The springs of a garage door are among the most critical components of the system, responsible for lifting and lowering the heavy door. They bear the majority of the door’s weight and, over time, can wear out or break due to regular use. When a garage door spring breaks or malfunctions, it can prevent your door from opening or closing, making it essential to address the issue promptly. Garage door spring repair should always be handled by a professional to ensure safety and proper function.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Each type works in a different way, but both are essential for the smooth operation of the door.
-
Torsion Springs: These are located above the garage door opening and work by twisting and untwisting as the door moves. Torsion springs are typically more durable and require less maintenance than extension springs, but they can be more dangerous to repair due to the tension they are under.
-
Extension Springs: These springs are located above the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. They stretch and contract as the door opens and closes. While extension springs are generally easier to replace than torsion springs, they still carry significant tension and should be handled carefully.
Signs You Need Garage Door Spring Repair
-
The Door Won’t Open or Close Properly: If you press the opener button and the door only opens partially or doesn’t move at all, broken springs are often the cause. The springs provide the necessary lift for the door, and if they fail, the door won’t operate correctly.
-
Uneven Door Movement: If your garage door moves unevenly, with one side higher than the other, this could be a sign of a broken or worn-out spring. The door may also appear to be crooked or misaligned.
-
Loud Noises: A snapping or popping sound when the door opens or closes can indicate a broken torsion spring. The tension in the spring is released suddenly when it breaks, causing a loud noise.
-
The Door Feels Heavy: If the door feels significantly heavier than usual when you try to lift it manually, it’s likely a sign that one or both of the springs have failed. A door that’s too heavy for the opener to lift can cause further damage to the motor.
Why Garage Door Spring Repair Should Be Left to Professionals
Garage door springs are under immense tension, and attempting to repair or replace them without the proper knowledge and tools can be extremely dangerous. Here are several reasons why it’s important to call a professional for spring repairs:
-
Safety: Broken springs are under high tension, and mishandling them can result in injury. Professionals have the right equipment and training to handle the springs safely.
-
Correct Repairs: A trained technician can accurately diagnose whether the springs need to be repaired or replaced, ensuring that the door operates correctly. They’ll also check the other components of the door to make sure everything is working harmoniously.
-
Preventing Further Damage: If you try to fix the springs on your own, there’s a risk of causing more damage to other components of the garage door system, such as the tracks, opener, or cables.
-
Time and Convenience: Repairing garage door springs requires special tools and expertise. A professional repair service will quickly restore the door’s functionality, saving you time and effort in dealing with the repair yourself.
Garage Door Spring Repair Process
-
Inspection: A professional will begin by thoroughly inspecting the door and springs to determine the cause of the issue. They will assess whether the springs need repair or replacement and check other components of the system.
-
Replacement or Repair: If the springs are broken or too worn to function correctly, the technician will replace them with new ones of the correct size and tension. In some cases, the technician may repair a minor issue with the spring, but replacement is often the best option for ensuring the door’s long-term performance.
-
Lubrication and Adjustment: After the repair or replacement, the technician will lubricate the springs and adjust the door’s balance to ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion
Garage door spring repair is crucial for maintaining the safety and proper function of your garage door. If you notice any of the common signs of a broken spring, it’s important to call a professional garage door technician immediately. By leaving the repair to an expert, you ensure that your door operates safely, smoothly, and reliably for years to come.
Phone : 954-872-1728