2024-01-05 9 min read Mike Johnson
Garage door springs are among the most critical.and most dangerous.components of your garage door system. They counterbalance the weight of the door, making it possible to open and close smoothly. Understanding how springs work and recognizing when they need replacement can help you maintain a safe and functional garage.
Garage door springs store mechanical energy when the door is closed. This stored energy helps lift the door when you open it, counterbalancing its weight. Without properly functioning springs, your door would be extremely heavy and difficult to operate.even with an automatic opener.
The springs do the heavy lifting (literally), while your opener merely provides the force to start and control the movement. This is why a broken spring means your door won't operate properly, even if your opener is working fine.
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They use torque to lift the door, twisting and untwisting as the door opens and closes.
Characteristics: - Located above the door on a metal shaft, More durable than extension springs, Provide smoother, more controlled operation, Safer due to their mounting position, More expensive but longer-lasting
Standard residential doors typically use one or two torsion springs, depending on the door's weight.
Extension springs are mounted on either side of the door, parallel to the horizontal tracks. They stretch and contract to provide lifting force.
Characteristics: - Located on both sides of the door, Less expensive than torsion springs, More common on older installations, Should always have safety cables, Shorter lifespan than torsion springs
Extension springs should always have safety cables running through them. If a spring breaks, the cable prevents it from becoming a dangerous projectile.
Garage door springs are rated by cycles, with one cycle being the door opening and then closing. Standard springs are rated for approximately 10,000 cycles.
For a typical family opening and closing their garage door 4 times per day, that's about 1,460 cycles per year, giving standard springs a lifespan of roughly 7 years.
High-cycle springs are available with ratings of 25,000, 50,000, or even 100,000 cycles. While more expensive initially, they can be more cost-effective over time.
Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if not handled properly. Every year, emergency rooms see injuries from improper spring repairs.
Why professional installation is essential: - Springs store tremendous energy, Special tools and knowledge are required, Incorrect installation can cause injury, Improper spring selection can damage your door, Professional work comes with warranties
When you call Garage Door Wildomar for spring replacement:
1. Inspection: We assess your entire door system, not just the springs 2. Recommendation: We recommend appropriate springs for your door's weight and usage 3. Replacement: Our technicians safely replace the springs using proper tools and techniques 4. Testing: We test the door's balance and make necessary adjustments 5. Cleanup: We remove old parts and leave your garage clean
Most spring replacements take 1-2 hours. We stock common spring sizes and can often provide same-day service.
While springs will eventually wear out, you can extend their life: - Schedule annual maintenance, Lubricate springs with garage door lubricant, Avoid repeatedly stopping the door mid-cycle, Upgrade to high-cycle springs when replacing
For spring inspection or replacement, contact Garage Door Wildomar at (951) 612-2436. Our experienced technicians provide safe, professional service with upfront pricing.