A garage door is one of the essential parts of a house, and it should always be in proper working condition. However, garage doors are susceptible to wear and tear, and it’s not uncommon for them to malfunction over time. One of the most common issues that garage doors face is a broken spring. A broken spring can prevent your garage door from opening or closing properly, and it’s a problem that needs to be fixed as soon as possible. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes, signs, and repair options for a broken spring on a garage door.
Causes of a Broken Spring on a Garage Door
Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, and they are responsible for lifting the weight of the garage door. Over time, the constant tension on the springs can cause them to weaken and eventually break.
There are several factors that can contribute to a broken spring on a garage door, including:
- Wear and Tear: Springs have a limited lifespan, and they will eventually wear out after years of use. The average lifespan of a garage door spring is around 10,000 cycles, which translates to about seven years of normal use.
- Rust: Rust can cause the springs to weaken and eventually break. Rust can occur when the springs are exposed to moisture, such as rain or snow.
- Incorrect Springs: If the wrong type of springs is installed on your garage door, it can cause the springs to break prematurely.
Signs of a Broken Spring on a Garage Door
A broken spring on a garage door can be dangerous, and it’s important to be aware of the signs of a broken spring.
Here are some common signs that your garage door spring may be broken:
- The door won’t open or close: If your garage door won’t open or close, it could be a sign of a broken spring.
- Loud Noise: If you hear a loud noise when you try to open or close your garage door, it could be a sign that the spring has broken.
- Crooked Door: If your garage door is crooked when it opens or closes, it could be a sign of a broken spring.
Repair Options for a Broken Spring on a Garage Door
A broken spring on a garage door is not something that you should attempt to repair on your own. The tension on the springs can be dangerous, and attempting to repair them can lead to serious injury. Instead, you should hire a professional garage door repair company to fix the problem.
There are two types of springs that are commonly used on garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. A professional garage door repair company will be able to determine which type of spring your garage door has and recommend the appropriate repair options.
Torsion Springs: Torsion springs are the most common type of spring used on garage doors. If your garage door has a broken torsion spring, a professional garage door repair company will replace the broken spring with a new one.
Extension Springs: Extension springs are less common than torsion springs, but they are still used on some garage doors. If your garage door has a broken extension spring, a professional garage door repair company will replace both springs to ensure that they are both working correctly.
FAQs
Can I repair a broken spring on a garage door myself?
It’s not recommended to repair a broken spring on a garage door yourself. The tension on the springs can be dangerous, and attempting to repair them can lead to serious injury.
How much does it cost to repair a broken spring on a garage door?
The cost to repair a broken spring on a garage door can vary depending on the type of spring and the extent of the damage. On average, the cost to repair a broken spring on a garage door can range from $150 to $350. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost can increase if additional repairs are needed.
How often do garage door springs need to be replaced?
Garage door springs have a limited lifespan, and they will eventually need to be replaced. The average lifespan of a garage door spring is around 10,000 cycles, which translates to about seven years of normal use.
Can I use a different type of spring to replace a broken spring on my garage door?
It’s important to use the correct type of spring for your garage door. Using the wrong type of spring can cause the springs to break prematurely and can even damage your garage door.
How can I prevent a broken spring on my garage door?
Regular maintenance can help prevent a broken spring on your garage door. It’s recommended to have your garage door serviced by a professional at least once a year. During the service, the professional will inspect the springs and other components of the garage door and make any necessary repairs.
Conclusion
A broken spring on a garage door can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem. It’s important to be aware of the signs of a broken spring and to have it repaired by a professional garage door repair company.
Regular maintenance can help prevent a broken spring and extend the lifespan of your garage door. By understanding the causes, signs, and repair options for a broken spring on a garage door, you can ensure that your garage door stays in proper working condition.
