5 Warning Signs You Need New Garage Door Springs

2024-01-10 6 min read

<p>Garage door springs are the workhorses of your garage door system. They counterbalance the weight of the door, making it possible for you.and your opener.to lift and lower it with ease. But springs don't last forever. Knowing the warning signs of failing springs can help you avoid a sudden breakdown.</p>

<h2>1. Your Door Won't Open Properly</h2> <p>If your garage door struggles to open, stops partway, or opens crookedly, failing springs may be the culprit. As springs lose tension, they can't properly counterbalance the door's weight. You might notice:</p> <ul> <li>The opener strains to lift the door</li> <li>The door opens slower than usual</li> <li>The door only opens a few inches before stopping</li> </ul>

<h2>2. Visible Wear or Damage</h2> <p>Regular visual inspection can reveal spring problems before they become emergencies. Look for:</p> <ul> <li>Rust or corrosion on the spring coils</li> <li>Gaps in the spring coils (indicating a break)</li> <li>Springs that appear stretched or elongated</li> <li>Visible wear marks on the spring</li> </ul>

<h2>3. Loud Bang from the Garage</h2> <p>If you've heard a loud bang coming from your garage, it's likely a spring has broken. When springs break under tension, they release energy rapidly, creating a loud noise similar to a gunshot. Never attempt to operate a door with a broken spring.</p>

<h2>4. The Door Feels Heavy</h2> <p>Try disconnecting your opener and manually lifting the door. A properly balanced door should lift with about 10 pounds of pressure. If the door feels extremely heavy, your springs have likely lost significant tension and need replacement.</p>

<h2>5. Your Springs Are Old</h2> <p>Most standard garage door springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles (one open and close equals one cycle). For an average family that uses the door four times daily, springs may last about seven years. High-cycle springs can last 20,000 cycles or more.</p>

<h2>The Importance of Professional Replacement</h2> <p>Garage door spring replacement is not a DIY job. The springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Professional technicians have the tools, training, and experience to safely replace your springs.</p>

<p>At Garage Door Livermore, we stock a variety of spring types and sizes to ensure same-day repairs in most cases. We also offer high-cycle springs for customers who want extended longevity. Contact us at (925) 578-2837 if you notice any of these warning signs.</p>

Back to Blog