Knowing how to replace garage door springs is essential for homeowners facing a worn or broken component. These springs bear the door’s weight, enabling smooth operation, but over time, they can lose tension or snap, making the door demanding to use and posing safety risks. Handling this task requires careful attention to safety, proper tools, and a good understanding of the type of spring used in your garage.
This guide covers everything from identifying torsion and extension springs to the detailed steps for safely replacing each type. Torsion springs, mounted above the door, require specialized tools and precision, while extension springs, located along the sides, are slightly easier but still demand careful handling. Following the correct procedures and safety precautions is crucial to avoid injury and ensure your garage door functions properly.
Keep reading for a comprehensive step-by-step guide, helpful maintenance tips, and essential safety advice to ensure a successful spring replacement. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s best to call a professional to handle the job safely and efficiently.
Understanding Garage Door Springs: Torsion vs. Extension
Before replacing a garage door spring, you must identify the type of spring your door uses. There are two main types of springs—torsion and extension springs—each with unique characteristics and replacement procedures.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are the most common garage door springs in modern residential garages. They are mounted above the garage door and work by twisting on a horizontal bar when the door is lowered. This twisting action stores energy, which is used to lift the door when it opens.
- Location: Mounted on a metal shaft above the door opening.
- Lifespan: Approximately 15,000 to 20,000 cycles (a cycle is one complete open and close action).
- Advantages: More durable and safer than extension springs due to their contained energy release.
- Replacement Difficulty: High, requiring specialized tools like winding bars and a good understanding of the mechanics involved.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are typically used in older or lighter garage doors. They run parallel to the door’s horizontal tracks and stretch as it closes, storing energy that helps lift the door when it opens.
- Location: Along the sides of the garage door, attached to the supporting framework.
- Lifespan: Approximately 10,000 to 15,000 cycles.
- Advantages: Generally less expensive and easier to replace than torsion springs.
- Replacement Difficulty: Moderate, though still dangerous if not handled properly, as they can snap back if not correctly managed.
Warning Signs That Your Garage Door Spring Needs Replacement
Identifying a failing garage door spring early can prevent dangerous situations and avoid further damage to your garage door system. Here are some key signs that your spring may need replacing:
1. Heavy or Unbalanced Door
If your garage door feels unusually heavy when lifted manually or seems unbalanced, one of the springs may have lost its tension or broken entirely. This imbalance can also cause the door to stop midway or close unevenly.
2. Loud Bang or Snap Sound
A loud bang from your garage often signals that a spring has snapped. The sudden release of tension causes this sound, and you may notice the door is stuck or difficult to operate afterward.
3. Visible Separation in the Spring
Check for visible gaps in the coil of the spring. A broken torsion spring will have a noticeable gap where the break occurred. This gap means the spring can no longer support the door’s weight.
4. Jerky or Slow Door Movement
If your garage door opens or closes in a jerky motion or moves more slowly than usual, it could indicate that a spring is no longer functioning correctly. This uneven movement puts additional strain on the garage door opener and other components.
5. Crooked Door Alignment
A misaligned garage door that appears crooked when opening or closing can signify a broken extension spring on one side. This misalignment needs immediate attention, as it can lead to further damage.
Safety Precautions Before Replacing Garage Door Springs
Replacing garage door springs is dangerous due to the high tension these components are under. Always take the following safety precautions before beginning:
1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
Before starting any repairs, disconnect the garage door opener to ensure that the door doesn’t move unexpectedly. Unplug the opener and, if possible, use a ladder to pull the emergency release cord to disengage the door from the opener.
2. Secure the Door
Secure the garage door by clamping it to the tracks with locking pliers or C-clamps. This will prevent the door from moving or falling unexpectedly while you’re working on it.
3. Wear Protective Gear
Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from flying debris or sharp edges. Long sleeves and pants can provide additional protection from scrapes and cuts.
4. Use the Correct Tools
Ensure you have the right tools for the job, including winding bars for torsion springs and pliers for extension springs. Using improper tools can lead to accidents or damage to the garage door system.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Torsion Spring
Torsion springs are under significant tension and require careful handling. Follow these steps for safe replacement:
Step 1: Gather the Required Tools and Materials
You will need the following tools:
- Winding bars
- Socket wrench set
- Clamps or locking pliers
- Ladder
- Safety glasses and gloves
Step 2: Release the Tension from the Old Spring
Insert a winding bar into the winding cone of the spring, holding it firmly while you loosen the set screws with a wrench. Slowly and carefully unwind the spring’s tension, using the winding bars alternately until the tension is fully released.
