Broken Garage Door Spring Replacement

That's where top-rated garage door contractors like us come in. Safety Garage Door Repair & Installation have helped many satisfied clients repair and replace their garage door springs in the Bay Area and San Diego.

Even the highest-quality garage door springs have a shelf life of about 15 years and eventually need replacement. So, if you need to repair your garage door springs, you've come to the right place.

Here's everything you need to know about broken garage door springs and how to fix them.

Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring

Garage doors require regular maintenance and upkeep, including lubricating the tracks, tightening screws, and inspecting the door for potential issues. Yet sometimes, despite one's best efforts, their springs still break. 

These are common signs of broken garage door springs: 

• Loud Noise: When springs break, they make a loud crashing noise caused by the sudden release of energy from tightly coiled springs.
• Gap in the Spring:  Springs are connected from end to end and wound tightly together. To identify a broken spring, look for a gap in the coils.
• Loose Cables: Once spring breaks, it will lead to a domino effect of problems. Most of the time, broken springs loosen cables. If you look at the ceiling, you may notice hanging slack cables.
• A Bend at the Top of the Door: If you try to open the door and notice the top panel bending, this is a sign that the spring on your door has already broken. When the springs are damaged, the door opener doesn't have enough power to lift the weight of the panels.
• Misaligned Door: A garage door can open even if it has a broken spring. However, when the door slides up or down the track, you will notice it's crooked due to the unequal weight distribution.
• Quick Fall: When a garage door's spring works appropriately, it will open and close smoothly. However, if the spring breaks, the door will not be able to hold up its weight and will suddenly fall or crash because it can't counterbalance the force of gravity.

The Dangers of Garage Door Springs

As our company name suggests, we prioritize your safety. At Safety Garage Door Repair & Installation, we understand that when torsion springs snap, they can fly out of the door with enough force to penetrate walls, so we never recommend you attempt to remove the springs yourself. Instead, our technicians will inspect the door and repair the issue, replacing the broken garage door spring with a new one that will last 15 years.

Again… Can I Replace the Spring Myself?

Although they may seem like a small part of a garage door system, torsion springs are pivotal in ensuring the door is functional. Two types of door springs are used in operating a garage door: Extension Springs and Torsion Springs. 

Attempting to repair either type of spring on your own is not recommended. A broken garage door spring is like a projectile - it holds tremendous tension and can cause serious injury or even death if mishandled. Therefore, hiring a professional to fix your broken springs is best.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Broken Garage Door Spring?

The cost to repair your garage door springs can vary depending on the extent of the damage. How much to replace garage door spring? On average, it's between $150 and $350 per door, including the cost of the hardware and labor.

If the damage is less severe and only requires lubrication, it's usually around $100, with the hardware costing between $30 and $200 and the labor ranging between $75 and $150.

Our approach puts your safety first while protecting your budget. After a detailed inspection, we'll safely restore your garage door.

Things You Should Know Before Replacing a Broken Garage Door Spring

Replacing a broken garage door spring requires a certain level of mechanical and technical knowledge and physical stamina. Understanding the risks and knowing the tools and materials you will need to complete the job are imperative. 

Garage Door Spring Types

Different garage door springs are employed to support various weights and sizes of garage doors. All garage door springs provide the necessary tension to open and close the door without placing too much strain on the door opener. 

There are two kinds of garage door springs: 

Torsion Springs

Garage door torsion springs are heavy-duty springs mounted above a garage door's opening and tightly wound, providing the necessary torque for raising and lowering the garage door. They are made of high-grade steel and last for many years, making them slightly more expensive.

There are two main types of garage door torsion springs:

Standard Torsion Springs 

Standard torsion springs are helical springs that apply a rotary or torque force. They are made of a metal rod and wire, wrapped in a coil, and have an inner and outer end diameter. When twisted, they create energy to open and close garage doors.

Torque Master Torsion Springs 

Torque Master Torsion Springs create a more efficient, consistent, and even force than other torsion springs. This makes them the perfect choice for heavier garage doors, as they require less force to operate. These springs have an enclosed two-spring system within a shaft for increased safety.

Extension Springs

Extension springs absorb and store energy when stretched or pulled. A hook or loop connects the two ends of the spring, and kinetic energy is stored when force is applied. Once the force is removed, the stored energy is released. Safety cables keep the springs secure, as they can be dangerous if they break.

There are three types of Extension Springs:

• Open-Looped
  This is the most straightforward extension spring to replace since you don't need to disassemble the pulley.
• Double-Looped
  Closed-loop extension springs are more robust than open-looped springs. They have two coils at the end, connected to an eyebolt and pulley. If one of these two springs breaks, replacing them is more complicated than an open-looped spring.
• Clip Ends
  Clip ends are the way to go if you are searching for a long-lasting extension spring. That’s because the clips at the end of the spring decrease the amount of stress placed on it, thus extending its life. These springs are best for garage doors that weigh 200 LBs or more.

How to Choose the Right Garage Door Springs

Remember that regardless of whether you have extension or torsion garage door springs, the spring weight must match the garage door's weight to ensure the door stays balanced and your springs remain in good condition. Identifying the type of springs needed for a replacement is relatively straightforward.

