Garage doors play an important role in our lives; they allow us safety, convenience, and security. But very few of us give these things much thought until they start to go wrong when it can be a very inconvenient time. Broken garage door springs are one of homeowners’ most common problems.
Why do these springs break, and what can you do about it? Understanding the causes behind this problem will help you prevent unwanted breakdowns, expensive repairs, and possible injuries.
This article will discuss the most common reasons for garage door spring failures and ways to prevent them.
Quick Summary of Causes for Broken Garage Door Springs:
- Wear and Tear
- Rust and Corrosion
- Lack of Maintenance
- Improper Installation
- Extreme Temperature Changes
- Weight of the Garage Door
- Incorrect Spring Type
Let’s dive deeper into these causes and understand how they impact your garage door’s performance.
1. Wear and Tear
The life span of garage door springs is measured in cycles, one cycle meaning the opening and closing of the door. Usually, most springs last 10,000 to 20,000 cycles, about 7 to 10 years of regular use. But springs eventually wear themselves out and can break suddenly.
What to Do:
- If you’ve used your garage door almost every day for many years, you might want to replace the springs before they break proactively.
- If you hear any items squeak or creak that are unusual sounds, this may be a sign that your springs are nearing the end of their life and need to be replaced.
2. Rust and Corrosion
One of the most common reasons for garage door spring failure is Rust. Springs are usually exposed to moisture, which can cause rust, corrosion, and a reduction in the life of a spring. The spring moving is no easier on the metal, as rust weakens it, increasing friction. The friction can also lead to springs failing much sooner than their normal life.
How to Prevent It:
- Keep your garage door springs regularly lubricated with high-quality lubricant to minimize moisture exposure and keep garage door springs from rusting.
- Periodically inspect for any signs of rust. Early spotting of rust may allow you to take action before it becomes a real problem.
3. Lack of Maintenance
Garage door springs can experience shortened lifespans with little or no regular maintenance. Regular attention is required when springs need to do their work. If not maintained, they will increase friction, uneven wear, and eventual failure.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular maintenance checks with a garage door professional ensure springs and other parts are in working condition and that everything is going well.
- If you think your garage door is moving unevenly or making unique noises, it’s probably time to have it looked at and serviced.
4. Improper Installation
Garage door springs must be installed correctly to function correctly. If they are not installed with the right tension or aren’t balanced correctly, they could lead to premature failure. DIY installs can be dangerous, and in some cases, the springs are not properly aligned.
Solution:
- Hire a professional to install or repair a garage door spring.
- Never do a DIY garage door spring fix. Garage door springs are very high-tension, and handling them improperly could cause serious injury.
5. Extreme Temperature Changes
Extreme temperature changes can be very sensitive to garage door springs. The metal can become brittle during cold weather, causing springs to snap or be weakened by very hot temperatures, increasing the chances of failure.
How to Handle Temperature Changes:
- If you live somewhere with extreme temp changes, consider using weather-resistant springs.
- Well-insulated garage doors help keep the internal temperature of your garage more stable, so the springs aren’t constantly under stress.
6. Weight of the Garage Door
If the garage door is too heavy for the springs to handle, the springs take too much stress and more easily break. This can occur if the garage door was upgraded with heavier materials, insulation, or additional features.
Solution:
- Make sure the garage door springs are the proper weight for your door. If the door has been modified, you will probably need to change to a stronger spring type.
- A professional garage door technician can inspect your door and recommend the right type of spring, depending on its weight.
7. Incorrect Spring Type
Another common reason for spring failure is using the wrong type of spring for your garage door. There are two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs, each for a specific door type and size. A spring that is used incorrectly can lead to an imbalance and put your garage door at great risk for breakage.
What to Do:
- Consult with a professional to ensure that you are using the right type of spring for your garage door.
- Buy springs that aren’t cheap or low-quality because they likely won’t have enough durability or performance for your particular garage door model.
How to Know When Your Springs Are Failing
It’s possible to recognize early warning signs of garage door spring issues, which can help you catch unexpected breakdowns before they happen. Here are some common signs that your springs may be failing:
- Uneven or slow opening/closing: If your door struggles to open or close smoothly, it could be a sign that the springs are failing.
- Excessive noise: If you hear squeaking, banging, or grinding noises, it often means that the springs are being stressed.
- Visible gaps or stretched springs: If you see visible gaps in the springs or if they look stretched, it’s time to replace them.
- The door falls quickly: A broken or worn spring will mean the door falls faster than usual.
If you see any of the signs listed here, it’s important to have a professional check out your garage door and make sure it’s safe and working properly.
Hire a Professional for Your Garage Door Spring Repair
Don’t wait until your garage door springs break. If you see any of the above-mentioned symptoms or are concerned about your garage door’s performance, contact Experts Garage Doors. We have a certified team of technicians who are trained to carry out all kinds of garage door repairs to ensure your safety and the reliability of the locks. Contact us today to schedule a spring inspection, repair, or replacement!
Conclusion
Your garage door springs are key to smooth functionality. Knowing the most common reasons for spring failure—the list includes wear and tear, rust, improper installation, and more—can assist you in guarding against unexpected breakdowns. Proper spring maintenance and inspections by professionals can elongate your springs by far and keep your garage door at its best. Addressing your potential spring issues early will prioritize your safety and the longevity of your garage door.
The last thing you want to do is get injured or pay for costly repairs. Experts garage doors are ready to help you rely on your garage door running safely and smoothly!