One of the most critical components of your garage door system is the springs. These small yet powerful parts bear the heavy load of lifting and lowering your garage door each time you use it. Over time, garage door springs can wear out, snap, or break, leaving you with an inoperable door. Understanding the role springs play and knowing when to replace them is key to keeping your garage door functioning properly. At Gartech Services, we specialize in garage door spring replacement, ensuring your door operates safely and efficiently. Here’s everything you need to know about this important maintenance task:
Why Are Garage Door Springs Important?
Garage doors can weigh hundreds of pounds, making it impossible for the average person to lift them manually. Garage door springs are designed to counterbalance this weight, making it easy to open and close the door, whether manually or with an opener. There are two main types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door and wind tightly as the door closes, storing energy that helps lift the door when opened. Extension springs are located on either side of the door and stretch when the door is lowered, using the stored energy to lift it back up.
Signs That Your Springs Need Replacing
Springs have a limited lifespan, measured in cycles (one cycle equals one full opening and closing of the door). Most springs are rated for around 10,000 cycles, which translates to approximately 7-10 years of normal use. However, several factors can cause springs to wear out sooner. Here are the common signs that your garage door springs need replacement:
- Visible Gaps: If you see a visible gap in your torsion spring, it has likely broken. When a spring snaps, it will unwind, leaving a noticeable separation in the coil.
- Loud Bang: A broken spring often makes a loud bang when it snaps, as the tension is suddenly released.
- Door Won’t Open: If your garage door won’t open or is extremely difficult to lift, it’s likely due to a broken spring.
- Uneven Movement: When one spring breaks, the door may still try to lift, but it will do so unevenly, putting strain on other components and creating a jerky motion.
- Slack Cables: When a spring breaks, the cables attached to it may become slack or loose, as they are no longer under tension.
Why Professional Spring Replacement Is Essential
Replacing garage door springs is a dangerous task that should always be performed by a professional. The springs are under high tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or damage. At Gartech Services, we have the tools and expertise to safely and efficiently replace your garage door springs, ensuring your door operates smoothly once again. Our technicians will assess your garage door system, replace the damaged springs, and ensure that everything is properly balanced and aligned.
Preventing Spring Damage
While garage door springs will eventually wear out, there are a few things you can do to extend their lifespan. Regular garage door maintenance, including lubricating the springs and other moving parts, can reduce friction and wear. Avoid overusing your garage door and make sure the system is properly balanced to prevent excessive strain on the springs.
When it’s time for garage door spring replacement, trust the experts at Gartech Services to get the job done safely and correctly. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep your garage door operating smoothly.