- Identifying when a spring on your garage door is broken is crucial for safety and timely repairs.
- Handling a broken garage door spring requires proper knowledge to avoid injury and further damage.
- Learn when to call professionals to safely repair your broken garage door spring.
A spring on garage door broken is more than just an inconvenience; it's a potential safety hazard. If you've ever experienced a garage door spring broke incident, you know the sudden jolt it can give you. The springs are responsible for lifting the heavy door, making it possible for you to easily open and close it. When one of these springs breaks, it can cause the door to malfunction or become completely immovable, posing a risk of injury or further damage to your property.
How to Tell If Garage Door Spring Is Broken
A broken garage door spring isn't always immediately obvious, but there are several telltale signs that can help you identify the problem. Here are a few ways to determine if your garage door spring is broken:
- Unusual Noise: A loud bang or snapping sound coming from your garage is a clear indicator that a spring has broken. This noise occurs when the tension in the spring suddenly releases.
- Door Won't Open: If your garage door refuses to open, or if it struggles and only opens a few inches, a broken spring is likely the cause. The springs bear most of the door's weight, so when they break, the door opener may not be able to lift it.
- Visible Gap in the Spring: Inspect the springs above your garage door. If you see a visible gap in one of the springs, this means it has snapped and is no longer in one piece.
- Crooked Door: A broken spring can result in one side of the door lifting higher than the other, resulting in a crooked appearance. This misalignment can cause further damage to the door's mechanism if not addressed promptly.
- Loose Cables: In some cases, when a spring breaks, the cables attached to it may become loose or detached. Check the cables running along the side of your garage door to see if they are hanging loosely.
Steps to Safely Handle a Broken Garage Door Spring
If you suspect that a garage door spring broke, it's important to take immediate action while prioritizing safety. Here's what you should do:
- Stop Using the Door: Once you realize that a spring is broken, stop attempting to open or close the door. Continuing to use the door can result in further damage or injury, as the door is no longer balanced and could fall.
- Disconnect the Opener: Disconnect the automatic garage door opener by pulling the red emergency release cord. This will prevent the motor from trying to lift the door, which could cause more damage.
- Secure the Door: If the door is partially open, use C-clamps or locking pliers to secure it in place on the tracks. This will prevent the door from accidentally sliding down, which can be dangerous.
- Inspect the Damage: Carefully inspect the door and the broken spring. Take note of any additional damage that may have occurred when the spring broke, such as bent tracks or frayed cables.
- Call a Professional: Handling a broken garage door spring is not a DIY job. The springs are under significant tension, and trying to repair or replace them without the appropriate tools and knowledge can lead to serious injury. Contact a professional garage door repair service like Balanced Garage Doors to handle the repair safely.
Why You Shouldn't DIY a Broken Garage Door Spring Repair
While the idea of saving money by fixing your broken garage door spring yourself might be tempting, but it's vital to understand the risks involved. Garage door springs are under substantial tension, and mishandling them can result in severe injuries, such as cuts, fractures, or even fatalities. Moreover, an improper repair can lead to further damage to your garage door system, increasing the overall cost of repairs.
Professionals, like the experts at Balanced Garage Doors, have the necessary training and tools to safely replace or repair garage door springs. They can also inspect the entire door system to ensure that no other components are damaged, which can prevent future problems.
What to Expect When You Call a Professional
When you call a professional garage door repair service, you can expect them to follow a systematic approach:
- Assessment: The technician will first assess the situation by inspecting the springs, cables, tracks, and other components of your garage door system.
- Recommendation: After the inspection, they will provide you with a detailed explanation of the issue and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements.
- Repair/Replacement: With your approval, the technician will proceed to safely repair or replace the broken spring, ensuring that the door is balanced and functions smoothly.
- Safety Check: After the repair, they will perform a safety check to make sure that the door operates correctly and that all safety features are in place.
By hiring a professional, you're not just ensuring the safe repair of your broken garage door spring; you're also extending the life of your garage door by ensuring it is in top working condition.
If you suspect a spring on garage door is broken, contact Balanced Garage Doors today for a quick and professional repair. Visit Balanced Garage Doors to learn more about our services.
