Garage door springs are one of the most critical components of your garage door system. They handle the heavy lifting, literally, and make it easy for your garage door opener to raise and lower the door. However, when they break, it can leave you in a bind with a garage door that won’t budge. Knowing how to replace garage door spring is essential, especially if you’re a homeowner who prefers DIY fixes. This guide will walk you through the process of safely and effectively replacing a broken garage door spring.
While replacing garage door springs can be a challenging task, understanding the process will help you decide whether it’s something you can tackle yourself or if you should call in the pros. In this detailed guide, we will explain the different types of garage door springs, the tools you’ll need for the job, and a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to replace garage door spring. We’ll also discuss when you should consider hiring a professional for the job and answer some frequently asked questions on the topic.
Understanding Garage Door Springs: Torsion and Extension Springs
Types of Garage Door Springs
Before diving into how to replace garage door spring, it’s important to know the types of springs you may be working with. There are two primary types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: These springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door. Torsion springs are highly durable and operate under a significant amount of tension, making them a bit more complicated—and dangerous—to replace. They twist and coil to store mechanical energy, which is then used to raise or lower the garage door.
- Extension Springs: These springs are located on either side of the door, stretching along the horizontal tracks. Extension springs extend and contract as the garage door opens and closes. They are simpler to replace but still require caution, as they are also under high tension.
Knowing which type of spring you have is crucial when learning how to replace garage door spring, as the method for each differs slightly.
Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?
Garage door springs have a limited lifespan due to the wear and tear they experience each time the garage door opens and closes. Over time, the tension in the springs weakens, leading to eventual failure. On average, garage door springs last between 10,000 to 20,000 cycles, depending on their quality and how frequently they’re used.
Several factors can contribute to spring failure:
- Age: Most springs last between 7 to 12 years, depending on how often the garage door is used.
- Rust: Rust can develop on the springs, weakening them and causing them to break prematurely.
- Temperature: Extreme hot or cold temperatures can impact the metal, causing it to expand or contract and contributing to wear.
- Poor Maintenance: Lack of regular lubrication can cause springs to degrade faster.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Replace Garage Door Spring
Replacing garage door springs is a complex and potentially dangerous task. If you’re not confident in your abilities, it’s always a good idea to call in a professional like DoorJam Garage Repair. However, if you’re a seasoned DIYer and feel up to the challenge, here’s how to do it.
Tools You’ll Need
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Socket wrench
- Pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- Tape measure
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Ladder
- Locking pliers or C-clamps
- Replacement garage door springs
Step 1: Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
To ensure your safety while working, disconnect the garage door opener. This will prevent any accidental movement of the garage door while you’re replacing the springs.
Step 2: Secure the Garage Door
Next, you need to secure the garage door in its current position. Use locking pliers or C-clamps on the garage tracks just below the bottom rollers to ensure the door doesn’t move while you’re working on the springs.
Step 3: Determine the Type of Spring
As mentioned earlier, there are two types of springs: torsion and extension. Identify which type your garage door uses before proceeding. Torsion springs are located above the door, while extension springs are located on the sides.
Step 4: Unwind the Torsion Spring
If you’re replacing a torsion spring, you’ll need to carefully unwind the spring. This step requires the use of winding bars. Insert the first winding bar into the winding cone of the spring. Slowly and carefully, begin to unwind the spring one quarter-turn at a time, holding the bars securely in place.
Step 5: Remove the Old Spring
After the tension in the spring is fully released, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts that attach the spring to the bracket. Slide the old spring off the shaft and set it aside. Repeat the process for any additional springs.
For extension springs, release the tension on the spring by disconnecting the safety cables and unhooking the spring from the garage door track.
Step 6: Install the New Spring
Slide the new spring onto the torsion bar, ensuring that it faces the correct direction. The spring’s winding cone should face the center of the garage door.
For extension springs, attach the new spring to the bracket and reconnect the safety cables.
Step 7: Wind the Torsion Spring
Once the new spring is in place, it’s time to wind it. This step is critical and can be dangerous if done improperly. Using the winding bars, wind the spring in the opposite direction that you used to unwind it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the number of turns required for your specific spring.
Step 8: Lubricate the New Spring
Once the spring is securely installed, apply a high-quality lubricant designed for garage doors. This will prevent rust and ensure that the spring operates smoothly.
Step 9: Test the Garage Door
After the installation is complete, remove the C-clamps or locking pliers from the garage tracks. Reconnect the garage door opener and test the door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. If the door is unbalanced, you may need to adjust the spring tension.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Professional
While learning how to replace garage door spring can save you some money, it’s not without its risks. Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and improper handling can result in serious injuries or damage to your garage door system.
Hiring a professional like DoorJam Garage Repair ensures that the job is done safely and correctly. Professionals have the experience and the tools necessary to replace garage door springs quickly and efficiently, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring your garage door works properly.
Safety Considerations When Replacing Garage Door Springs
Replacing garage door springs is not without risks. If you’re attempting to replace the springs yourself, here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:
- Use the Correct Tools: Always use winding bars for torsion springs. Other tools, such as screwdrivers, are not designed to handle the high tension of these springs.
- Wear Protective Gear: Safety glasses and gloves are a must. Springs can snap unexpectedly, and flying debris can cause serious injuries.
- Never Rush the Job: Take your time during each step. Hastily winding or unwinding the spring can lead to mistakes, which can be dangerous.
- Work with a Partner: If possible, have someone assist you. They can provide an extra set of hands and help keep an eye on safety.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace Garage Door Springs
1. Visible Gaps in the Spring Coils
A clear indicator of a broken torsion spring is a visible gap between the coils. This happens when the spring snaps, causing a break in the coil. The gap indicates that the spring can no longer generate the necessary tension to lift or lower the door. This is a serious issue, and it’s important to address it immediately since continuing to use the garage door with a broken spring can strain other components or lead to safety hazards.
