Garage door springs are essential parts of your garage door system. They help the door open and close smoothly. However, these springs can sometimes break, making it difficult or impossible to operate the door.
In this blog, we will explain the reasons why garage door springs break and how professionals can help you.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs: extension springs and torsion springs. Extension springs are mounted on either side of the door, and they expand and contract with the door’s movement. Torsion springs are mounted above the door and use a steel shaft to operate. Both types of springs are important for the smooth operation of the door.
Common Causes of Broken Garage Door Springs
Let’s look at the common causes of broken garage door springs:
- High Tension on Springs
Garage door springs are under a lot of tension. If the tension gets too high, the spring can snap. Even though springs are made of strong steel, too much stress can cause them to break. - Wear and Tear
Like any other part of your garage door, springs are used a lot. Over time, as the springs go through their cycles of opening and closing, they wear down. Eventually, they may develop cracks or break completely. - Extreme Weather Conditions
Weather can also affect the lifespan of your garage door springs. Humidity can cause rust, which weakens the springs. Temperature changes can make the springs expand and contract, leading to cracks. Rusty or cracked springs are more likely to break. - Improper Installation
If the springs are installed incorrectly, they may not work properly. This can cause them to wear out faster or even break. Misalignment and uneven weight distribution on the door can make things worse.
What Happens When Garage Door Springs Break?
Here are some signs that a spring may be broken:
- Crooked or unbalanced door
- Unusual sounds
- Loose cables
- Visible damage
- Inconsistent motions
- Slow or no operation
How to Prevent Garage Door Spring Breakage
You can prevent your garage door spring from breaking by:
- Getting Regular Professional Inspections
Your garage door needs regular maintenance like any other part of your home. A garage door expert can inspect your door and help catch problems before they become serious. They will check the springs, tracks, and other parts for wear and tear. They will also provide cost-effective and lasting solutions. - Performing Regular Maintenance
You can extend the life of your garage door springs with regular care. Checking the tension on the springs is important. If something seems off, contact a technician to adjust the springs. It’s also a good idea to lubricate the springs with silicone-based or lithium grease a few times a year, as per the provided guideline.
Final Word
Garage door springs are important for the proper functioning of your door. They can break due to high tension, wear and tear, weather conditions, or improper installation. Common signs that indicate this problem include crooked or unbalanced doors, unusual sounds, inconsistent motions, visible damage, loose cables, or slow operation.
If you suspect a problem with your garage door spring, call our team at Cypress Garage and Gates for professional inspection and repair services. Call us at (832) 349-2189 to get in touch!