Garage door springs play a vital role in the functioning of your garage door. They support the weight of the door and make it easy to open and close. However, like all mechanical parts, garage door springs can wear out over time and require maintenance or repair. In this article, we will discuss garage door spring maintenance and repair tips.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Before we discuss garage door spring maintenance and repair, it’s essential to understand the two types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door and use torque to balance the weight of the door. They typically last between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles and are rated by their cycle life.
Extension springs are mounted on either side of the door and use tension to balance the weight of the door. They typically last between 5,000 and 10,000 cycles and are rated by their weight capacity.
Maintenance Tips
1. Inspect the Springs Regularly
Regular inspection of your garage door springs can help identify any wear or damage before it leads to a complete failure. Inspect the springs for any signs of wear, such as cracks, rust, or deformation.
2. Lubricate the Springs
Lubricating the springs can help them operate smoothly and extend their lifespan. Apply a small amount of garage door lubricant to the springs and wipe away any excess.
3. Check the Balance of the Door
A garage door that is out of balance can put extra stress on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Check the balance of your door regularly by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door manually. The door should stay in place or slowly lower. If it falls quickly or rises, it may be out of balance and require adjustment.
4. Call a Professional for Maintenance
While some maintenance tasks can be performed by homeowners, it’s essential to call a professional garage door technician for regular maintenance. A professional technician can inspect the springs, check the door balance, and perform any necessary maintenance tasks.
Repair Tips
1. Don’t Attempt DIY Repairs
Garage door spring repair is dangerous and should not be attempted by homeowners. The high tension of the springs can cause serious injury or even death if not handled properly. Always call a professional garage door technician for repairs.
2. Replace Both Springs
If one spring breaks, it’s important to replace both springs, even if the other spring appears to be in good condition. This is because the springs have been subjected to the same amount of wear and tear, and replacing only one spring can cause uneven wear and strain on the new spring.
3. Choose the Right Type of Springs
When replacing garage door springs, it’s important to choose the right type of springs for your garage door. This includes the correct weight capacity, length, and diameter. Choosing the wrong type of springs can cause additional strain on the door and lead to premature wear.
4. Call a Professional for Repairs
Garage door spring repair is not a DIY task. If you notice any signs of wear or damage to your garage door springs or if your garage door is not operating correctly, call a professional garage door technician for repairs.
Garage door springs are essential components of your garage door system, and regular maintenance and repair can help keep them functioning correctly. Regular inspection, lubrication, checking the balance of the door, and calling a professional for maintenance can extend the lifespan of your garage door springs. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, or if your garage door is not operating correctly, always call a professional garage door technician for repairs. Remember, garage door spring repair is dangerous and should not be attempted by homeowners.