Garage door springs are essential for balancing the weight of your garage door, allowing it to open and close quickly. Over time, these springs can wear out, stretch, or even break, leading to a malfunctioning door. Knowing how to replace garage door springs can save you time and money, but following safety precautions is essential. If you’re unsure about the process, contacting a garage door repair professional is always a good idea.
Replacing a garage door spring can be a manageable DIY project if you have the right tools and follow the correct steps. Understanding how to replace garage door springs can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your new garage door functioning smoothly. However, if the task seems too complicated or risky, contacting an experienced garage door repair service is best to ensure everything is done safely and correctly.
Signs of a Failing Garage Door Spring
Several signs indicate your garage door spring may need to be replaced:
- The door is difficult to open or close, even with the help of a garage door opener
- The door seems unbalanced, with one side feeling heavier than the other
- The spring appears visibly worn, stretched, or damaged
- The door drops quickly when opening or closes with a loud bang
Different Types of Garage Door Springs
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are a popular type of garage door spring mounted above the door. They use torque to lift and lower the door. Known for their durability, they last longer than other springs and provide smoother door operation. For safety and proper installation, it’s best to hire a garage door repair professional to handle these high-tension springs.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are located on either side of the garage door and stretch when the door opens or closes. They are more affordable than torsion springs but tend to wear out faster. Extension springs are common in older systems and need regular maintenance to avoid sudden breaks. Garage door repair is essential to keep them functioning well.
Safety Tips for Garage Door Spring Replacement
Replacing a garage door spring can be a dangerous task if not done properly. Before attempting this project, it’s crucial to take the following safety precautions:
- Disconnect the garage door opener to prevent the door from moving unexpectedly.
- Secure the garage door in the closed position using clamps or C-clamps to prevent it from falling.
- Wear protective gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, to prevent injury from the spring or any other components.
- Verify that the work area is clear of any impediments or risks.
Tools You’ll Need to Replace a Garage Door Spring
To replace a garage door spring, you’ll need the following tools:
Winding Bars (for torsion springs) or Vice Grips (for extension springs)
These tools are essential for handling the high tension in garage door springs. Winding bars are used for torsion springs, while vice grips are used for extension springs. They ensure the spring’s tension is safely managed, helping avoid injury or damage during garage door repair.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is crucial for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts during garage door spring repair. This versatile tool allows you to make precise adjustments when working with the door’s spring system. Properly securing all parts ensures the door operates smoothly and safely after the repair.
Socket Wrench Set
A socket wrench set is necessary to remove or install the bolts holding the spring mechanism. This tool makes working on the spring’s mounting brackets and other parts easier, helping with a quicker and more secure garage door repair ensuring everything is safely put back in place.
Pliers
Pliers help hold or twist small parts during the garage door spring repair. They can help grip and adjust wires or small bolts, making the task more manageable. Having pliers on hand ensures you can quickly fix any minor parts while working on the spring system.
Tape Measure
A tape measure is essential for accurate measurements when replacing garage door springs. Precise measurements are crucial to getting the correct spring size and ensuring smooth door operation after installation. Using a tape measure helps avoid mistakes and ensures the repair is successful.
Ladder (if needed)
A ladder is necessary to reach the garage door springs mounted above the door safely. It provides stable access to the spring and opener parts during the garage door repair. Ensuring a sturdy ladder helps prevent accidents and makes your garage door repair more efficient and safe.
Simple Steps for Replacing a Garage Door Spring
Replacing a Torsion Spring
- Secure the garage door in the closed position using clamps or C-clamps.
- Disconnect the garage door opener and any other hardware attached to the door.
- Identify the torsion spring and note the number of turns it has been wound.
- Use the winding bars to carefully release the tension on the spring, taking note of the number of turns as you do so.
- Remove the spring from the mounting bracket and the door’s lifting cables.
- Install the new spring, ensuring it is properly aligned and secured.
- Carefully wind the new spring to the same number of turns as the old one.
- Reconnect the door’s lifting cables and any other hardware.
- Test the door’s operation to ensure it is balanced and functioning properly.
