A garage door plays a crucial role in securing your home, and one of its most important components is the garage door spring. Over time, these springs wear out, making garage door spring replacement a necessary maintenance task. If your garage door is not opening or closing properly, a broken spring might be the issue. Understanding how garage door springs work and when to replace them can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your door functions safely and efficiently.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage doors rely on torsion springs or extension springs to balance the weight of the door and allow for smooth operation. These springs undergo heavy tension and repetitive motion, making them prone to wear and breakage over time.

Types of Garage Door Springs:

• Torsion Springs – Mounted above the garage door, torsion springs provide controlled movement and durability.
• Extension Springs – Located on the sides of the door, these springs stretch and contract to assist in lifting.

Signs You Need Garage Door Spring Replacement

It’s important to recognize the warning signs of a failing spring before it completely breaks. Here are some key indicators:

• Difficulty Opening or Closing – A worn-out spring may struggle to lift the door.
• Loud Bang or Snap Sound – This indicates a spring has broken under tension.
• Uneven Door Movement – If one side moves faster than the other, the spring system may be unbalanced.
• Gaps in the Spring – A visible gap in the coil means the spring has snapped and needs replacement.
• Door Falls Quickly – Without a functioning spring, the garage door may drop suddenly.

Steps for Garage Door Spring Replacement

Replacing a garage door spring is a complex task that requires specialized tools and expertise. Here’s a general overview of the process:

1. Safety Precautions

• Disconnect the garage door opener.
• Wear safety gloves and protective eyewear.
• Ensure the door is fully closed to prevent accidents.

2. Identify the Spring Type

• Determine if your door uses torsion or extension springs.
• Measure the existing springs to match the correct replacement.

3. Remove the Broken Spring

• Carefully unwind the torsion spring using winding bars.
• For extension springs, detach the safety cables and remove the old spring.

4. Install the New Spring

• Secure the new spring in place and ensure proper tension is applied.
• Reattach the cables and test the door balance.

5. Test the Garage Door

• Manually lift the door to check smooth operation.
• Reconnect the garage door opener and test its function.

Why Professional Garage Door Spring Replacement is Recommended

While some homeowners may attempt garage door spring replacement, it is highly recommended to hire a professional due to the risks involved. Here’s why:

• High Tension Risks – Springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
• Proper Tools Required – Professionals use specialized tools to safely remove and install springs.
• Ensures Correct Balance – An expert will adjust the tension accurately for smooth door operation.
• Saves Time and Effort – DIY replacement can be time-consuming and frustrating without proper experience.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Springs

To minimize the need for frequent garage door spring replacement, follow these maintenance tips:

• Regular Lubrication – Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the springs every few months.
• Check for Wear and Tear – Inspect springs for rust, cracks, or gaps.
• Balance the Door – Test the door balance periodically to prevent extra strain on the springs.
• Schedule Professional Inspections – A garage door technician can identify issues before they escalate.

Get Expert Garage Door Spring Replacement Services

If your garage door springs need replacement, trust a professional service for safe and efficient repairs. We provide garage door spring replacement in Farmington Hills, MI, and surrounding areas. Our team ensures high-quality service and long-lasting solutions.