Garage Door Springs: What You Need to Know
When you think of springs, you might envision a metal coil that bounces or cushions weight. Your garage door spring shares some of those characteristics, but with key differences. Understanding the importance of this essential part of your garage door is crucial to its smooth operation and longevity.
At McLeod County Garage Doors, we’re here to help you understand everything about your garage door springs—from how they work to how to tell when it’s time for a professional tune-up. Let’s dive in!
What Are Garage Door Springs?
Garage door springs are typically coil-shaped, made of strong metal, and positioned near your garage door opener. You’ll usually find them on the side closest to your driveway.
These springs store force when the door is closed and release it when you open the door, allowing it to lift effortlessly. Without the spring, opening and closing your garage door would feel like a heavy lifting task, as these springs counterbalance the weight of the door.
Most garage doors have one spring, but heavier doors may use multiple springs for added strength.
What Happens When a Garage Door Spring Fails?
A broken spring can make a seemingly simple task, like opening your garage door, nearly impossible. Springs are designed to make your door feel weightless, but when they break, you're left trying to lift a door that could weigh over 100 pounds.
A spring failure can also cause the door to operate unevenly or even result in the door closing or opening too quickly, posing safety risks.
How Do I Know If My Garage Door Spring Is About to Fail?
Luckily, there are a few signs you can watch for to prevent a spring failure from catching you off guard. Here are a few things to look out for:
Strange noises:Â Groaning, squeaking, or screeching when you operate the door.
Sudden door drops:Â The door might fall unexpectedly when closing.
Loud bangs:Â If you hear a loud "bang" from your garage, it could indicate a broken spring.
Difficulty opening the door:Â Your door may refuse to open or might open unevenly.
Uneven operation:Â If one side of the door is higher than the other when opening.
Jerky movements:Â A jerking or uneven movement during operation could be a sign of a spring issue.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to call McLeod County Garage Doors. Our experienced team can accurately diagnose the problem and get your garage door running smoothly again.
How Do I Take Care of My Garage Door Spring?
Proper maintenance of your garage door spring can extend its lifespan. The main thing your spring needs is lubrication, which you can easily apply every few months. However, it's essential to use the right kind of lubricant. Avoid WD-40—it’s a cleaner, not a lubricant, and can cause more harm than good.
Use a lubricant specifically designed for garage door springs, and apply it to the spring to ensure smooth and quiet operation.
Can I Replace a Broken Garage Door Spring Myself?
We strongly advise against DIY spring replacements. Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and attempting to repair or replace them without the proper tools and experience can be dangerous. A mishandled spring can snap and cause serious injury.
At McLeod County Garage Doors, we handle spring replacements safely and efficiently. Let our team of professionals take care of it for you!
Torsion Springs: The Better Option for Your Garage Door
At McLeod County Garage Doors, we often recommend torsion springs for our customers, as they tend to be more reliable and durable than their extension counterparts.
How Do Torsion Springs Work?
Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door and provide a balanced, controlled force to raise and lower the door. This system reduces stress on the garage door opener, helping it last longer. The spring works with the aid of bearing plates and cable drums, creating a smooth, balanced motion.
Why Choose Torsion Springs Over Extension Springs?
Torsion springs provide several advantages:
Smooth, uniform operation with less stress on the opener
Quieter operation than extension springs
More durable and cost-effective in the long run
Safer design, as torsion springs are contained within a tube, preventing flying debris in case of breakage.
Torsion springs also tend to have a longer lifespan, requiring fewer repairs over time.
How Do Extension Springs Work?
Extension springs are older technology and consist of two springs at either end of the garage door. While they’re easier to install and initially less expensive, they tend to be noisier and more prone to failure. When extension springs break, it’s often recommended to replace both springs to maintain balance.
Is Converting to Torsion Springs Worth It?
If you have an extension spring system, converting to a torsion spring system might be a good investment. Torsion springs provide smoother, quieter, and more reliable operation, and their durability reduces the frequency of repairs.
At McLeod County Garage Doors, we can provide a quote for converting your system, helping you make an informed decision about what’s best for your home and budget.
Garage Door Spring Repair Near You In Hutchinson, MN.
If you live in McLeod County or the surrounding area we are able to give free estimates for garage door spring repair or replacement. Replacing your garage door spring properly requires knowledge and proper tools to ensure you get the exact garage door springs needed to complete the job.
Trust McLeod County Garage Doors for All Your Spring Needs
Garage door springs are a vital component of your system’s functionality and safety. Whether you need a spring replacement, maintenance, or a system upgrade, McLeod County Garage Doors is here to help.
With years of experience, we offer reliable, local service to McLeod County and surrounding areas. Reach out to us today at (320) 300-0370 or info@mcleodcountygaragedoors.com for a free consultation or to schedule service.
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