Common Signs and Solutions for Broken Garage Door Springs

Your garage door is an essential part of your home, providing security and convenience. But when something goes wrong, it can be frustrating and even dangerous. One of the most common issues with garage doors is broken springs. In this article, we’ll discuss the signs of broken garage door springs and the solutions to fix them.

What Are Garage Door Springs?

Before we dive into the signs and solutions for broken garage door springs, it’s essential to understand what they are and their role in your garage door.

Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of your garage door, making it easier to open and close. They come in two types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the garage door, while extension springs are located on either side of the door.

Both types of springs work by storing energy when the door is closed and releasing it when the door is opened. This helps to reduce the strain on your garage door opener and makes it easier to open and close the door manually.

Signs of Broken Garage Door Springs

Now that you know what garage door springs are let’s look at the signs that they may be broken.

Difficulty Opening or Closing the Door

One of the most obvious signs of broken garage door springs is difficulty opening or closing the door. If you notice that your garage door is suddenly heavier than usual or won’t open at all, it’s likely due to a broken spring.

Loud Noise When Opening or Closing

If you hear a loud noise when opening or closing your garage door, it could be a sign of a broken spring. This noise is often described as a loud bang or pop, and it’s caused by the spring breaking and releasing its stored energy.

Visible Damage to the Springs

If you have a broken garage door spring, you may be able to see visible damage. Look for gaps or breaks in the spring, or if it appears stretched out or elongated. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace your springs.

Crooked or Uneven Door

Another sign of broken garage door springs is a crooked or uneven door. If one side of your garage door is higher than the other, it’s likely due to a broken spring. This can also cause your door to get stuck when opening or closing.

Door Won’t Stay Open

If your garage door won’t stay open or keeps falling closed, it’s a sign that your springs are broken. The springs are responsible for holding the weight of the door, so when they break, the door won’t stay open.

Solutions for Broken Garage Door Springs

If you’ve noticed any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to replace your broken garage door springs. Here are some solutions to fix this issue.

Hire a Professional

The most recommended solution for broken garage door springs is to hire a professional. Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, and attempting to replace them yourself can be dangerous. A professional will have the necessary tools and experience to replace the springs safely and efficiently.

Replace Both Springs

If one of your garage door springs has broken, it’s best to replace both springs at the same time. This is because the springs have a similar lifespan, and if one has broken, the other is likely to break soon as well. Replacing both springs at once will save you time and money in the long run.

Choose the Right Springs

When replacing your garage door springs, it’s essential to choose the right type and size. Torsion springs are more common and are typically used for heavier garage doors, while extension springs are used for lighter doors. It’s also crucial to choose the correct size and weight rating for your specific garage door.

Regular Maintenance

To prevent broken garage door springs, it’s essential to perform regular maintenance on your garage door. This includes lubricating the springs and other moving parts, checking for wear and tear, and tightening any loose bolts or screws. Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your garage door springs and prevent costly repairs.

Safety Tips for Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous if not handled correctly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when dealing with garage door springs.

Don’t Attempt to Repair or Replace Springs Yourself

As mentioned earlier, attempting to repair or replace garage door springs yourself can be dangerous. It’s best to leave this task to a professional who has the necessary tools and experience to do it safely.

Keep Children and Pets Away

When dealing with garage door springs, it’s essential to keep children and pets away from the area. The springs are under a lot of tension and can cause serious injury if they break or snap.

Use Caution When Opening or Closing the Door

If you suspect that your garage door springs are broken, use caution when opening or closing the door. The door may be heavier than usual, and it’s best to avoid using the door until the springs have been replaced.

Regularly Inspect Your Garage Door

To prevent accidents and injuries, it’s essential to regularly inspect your garage door for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any issues, it’s best to have them addressed by a professional as soon as possible.

Wrap it Up – Broken Garage Door Springs

Broken garage door springs are a common issue that can cause inconvenience and even danger. By knowing the signs of broken springs and the solutions to fix them, you can keep your garage door functioning properly and safely. Remember to always hire a professional for any repairs or replacements and to perform regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs in the future. With these tips in mind, you can keep your garage door in top shape and ensure the safety of your home and family.