Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring
Sitting inside your home, you hear a loud bang and think something must have fallen inside the garage, or perhaps something hit the garage door from the outside. Upon inspection, nothing seems to have fallen or hit the door. However, when you try to open the garage door, it won’t lift. Chances are you have a broken torsion spring which will need to be repaired.
Other signs of a broken garage door spring include:
- The garage door only raises a foot or less.
- The garage door opener struggles to lift the door.
- The door binds at the top as it opens.
What Causes Garage Door Springs to Break?
Garage door springs are under constant tension and bear the weight of the heavy door each time it opens and closes. Over time, this tension can lead to spring failure. Here are some common causes of broken garage door springs:
- Wear and Tear: The most common cause of spring failure is simple wear and tear. Garage door springs are rated for a specific number of cycles (one cycle is an opening and closing of the door). Most standard springs are rated for around 10,000 cycles, which typically equates to 7-9 years of normal use.
- Lack of Maintenance: Springs that aren’t properly maintained, such as not being lubricated regularly, can corrode and weaken faster. Rust on the springs can also cause friction, increasing wear.
- Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme changes in temperature can weaken the metal of the springs. Cold weather, in particular, can make the metal brittle and more susceptible to breaking.
- Improper Installation or Use of the Wrong Springs: If the springs are not installed correctly or the wrong size/type of spring is used for the door, they can wear out more quickly.
Is It Safe to Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring?
There is no safe way to open a garage door with a broken spring. Attempting to do so can cause further damage to both the door and the opener. Forcing the garage door opener to lift the door can result in:
- Broken gears
- Burned-out motor
- Stripped-out belt
Some homeowners try to release the garage door opener by pulling the emergency release and lifting the door manually. This essentially means deadlifting a garage door that can weigh several hundred pounds, which can result in serious injury.
The Risks of Forcing a Broken Garage Door Open
If you force open a garage door with a broken spring, several things can go wrong:
- Damage to the door sections: The full weight of the door can slam down, damaging or bending sections that may be irreplaceable.
- Cables coming off: The cables can come off, causing the door to go off track, adding more work and resulting in potential damage to the tracks and hardware.
- Dangerous off-track doors: Off-track doors are extremely dangerous and can potentially fall on top of your car or, worse, on someone.
Preventive Maintenance for Garage Door Springs
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your garage door springs and prevent unexpected breakages. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Regular Lubrication: Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the springs every six months. This reduces friction, prevents rust, and helps the springs move smoothly.
- Inspect for Wear and Tear: Regularly inspect the springs for signs of wear, rust, or damage. If the springs appear stretched out or have visible gaps, they may be nearing the end of their lifespan.
- Check Door Balance: Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the springs are likely balanced. If it falls, the springs may be weakening and require adjustment or replacement.
- Avoid Excessive Use: Each opening and closing of the garage door counts as a cycle. Try to minimize the number of times you use the door, if possible, to extend the life of the springs.
- Schedule Professional Maintenance: Have a professional inspect and maintain your garage door system at least once a year. They can spot early signs of spring failure and address other potential issues before they become major problems.
What Should You Do If Your Garage Door Spring Breaks?
If you suspect you have a broken garage door spring, the best course of action is to call a professional. Contact us immediately at 919-841-0030. While the torsion spring is a crucial component of the garage door system, it typically takes less than an hour to repair.
At Garage Door Specialist, we understand the inconvenience of a broken spring. Our trucks are stocked with standard torsion springs of all sizes, allowing us to quickly restore the safe operation of your garage door.
Get Professional Help Today
If you have a garage door with a broken spring or even suspect that your spring might be failing, don’t wait—contact the experts at Garage Door Specialist. Attempting to fix a garage door spring on your own can be extremely dangerous and may lead to further damage or injury. Our team of experienced technicians is trained to handle these repairs safely and efficiently, ensuring that your garage door is back to working order as quickly as possible.
Contact us at 919-841-0030 or via our contact form for immediate assistance or to schedule a service appointment. Our friendly team is here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the repair process.