Garage Door Torsion Springs: Repair & Replacement Guide

How Garage Door Torsion Springs Work

Garage door torsion springs are essential for opening and closing your garage door. They twist and store energy when the door is closed. This energy helps lift the door when you open it, making it easier to operate.

These springs are located above the garage door, parallel to it. When you close the door, they wind up, storing energy. When you open the door, this energy unwinds, lifting the door smoothly.

They help keep the garage door balanced and smooth, making it easier to operate.

Understanding how garage door torsion springs work is important for maintenance or repairs. It helps homeowners identify and solve problems. They can do regular maintenance or seek professional help.

A picture showing garage door torsion springs and how they work with the door.

Why Garage Door Torsion Springs Break

Garage door torsion springs help your door open and close smoothly. They can break from wear and tear, risking safety and function.

With use, these springs wear out, lasting about 10,000 cycles. Heavy use makes them wear out faster, causing them to break sooner.

Corrosion from moisture and the environment also weakens these springs. This makes them more likely to break.

Not maintaining your garage door can lead to spring failure too. Regular checks and keeping them lubricated are important.

To avoid spring failure, keep up with maintenance and check for wear. Regular lubrication and handling rust helps.

Knowing the causes of spring failure helps you maintain your garage door better. This keeps your door working safely and well.

Garage Door Spring Types

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension springs. Each has its own job and benefits.

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are found above the garage door and give it good balance. They last longer than extension springs. Torsion springs twist when you close the door, storing up energy. This energy helps open the door smoothly.

Extension Springs

Extension springs are at the sides of the door. They stretch when you shut the door, saving up energy. Then, this energy helps lift the door when you open it. These springs are cheaper than torsion springs. But, they can be risky if they break. Proper care and checks can reduce this risk.

Knowing about garage door springs is key for homeowners. Torsion springs provide good balance and last long. On the other hand, extension springs are more budget-friendly. Which to choose depends on your budget, your door’s weight, and what you prefer. A talk with an expert can guide you to the best spring for your door.

How to Replace Garage Door Torsion Springs

Changing garage door torsion springs needs skills and the right tools. Safety is vital during this process. We have a detailed guide to make this task easier for you.

Tools Required

Before starting, you need these tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Vise grips
• Winding bars
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Step-by-Step Guide

Here is how to replace your garage door torsion springs:

1. Make sure the garage door is fully closed. This stops any tension in the springs.
2. Unplug the opener to avoid it opening accidentally.
3. Measure the old springs to choose the right replacements. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)
4. With the winding bars, release the tension from the old springs. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)
5. Take out the old springs using vise grips and an adjustable wrench. Watch out for any remaining tension in them. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)
6. Put in the new springs, they must be fitted securely and in line. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)
7. Wind up the new springs using the winding bars, building up tension. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)
8. Manually move the garage door to check its balance. Fix the spring tension if needed. (Garage door torsion spring replacement)

Safety Considerations

When working with torsion springs, prioritizing safety is a must. Remember to:

• Always wear safety glasses and gloves against possible spring accidents. (Safety considerations)
• Ensure you’re on a secure ladder or platform to stay safe while working. (Safety considerations)
• Stick closely to the step-by-step guide to avoid accidents. (Step-by-step guide)

By adhering to these instructions and keeping safe, you can change your garage door torsion springs with ease. This will make your garage door operate smoothly.

How Much Does Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost?

Garage door spring replacement costs can change because of several things. This includes the type of springs, labor costs, and if you DIY or hire help. It’s smart to look at these factors closely before deciding.

On average, replacing springs will cost about $400, including parts and labor. But, the final bill can be higher depending on your garage door’s needs and the professional’s experience.

Trying to fix the springs yourself might cut costs, but it has risks. You need the right tools and skills for this job. Doing it the wrong way can cause more problems and be dangerous.

Think about how easy, costly, and safe each option is before choosing. Getting a pro means less chance of mistakes and accidents with your garage door. Yet, if you’re skilled and have tools, doing it yourself might work well.

Deciding to go pro or do it yourself depends on what you know and have. Just think about your skills, tools, and how important safety is to your choice.

Conclusion

Garage door torsion springs are key for your garage door to work well. They help balance and lift the heavy door. To keep your garage safe, it’s important to take care of these springs. This means doing regular maintenance and changing them when needed. Safety always comes first, whether you’re doing it yourself or getting help from a professional.

Fixing springs yourself can be cheaper. But, you must do it the right way and be safe. Make sure to wear safety clothes and use a sturdy ladder. If you’re not sure how or you don’t have the right tools, it’s better to let an expert handle it. This ensures the job is done safely and well.

When deciding between DIY and professional help, think about your skills and what tools you have. Safety should be the top concern. No matter which route you pick, keeping your garage door springs in good shape is important. It ensures your garage runs smoothly and without harm.

FAQ

What is the function of garage door torsion springs?

Torsion springs are key in opening heavy garage doors. They store energy in their coils. This energy makes lifting the door easy.

How do garage door torsion springs work?

They wind up tightly when you close the door. Then, as you open the door, they release this stored energy. This action helps in smoothly lifting the door.

What are the reasons for garage door torsion spring failure?

Spring failure can happen due to daily use or lack of maintenance. Wear and tear, rust, and not doing regular checks are main causes. How often you open and close your garage door affects how long the springs last.

What are the different types of garage door springs?

The main types are torsion and extension springs. Torsion springs go above the door, and extension ones are on the sides. They both help the door move but work differently.

Can I replace garage door torsion springs myself?

Yes, you can replace them yourself. But safety is key. Make sure to have the right tools and measure springs correctly. Always follow a guide and ensure proper installation on a safe ladder.

How much does garage door spring replacement cost?

Replacing springs can cost from $0 or more. The price changes based on the spring type and if you DIY or hire help. This price includes the replacement parts and labor.

Should I opt for DIY or professional garage door spring replacement?

Choosing DIY or professionals depends on your skills and tools. Doing it yourself saves money but needs safety and know-how. Hiring a pro means it’s done right and safer.