How to Repair Garage Door Springs Safely
Garage door springs are very important part of your garage door system. They bear the heavy load of the door, making it easier to open and close, whether manually or via a motorized opener. When springs break, the garage door can become difficult, if not impossible, to lift. Attempting to repair broken garage door springs can be a dangerous task if not done correctly. In this article, we are going to discuss how to safely repair garage door springs, offer some safety tips, and help you know when it’s time to call a professional.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage doors typically use one of two types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the door, while extension springs are installed on either side. Both types serve the same purpose but operate slightly differently. Over time, springs loose their tension or snap due to the repetitive strain they endure, usually after 10,000 cycles of opening and closing.
- Key Fact: A single garage door spring replacement may take between 30 minutes to an hour for a professional to complete. However, the risk of personal injury makes DIY repairs a cautious undertaking.
Step-by-Step Guide for Repairing Garage Door Springs Safely
Before diving into repairs, it’s important to understand that garage door springs are under immense tension. Improper handling can cause severe injuries or property damage. Follow these steps with care:
1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
Before starting any repairs, ensure the garage door opener is unplugged. This prevents the door from unexpectedly moving while you work. If your door has manual operation, lock it in place.
2. Identify the Type of Spring
Determine whether your garage door uses torsion or extension springs. Torsion springs are positioned on a metal shaft above the garage door, while extension springs run along the door’s horizontal tracks. Knowing which type you’re dealing with will affect the tools and replacement parts required.
3. Release Tension from the Springs
For torsion springs, use winding bars to release tension from the springs. Never use a tool not specifically designed for this purpose. Each spring will need to be unwound cautiously to avoid the bar slipping. If your door has extension springs, you’ll need to carefully unhook the springs from their brackets.
- Safety Tip: Always wear safety goggles and gloves during this step. The tension stored in garage door springs can cause serious harm if released abruptly.
4. Remove the Old Springs
Once the tension is safely released, remove the damaged springs from the shaft (for torsion) or track (for extension). For torsion springs, you’ll need to loosen the screws on the winding cone. For extension springs, simply detach them from the door’s brackets.
5. Install the New Springs
Install the new springs in place of the old ones. For torsion springs, ensure the winding cones are securely fastened to the shaft. Wind the new springs with the correct tension, using the same number of turns as the previous spring. For extension springs, reattach them to the brackets, ensuring they are evenly balanced on both sides.
- Safety Tip: When installing torsion springs, ensure you use winding bars of the correct length. This gives you more leverage and reduces the risk of losing control.
6. Test the Garage Door
After installing the new springs, carefully lift the garage door to check that it moves smoothly. If the door is still heavy or doesn’t move properly, the springs may not be balanced correctly, or the tension may need adjustment. Avoid excessive adjustments unless you are experienced, as this could worsen the problem.
When to Call a Professional
While replacing garage door springs yourself can save money, it’s not always the safest option. If you don’t have the proper tools or experience, it’s best to hire a professional. A garage door technician can assess the situation and handle the repair quickly and safely. Signs you should call a professional include:
- The springs are completely broken, and the door won’t open at all.
- You have swing out garage doors, which may require special expertise to repair or adjust.
- The springs aren’t balanced, and the door still feels heavy after replacement.
- You hear unusual noises when opening or closing the door after the repair.
- Key Fact: Torsion spring repairs are best left to professionals due to the high tension involved. Attempting to repair these springs without proper tools or knowledge can result in severe injury.
Safety Tips for Garage Door Spring Repairs
- Always use the correct tools, such as winding bars for torsion springs and safety cables for extension springs.
- Never attempt to replace a spring that is severely rusted or damaged—this can increase the risk of it snapping during the repair.
- If your garage door is more than 10 years old, consider replacing both springs, even if only one has broken. This ensures that the door stays balanced and prevents further issues.
Conclusion:
Repairing garage door springs is a job that requires precision, the right tools, and knowledge of safety protocols. Whether you have a modern system or a classic setup like swing out garage doors, it’s important to follow the correct steps to avoid injury. While DIY repairs are possible for experienced individuals, hiring a professional garage door technician is often the safest and most reliable option. They can ensure the springs are replaced correctly and that your garage door operates smoothly for years to come.
For professional, reliable garage door services, contact Seamless Systems. We’re here to help with all your garage door needs! Call us at (307) 680-6103
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