Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. They bear the weight of the door, making it easy to lift and lower. However, like any other mechanical part, garage door springs have a limited lifespan and can fail over time, especially with regular use. Recognizing the signs of failing springs can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. This guide will help you identify the warning signs of failing garage door springs and explain what to do if you encounter these issues. Trust My Garage Door Services to provide expert solutions for all your garage door needs. You can book a service with us or learn more about our repair services by visiting our website.
Understanding the Role of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs counterbalance the door’s weight, making it easier to open and close manually or with a garage door opener. There are two primary types of springs used in garage doors:
- Torsion Springs – These springs are located above the garage door and use torque to lift it. Torsion springs are tightly wound and are generally more durable than extension springs. They are ideal for larger and heavier garage doors.
- Extension Springs – These springs are mounted on each side of the door and stretch when the door is opened. Extension springs are more common in residential garage doors but have a shorter lifespan than torsion springs.
Understanding the type of springs in your garage door can help you spot problems more effectively. While both types are designed to last thousands of cycles, they do wear out eventually and require replacement.
Signs of Failing Garage Door Springs
Here are the most common signs that your garage door springs might be failing:
1. The Door Is Hard to Open
If your garage door feels unusually heavy or difficult to lift manually, it could be a sign that the springs are no longer able to handle the door’s weight. Springs are responsible for making your garage door feel light, so when they start to wear out, the door becomes harder to operate. If you’re experiencing this issue, it may be time to contact My Garage Door Services for professional inspection and repair.
2. The Garage Door Closes Too Quickly
Failing springs may cause the garage door to slam shut quickly instead of gently closing. This sudden drop can be dangerous, as it may lead to injuries or damage to property. If you notice your door closing too fast, avoid using it until it has been inspected by a professional.
3. Visible Gaps in the Springs
One of the clearest signs of a broken garage door spring is a visible gap in the coil. Torsion springs, in particular, develop noticeable gaps when they break, as the spring becomes unwound. If you spot a gap in your springs, it’s essential to refrain from using the door and call for repair services immediately. Our spring repair services offer quick and reliable solutions to restore your door’s functionality.
4. Loud Noise When Operating the Door
A loud bang or snap sound when opening or closing the garage door is often a telltale sign that a spring has broken. When torsion or extension springs snap, they release a tremendous amount of tension, producing a loud noise. If you hear such a noise, inspect the springs, but avoid operating the door until it has been professionally checked.
5. The Door Is Crooked
If your garage door appears crooked when it’s partially or fully open, one of the springs may be failing. This issue typically occurs with extension springs when one side weakens or breaks before the other. A crooked door can strain the door tracks and other components, leading to further issues if not addressed quickly.
6. The Door Moves in Jerky Motions
Springs work in harmony with the garage door opener to ensure smooth operation. If your garage door begins to open or close in jerky, uneven movements, it could be due to a failing spring. These jerky movements may indicate that one or both springs are struggling to manage the door’s weight.
7. The Garage Door Opener Struggles
A garage door opener is not designed to bear the full weight of the door. If the springs are failing, the opener will work harder than usual, making noises or moving slower than normal. Overworking the opener can lead to premature failure of the motor, which can be an expensive repair.
Why Do Garage Door Springs Fail?
Several factors contribute to the wear and tear of garage door springs, including:
1. Age and Usage
Garage door springs are rated by cycles, with one cycle representing a full opening and closing of the door. Standard springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, but high-cycle springs can last up to 20,000 cycles. For an average household that opens and closes the garage door a few times daily, springs can last approximately 7 to 10 years. However, if the door is used more frequently, the springs may wear out sooner.
2. Rust and Corrosion
Rust can significantly reduce the lifespan of garage door springs. Rust increases friction on the coils, causing them to wear down faster. Applying a garage door lubricant to the springs regularly can prevent rust and corrosion, extending their life.
3. Improper Maintenance
Like any other mechanical part, garage door springs require regular maintenance. Checking for signs of wear and applying lubrication can help prolong their lifespan. However, some maintenance tasks are best left to professionals. If you’re unsure about the condition of your springs, consider scheduling a maintenance visit with My Garage Door Services.
4. Poor Installation
If the garage door springs were not installed correctly, they may fail prematurely. Poor installation can cause uneven weight distribution, leading to excessive strain on the springs. Ensuring proper installation from a reputable service provider, like My Garage Door Services, can prevent this issue.
What to Do If Your Garage Door Springs Are Failing
If you notice any of the signs of failing garage door springs, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further damage or potential injury. Here are steps you should follow:
1. Avoid Operating the Door
Operating a garage door with failing or broken springs can lead to additional damage to the door and opener. In some cases, the door may become stuck or fall, posing a safety risk.
2. Contact a Professional Repair Service
Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and repairing or replacing them is not a DIY job. Attempting to repair or replace the springs on your own can be dangerous and may result in injury. My Garage Door Services has experienced technicians who can assess and repair your garage door springs safely and efficiently. You can book an appointment by visiting our booking page.
3. Schedule Regular Maintenance
To avoid unexpected spring failure in the future, consider scheduling regular maintenance with My Garage Door Services. Routine inspections and maintenance can help identify potential issues before they turn into major problems, extending the life of your garage door springs and keeping your door in optimal condition.
4. Consider Upgrading to High-Cycle Springs
If you use your garage door frequently, upgrading to high-cycle springs can be a wise investment. High-cycle springs are designed to last longer than standard springs, providing peace of mind and potentially saving money on future repairs.
Why Choose My Garage Door Services?
When it comes to garage door spring repair and maintenance, My Garage Door Services is a trusted name in Calgary. Our team of highly trained technicians has years of experience working with all types of garage doors and springs. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Expertise and Experience: Our technicians are well-versed in identifying and repairing all types of spring issues.
- Safety First Approach: We prioritize safety, ensuring that repairs are conducted in a secure manner.
- High-Quality Parts: We use high-quality springs and parts that are designed to last.
- Prompt Service: We understand the importance of a functional garage door and offer quick response times to get your door back in working order as soon as possible.
Learn more about our garage door repair services and schedule a service today!
Conclusion
Garage door springs play a vital role in the functionality and safety of your garage door. Recognizing the signs of failing springs can help you take action before a complete failure occurs, potentially saving you from costly repairs and ensuring your family’s safety. If you notice your garage door becoming difficult to open, closing too quickly, making loud noises, or any of the other warning signs mentioned, it’s time to seek professional assistance.
Remember, attempting to repair or replace garage door springs on your own can be dangerous. Rely on the expertise of My Garage Door Services to handle the job safely and efficiently. Book a service with us today through our website or visit our booking page to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to ensure your garage door operates smoothly, providing peace of mind for you and your family.