Everything You Should Know About Garage Door Spring Repair

When your garage door isn’t working properly, a broken or worn-out garage door spring might be the culprit. These springs are small but mighty, playing an essential role in opening and closing your garage door smoothly. If you’re facing issues, garage door spring repair can restore your door’s functionality and ensure it operates safely.

This blog will give you a clear understanding of garage door springs, how they work, the common issues they face, and what you can do to handle repairs. Here’s everything you need to know, explained in simple terms.

What is a Garage Door Spring?

Garage door springs are essential for balancing the weight of your garage door, making it easy to lift or lower, whether manually or with an automatic opener.

There are two main types:

Torsion Springs: Above the door, these twist to store energy and lift it.
Extension Springs: On the sides, these stretch to provide lifting power.

Without these springs, the door would be heavy and hard to move.

Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?

Springs work hard and can eventually wear out or break. Common reasons include:

Wear and Tear: Springs last about 10,000 cycles (one cycle = opening and closing once) and tend to break after reaching their limit.
Rust: Rust weakens springs, causing them to fail prematurely. Regular lubrication helps prevent this.
Poor Maintenance: Improper servicing or misaligned springs add stress and speed up wear.

Signs Your Garage Door Spring Needs Repair

Here’s how to spot a problem:

Loud Noises: A snapping or booming sound may mean a spring broke.
Heavy Door: If the door feels heavy or won’t open, the spring could be faulty.
Uneven Movement: A crooked or uneven door often signals spring imbalance.
Visible Gaps: A broken spring may show a gap in its coil.

If you notice these issues, it’s time to act.

Can You DIY Garage Door Spring Repairs?

While small garage repairs can be tackled DIY-style, fixing garage door springs is a whole different ballgame. Here are some reasons it’s best to call the pros:

High Tension = High Risk: Garage door springs are under massive tension and can snap, causing injuries.
Specialized Tools Are Required: Repairing springs requires tools and techniques you likely don’t have at home.
Precision Matters: Incorrect repairs can lead to bigger issues or damage your garage door opener.

Hiring a certified technician ensures the repair is done safely and correctly.

How to Keep Your Garage Door Springs in Good Shape

To prolong the life of your garage door springs, follow these simple maintenance tips:

Lubricate Regularly: Use a silicone-based lubricant on the springs every few months to reduce rust and friction.
Check the Balance: Test your door’s balance by manually lifting it halfway. If it stays in place, the springs are likely fine.
Schedule Professional Inspections: A yearly check-up by a professional can catch issues early and extend the life of your springs.

Don’t Ignore Your Garage Door Spring Issues

Garage door springs are essential for the day-to-day functionality of your door. Ignoring repairs or maintenance can lead to inconveniences or safety hazards. If you suspect your springs are worn or broken, call a qualified professional to handle the repairs safely and efficiently.

Got questions or need help with your garage door spring? Contact Whitehall Garage Door Repair today for fast and reliable service.