Broken Garage Door Spring? Don’t Panic! Here’s Your Ultimate Guide

A broken garage door spring is a frustrating issue that can leave you stranded outside of your garage, unable to access your car or belongings. While it may be tempting to panic or try to fix the issue yourself, it's important to take a step back and assess the situation. In this article, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide on broken garage door springs, including common causes, signs of a broken spring, and what to do if your garage door spring breaks.

Before we dive into the causes and signs of broken garage door springs, it's important to understand what garage door springs do and how they work. Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of your garage door, making it possible to lift and lower the door smoothly and safely. There are two types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion springs are located above the garage door and wind up and unwind as the door is opened and closed. Extension springs, on the other hand, are located above the horizontal tracks on either side of the garage door and stretch and contract as the door moves.

While garage door springs are designed to last for several years, they will eventually wear out and break. Some common causes of broken garage door springs include:

• Normal wear and tear over time
• Rust and corrosion
• Poor maintenance
• Excessive weight on the garage door
• Harsh weather conditions

If your garage door spring breaks, you may notice several signs that something is wrong. Some common signs of a broken garage door spring include:

• A loud bang or popping sound when the spring breaks
• The garage door opening unevenly or not at all
• The garage door feeling heavy or difficult to lift
• The garage door moving slower than usual
• The garage door jerking or shaking during the operation

If you suspect that your garage door spring has broken, it's important to take action quickly to avoid further damage or safety issues. Here are some steps to take:

Assess the Situation

First, take a look at the garage door to determine if the spring has broken. If you see a gap in the torsion spring, it's likely that the spring has broken. If you have extension springs, you may notice that the springs are stretched out or hanging down.

Call a Professional

Garage door springs are under a significant amount of tension, which makes them dangerous to handle without the proper training and equipment. For your safety, it's best to call a professional garage door repair company to handle the repairs.

Avoid DIY Repairs

Attempting to repair a broken garage door spring on your own is extremely dangerous and can lead to serious injury or property damage. Leave the repairs to the professionals.

Consider Replacing Both Springs

If one garage door spring has broken, it's a good idea to replace both springs at the same time. This will ensure that your garage door is properly balanced and will prevent another spring from breaking soon after the first one.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

To prevent broken garage door spring issues in the future, it's important to schedule regular maintenance for your garage door. This includes lubricating the springs, checking for signs of wear or damage, and making any necessary adjustments. A professional garage door technician can help you with regular maintenance to keep your door in optimal condition.

Dealing with broken garage door springs can be dangerous, so it's crucial to prioritize safety. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Do not attempt to fix the springs yourself: Garage door springs are tightly wound and can cause serious injury if mishandled. Always leave spring repairs to trained professionals.
• Keep children and pets away: Make sure children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the garage door when the springs are broken or being repaired.
• Avoid operating the door: If you suspect a broken spring, avoid using the garage door until it has been inspected and repaired. Attempting to open or close the door can cause further damage.
• Regularly inspect your garage door: Check the springs periodically for signs of wear, rust, or damage. If you notice any issues, contact a professional for an inspection.
• Educate your family: Make sure everyone in your household understands the importance of garage door safety and knows what to do in case of a broken spring.

• How long do garage door springs typically last?
  Garage door springs have an average lifespan of around 7 to 12 years, depending on usage and maintenance. However, factors such as weather conditions and frequency of use can affect their longevity.
• Can I replace a garage door spring on my own?
  It is highly recommended to hire a professional for garage door spring replacement. The high tension and specialized knowledge required to make it a job best left to trained technicians.
• Will my homeowner's insurance cover the cost of spring replacement?
  Most standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover garage door spring replacement. However, it's worth checking with your insurance provider to see if you have any coverage for garage door repairs or replacements.
• How can I maintain my garage door springs?
  Regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your garage door springs. Lubricate them with a silicone-based spray, inspect them for signs of wear or damage, and have a professional conduct annual maintenance checks.
• What are the warning signs of a worn-out garage door spring?
  Some common warning signs include a loud bang when the spring breaks, difficulty opening or closing the door, the door feeling unusually heavy, and jerking or shaking movements during operation.

Dealing with a broken garage door spring can be stressful, but it's important to remain calm and prioritize safety. Remember to call a professional to handle the repairs and avoid attempting to fix the springs yourself. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent spring issues in the future. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this guide, you can effectively handle a broken garage door spring and keep your garage door functioning smoothly and safely.