Garage door springs are one of the most vital components of garage doors due to their critical role in enabling smooth and controlled door movement. These springs counterbalance the door’s weight, facilitating its effortless opening and closing, and ensure its reliable and secure performance. Without properly functioning springs, the garage door becomes heavy and difficult to manage, potentially posing risks to users and property.
Being aware of the various spring types, their expected lifespan, and the importance of regular maintenance ensures the continued functionality of your garage door and your family’s safety. Ignoring or overlooking these critical components can lead to unexpected malfunctions and costly repairs. Let’s delve deeper into the world of garage door springs to understand their essential functions, potential risks, and maintenance requirements.
How Do Springs Work?
Garage door springs work by storing and releasing energy to facilitate the opening and closing of the door. There are typically two types of springs: extension springs, which stretch and contract as the door moves, and torsion springs, which twist to provide the necessary force. When you open the door, these springs store energy by stretching or twisting, and when you close it, they release this energy to counterbalance the door’s weight, making it easier to lift or lower. This system not only minimizes the physical effort required but also prevents the door from slamming shut or crashing down, ensuring smoother and safer operation.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs operate by twisting or winding around a metal shaft mounted above the garage door, offering a precise and controlled way of balancing the door’s weight. They store energy as they wind up and release it as they unwind, providing the necessary force to lift and lower the door. These springs are usually installed horizontally on the door’s metal shaft. They’re contained within a metal tube, which adds a layer of safety. When properly maintained, torsion springs are considered more secure because they’re less likely to cause harm in the event of a break compared to extension springs.
Torsion springs are commonly used in modern garage door systems due to their reliability and safety. However, they are often more complex to install and maintain, requiring professional expertise. When well-maintained, they offer a smoother and quieter operation compared to extension springs.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are designed to assist in lifting and lowering the garage door. When you open the door, these springs extend, and this tension helps support the door’s weight. They store energy when in the extended position, which is released when closing the door to counterbalance the door’s weight. Extension springs are typically installed on both sides of the garage door, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They attach to the back of the tracks and to the frame or ceiling of the garage.
These springs have a more old-fashioned design and are more prone to safety concerns. If they break or become damaged, they can fly across the garage with significant force, potentially causing injury or damage. It’s essential to install safety cables through extension springs to help contain them if they break.
How to Maintain Garage Door Springs
Visual Inspection
Examine the springs for any visible issues, such as rust, cracks, or gaps within the coils. If you spot any of these problems, take action to address them immediately. Replacing a damaged spring should be left to professionals like Blue Chip Garage Doors, but spotting issues early can help prevent more significant damage and costs down the road.
Lubrication
Garage door-specific lubrication is readily available at most hardware stores. Apply this lubricant to the springs, focusing on the coil surfaces and the points where the springs rotate, typically at the ends. Proper lubrication reduces friction, which can extend the life of the springs and help maintain smoother operation. This is a simple and effective maintenance task that you can do yourself.
Tighten Hardware
Garage door springs are secured by nuts, bolts, and brackets. Over time, these may become loose due to vibrations from the door’s movement, leading to misalignment and operational problems. Check these components periodically and tighten them as needed to ensure that the springs remain securely in place. To tighten them, ensure the door is fully closed. With the door down, locate the nuts, bolts, and brackets securing the springs to the frame or ceiling. Using the appropriate-sized wrench or socket, carefully tighten these fasteners. Ensure you don’t overtighten, as it can cause damage; just snug enough to secure them firmly in place.
Repair and Replacement
Spring repair is typically necessary when you notice signs of wear or minor damage, such as loose coils, small cracks, or a slight misalignment. Other indications include squeaking, creaking, or slight hesitations during operation. These issues may be addressed through professional assessment and repair without the need for complete replacement. Spring repair should always be performed by experienced technicians who can evaluate the extent of the problem and safely address it. It requires specialized tools and knowledge to ensure the spring maintains its function and integrity.
The exact lifetime of garage door springs can vary depending on the type, usage, and care. Torsion springs usually last from 10,000 to 20,000 cycles, or about 7 to 12 years. Extension springs are more prone to wear and tear and last around 10,000 cycles. Signs indicating the need for replacement include visible wear and damage, such as cracks, gaps, or rust on the spring coils.
The door’s balance also says a lot–if it drifts to one side or has difficulty staying partially open, this may indicate spring issues. A door that is suddenly heavier to lift or exhibits jerky movements can also signify failing springs. Additionally, if you notice loud squeaking or creaking sounds during door operation, this could be due to worn-out or damaged springs. Keep an eye out for these signs, and when you encounter them, contact a professional garage door service for spring replacement to ensure continued safe and reliable garage door operation. At Blue Chip Garage Doors, we offer 27/7 emergency repair services in the greater Charlotte area.
The Risks of Repairing Springs Yourself
Garage door springs pose several significant risks and dangers due to the high tension they operate under. When they break or malfunction, they can release an immense amount of stored energy, potentially causing severe injuries or even fatalities. These forceful releases can lead to the springs or broken components becoming projectiles, posing a hazard to anyone nearby. Attempting to repair or replace garage door springs without proper training and tools is dangerous and best left to trained professionals. Inadequate repairs or incorrect installations can result in spring failure, sudden door collapse, or uncontrolled movements, putting you and your property at risk. Regular maintenance and professional assistance are essential to minimize these risks.
Being informed about how your garage door works–including its springs–allows you to proactively address potential issues, preventing accidents or injuries and saving you from unexpected and costly repairs. Moreover, remember that regular maintenance and checkups are essential for the springs to work reliably. Are you experiencing any issues with your garage door springs? Contact us, and we’ll help you solve them promptly and efficiently.