Step 3: Remove the Old Spring
Once the tension is released, use a socket wrench to remove the bolts connecting the spring to the center bracket. Slide the old spring off the shaft and remove any remaining hardware.
Step 4: Install the New Spring
Slide the new spring onto the torsion bar and secure it to the center bracket. Ensure the spring is positioned correctly and the stationary cone is properly aligned.
Step 5: Wind the New Spring
Using winding bars, carefully wind the new spring in the appropriate direction. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of turns based on the size and weight of your garage door. Once wound, tighten the set screws to secure the spring.
Step 6: Test the Door
Remove the clamps and reconnect the garage door opener. Test the door’s operation by opening and closing it a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and is balanced.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing an Extension Spring
Replacing extension springs is generally less complex but still requires careful handling due to the high tension. Here’s how to replace an extension spring:
Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Workspace
You will need:
- Pliers
- Socket wrench set
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Ladder
- Clamps or locking pliers
Step 2: Secure the Door
Use locking pliers or C-clamps to secure the garage door in the open position. This will prevent the door from moving while you’re replacing the springs.
Step 3: Disconnect the Old Spring
Using pliers, carefully remove the safety cable running through the old spring, detach the spring from the track hanger, and remove the spring from its mounting brackets.
Step 4: Measure and Replace the Spring
Measure the length of the old spring to ensure you purchase the correct replacement. Install the new spring by attaching it to the mounting brackets and threading the safety cable through the spring to secure it in place.
Step 5: Reconnect the Spring
Reconnect the spring to the track hanger and ensure it is properly tensioned. Adjust the spring if necessary to balance the door’s weight evenly.
Step 6: Test the Door
Remove the clamps and manually test the door for smooth operation. The springs may need further adjustment if the door doesn’t lift easily or is uneven.
Tips for Maintaining Garage Door Springs
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your garage door springs and prevent unexpected failures. Here are some tips to keep your springs in good condition:
1. Lubricate the Springs
Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the springs every six months to reduce friction and prevent rust. This will help the springs operate smoothly and extend their lifespan.
2. Check for Wear and Tear
Periodically inspect your garage door springs for signs of wear, such as rust, gaps, or frayed cables. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
3. Balance the Door
Check the balance of your garage door by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door halfway. If the door stays in place, it is properly balanced. If it falls or rises, the springs may need adjustment.
4. Schedule Professional Inspections
Consider scheduling annual inspections with a professional garage door repair technician to check the overall condition of your springs and other components. A professional can identify potential problems early and perform necessary adjustments or replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my garage door spring is weak?
A weak garage door spring often causes the door to struggle to open, uneven movement, or loud noises during operation. If the door feels heavier than usual, it’s time to check the springs.
How many times do you tighten a garage door spring?
Typically, a garage door spring must be tightened around 30-quarter turns for a standard 7-foot door. However, this can vary based on the spring type and door height, so always refer to the manufacturer’s guide.
How many springs does a garage door have?
Most garage doors have either one or two springs. Single-car doors usually have one, while double-car or heavier doors typically require two springs for balanced operation.
How do I know what size garage spring I need?
You must measure the spring’s length, wire diameter, and inside diameter. This information and the door’s weight will help you choose the correct spring size for optimal performance.
What is a garage door spring called?
Garage door springs are generally called torsion springs or extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the door, while extension springs run along its sides.
Conclusion
Replacing a garage door spring can be challenging and potentially dangerous, but with the right tools, knowledge, and safety precautions, it can be done successfully. Whether you’re dealing with a broken torsion spring or an aging extension spring, following a careful step-by-step process will help restore your garage door to optimal working condition.
In summary, understanding the type of spring your door uses, recognizing the signs of wear, and performing regular maintenance is key to ensuring your new garage door system’s longevity and safe operation. If you’re ever unsure or uncomfortable with the replacement process, it’s always best to seek the help of a professional technician. A well-maintained garage door functions smoothly and provides safety and security for your home.
End Note
At Perfect Solutions Garage Door Inc., we know that replacing a garage door spring can feel like a daunting task. That’s why we’re here to offer professional, hassle-free solutions for all your garage door needs. Whether it’s garage door repair, garage door opener repair, broken garage door spring repair, or custom garage door installation, our expert team is ready to assist. We also specialize in emergency garage door repair, roll-up door repair, and garage door maintenance to keep your system running smoothly.
We’re proud to work with top brands like Amarr, Wayne Dalton, CHI, and Clopay to provide high-quality products and services. Check out our services, view our latest projects, or browse our gallery to see our work in action. Need more information? Visit our about us page to learn about our commitment to quality, or reach out through our contact page. For more tips and advice, explore our blog. Let’s keep your garage door safe and reliable together!
