When to Call a Professional for Broken Garage Door Springs

A garage door is one of the most important yet often overlooked components of a home. It ensures security, convenience, and even aesthetic appeal. However, like any other mechanical system, garage doors require maintenance and occasional repairs. One of the most critical issues that homeowners encounter is broken garage door springs. These components play a vital role in the door’s functionality, and when they fail, it can lead to serious consequences.

If you’ve noticed that your garage door is not opening smoothly, makes loud noises, or feels unusually heavy, your garage door springs might be broken. While some homeowners may consider a DIY approach, handling broken garage door springs is difficult for the inexperienced. In this blog, we’ll discuss when to call a professional for broken garage door springs, the risks of DIY repairs, and how to ensure your garage door remains in good working condition.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage doors rely on two types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

1. Torsion Springs – These are mounted above the garage door and use torque to lift and lower the door. They are the most common type and typically last longer than extension springs.
2. Extension Springs – These are located on the sides of the garage door and stretch to provide the counterbalance needed to lift the door.

Both types of springs are under immense tension, which makes them highly dangerous if they break or are mishandled. This is why it is critical to know when to seek professional assistance.

Signs That Your Garage Door Springs Are Broken

Before calling a professional, it’s essential to recognize the warning signs of broken springs. Here are some common indicators:

1. The Garage Door Won’t Open or Closes Too Quickly – If your garage door fails to open completely or slams shut, the springs may be broken or weakened.
2. Loud Bang or Noise – A loud snapping or banging sound in your garage could indicate that a spring has snapped.
3. The Door Feels Heavy – If your garage door suddenly feels heavier than usual, it could be due to a broken torsion or extension spring that no longer assists in lifting.
4. Gaps in the Springs – A visible gap in the torsion spring means it has broken and lost its tension.
5. Cables Appear Loose or Disconnected – When a spring breaks, the cables attached to the garage door may become loose or even detach.
6. Uneven Opening or Jerky Movements – A damaged spring could be the culprit if the garage door opens unevenly or moves erratically.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Repairs

Many homeowners are tempted to fix broken garage door springs on their own, but this can be extremely dangerous. Here’s why:

1. High Tension and Risk of Injury – Garage door springs, especially torsion spring replacement, involve working with tightly wound metal coils under immense tension. A sudden snap can cause severe injuries, including cuts, fractures, or even life-threatening accidents.
2. Lack of Proper Tools and Knowledge – A replacement process requires specific tools and expertise to handle high-tension springs safely. Attempting to fix a garage door without the right equipment can lead to unexpected failures that put both the homeowner and the door at risk.
3. Incorrect Installation Can Lead to More Damage – An improper installation of new springs can throw off the garage door’s balance, causing it to wear down faster or even become inoperable. The entire system, including the opener, rollers, and tracks, can suffer additional damage if the door doesn’t move smoothly.
4. Voiding Manufacturer Warranties – Many garage door manufacturers void warranties if a certified technician does not conduct repairs. A professional ensures that repairs meet warranty requirements and industry standards.
5. Time and Effort – Replacing garage door springs isn’t a quick fix. It requires precision and a deep understanding of common signs of wear, spring tension adjustments, and alignment. A professional can complete the job efficiently, saving you hours of trial and error.
6. Hidden or Visible Damage – A broken spring often causes secondary damage, such as worn-out springs, damaged cables, or bent tracks. Without proper knowledge, you might miss visible damage that could lead to further mechanical issues.
7. Unusual Noises During Operation – If you hear unusual noises like grinding or squeaking, it might indicate underlying problems beyond the springs. Professionals can diagnose and repair these issues before they worsen.
8. Emergency Release Mishaps – Some homeowners attempt to use the emergency release function when their garage door stops working, only to find that the door comes crashing down due to a broken spring. Professionals ensure the system is safe before any adjustments are made.
9. Potential Issues from DIY Work – Even if a homeowner manages to replace a spring, there may be potential alignment, tension, or compatibility issues. A professional spring repair service ensures that everything is correctly installed and adjusted.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor garage door maintenance tasks, such as lubricating moving parts and tightening loose hardware, can be done by homeowners, professionals should always handle broken springs. Here’s when you should call an expert:

1. The Spring Has Snapped

If you hear a loud bang and notice that your garage door is not functioning correctly, a spring will likely snap. Since garage springs are under extreme tension, attempting to replace them without proper tools and experience can be dangerous. A garage door technician will have the expertise to safely perform a garage door spring replacement without causing additional damage or injury.

2. Your Garage Door Feels Unbalanced

An unbalanced garage door, including the garage door opener, can strain the entire system. If your door tilts to one side or doesn’t open and close evenly, it might indicate a problem with the type of springs used. A technician can assess the situation, adjust the tension, and ensure smooth garage door operation.

3. The Door Won’t Stay Open or Closed

The springs may not provide the necessary support if your garage door doesn’t stay in place when you open or close it. This issue is especially critical if you have an automatic garage door, as the automatic opener relies on adequately functioning springs to operate safely. A qualified garage door repair expert can replace the springs and test the system for optimal performance.

4. Visible Signs of Damage

If you notice a stretched-out or visibly damaged spring, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Professionals can replace the spring safely and ensure proper alignment. Since standard garage door springs wear out over time, it’s best to call a garage door technician at the first sign of deterioration.

5. You Hear Strange Noises

A well-functioning garage door operation should be relatively quiet. A technician can determine whether the springs need replacement if you hear excessive creaking, grinding, or popping sounds. These noises may indicate that the garage springs are nearing the end of their lifespan and require immediate attention.

6. You’re Unsure About the Problem

If you’re uncertain about what’s wrong with your garage door, it’s best to call an expert. They can thoroughly inspect and diagnose issues with the garage door opener or garage door springs and prevent further complications. A professional technician can also check other components, such as cables, rollers, and tracks, to ensure your automatic garage door is in good condition.

By investing in garage door spring replacement and a professional spring repair service, you can extend the life of your automatic opener and enjoy reliable, hassle-free garage door operation for years to come.

Is Your Garage Door Spring Broken? Learn How to Replace It Safely!

A broken garage door spring can bring your entire door system to a halt, leaving your home vulnerable and your vehicle trapped. While replacing a garage door spring may seem like a straightforward fix, it requires precision and proper safety precautions to avoid serious injuries.

In our latest blog post, “How to Safely Replace Broken Garage Door Springs,” we provide a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this repair process with confidence. You’ll learn about the necessary tools, safety measures, and best practices to ensure a smooth and secure replacement.

Attempting a DIY fix without proper knowledge can lead to costly damage or personal injury. That’s why it’s crucial to follow expert advice before getting started.

Click now to read the full blog post and equip yourself with the knowledge needed to safely and effectively replace your broken garage door springs. Your safety and garage door’s functionality depend on it!