What Causes a Garage Door Spring to Break
Garage doors are essential for security and convenience, but the springs fail due to wear and tear from usage. Typically rated for 10,000 cycles, the springs constantly open, close, and eventually break. Knowing this helps us maintain our garage doors and prevent surprises.
Springs can break due to lack of maintenance, environmental conditions, and the quality of the springs. Knowing these will help us extend their lives and keep our garage doors safe and smooth.
As we discuss these causes, we will also provide tips on how to prevent spring failures. This will keep our garage doors in good condition and our home safe.
Garage Door Spring Breakage Causes
Age and Wear & Tear
Like any mechanical part, garage door springs wear out over time. Depending on usage and maintenance, they last 7 to 14 years. The springs are under tension every time we open and close the door.
Over time, this repeated movement wears out the metal, making it more prone to breakage. Regular maintenance can help us identify the signs of wear and tear so we can replace the springs before they break.
Wrong Installation
The installation of garage door springs is critical. If the springs are not installed correctly, they can become misaligned or malfunction. Misalignment puts extra stress on the springs, causing them to break earlier.
We need to ensure that a qualified technician installs the springs. They can ensure proper tension and alignment so our garage doors run smoothly.
Overuse and Stress
Frequently using garage doors can also cause spring failure. The more we use our doors, the more stress the springs experience. This wear and tear is accelerated for families who use the garage door multiple times daily.
Some heavy doors can be too heavy for the load that the springs can tolerate. Choosing the appropriate springs for the garage door’s weight will help avoid damage to components and keep doors functioning properly.
Unusual or Extreme Weather
Springs in garage doors will inevitably be exposed to a variety of weather. Extreme cold and heat can affect their performance. Freezing temperature can make the metal brittle, and heat can cause the springs to expand and warp.
Moisture can cause rust, which can further weaken the springs. So, we need to monitor our springs and consider weatherproofing to protect them from harsh environments.
Unbalanced Door
A balanced garage door is important for the spring’s longevity. If the door is unbalanced, it puts extra stress on the springs. This imbalance can be caused by worn-out rollers or track issues, which make it harder for the springs to operate smoothly.
We should regularly check our garage doors to maintain balance and ensure all components work correctly. Proper maintenance will keep our garage doors safe and the springs intact.
Signs of a Broken or Failing Spring
For garage door springs, early detection is important. Here are the common signs of a broken or failing spring:
● Loud Noises: When we open the garage door, we may hear bangs, clangs, or squeals. These sounds are usually a sign that something is wrong with the springs.
● Unstable Movement: If the door is moving slowly or not operating smoothly, spring problems can be observed.
● Manual Operation: When the door is hard to open manually, it’s worth checking the springs. They may be worn or broken.
● Visible Damage: We should check the springs for any visible damage, such as gaps, breaks, or wear. This will help us identify the problem early.
● Partial Movement: If the garage door only opens or closes halfway, it clearly indicates that the springs are failing and need attention.
DIY Spring Repair Risks
High Tension: Garage door springs are under high tension. A small mistake can lead to big consequences.
Risk of Injury: Doing repairs without proper tools or knowledge can cause severe injuries. If a spring breaks, the force released can cause eye injury, cuts, or crushing injuries.
Increased Risk of Further Damage: Improper repairs can make the situation worse. Instead of fixing the problem, we may cause more damage, and we’ll be paying for it later.
Voiding Warranties: Many garage door systems come with warranties. Doing DIY repairs can void these warranties, and we’ll be responsible for all future repair costs.
Given these risks, it’s clear that calling a professional is the best option. Proper installation and maintenance of garage door springs inevitably require a certain level of skill and specialist tools that few people have. It’s also important to use this type of work safely.
Smooth Operation with Two Brothers Garage Doors
Garage door springs are important for our doors’ smooth operation; understanding their causes will help us maintain them better and be safe. Common causes are wear and tear, corrosion due to moisture, lack of maintenance, and extreme weather conditions. Addressing these factors will extend the life of garage door springs, and regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to prevent sudden breakage if we notice signs of trouble, such as loud noises, manual difficulty, or visible damage. Being proactive will create a safer environment and avoid costly repairs.
Call us now! Two Brothers Garage Doors will provide you with safe, reliable, and running doors for years to come.
