When you press your garage door opener and the door glides up smoothly, you probably don’t give its inner workings much thought. However, it helps to understand the components in case one ever malfunctions. The pieces behind effortless, reliable door movement are your garage door springs.
Garage door springs counterbalance the door’s weight, enabling it to open and close with minimal effort. Each time you use your garage door, these springs do the heavy lifting, often moving doors that weigh between 100 and 400 pounds. Use this guide for everything you need to know about garage door springs, from types and maintenance to when it’s time to call a pro for your springs.
Types of Garage Door Springs
The two main types of garage door springs are torsion and extension springs. Here is more information about both kinds.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are above the garage door and are known for their endurance and ability to handle heavier doors with consistent performance. These springs work through a principle called torsional force. The spring winds up when you close the garage door, storing energy. When you open the door, this stored energy releases, helping the door rise smoothly. The even weight distribution is why torsion springs are known for their stability and long lifespan.
When installed by seasoned garage door installers, torsion springs provide years of consistent performance, making them a solid investment for homes facing tough winters and daily use. Torsion springs may take more effort to replace, but they often pay off due to their reliability.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are on either side of the door. Here, the spring stretches or extends as the door lowers, storing energy like a stretched rubber band. When you raise the door, the spring contracts, helping pull the door upward. Extension springs often come with safety cables to prevent them from flying off in the rare event of a break.
While these springs may have a shorter lifespan, they still offer dependable service when maintained properly. Plenty of older homes used extension springs for decades, especially on lighter, single-car garage doors.
Spotting Worn or Damaged Springs
One of the surest signs that your garage door springs are struggling is when your door lags or hesitates during opening or closing. Many homeowners also notice visible gaps or stretched coils in the springs themselves.
Another indicator is a sudden loud bang from the garage, which is often the sound of a spring snapping under pressure. If your garage door becomes harder to operate, you notice visible wear on the coils, or you hear unusual noises during use, it’s a sign that it’s time for a thorough inspection.
Common Causes of Garage Door Spring Failure
Spring failure in a garage door usually results from one of these causes:
- Wear and tear: On average, springs are rated for about 10,000 open-and-close cycles, and every operation brings them closer to their limit.
- Poor upkeep: Failing to clean and lubricate springs regularly is another leading cause of breakage. Debris and rust increase friction and intensify wear.
- Incorrect installation: Sometimes, DIY installation attempts accelerate spring failure by creating uneven tension.
Garage Door Safety and Springs
Garage door springs, while small, pack a serious punch. A broken spring results in a garage door that could slam shut, posing a risk of injury or property damage. This risk is why features such as safety cables and properly aligned tracks are essential. Homeowners should avoid attempting to fix or adjust springs themselves, as improper handling is dangerous. Trusting a professional guarantees a working door that keeps your family safe.
Maintenance Practices for Garage Door Springs
Routine maintenance goes a long way toward preserving the lifespan of garage door springs. Inspect your springs visually once a month. Look for signs of rust, misalignment, and stretching. Applying a thin layer of garage door lubricant every few months keeps the springs operating smoothly and reduces the risk of corrosion.
A balanced door is essential for proper spring functioning; check balance by manually disconnecting the opener and lifting the door. If the door doesn’t stay halfway open on its own, the springs may be out of balance, requiring immediate attention.
Lifespan of Garage Door Springs
Torsion springs typically last between seven and 12 years, depending on use. Extension springs have a similar expected lifespan, though daily usage and local climate influence their longevity. The springs complete one cycle when you open or close your garage door.
Homes with large families or frequent comings and goings will see their springs wear out faster. For most homeowners, replacing springs every decade or so is standard maintenance, but if you use your garage for storage or seldom open the door, springs could last longer.
Good habits are key to making your garage door springs last as long as possible. Regularly cleaning and lubricating the springs will reduce friction and prevent rust. Avoid slamming the garage door or using it as the main entrance when possible, as frequent use adds cycles quickly. Prioritize maintenance and gentle use to push the limits of a spring’s lifespan and enjoy uninterrupted operation for years.
Choosing the Right Replacement Springs
Selecting new springs is not as straightforward as picking the first set off the shelf. The correct spring type and size are critical for optimal performance. Factors such as the weight and height of your garage door and the frequency of use determine what kind of spring you need.
When springs are an incorrect size, the door may work inefficiently or even damage other components over time. This particular measurement is why a trustworthy installer will measure and recommend the best match while considering your garage system’s unique aspects.
Owning a home means dealing with upkeep, and garage doors are no exception. With everything you need to know about garage springs, care and maintenance will feel easy. Regular checks and timely professional interventions keep springs in top shape.
Scheduling annual tune-ups with our skilled installers helps you catch problems before they grow costly. Caring for your springs today means avoiding hassle, expense, and unnecessary risk tomorrow.