If your springs are above the garage door's opening, you need a torsion system. However, you will need extension springs if the springs are on each side of the garage door opening. The best way to determine which springs to replace a broken garage door spring is to refer to the manufacturer's manual that came with the door. 

It should provide the exact measurements and specifications for compatible springs. If you can't find the manual, contact the manufacturer directly to get the information. We recommend you replace all springs if one spring breaks, as it is likely that the others are close to the end of their cycle life.

If you're unsure, then don't hesitate to call us!

Why Do Garage Door Springs Break?

These are the most frequent cause of malfunction of garage door torsion springs: 

General Wear and Tear

How long do garage springs last? The life expectancy of garage door torsion springs is usually 10,000 cycles; however, this depends on how often the door is opened and often closed. Springs may last less time than expected if the garage door is used on a regular basis.

Corrosion

Spraying a silicone-based lubricant on your springs a few times a year will help prevent rust and extend the lifespan of the springs. Rust weakens springs and increases friction on the coils, so a little maintenance can go a long way in preserving their longevity.

Poor Maintenance

You should check the balance regularly to ensure your garage doors function properly. To do this, lift the door halfway and let go. If the springs are in good condition, the door will stay still or move slightly. If the door falls, tilts, or slides up, the balance is off, and a professional must replace or adjust the springs.

Cold Weather

When temperatures become frigid, your garage door springs are more likely to crack. Their coiled steel is under a lot of pressure and gets cold, which can lead to the springs breaking. If you want your springs to last, investing in high-quality steel springs is better than purchasing cheap ones. Lower-quality springs are more prone to breaking.

Manufacturing Defects

Springs sometimes break due to a manufacturing defect. This may cause extension springs at the end of the spring to break off. Torsion springs, on the other hand, can rust if they haven't been properly galvanized.

Miscalibration

Springs are designed to work within a 5% variation of their calibration, so if a spring is used on a door that is too heavy, it will eventually break under pressure. Though the door may still open and close, the spring won't be able to endure the weight of the door if it is significantly heavier than the spring's calibration.

How to Replace a Garage Door Torsion Spring: Safety Considerations

If the springs on a garage door break, the door may plummet to the ground, resulting in extensive damage to the door or, in extreme cases, severe injury or even death.

Replacing a garage door torsion spring can be dangerous and should only be attempted by those with the proper knowledge and experience.

It is essential to use the right tools and safety gear, such as safety glasses and strong gloves, and to have someone help steady the ladder and pass up tools.

How many turns on a garage door spring? The number of turns on a garage door spring varies depending on the size and type of the spring. Generally speaking, residential garage door springs range from 10-20 turns.

When you are winding or unwinding, ensure you position the ladder to the side of the ends of the spring. Use proper winding bars, not screwdrivers or plier handles, to ensure a safe and successful job.

Given the risks, calling a professional is wiser and more efficient.

What Will You Need to Replace Garage Door Springs?

You’ll need a few basic tools to complete this job:

• Step Ladder
• Winding bars
• Safety glasses
• Leather/Mechanics gloves
• Wrench
• Garage Door Lubricant
• Vice Grips/Locking Pliers

How to Install Garage Door Springs

To ensure easy access to the spring, start by closing the garage door. Have all your tools ready nearby, and be sure to unplug the garage door opener.

• Attach a C-clamp to the track just above the roller at the lowest point on either side of the door for added security.
• Start by sliding the left spring onto the torsion shaft, then replace the cable drum similarly. Repeat this step on the other side of your garage door with two springs.
• Once the new cable drums and springs are in place, bolt the stationary cones to the center plate with the removed nuts and bolts.  
• Next, attach the left-hand cable drum to the cable, insert the cable stop into the slot on the drum, and secure the torsion shaft with a vise-grip. Wrap the cable around the drum and tighten the set screws. 
• Once the left-hand cable is set, repeat the same steps for the right-hand cable drum. Ensure that both sides of the cables have equal tension, similar to a guitar string. 
• Finish by spraying the springs with garage door lubricant and reconnecting the electric opener.

Maintenance and Service Life Extension Tips

• Keep an eye on the springs: Make sure to periodically inspect your garage door springs for any signs of wear or damage.
• Make sure to lubricate the springs: Use a lubricant such as WD-40 or lithium grease to lubricate the springs and keep them in good condition.
• Replace worn-out parts: If any parts of your springs are worn out, replace them immediately to prevent further damage and wear.
• Avoid over-tightening the springs: Over-tightening them can cause them to break or wear out quickly.
• Balance the door: Make sure the door is balanced properly so that the springs are not under too much strain.
• Get professional help: If you're unsure how to maintain and service your garage door springs properly, contact a professional for help.

Leave It to Professionals Near You 

At Safety Garage Door Repair & Installation, we understand your garage's importance as an entryway to your home. As a family-owned business, we’ve provided top-notch garage door services for ten years and prioritize customer satisfaction.

Our highly experienced experts are here to assist with any repair or installation needs, ensuring your door functions safely and correctly. We guarantee quality workmanship, rapid response times, and competitive prices. 

Plus, we provide follow-up services to satisfy you completely with our work. With us, you can trust that your garage door is in capable hands!

We provide garage door spring repair services in San Diego and San Francisco areas. Get your free estimate now!