Dealing with Broken or Worn-Out Springs on Your Garage Door: Safety and Security First
Your garage door is one of the heaviest moving parts in your home, and the springs are what make opening and closing the door possible. Whether you have torsion springs or extension springs, these components are under constant tension and play a vital role in the safe and smooth operation of your garage door. When the springs become worn out or break, it poses not only an inconvenience but also serious safety and security risks.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the common causes of broken garage door springs, why it’s crucial to address the problem promptly, and the safety measures you should take. Plus, we’ll explain when it’s best to seek professional garage door repair and how maintaining your springs can extend their lifespan.
What Causes Garage Door Springs to Break?
Garage door springs work hard every time you open or close the door. Over time, they wear out, weaken, and eventually break due to various factors. Understanding what causes this will help you recognize the early warning signs and prevent accidents.
Wear and Tear
The most common reason for broken springs is simple wear and tear. Over time, repeated use weakens the springs, causing them to lose tension and eventually snap. This wear leads to your garage door becoming inoperable, typically after years of regular use.
Rust and Corrosion
Rust can significantly reduce the lifespan of your garage door springs. When springs become rusty, friction increases between the coils, weakening the metal and causing the springs to snap more easily. If you live in a humid or coastal area, your springs are especially susceptible to rust. Regular garage door maintenance, including lubricating the springs, can help prevent rust from forming and extend the life of your springs.
Improper Maintenance
Garage door springs require proper lubrication and inspection to keep them in good working order. Failing to perform regular maintenance can cause your springs to wear out prematurely. If you hear creaking or notice the door struggling to open smoothly, it’s likely that the springs need lubrication or adjustment.
Extreme Weather Conditions
Drastic changes in temperature can affect the metal of your garage door springs. During colder months, the springs can become brittle and more prone to snapping, while extremely hot weather can lead to overheating and wear. These environmental factors can speed up the degradation of your springs, leading to early failure.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Worn Out or Broken
A broken garage door spring is hard to miss, but there are warning signs you can look out for before it gets to that point. Recognizing these early can help you avoid a sudden failure and the risks that come with it.
Loud Bang or Snap Sound
One of the most telling signs of a broken spring is a loud bang or snapping noise coming from your garage. This is the sound of the spring breaking, and it usually means your garage door will no longer open or close properly. If you hear this sound, it’s best to stop using the garage door immediately and seek professional garage door repair.
Door Won’t Open or Is Extremely Heavy
Uneven or Crooked Door
When one of the springs is worn or broken, your garage door may become unbalanced. This can cause the door to lift unevenly or appear crooked as it opens or closes. An unbalanced garage door not only looks off but can also put additional strain on other parts of the system, leading to more costly repairs down the line.
Gaps in the Springs
If you inspect the springs and notice gaps between the coils, that’s a sign they are worn out and about to break. In the case of torsion springs, the gap will be visible along the length of the spring, whereas with extension springs, it will appear in the coil loops.
The Importance of Safety When Dealing with Broken Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are under extreme tension, which makes them dangerous to handle, especially when they are broken or worn out. Attempting to repair or replace them yourself can lead to serious injury or even death. Here’s why safety should always be your top priority.
High Tension = High Risk
Both torsion and extension springs are designed to hold the immense weight of the garage door. When a spring breaks, all that tension is suddenly released, which can cause the door to slam shut without warning. This not only puts you at risk of injury but can also damage your car or other belongings in the garage. That’s why it’s crucial to avoid using the door once you suspect a broken spring and to call a professional for garage door repair.
Preventing Damage to Other Components
Continuing to operate your garage door with a broken spring can cause further damage to other parts of the system, including the tracks, cables, and the opener. The added strain can burn out the opener’s motor or cause the cables to snap, leading to even more repairs and increased costs. Addressing the issue promptly helps protect the entire system from unnecessary wear and tear.
Ensuring Your Home’s Security
A broken garage door spring not only affects safety but also impacts the security of your home. If the door is stuck open or unable to close properly, it leaves your home vulnerable to potential break-ins. Ensuring your garage door is in good working order is crucial for keeping your property secure.
When to Call a Professional for Broken Springs
Given the high risks involved, it’s essential to leave spring repairs and replacements to trained professionals. Here’s when you should contact a specialist.
Don’t Attempt DIY Repairs
No matter how handy you are around the house, dealing with garage door springs is not a DIY task. The tension stored in the springs can cause serious injury if handled improperly. A professional garage door technician has the right tools, experience, and safety training to replace the springs safely.
If You Hear Strange Noises
If your garage door is making unusual noises like creaking or grinding, it could be a sign that the springs are worn out. Rather than waiting for them to snap, it’s best to call for garage door repair right away. This proactive approach can save you from the inconvenience and danger of a fully broken spring.
After a Visual Inspection
If you notice gaps in the springs or the door appears unbalanced, it’s time to call in the pros. Don’t wait for the springs to break completely; a professional can replace the worn-out springs before they cause further damage.
Preventing Future Spring Issues with Regular Maintenance
While garage door springs will eventually wear out, regular garage door maintenance can extend their lifespan and prevent premature failure.
Lubricate the Springs
One of the easiest ways to maintain your springs is by applying lubricant. This reduces friction between the coils and prevents rust, which can weaken the metal. Be sure to use a high-quality garage door lubricant and apply it at least twice a year.
Schedule Professional Inspections
Having a professional inspect your garage door system annually can catch potential issues before they become major problems. During the inspection, the technician will check the springs for signs of wear, ensure the door is balanced, and make any necessary adjustments to keep everything running smoothly.
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Broken Springs—Safety and Security Depend on It
Broken or worn-out garage door springs are not only a nuisance but also a serious safety and security risk. Recognizing the signs of a failing spring and addressing the problem promptly can prevent accidents and costly repairs. If you suspect your springs are broken, avoid DIY fixes and contact a professional for Broken Springs repair right away.
To ensure your garage door stays safe, functional, and secure, invest in regular garage door maintenance. With proper care and attention, you can keep your springs—and your entire garage door system—working smoothly for years to come.
Don’t let broken springs compromise your safety! If your garage door isn’t functioning properly, reach out to Action Garage Door Service of Florida for professional help. Our experienced team will get your door back in working order in no time. Book online or call 904-564-1200 today!