2. Slow or Struggling Garage Door Operation
If your garage door is opening or closing more slowly than usual, or if it seems to struggle during operation, the springs may be worn out. Garage door springs are designed to counterbalance the weight of the door, and when they lose tension over time, they can no longer efficiently support the door’s weight. As a result, the door opener has to work harder, leading to slower operation and increased wear on the opener itself.
3. Loud Bang or Snapping Sound
If you hear a loud, sudden bang or snapping noise coming from your garage, it’s likely that a spring has broken. The sound is caused by the tension released when the spring snaps, and it’s usually quite noticeable. After hearing this noise, you might also notice that your garage door struggles to open or doesn’t open at all, depending on whether one or both springs are broken.
4. Crooked or Uneven Garage Door Movement
When one spring is broken or significantly worn out, it can cause the garage door to move unevenly or become crooked as it opens or closes. The door might appear tilted or may even get stuck partway. This happens because the remaining spring is unable to evenly distribute the weight of the door, leading to an imbalance. Ignoring this can cause more serious damage to the garage door mechanism.
5. Door Closes Too Quickly
Another sign of spring failure is when the garage door closes too quickly, almost like it’s slamming down. This is particularly dangerous as it can lead to accidents or injuries. Garage door springs provide controlled tension to ensure smooth, gradual opening and closing. If the springs lose their tension or break, they can no longer slow down the door’s descent.
6. Excessive Wear on Cables or Other Components
When springs start to fail, they can place additional strain on other components like cables, pulleys, and the garage door opener. If you notice fraying or visible wear on the cables or if the door opener motor seems to be straining or overheating, this could be a sign that the springs are no longer functioning properly. Regular inspections can help identify these issues before they lead to more significant problems.
7. Garage Door Feels Heavy
When you manually operate your garage door, it should feel relatively easy to lift. If the door feels excessively heavy, this could indicate that the springs are no longer doing their job of balancing the door’s weight. In such cases, the springs have likely lost tension or are nearing the end of their lifespan. Operating a door that feels heavy can damage the opener and pose a safety risk.
8. Rust or Corrosion on Springs
Over time, garage door springs can become rusted or corroded, especially if they are exposed to moisture. Rust weakens the metal, causing the spring to break more easily. If you notice signs of rust or corrosion, it’s a good idea to lubricate the springs regularly to prevent further damage. However, if the rust has significantly weakened the spring, replacement may be necessary to avoid failure.
9. Garage Door Doesn’t Stay in Place
If your garage door no longer stays in place when partially open, it’s another strong indicator that the springs are worn out. The springs should provide enough tension to hold the door steady at various positions. If the door starts drifting downward or doesn’t remain stationary, the springs are likely no longer providing sufficient support.
10. Outdated or Aging Springs
Garage door springs have a finite lifespan, usually measured in cycles (one cycle being a complete opening and closing of the door). Standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, which may last anywhere from 7 to 10 years, depending on usage. If your springs are approaching this age or cycle limit, it’s wise to consider replacing them even if you haven’t noticed any immediate issues. Proactive replacement can prevent a sudden failure.
By recognizing these signs early and replacing the springs in a timely manner, you can prevent further damage to your garage door system and ensure the safety of those using it. Regular maintenance and inspections can help catch spring issues before they turn into more costly repairs.
Common FAQs About How to Replace Garage Door Spring
1. How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?
The cost of replacing a garage door spring typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the type of spring and whether you hire a professional. If you choose to DIY, the cost will primarily depend on the price of the replacement spring.
2. How long do garage door springs last?
Garage door springs generally last between 7 to 12 years, depending on their quality and the frequency of garage door use. Torsion springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, with one cycle being a complete opening and closing of the garage door.
3. Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
While it is possible to replace a garage door spring yourself, it’s a dangerous task that requires precision and the right tools. If you’re not experienced, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure the job is done safely.
4. How can I prevent my garage door springs from breaking?
Regular maintenance, including lubricating the springs and checking for signs of wear or rust, can extend the life of your garage door springs. You should also avoid using the garage door excessively, as each open and close cycle contributes to the wear of the springs.
5. How do I know if my garage door spring is broken?
If your garage door is no longer opening or closing properly, or if you notice a gap in the torsion spring, it’s a strong indicator that the spring is broken. Additionally, a loud snapping noise often accompanies a spring break.
Conclusion
Understanding how to replace garage door spring can save you time and money in the long run. However, it’s important to note that replacing garage door springs is a task that should not be taken lightly. With the springs under high tension, there is a significant risk of injury if the process is not executed correctly. If you’re not confident in your skills, hiring a professional like DoorJam Garage Repair is the safest and most effective way to ensure your garage door operates smoothly.
When replacing garage door springs or any other garage door repair, DoorJam Garage Repair is your go-to service provider. We offer top-quality, affordable garage door services throughout Raleigh and Durham, NC. Our expert technicians are ready to assist with any garage door issue, ensuring your home remains safe and functional.
End Note
DoorJam Garage Repair is your trusted partner for reliable, affordable garage door services and the #1 garage door repair provider in Raleigh and Durham, NC. Whether you’re in need of spring replacement, new garage door installation, or regular maintenance, our professional team is here to help. Visit our About Us page to learn more about our services, or check out our Service page for a full list of what we offer. To schedule a service or inquire further, contact us through our Contact Us page. We look forward to providing you with top-tier garage door solutions!