Garage door springs might seem like small, hidden components, but they play a massive role in your garage door’s safety and performance.
Whether you’re opening your garage to leave for work or closing it for the night, these powerful springs are hard at work, bearing the door’s heavy load. In this guide, we’ll dive into why garage door springs are so important, how to spot signs of wear, and what you can do to keep them functioning safely.
Why Garage Door Springs Are So Important
When you press the button to open your garage door, the springs do the heavy lifting, counterbalancing the door’s weight so it can move up and down smoothly. Without these springs, your garage door opener would be under extreme stress and likely fail in no time.
There are two main types of springs you might find in your garage door system:
- Torsion Springs – Located above the door, torsion springs twist to lift the door.
- Extension Springs – Typically found along the sides of the door, extension springs expand and contract to help raise and lower the door.
Regardless of type, these springs are essential for both door balance and safe operation. In a well-maintained system, garage door springs ensure the door moves smoothly without jerking, rattling, or putting undue strain on the opener.
Recognizing Signs of Wear in Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs don’t last forever. Over time, the tension and weight they carry can cause them to wear out. Recognizing the signs of wear early can save you from a sudden, costly emergency repair.
Here are some telltale signs that your springs might need attention:
- Visible Rust or Corrosion: Rust can weaken springs, making them more likely to snap. Regularly inspect for signs of corrosion, especially in climates with high humidity.
- Gaps in the Coils: Torsion springs will sometimes show a visible gap between coils when they are close to breaking. If you see this, it’s time to replace them immediately.
- The Door Feels Heavy: If you have to struggle to lift the door manually, your springs may be weakening. Springs should do most of the lifting, so if it feels unusually heavy, get your springs checked.
- Loud, Popping Noises: While some noise is normal, loud bangs or popping sounds when the door operates could indicate a spring is about to break.
- The Door Isn’t Opening or Closing Smoothly: Uneven or jerky movement often signals that one or both springs are struggling.
The Dangers of Broken Garage Door Springs
A broken spring can be dangerous, especially if it snaps while the door is moving. Since garage doors are heavy—often around 150-300 pounds—a sudden drop due to a failed spring could damage your property or, worse, cause injury.
Here’s why it’s essential to address spring problems quickly:
- Injury Prevention: A snapped spring can cause the door to fall, posing serious risk to anyone in its path.
- Avoiding Opener Damage: When a spring is worn or broken, the garage door opener bears the weight alone. This can lead to costly damage or even total failure of the opener.
- Preventing Costly Repairs: Fixing a spring early is typically much more affordable than dealing with a full opener replacement or major structural damage to the door.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
The lifespan of garage door springs depends on their cycle rating—a cycle is one full opening and closing of the door. Most standard springs last about 10,000 cycles, which, for many households, means around 7-10 years of use. If you open and close your garage door frequently, you may need to replace your springs sooner.
For those who use their garage multiple times a day, consider upgrading to high-cycle springs, which can last up to 25,000 cycles, offering added durability and longevity.
Essential Garage Door Spring Maintenance Tips
While spring maintenance can extend their lifespan, handling them yourself can be dangerous due to the high tension they carry. Here are some safe, effective tips for keeping them in top shape:
- Lubricate Springs Regularly: Use a silicone-based lubricant to keep your springs moving smoothly. This helps prevent rust and reduces noise, while also allowing them to function with less stress.
- Check for Balance: Disconnect the garage door opener and lift the door manually to about halfway. If it stays in place, your springs are balanced. If it starts to fall, it’s a sign the springs may need adjustment.
- Schedule Professional Inspections: An annual inspection by a garage door technician can catch early signs of wear and help avoid unexpected breakdowns.
- Avoid DIY Spring Repairs: Springs are tightly wound and can snap with force. If you suspect issues, it’s always safest to contact a professional.
When to Call in the Pros
Garage door spring repairs should be left to professionals due to the risks involved. At Garage Door Pros, we specialize in inspecting, repairing, and replacing garage door springs safely. If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs above or it’s been a while since your last maintenance check, give us a call to ensure your garage door system is running safely and efficiently.
Garage door springs might be out of sight, but they should never be out of mind! By understanding their importance, recognizing signs of wear, and maintaining them properly, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe.
If you’re concerned about your garage door springs or need expert assistance, contact Garage Door Pros today at 778-767-3711 for a professional inspection. We’re here to help keep your garage door in perfect working order, season after season.
