Garage door springs are essential to any garage door system, providing the necessary counterbalance for smooth opening and closing. These springs endure significant stress and tension with each use, making them prone to wear and tear over time. Regular maintenance and preventative measures can significantly extend the lifespan of garage door springs, ensuring that your garage door remains functional and safe for years. This blog post will explore various strategies to enhance the durability of garage door springs and prevent premature failure.
Understanding the Importance of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs come in two main types: torsion and extension springs.
- Torsion Springs: These are mounted above the garage door and use torque to lift and lower the door. They are generally more durable and safer compared to extension springs.
- Extension Springs: These are located on either side of the garage door and stretch to provide the necessary force to move the door. Due to their stretching mechanism, they tend to wear out more quickly than torsion springs.
Since these springs bear the door’s weight, proper maintenance is crucial to prevent breakage, which could lead to expensive repairs or safety hazards. The life cycle of a garage door spring is measured in terms of opening and closing cycles, with most standard springs lasting between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles before requiring replacement. The type of spring used in your garage door system affects its longevity, durability, and performance, making it essential to choose the right spring based on your usage needs and environmental factors.
One key indicator of worn-out springs is unusual noises, such as squeaking, popping, or grinding, which often signal metal fatigue or misalignment. These metal components require consistent silicone spray lubrication to reduce friction and prevent premature failure. In addition, environmental factors such as humidity and extreme temperatures can accelerate wear and corrosion, making proper insulation and protection from moisture vital for extending the life of garage door springs.
While some homeowners may attempt DIY repairs, improperly handling springs can result in serious injury or further damage to the door mechanism. Addressing issues early with professional attention helps prevent costly breakdowns and ensures proper garage door system functioning. In cases where the springs show signs of severe wear or damage, professional intervention from a trained technician is recommended to provide a safe and efficient garage door replacement or repair.
Preventative Measures to Extend Garage Door Spring Life
1. Regular Lubrication
Regular lubrication is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of garage door springs. Incorrectly lubricated springs can become stiff and brittle, increasing the risk of breakage.
- Use a high-quality silicone-based lubricant designed for garage door components.
- Apply lubrication every three to six months to ensure smooth garage door operation.
- Avoid using WD-40, as it is a degreaser and can cause more harm than good.
Lubrication reduces friction, minimizes wear and tear, and helps keep the springs operating smoothly. A well-lubricated spring will reduce noise and prevent early garage door spring failure.
2. Conduct Routine Inspections
Performing routine maintenance and visual inspections of the garage door springs can help identify early signs of damage and potential failure. Look for issues such as:
- Gaps in the spring coil indicate a weakening of the metal.
- Signs of rust or corrosion can cause the springs to deteriorate faster.
- Frayed or stretched springs, which suggest excessive wear.
- Loud squeaking or popping noises indicate increased tension or friction when operating the door.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it is best to contact a professional technician from a reputable garage door company to assess the situation and recommend necessary repairs.
3. Ensure Proper Balance of the Garage Door
An imbalanced garage door puts undue strain on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. You can check the balance of your garage door by:
- Disconnecting the garage door opener by pulling the emergency release handle.
- Manually lift the door halfway and release it.
- If the door stays in place, it is appropriately balanced. If it moves up or down, the springs may need adjustment.
If your garage door is not balanced correctly, it is recommended that you schedule a garage door repair service. A trained technician can make precise adjustments to ensure optimal performance and prevent unnecessary spring strain.
4. Avoid Excessive Strain on the Springs
Reducing unnecessary strain on garage springs can help extend their lifespan. Consider the following preventive measures:
- Avoid slamming the garage door shut, as this can stress the springs excessively.
- Ensure the garage door track is clean and debris-free to reduce resistance.
- Keep rollers and hinges in good condition to minimize friction and improve overall garage door operation.
A well-maintained door moves smoothly, reducing the effort required from the springs.
5. Replace Both Springs Simultaneously
If one garage door spring breaks, it is advisable to replace both springs at the same time. This is because both springs endure the same tension and stress, meaning the other spring will likely fail soon after. Ignoring this can lead to garage door spring issues that compromise the system’s efficiency and safety.
A broken spring can put extra strain on other critical components, such as cables and openers, which can lead to further damage. Replacing both springs simultaneously ensures balanced operation and prevents additional strain on the new spring. A garage door spring replacement service by a professional technician can help determine the best replacement options for your door. Regular proactive maintenance and professional inspections help detect potential issues before they escalate into costly repairs.
6. Install a Safety Cable for Extension Springs
For types of garage doors that use extension springs, installing a safety cable is an essential safety measure to prevent potential accidents in case of a spring breakage. A safety cable runs through the spring, securing it in place and reducing the risk of injury or property damage. This is particularly important in a residential garage, where unexpected failures can pose potential safety hazards to homeowners and their families.
Extension springs operate under high tension, and when they snap, they can whip around violently, damaging horizontal tracks and vehicles or even causing injuries. A properly installed safety cable keeps the broken spring contained, preventing damage and ensuring continued proper functioning of the garage door system. Professional inspections ensure these cables are installed correctly and remain in good condition. A garage door repair service can properly install safety cables to enhance safety features and reduce risks associated with broken springs. Identifying signs of garage door wear and proactively addressing them can prevent emergencies and expensive repairs.
7. Limit the Use of Your Garage Door
Each garage door spring has a limited number of cycles (one full open and close is one cycle). Overusing the garage door can lead to premature wear. Consider minimizing usage by:
- Use side doors when possible instead of opening the garage door frequently.
- Encouraging family members to limit unnecessary openings to conserve the lifespan of the springs.
- Upgrading to high-cycle springs if you use the garage frequently, as they offer a longer lifespan compared to standard springs.
8. Professional Maintenance and Tune-Ups
Scheduling routine garage door maintenance with a garage door company can significantly extend the lifespan of your springs. Professional servicing includes:
- Adjusting spring tension to ensure proper balance.
- Checking for misalignment, signs of rust, and other forms of deterioration.
- Lubricating moving parts with silicone-based lubricant to enhance performance.
- Identifying minor issues before they lead to costly garage door spring failure.
Regular tune-ups help keep your garage door in top condition and prevent premature failures. Seeking professional assistance ensures all components, including springs, cables, and rollers, are correctly working.
Torsion vs. Extension Springs: Which Garage Door System is Right for You?
Your garage door relies on a spring system to function smoothly, but not all springs are created equal. Torsion and extension springs are the two main types, each with its own advantages and drawbacks. Choosing the right one can impact your garage door’s performance, longevity, and safety.
In our latest blog post, “Comparing Torsion and Extension Springs for Garage Doors,” we break down the key differences between these two systems. Learn how torsion springs offer durability and better balance, while extension springs provide a more budget-friendly option. We’ll also discuss maintenance requirements, installation considerations, and which type works best for different garage doors.
If you’re considering a garage door upgrade or need to replace your springs, this guide is a must-read!
Click now to explore the pros and cons of each spring type and make an informed decision for your garage door system.
