- Common signs that your garage door spring is broken
- Cost breakdown of replacing garage door torsion springs
- Tips for identifying a broken garage door spring and repair options
Your garage door springs play a critical role in the functionality and safety of your garage door system. When a garage door broken spring occurs, it can disrupt your daily routine, making it difficult to open or close the door properly. Worse yet, a broken spring can pose serious safety risks.
In this guide, we'll answer some of the most common questions about garage door springs, such as how to know if garage door spring is broken, the cost to replace a garage door spring, and essential tips for replacing garage door torsion spring systems. By understanding these fundamentals, you can maintain your garage door system and know when it's time to call in a professional for repairs.
How to Know If Your Garage Door Spring is Broken
There are a few telltale signs that will help you identify whether you have a garage door broken spring. Garage doors rely on springs to handle the weight of the door, so when one breaks, you'll often notice immediate changes in the door's operation.
Here are the most common signs:
- Loud Bang Sound: Springs store a tremendous amount of tension. When one breaks, you may hear a loud snapping sound that could resemble a gunshot or a bang.
- Door Won't Lift Properly: If the garage door suddenly feels very heavy or only lifts a few inches, it's likely because the spring isn't supporting the door's weight anymore.
- Uneven Door Movement: Garage doors have two springs on either side. If one spring breaks, the door may lift unevenly, which can further damage other parts of the system.
- Visible Gap in the Spring: Inspect the springs for any visible gaps or breaks. A gap in the torsion spring is a clear indication of a break.
Understanding how to know if garage door spring is broken can save you time and prevent further damage to your garage door components.
Cost to Replace a Garage Door Spring
One of the most frequently asked questions from homeowners is, "What is the typical cost to replace a garage door spring?" The cost can vary depending on the type of spring, labor rates in your area, and any additional repairs required.
On average, the cost to replace a garage door spring can range from $150 to $350 for standard torsion springs, which includes both parts and labor. If you have an older or custom garage door, the price can go higher due to the need for specialty parts. Additionally, spring replacement costs for larger garage doors with dual-spring systems can reach up to $500.
Extension Springs: These are typically less expensive than torsion springs, costing around $100 to $200 for replacement. However, they are less durable, meaning you may need to replace them more frequently.
When budgeting for repairs, keep in mind that replacing garage door torsion spring systems may be more costly upfront, but they offer better durability and performance over time.
Replacing Garage Door Torsion Spring: A Step-by-Step Overview
If your torsion spring breaks, it's important to have a professional handle the replacement. Replacing garage door torsion spring components can be dangerous because the springs are under high tension. Here's an overview of what the process typically looks like for a trained technician:
- Turn Off the Power: The garage door opener is disconnected to prevent accidental movement.
- Release Tension: Using specialized tools, the technician will safely release the tension in the broken spring.
- Remove the Broken Spring: The old spring is carefully removed from the torsion bar.
- Install New Springs: A new, properly sized torsion spring is installed and secured in place.
- Re-tension the Spring: The technician re-applies the correct amount of tension to the new spring using a winding bar.
- Test the Door: Once installed, the door's movement is tested to ensure it operates smoothly and safely.
Due to the high tension in torsion springs, this process should only be carried out by experienced professionals.
Safety Tips: Handling Garage Door Spring Problems
Garage door spring issues should always be approached with caution. Attempting to fix a garage door broken spring on your own can lead to injury or further damage to the door system. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:
- Don't Use the Door Manually: If your spring is broken, avoid attempting to lift the door manually. The door is extremely heavy and can cause injury if mishandled.
- Call a Professional: Always rely on a trained technician for replacing garage door torsion spring systems or addressing spring issues.
- Regular Maintenance: Have a professional inspect your garage door annually to catch any wear and tear before a spring breaks.
By following these safety tips, you can extend the life of your garage door system and reduce the risk of sudden spring failures.
Understanding the signs of a garage door broken spring and knowing the cost to replace a garage door spring can help you make informed decisions when it comes to garage door maintenance. Whether you're dealing with broken springs or considering replacing garage door torsion spring systems, it's important to consult professionals to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.
If you suspect a broken spring or need a replacement, Balanced Garage Doors is here to help. Contact us today for expert service and keep your garage door running smoothly.
