Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring

Is your garage door causing you problems? It’s not uncommon for homeowners to experience issues with their garage door springs over time. Elevate Garage Door Co. is here to help you understand the signs of a broken garage door spring and what to do about it. Don’t wait until it becomes a safety hazard; take action now to ensure your garage door is working correctly and safely.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before delving into the signs of a broken garage door spring, it’s essential to understand the types of garage door springs and how they work. Garage doors typically use two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Types of Garage Door Springs

Torsion Springs: These are mounted above the garage door and use torque to lift the door. They’re known for their durability and ability to handle heavy loads.

Extension Springs: These are located on the sides of the door and expand and contract to lift the door. They are often used on lighter garage doors.

How Garage Door Springs Work

Garage door springs are under high tension when the door is in the closed position. When you activate your garage door opener, it releases this tension, allowing the door to open smoothly. The springs store energy, which is then used to assist in lifting the door.

The Lifespan of Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs have a limited lifespan, typically around 10,000 cycles of opening and closing. This can vary depending on usage and maintenance. Regular maintenance and lubrication can help extend their life, but eventually, they will wear out.

Common Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring

Recognizing the signs of a broken garage door spring is crucial for the safety of your family and the security of your property. Here are the most obvious signs to look out for:

• Visible Gaps: If you notice a visible gap in the spring itself, it’s a clear indication that the spring is broken.
• Loud Noise: A loud pop or loud noise when the spring breaks is often the first sign you’ll hear.
• Door Jerks: When opening or closing, if the garage door jerks, it’s a strong indicator of a broken spring.
• Door Closes Too Quickly: If the door closes too quickly and crashes to the ground, a broken spring might be the culprit.
• Door Opens Only a Few Inches: If the door only opens a few inches and then stops, this is a sign of a broken spring.
• One Spring Is Broken: Garage doors often have two springs. If one is broken, it’s a sign that the other may not be far behind.
• Stuck in Open Position: In some cases, the door might get stuck in the open position due to a broken spring.
• Extremely Heavy to Lift: If the garage door becomes extremely heavy to lift manually, the springs may be faulty.
• Cables Are Loose: Loose or dangling cables can be a result of a broken garage door spring.

Attempting to operate your garage door with a broken spring can be extremely dangerous and could lead to serious injury or property damage. It’s essential to address the issue promptly.

The Dangers of DIY

While DIY projects can be satisfying, repairing a broken garage door spring is not a task for amateurs. These springs are under high tension and require specific tools and knowledge to replace them safely. Attempting to repair them yourself can lead to accidents, injuries, or further damage to your garage door.

What to Do If You Suspect a Broken Garage Door Spring

If you suspect that your garage door spring is broken or malfunctioning, the most important step is to stop using the door immediately. Continuing to operate it can exacerbate the problem. Instead, follow these steps:

1. Call a Professional: Contact a trusted partner like Elevate Garage Door Co. for garage door repair services. We have the expertise and equipment to handle the job safely and efficiently.
2. Stay Safe: Keep your family and pets away from the garage door, especially if it’s stuck in an unsafe position.
3. Only Use the Emergency Release if You Absolutely Have To: If you need to get into or out of your garage while the spring is broken, USE EXTREME CAUTION. The garage door will be very heavy and dangerous to open as the spring is what lifts the weight of the door. We do not recommend opening your garage door manually with a broken spring, but if you must absolutely do so, locate the emergency release handle, usually red and hanging from the opener. This will allow you to open the door manually.

How to Prevent a Broken Spring

To avoid the inconvenience and danger of a broken garage door spring, consider some essential preventive maintenance steps. Start by conducting regular inspections of your garage door, checking for signs of wear and tear, rust, or any damage to the springs. Additionally, make sure to apply lubricant to the springs, rollers, and hinges periodically to reduce friction and extend their lifespan.

For added peace of mind, schedule professional tune-ups with Elevate Garage Door Co. on a regular basis. Our expert technicians will ensure that your garage door is in optimal condition, catching and addressing any potential issues before they escalate into major problems. This proactive approach to maintenance will keep your garage door working smoothly and safely for years to come.

Spring Into Action and Call Us!

Your garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. When you notice any of the common signs of a broken garage door spring, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for garage door spring services. Our expert technicians are ready to replace or repair your broken spring and ensure your garage door is working safely and efficiently. Call us today to have our professionals take care of your garage door needs.