle these repairs safely and efficiently. We can assess the damage, provide a quote, and get your garage door spring fixed in no time.
Step 6: Consider a Full Inspection
If your garage door spring broke, it’s often a sign that the other might not be far behind. We recommend having both springs replaced at the same time for balance and to prevent future issues. Also, a full inspection of your garage door system can identify any other potential problems.
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Step 7: Regular Maintenance
Once your garage door is fixed, regular maintenance is key to preventing future issues. Ask our team about our maintenance services to keep your garage door in top shape.
Do Extension Springs Wear Out?
Absolutely, extension springs do wear out. These springs balance the door using a system of pulleys and counterbalance cables. Over time, with frequent use, they can lose tension or break. It’s important to keep an eye on them and get them replaced when they start showing signs of wear to avoid any sudden failures.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
The lifespan of garage door springs varies. Generally, garage door springs are designed to last about 10,000 cycles, with one cycle being the garage door going up and coming down. For an average family, this typically translates to about 7-9 years, depending on usage.
How Long Do Torsion Springs Last?
Torsion springs, which are mounted above the door and twist to provide lifting power, also have a similar lifespan to extension springs. They can last for approximately 10,000 cycles. However, the longevity can be influenced by factors like the spring quality, maintenance, and the weight of the door.
Should you replace the garage door spring yourself?
Replacing a garage door spring yourself is not recommended. It requires specific tools and a clear understanding of the mechanism. The springs are under a lot of tension, and a mistake can lead to injury or further damage to your garage. It’s safer and more efficient to call a professional.
Signs of a broken garage door spring
Detecting a broken garage door spring early can save you from more significant issues down the line. Here’s a more detailed look at the signs that indicate a possible broken spring:
1. Door Won’t Open or Opens Partially
If your garage door refuses to open or only opens a few inches, it’s a classic sign of a broken spring. The springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, so if they’re not working, the opener might not have enough power to lift the door on its own.
2. Loud Bang from the Garage
When a spring breaks, it releases a considerable amount of energy. This can sound like a loud bang or snap coming from the garage, often startling and unexpected. It’s the sound of the spring snapping under tension.
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3. Door Closes Too Quickly or Slams Down
If your garage door is closing faster than usual or even slamming down, it’s a sign that the spring isn’t supporting the door’s weight properly. This can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately.
4. Door Hangs at an Angle or Looks Uneven
When one spring breaks (especially in systems with two springs), it can cause the door to hang unevenly or appear skewed. This imbalance can strain other parts of your garage door system, leading to further damage.
5. Loose or Fallen Cables
The cables that run alongside your garage door are connected to the springs. If a spring breaks, these cables can lose tension, become slack, or even detach completely. Loose or fallen cables are a clear indicator that something is amiss with the springs.
6. Gaps in the Spring Coil
For torsion springs, look for visible gaps between the coils. A gap indicates that the spring has failed and is no longer able to perform its function of balancing the door.
7. Difficulty Manually Lifting the Door
If you try to open the garage door manually and find it extremely heavy or difficult to lift, it could be due to a broken spring. The spring’s role is to counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easier to operate.
8. The Door Operates with a Jerky Motion
If the movement of your garage door seems jerky or uneven, it could be a sign that the springs aren’t functioning correctly, struggling to maintain the balance and smooth operation of the door.
Recognizing these signs early and getting professional help can prevent further damage to your garage door system and ensure safety.
Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?
Garage door springs break due to normal wear and tear over time. The constant stress and movement can weaken the metal, leading to a break. Environmental factors like rust and corrosion can also shorten a spring’s lifespan, especially in damp or coastal areas.
How Can You Make Garage Door Springs Last Longer?
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your garage door springs. This includes lubricating the springs, checking the balance of the door, tightening hardware, and inspecting cables and pulleys for wear. Also, having a professional perform periodic checks can help catch issues before they become major problems.
When should you replace your garage door springs?
It’s advisable to replace your garage door springs if you notice signs of wear, such as a lack of tension, or if the door isn’t operating smoothly. Additionally, if your springs have reached their expected lifespan of around 10,000 cycles, it’s a good idea to get them replaced proactively.
Should you replace both springs if only one is broken?
Yes, it’s generally recommended to replace both springs if one breaks. The reason is that both springs have gone through the same amount of wear and tear. Replacing both ensures balanced lifting and reduces the chance of the unbroken spring failing soon after the first.
How Much Do Garage Door Spring Replacements Cost
The cost for garage door spring replacement can vary depending on the type of spring, the size of the door, and regional pricing differences. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $350 for professional replacement. Remember, investing in quality service ensures safety and long-term functionality of your door.
When to call a professional for broken garage door spring repair?
Remember, a broken garage door spring is a common issue and one that can be resolved quickly with the right help. At The Garage Door Company, we’re here to provide that help, ensuring your garage door is safe and operational. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us – we’re here to make your life easier and keep your garage door running smoothly!