Replacing an Extension Spring
- Secure the garage door in the closed position using clamps or C-clamps.
- Disconnect the garage door opener and any other hardware attached to the door.
- Locate the extension springs and use the vice grips to carefully release the tension on the springs.
- Remove the springs from the pulleys and the door’s lifting cables.
- Install the new extension springs, ensuring they are properly aligned and secured.
- Reconnect the door’s lifting cables and any other hardware.
- Test the door’s operation to ensure it is balanced and functioning properly.
Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing a Garage Door Spring
When replacing a garage door spring, it’s important to avoid the following common mistakes:
- Not properly securing the door before releasing the spring tension
- Failing to note the number of turns on the old spring and winding the new spring to the same number
- Improperly aligning or securing the new spring
- Forgetting to reconnect the door’s lifting cables or other hardware
Tips for Maintaining Your Garage Door Springs
To extend the lifespan of your garage door springs and prevent the need for frequent replacements, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regularly lubricate the springs and other moving parts with a silicone-based lubricant
- Inspect the springs for signs of wear or damage, such as rust or cracks, and address any issues promptly
- Avoid overloading the garage door by keeping it free of excessive items or modifications
- Have a garage door expert service your garage door system every 1-2 years to ensure it’s functioning properly
When to Contact a Pro for Garage Door Spring Replacement
While replacing a garage door spring can be a DIY project, there are some instances when it’s best to call a professional:
- If you’re uncomfortable working with the high-tension springs or don’t have the necessary tools and experience
- If the springs are particularly large or heavy, making them difficult to handle safely
- If the garage door system has other complex components that require specialized knowledge to repair
- If you’re unsure of the proper steps or have any safety concerns
FAQs on How to Replace Garage Door Springs
Is replacing garage door springs difficult?
Yes, replacing garage door springs is difficult because the springs are under a lot of tension. Without the right tools and experience, it can be dangerous, potentially leading to injury or damage to your door. It’s best to hire a garage door repair professional to handle the job for safety and a proper fix.
Will garage door work with one broken spring?
A garage door will not work correctly with one broken spring. The springs help balance the door’s weight, and if one is broken, the opener may struggle or fail to lift the door. To avoid further damage or danger, it’s important to call a garage door repair service to replace the broken spring.
How many years do garage door springs last?
Garage door springs usually last between 7 to 12 years, depending on how often you use your door. Each spring is rated for a certain number of cycles, with one cycle being a full open and close. Regular maintenance can help them last longer, but eventually, they’ll need replacement by a garage door repair expert.
Can I replace a coil spring myself?
It’s not recommended to replace a garage door coil spring yourself because the springs are under high tension, making the job risky. You could get hurt or damage your new garage door without proper tools and knowledge. It’s safer and easier to contact a garage door repair professional to handle the replacement.
What causes a garage door spring to break?
A garage door spring can break due to regular wear and tear, rust, or lack of maintenance. Springs have a limited number of cycles, and after years of use, they wear out. Rust and lack of lubrication can speed up the process, making the springs break sooner. A garage door repair service can help fix this.
Conclusion
Knowing how to replace garage door springs can save you time and money, but following safety steps is essential. If you don’t have the right tools or experience, it’s best to contact a reliable garage door repair service. They can handle the job properly, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely without risking any damage.
Over time, garage door springs can wear out, leading to issues with the door’s function. While learning the basics of garage door spring repair can be helpful, sometimes it’s a tricky or dangerous job. If you’re unsure about the process, contacting a professional ensures everything is fixed correctly, keeping your garage door working as it should.
At CCM Overhead Doors, we are your go-to garage door contractor for repairs and replacements. Whether you’re learning to replace garage door springs or need expert help, we’re here to provide fast and reliable service. Contact us today for all your garage door needs and enjoy a safer, smoother door.
End Note
If you need garage door repair, CCM Overhead Doors is here to help with expert service and quick solutions. We specialize in fixing everything from broken garage door springs to complete repairs, ensuring your garage door is back in shape. Learn more about us here or check out our broken garage door springs services.
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