Garage door springs are key to your door’s smooth operation. They bear the weight of the door, helping it open and close. When they wear out or break, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it can be dangerous.
Ignoring them can cause more damage or injury. So, how do you know when it’s time to repair the springs? Let’s take a closer look.
Is Your Door Struggling to Open or Close?
If your garage door hesitates, moves unevenly, or won’t open, the springs may be to blame. Springs store and release the tension needed to lift the door’s weight. When they’re damaged, the tension fades.
You might hear the opener working harder, or the door could stop midway or slam shut. These signs usually mean the springs can’t do their job anymore.
Do You Hear Loud Noises?
A loud bang from the garage is a clear sign you need spring repair. This noise usually happens when a spring snaps. Torsion springs store a lot of energy, and when they break, that energy releases with a popping sound. If you hear this, don’t use the door until a pro inspects it.
Signs of Visible Damage
Take a quick look at the springs above your garage door. Do you see gaps between the coils?
That usually means a broken spring. Rust or wear can signal trouble, too. As rust builds, it weakens the metal, making a break more likely.
Also watch for stretched or elongated springs. Over time, they wear out and need replacing.
Does the Door Feel Unusually Heavy?
When you manually lift your garage door, it shouldn’t feel like you’re lifting a ton of bricks. If it does, worn-out springs are likely to blame. Springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy for you (and your opener) to lift. A sudden increase in weight means they’re no longer functioning properly.
Even with an automatic opener, you might notice the motor straining to lift the door. This extra effort can put your opener at risk of failure, adding to your repair costs.
Uneven Movement
If one side of the door seems higher than the other when it opens, your springs may not be balanced. Torsion and extension springs are designed to share the load evenly. When one spring breaks or loses tension, the balance is thrown off.
This kind of uneven movement can cause your door to get stuck or misaligned. Worse, it can make the tracks or rollers wear out faster. Addressing spring issues early can prevent these secondary problems.
When Should You Call for Professional Help?
Some tasks are great for DIY, but garage door spring repairs aren’t one of them. These springs are under intense pressure. Without the right tools and know-how, you could get hurt.
If you notice any of the signs, call a pro. They can assess the damage, give you a repair estimate, and replace the springs safely. It’s not worth the risk to do it yourself.
Common Questions About Garage Door Spring Repair
How much does it cost to repair garage door springs? The garage door spring repair cost can vary depending on the type of springs and labor in your area. On average, you might expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a standard repair.
What types of springs are used in garage doors? Most doors use either torsion or extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the door. Extension springs run along the sides.
Understanding the type you have helps when talking to a repair technician.
Can I continue using my door if a spring is damaged? It’s best to avoid using your garage door if you suspect a problem with the springs. A broken spring can cause the door to fall unexpectedly, posing a serious hazard.
Why Address Spring Issues Quickly?
Delaying spring repairs can lead to bigger problems. Damaged springs put extra stress on your opener, cables, and other parts, raising repair costs. A broken spring can also be a safety risk if the door fails suddenly.
Fixing the issue early helps you avoid frustration, high costs, and potential injuries.
Replacing Garage Door Springs
Spotting spring issues early can save you time, money, and stress. Noises and uneven movement are common warning signs. Your garage door keeps your home safe and reliable. If you notice problems, fix them quickly to keep things running smoothly.
If you’re looking for expert garage door repair spring services, we’ve got you covered. Get an estimate today.