- Learn what happens when spring breaks on garage door and how to handle it safely.
- Find out why a garage door coil broken can affect door operation.
- Discover how to prevent a garage spring snapped scenario with proper maintenance.
Garage door springs are essential for ensuring your garage door operates smoothly. They are responsible for balancing the door's weight, making it easy to open and close. However, like any mechanical component, these springs wear out over time. If you've ever wondered what happens when spring breaks on garage door, the answer is simple: your garage door may become inoperable, and forcing it open can cause further damage.
A garage door coil broken or a garage spring snapped can lead to inconvenience, costly repairs, and even safety hazards. This guide explores the most common causes of garage door spring failure and how you can prevent them.
1. Normal Wear and Tear
One of the most common reasons a garage spring snapped is simply wear and tear. Most standard garage door springs have a lifespan of about 10,000 cycles (one cycle being a full open-and-close movement). If you use your garage door multiple times per day, the springs may wear out faster than expected.
How to Prevent It:
- Consider upgrading to high-cycle springs, which can last up to 20,000 cycles.
- Track how often you use your garage door to estimate when maintenance or replacement may be needed.
- Arrange routine inspections to identify early signs of wear.
2. Rust and Corrosion
Rust is a major factor that contributes to spring failure. When a garage door coil broken has visible rust, the metal weakens, reducing the spring's ability to stretch and contract properly. Rust also increases friction, causing the springs to wear out faster.
How to Prevent It:
- Use a premium garage door lubricant on the springs every few months.
- Check for rust buildup and remove any corrosion as soon as possible.
- Keep your garage dry and well-ventilated to reduce moisture buildup.
3. Poor Maintenance Practices
Garage door springs require routine maintenance to function properly. Ignoring minor issues can lead to a garage spring snapped unexpectedly, leaving you with a door that won't open or close.
How to Prevent It:
- Check the springs for indications of wear, rust, or stretching.
- Listen for squeaking or grinding noises, which can indicate a problem.
- Have a professional perform annual tune-ups to ensure all parts are in good working order.
4. Sudden Temperature Changes
Drastic temperature changes can impact the longevity of garage door springs. In cold weather makes metal brittle, increasing the risk of a garage spring snapped, while excessive heat can weaken the springs over time.
How to Prevent It:
- If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider installing temperature-resistant springs.
- Apply lubricant before the cold season to reduce strain on the metal.
- Keep your garage insulated to minimize temperature fluctuations.
5. Improper Spring Type or Installation
Not all garage doors use the same type of spring system. If the wrong type of spring is installed, it may not be able to handle the door's weight, leading to premature failure.
How to Prevent It:
- Ensure your springs match the weight and size of your garage door.
- Always have a professional install new springs to prevent imbalances.
- If one spring breaks, replace both to maintain proper tension.
What Happens When Spring Breaks on Garage Door?
If a garage spring snapped, you may notice:
- A loud bang, similar to a firecracker or gunshot.
- The garage door struggling to open or remaining stuck.
- Visible gaps in the garage door coil broken area.
- A crooked or lopsided door when opening or closing.
Forcing a garage door open with A damaged spring can put extra stress on the opener and other components. Instead, call a professional to assess the damage and replace the faulty springs.
Is It Possible to Open a Garage Door With a Broken Spring?
Technically, it is possible, but it is not recommended. Lifting the door manually or using the opener can lead to:
- Further damage to the door and opener system.
- Personal injury due to the door's full weight not being properly counterbalanced.
- Additional repair costs for damaged components.
Instead of attempting a DIY fix, contact a professional for safe and efficient spring replacement.
How to Extend the Life of Your Garage Door Springs
To avoid dealing with a garage door coil broken or garage spring snapped, follow these preventive steps:
- Lubricate the springs regularly - Reduces friction and prevents rust buildup.
- Perform routine inspections - Look for signs of wear, rust, or loose coils.
- Balance the garage door - Test if it stays open halfway when manually lifted. If not, spring tension adjustments may be needed.
- Replace both springs at the same time - Ensures even tension and longevity.
By taking these measures, you can increase the lifespan of your garage door springs and reduce the likelihood of sudden failures.
Call Balanced Garage Doors for Expert Spring Replacement
If you've experienced a garage spring snapped or suspect a garage door coil broken, don't wait until the problem worsens. Understanding what happens when spring breaks on garage door can help you take immediate action to prevent further damage.
Balanced Garage Doors provides expert spring repair and replacement services, ensuring safe and efficient garage door operation.
