Why Garage Door Springs Break and When to Replace Them
2024-01-10 7 min read
# Why Garage Door Springs Break and When to Replace Them
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. These powerful components do the heavy lifting, quite literally, by counterbalancing the weight of your door to make opening and closing smooth and effortless. When a spring breaks, your garage door becomes inoperable, and you're faced with an urgent repair need.
Understanding Garage Door Spring Types
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They work by twisting and unwinding to generate the torque needed to lift and lower the door. Most modern residential garage doors use torsion springs because they provide smoother, more controlled operation and typically last longer than extension springs.
A standard two-car garage door usually has one or two torsion springs, depending on the door's weight. These springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if handled improperly.
Extension Springs
Extension springs run along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door. They stretch and contract to provide the lifting force. While extension springs are less expensive than torsion springs, they have a shorter lifespan and can be more dangerous when they break.
Extension springs should always have safety cables running through them. These cables prevent a broken spring from becoming a dangerous projectile.
Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?
Normal Wear and Tear
Garage door springs are rated by cycles, with one cycle being a single open and close operation. Standard springs are rated for approximately 10,000 cycles. If you open and close your garage door four times daily, a standard spring will last about seven years.
High-cycle springs rated for 25,000 or even 50,000 cycles are available for homeowners who want longer-lasting performance. These premium springs are a worthwhile investment for frequently used garage doors.
Temperature Fluctuations
While Culver City enjoys mild weather, temperature changes can still affect spring longevity. Cold weather causes metal to contract, increasing the stress on springs during operation. Springs that break during cold snaps were likely already near the end of their service life.
Rust and Corrosion
Moisture in the garage can cause springs to rust, weakening the metal and reducing its lifespan. Regular lubrication with a silicone-based spray helps prevent rust and keeps springs operating smoothly. We recommend lubricating your springs every three to six months.
Poor Maintenance
Springs that aren't properly maintained experience more friction and stress, leading to premature failure. Annual professional maintenance includes checking spring tension, lubricating moving parts, and identifying potential problems before they cause a breakdown.
Signs Your Springs Need Attention
Several warning signs indicate your springs may be failing. A garage door that feels heavier than usual when opening manually suggests weakening springs. Visible gaps or stretched coils in the spring indicate wear. If you hear loud creaking or grinding noises during operation, the springs may be dry or damaged. Uneven door movement, where one side moves faster than the other, can indicate a spring imbalance.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to call a professional for inspection. Don't wait for a complete spring failure, which often happens at the most inconvenient times.
Why Professional Spring Replacement Is Essential
Garage door spring replacement is one repair that should never be attempted as a DIY project. The springs are under tremendous tension, enough to cause severe injury or death if they snap during improper handling.
Professional technicians have the specialized tools and training to safely release spring tension, remove old springs, and install new ones. At Garage Door Culver City, our technicians are trained in proper spring replacement procedures and carry the necessary safety equipment for every job.
Our Spring Replacement Process
When you call us for spring replacement, here's what to expect. First, we'll safely release the tension on the existing springs. We'll then inspect the entire door system for any related issues. Next, we'll install new, properly sized springs that match your door's weight. We'll adjust the tension for balanced operation and test the door multiple times to ensure smooth operation. Finally, we'll lubricate all moving parts and provide maintenance tips.
Matching Springs to Your Door
Using the correct spring size is critical for safe, long-lasting operation. Springs that are too weak won't fully lift the door, putting stress on the opener. Springs that are too strong can cause the door to open too quickly and slam into the stops.
Our technicians calculate the proper spring size based on your door's weight, height, and track radius. We use high-quality springs from reputable manufacturers to ensure reliable performance.
Contact Us for Spring Replacement
If you're experiencing spring problems or haven't had your springs inspected recently, contact Garage Door Culver City at 424-304-0709. We offer same-day service for emergency spring replacements and provide a no-hassle guarantee on all work.