Garage door springs are responsible for lifting and balancing the garage door, making it possible to open and close effortlessly. However, if the springs are worn or damaged, these components can compromise not only the functionality of your door but also your safety.
- 7 Signs Your Springs Need to Be Changed
- The Dangers of DIY Garage Spring Repairs
- Protect Your Garage Door with Expert Spring Replacement from Shepherd Shoreline
Worn or damaged springs can lead to sudden, costly garage door failures. A broken spring might even cause the door to fall unexpectedly, putting people and property at risk. That’s why it’s important to recognize early warning signs of spring damage or wear and tear.
Let’s explore seven clear signs that tell you when to replace garage door springs and how to address such issues to avoid dangerous situations around your Grand Haven home and ensure your door continues to operate as smoothly as possible.
7 Signs Your Springs Need to Be Changed
A faulty garage door spring can sometimes hide in plain sight. Yet, once you know what to look for, it becomes easier to spot problems early and schedule a Grand Haven garage door repair. Here are seven indicators that you might be due for a spring replacement:
1. Visible Wear and Tear on the Springs
Take a close look at your garage door springs. Do you see rust, corrosion, or noticeable gaps in the coils? These are all signs of physical damage that can reduce the tension needed to lift your garage door, eventually causing spring failure.
Rust and corrosion can weaken the metal over time, while gaps indicate the spring is stretched or compromised. Regular maintenance and routine inspections can help you catch these issues early and prevent them from turning into a major garage door malfunction.
2. Loud Noises During Operation
Unusual garage door noises often indicate that your springs are losing their tension or have alignment issues. Garage door springs that are reaching the end of their lifespan might struggle under the load that such components are meant to support, resulting in creaking, squeaking, or even banging sounds.
Sometimes, noisy springs signal deeper problems. For instance, if you hear loud clanks or pops, it could mean a coil is about to snap or has already broken. Addressing the cause of these noises promptly can spare you from more extensive repairs, including damage to the opener or cables.
3. The Door Feels Heavy or Unbalanced
Garage door springs help bear much of the door’s weight. When springs start to fail, you might notice the door feels noticeably heavier when you try to open it manually. If you find yourself struggling or needing extra force to lift it, a faulty spring could be to blame. Here’s a simple balance test that can help you check for issues:
- Disconnect the garage door opener by pulling the release cord.
- Manually move the door to about halfway open.
- Let go carefully and observe how the door behaves.
If the springs are in good shape, the door should remain in place or move very slightly. But if it falls quickly or refuses to stay up at all, that’s a strong sign your springs are no longer providing enough tension. Keeping the door balanced is paramount for preventing undue strain on the opener and avoiding sudden slams.
4. The Door Doesn’t Open or Close Smoothly
If your Grand Haven garage door is jerking or shaking every time it opens or closes, don’t ignore it. Jerky movements usually indicate the garage door springs aren’t working in sync with the door’s weight distribution. Sometimes, worn springs can’t apply consistent tension, causing the door to move unevenly along its tracks.
When springs aren’t functioning correctly, other components have to work harder to compensate. The extra strain can result in faster wear on these parts, leading to more frequent breakdowns or even a total garage door failure if left unchecked. Regular inspection and timely spring replacement can save your entire system from premature wear.
5. A Noticeable Gap in the Spring
A visible gap in the coil is a clear sign of trouble, especially for torsion springs located above the door on a metal shaft. Torsion springs are wound tightly to provide the lifting force your door needs. If you see a gap in the spring, often a couple of inches wide, it means the spring has actually snapped.
Even if the door still seems to open or close, it’s operating under dangerous conditions. The door could come crashing down unexpectedly because of the lost tension, and it could injure someone or cause significant damage to a vehicle or property. If you spot a gap, stop using the door and call an experienced Grand Haven garage door repair professional immediately.
6. The Door Opens Too Quickly or Slams Shut
Does your garage door fly open too fast or slam shut when closing? These erratic movements might be caused by garage door springs that are too tight or too loose. Properly tensioned springs help regulate the speed of your garage door. If not set correctly, you risk damaging the door itself, the opener, and even the tracks.
Furthermore, doors that open too quickly can catch you off guard and cause accidents. Meanwhile, a door that slams shut can damage anything in its path, which can be dangerous, especially if there are kids or pets around. It’s best to contact a Grand Haven garage door repair expert for adjustments or replacement, saving you from costly repairs or potential injury.
7. The Spring’s Lifespan Has Reached Its Limit
Even the best springs don’t last forever. The average garage door spring is designed for about 10,000 cycles, where one cycle equals one full opening and closing of the door. How many years that translates to depends on your daily usage. For instance, if you go through four cycles a day, you might get around seven years of life from the springs.
It’s wise to keep track of the spring installation date and estimate when you’re reaching that 10,000-cycle mark. Being proactive about replacement can help you avoid unexpected failures. If you’ve moved into a home and aren’t sure how old the springs are, a seasoned Grand Haven garage door repair professional can often provide an estimate based on their condition.
The Dangers of DIY Garage Spring Repairs
It might be tempting to handle garage spring replacements yourself, especially if you enjoy DIY garage door repairs. However, garage door springs are under extremely high tension. One wrong move, and you could sustain serious injuries from a snapping spring or accidentally dropping the garage door. Beyond the immediate physical risks, improper installation can cause long-term damage to the door system and lead to expensive repairs down the line.
Professional technicians have specialized tools and in-depth training to complete repairs safely and ensure your garage door remains in good condition. These experts know how to release spring tension carefully, remove old springs, and install new ones without compromising the balance of the door. The cost of professional help is well worth it when you consider the potential dangers of doing it yourself.
Protect Your Garage Door with Expert Spring Replacement from Shepherd Shoreline
Don’t let worn-out garage door springs compromise the safety and functionality of your garage. Let Shepherd Shoreline help keep your garage door in top shape. Our team of competent Grand Haven garage door repair technicians has years of experience diagnosing and fixing garage door issues, ensuring your door remains safe, secure, and easy to operate. To schedule an inspection, contact us at (231) 780-2847 or here.