Garage door springs play a vital role in the smooth operation of your overhead garage door. They counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. However, like any mechanical component, garage door springs have a finite lifespan and will eventually wear out or break. Maintaining garage door springs with proper care is crucial for maximizing their lifespan.
Understanding how to care for your garage door springs can help prolong their longevity and save you from the inconvenience and expense of unexpected failures. In this blog post, we will share valuable tips to help you make your garage door springs last longer by providing garage door spring maintenance tips.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are an essential component of your garage door system. They are responsible for lifting the heavy weight of the door and allowing it to move up and down smoothly. There are two types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door and work by twisting and coiling to create energy that lifts the door. Extension springs are located on either side of the door and stretch to provide the necessary lifting force.
Garage door springs have a limited lifespan and can wear out over time. The average lifespan of a garage door spring is around 10,000 cycles. A cycle is one full opening and closing of the door. Depending on how frequently you use your garage door, the springs may need to be replaced every 5-7 years.
Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring
One of the most common signs of a broken garage door spring is that the door won’t open or close. If you hear a loud bang or a popping sound when you try to operate the door, it could be a sign that the spring has broken. You may also notice that the door is sagging or uneven. Another sign of a broken spring is that the door moves slower than usual or stops mid-way when opening or closing.
If you suspect that one of your garage door springs is broken, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury or even death if mishandled. It’s important to call a professional garage door technician to handle the repair.
View – Why Does a Garage Door Spring Break?
Importance of Maintaining Garage Door Springs
Regular maintenance of your garage door springs is essential to ensure that they function correctly and prevent any accidents. Garage door springs that are not maintained can break unexpectedly and cause the door to fall, which can be dangerous and cause injury or property damage. Regular maintenance can also help extend the lifespan of your garage door springs and save you from costly repairs down the line.
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Tips for Maintaining Garage Door Springs
Proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of your garage door springs. These vital components bear the weight of the door, ensuring smooth operation. By following these expert tips, you can extend the longevity of your garage door springs and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Discover the essential practices to keep your springs in top shape.
Conduct Regular Visual Inspections
Perform routine visual inspections to identify signs of wear and tear. Look for visible gaps, cracks, or rust on the springs. Timely detection allows you to address any issues promptly by contacting a professional garage door technician.
Optimize Lubrication
Proper lubrication is vital for the smooth functioning of your garage door springs. However, it’s important to note that using WD-40 is not recommended for this purpose. While WD-40 is a versatile household lubricant, it is not suitable for garage door springs. The consistency of WD-40 tends to attract dirt and dust, leading to a build-up that can impede the proper operation of the springs.
Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dirt and debris. Instead, use a high-quality silicone or lithium-based lubricant specifically designed for garage door applications. These lubricants are formulated to provide long-lasting lubrication without attracting debris.
Apply the lubricant to all moving parts, including the springs, rollers, hinges, and tracks. This proper lubrication minimizes friction, reduces strain on the springs, and significantly extends their lifespan. Remember, avoid using oil based lubricants and opt for the recommended lubricants for optimal results.
Achieve Garage Door Balance
An imbalanced garage door puts excessive strain on the springs, leading to premature wear. Ensure proper balance by disconnecting the automatic opener and manually lifting the door halfway. If it remains steady, your door is balanced correctly. If not, enlist the expertise of a professional technician to adjust spring tension and restore balance.
View – Is My Garage Door Unbalanced?
Avoid DIY Repairs
Repairing or replacing garage door springs yourself is hazardous. Due to their high tension, mishandling can result in severe injuries. Instead, always rely on trained and experienced garage door professionals for any spring-related repairs or replacements.
Without the proper tools and experience, do-it-yourself repairs and fixes on your garage door may add extra stress to your operating system and cause your garage door spring to snap. Our advice is to always call a garage door professional.
Consider Temperature Variations
Extreme temperatures can impact the performance and longevity of your garage door springs. In colder climates, metal contracts, increasing the risk of spring breakage. During winter, maintain a heated garage to reduce stress on the springs. In warmer regions, ensure proper ventilation and insulation to mitigate the effects of excessive heat on the springs.
Prevent Overloading
Garage door springs have specific weight capacities tailored to your door. Avoid overloading by refraining from adding excessive weight through extra insulation or unnecessary items in the garage. By preventing excessive strain, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your springs.
Avoid Slamming Garage Door
Avoid slamming the garage door shut, as this can put unnecessary stress on the springs and cause them to wear out more quickly. Instead, close the door gently and ensure that it is fully closed before releasing the opener.
Keep the Tracks Clean
The tracks on which your garage door moves should be kept clean and free of debris. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the tracks and remove any dirt or debris. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or tools that can damage the tracks.
View – Is Your Garage Door Off its Track?
Prioritize Professional Maintenance
Regular professional garage door spring maintenance is vital to keep your garage door springs in optimal condition. A trained technician will inspect, adjust, and maintain the entire garage door system, including the springs. This proactive approach helps identify potential issues early on and ensures optimal performance and longevity.
Spring Replacement is Best Left to Professionals
While some garage door maintenance tasks can be done by homeowners, spring replacement is best left to professionals. Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury if not handled properly. If you notice any signs of a broken spring or need to replace your garage door springs, contact a professional garage door technician to handle the repair.
By implementing these proactive maintenance measures, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your garage door springs. Regular visual inspections, proper lubrication, balanced door operation, professional assistance, temperature considerations, and weight management are all key factors. Maintaining your garage door springs is crucial for the function of your garage door operation.
Remember, safety should always be your top priority. Don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance for garage door repairs and maintenance needs. With these practices in place, you’ll enjoy smooth and reliable garage door operation for years to come.
At Overhead Door Company of Huntsville/North Alabama™, we offer excellent customer service and affordable pricing. We give free estimates for all garage door spring replacements right over the phone.
Please visit our Troubleshooting Guide for more information on this and other garage door issues.
