- When your garage door spring snapped, avoid forcing the door or attempting a DIY repair. Call a professional to ensure safety.
- Regular maintenance, including inspections and lubrication, can extend the life of your garage door springs.
- Consider a full garage door replacement if your door has other issues or is nearing the end of its lifespan.
If you've seen a garage door spring snapped, you know it can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous experience. Your garage door is an essential part of your home's security and convenience, and when it fails, it can throw off your entire day. Understanding what to do when this happens and knowing when to call for a professional garage door repair spring service can save you both time and stress.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are essential components that enable your garage door to function properly. They bear the weight of the door and make it easy to open and close. There are two primary types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
- Torsion springs: These are located above the closed garage door. They use torque to lift the door smoothly. Torsion springs are more durable and typically last longer than extension springs.
- Extension springs: These are located on the sides of the door and stretch as the door closes, providing the counterbalance needed to lift the door.
When a garage door spring snapped, it's typically due to wear and tear over time. Springs are rated for a certain number of cycles (one cycle being a full opening and closing of the door), and once they reach that limit, they can break without warning.
Immediate Steps to Take When Your Garage Door Spring Snapped
- Don't Force the Door Open or Closed: When your garage door spring snapped, the door becomes extremely heavy and difficult to move manually. Forcing it can cause further damage to the door or the opener or even injure you.
- Disconnect the Automatic Opener: If you attempt to use the automatic opener with a broken spring, it could burn out the motor. Instead, disconnect the opener to prevent accidental operation.
- Avoid DIY Repairs: Replacing or repairing a garage door spring is not a DIY project. The springs are under a lot of tension and can cause serious injury if not handled properly. Leave the repairs to the professionals at Balanced Garage Doors.
Why You Should Call a Professional
Professional repair services like Balanced Garage Doors have the expertise to handle garage door spring replacement safely and efficiently. Here's why hiring a professional is crucial:
- Safety: Garage door springs are highly tensioned. Trying to repair or replace them without the right tools and knowledge can lead to serious injury. Professionals have the training and equipment to handle the job safely.
- Proper Tools and Parts: Professionals use specialized tools to replace springs and ensure the job is done right the first time. They also have access to high-quality springs that match your garage door's specifications.
- Time and Convenience: Attempting a DIY repair can take hours or even days if you don't know what you're doing. A professional can typically have your garage door back in working order in just a few hours.
Choosing the Right Replacement Spring
When you opt for a garage door spring replacement, it's important to choose the right type of spring for your door. A professional technician from Balanced Garage Doors will assess the weight and size of your door to determine the appropriate spring. This ensures that your new spring will last as long as possible and that your door will operate smoothly.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Once your garage door is up and running again, consider these tips to extend the life of your new springs:
- Regular Inspections: Check the springs frequently for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, gaps in the coils, or uneven tension.
- Lubrication: Apply a lubricant designed for garage doors to the springs every few months. This reduces friction and helps prevent rust.
- Balance Checks: Regularly test your garage door's balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door. If it doesn't stay in place or feels too heavy, there may be an issue with the springs.
When to Consider a Full Garage Door Replacement
If your garage door is old or has other issues beyond a garage door spring snapped, it might be time to consider a full garage door replacement. This is especially true if your door has sustained damage, or if it's become noisy and difficult to operate. Balanced Garage Doors offers a variety of options that can enhance your home's curb appeal and improve energy efficiency.
For expert garage door spring replacement, trust the professionals at Balanced Garage Doors. Visit our website or call us today to schedule a service.
