Why did my garage door spring break, and what do I do now? That’s not the question you want to be asking yourself when you’re already late for work!
When a garage door spring breaks, it’s not just a pain—it can actually be pretty dangerous. Here at Metro Denver Garage Door, we think it’s super important to give our customers the info they need to keep their homes safe and working right. This guide will go over why springs usually fail, how you can spot trouble early, and why getting a pro from a trusted garage door company to fix things is always the smartest move.
Understanding the Heart of Your Garage Door: The Springs
Your garage door isn’t just a way into your home; it’s a bunch of moving parts working together. The springs are really the workhorses that make sure everything opens and closes smoothly and safely.
The spring system gives your garage door its strength, balancing the door’s weight, so it feels light enough for you or your automatic opener to lift. You’ll find two main types of springs for garage doors:
Torsion Springs
These sit on a metal shaft right above the garage door opening. They twist up and unwind to lift and lower the door.
Extension Springs
You’ll find these on both sides of the door. They stretch out and pull back in to give that needed lifting power.
Both kinds of springs hold a huge amount of tension, which is exactly why leaving their replacement to someone qualified and professional is so important. A broken spring can make the door drop suddenly, which really increases the chance of someone getting hurt or their stuff getting damaged.
Telltale Signs of a Worn-Out Spring
Keeping an eye on your springs can save you from the headache of their breaking. Here are some common clues that your garage door springs might be nearing their end:
- Visible Wear and Tear: Look for gaps in the spring coils or any rust and corrosion.
- Difficulty Opening or Closing: If your garage door feels heavy or struggles to open and close easily, that could very well mean a weakened spring.
- Loud Noises: A noisy garage door might suggest a problem. Grinding or squeaking sounds can show the springs are under a lot of stress.
- Uneven Door: If your garage door is sagging or sitting unevenly, that’s a pretty clear sign one of the springs has probably given out.
If you spot any of these things, it’s time to call the experts. Keeping a garage door going with a bad spring can just cause more damage to the door itself and the garage door opener.
Common Culprits Behind Broken Garage Door Springs
Lots of things can lead to a garage door spring breaking. Knowing what causes it can help you take steps to prevent it and make your springs last longer.
The Inevitable Wear and Tear
Just like any mechanical part, garage door springs don’t last forever. Most garage door springs are made to handle about 10,000 cycles—a "cycle" being one full opening and closing of the door. If you use your garage door all the time as your main entrance, you’ll hit that limit faster. Over time, all that constant tension and release just wears the metal out until it finally breaks.
The Impact of Environment
Colorado’s weather can be pretty tough on garage door springs. The constant freezing and thawing cycles can make the metal brittle, and moisture can lead to rust and corrosion. These environmental factors can really cut down on how long your springs last.
The Importance of Proper Maintenance
Looking after your garage door regularly is key to making its springs last. Greasing the springs and other moving parts cuts down on rubbing and wear. A professional check-up can also catch minor issues before they turn into big problems, making sure your garage door works safely and well.
DIY vs. Professional Spring Replacement: A Matter of Safety
Sure, the internet is full of "how-to" videos, but replacing a garage door spring isn’t something the average homeowner should tackle. The extreme tension in those springs makes them incredibly dangerous to deal with if you don’t have the right tools and training. Messing up can lead to serious injury or even worse.
At Metro Denver Garage Door, keeping you safe is our number one priority. Our experienced technicians have the know-how and special equipment to replace your springs safely and correctly. Plus, we stand by our work, which gives you the peace of mind that comes with a professional repair.
Why Did My Garage Door Spring Break and What Do I Do Next – Call Metro Denver Garage Door
For over 40 years, Metro Denver Garage Door has been giving honest and dependable garage door service to folks in the Metro Denver area. As a family business, we really get how important trust and being upfront are. You’ll receive upfront prices, and we won’t push unnecessary products.
If your garage door springs, opener, or any other part of your garage door system is giving you trouble, don’t wait. Give us a call today for a free estimate. We’re here to help keep your home safe and your garage door running smoothly.
