Did you know that a broken garage door spring is one of the most common reasons for garage door malfunctions? If your garage door is suddenly too heavy to lift or makes a loud banging noise, you might be dealing with a broken spring.
Learning how to replace garage door springs can save you time and money while keeping your garage door in top shape. However, replacing a spring is not just about swapping out a part; it involves understanding safety precautions, selecting the right type of spring, and following a step-by-step process.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know so you can confidently tackle this repair.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are an essential component of your garage door system, responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door and allowing it to open and close smoothly. Without functioning springs, the door becomes extremely heavy and difficult to operate manually.
Over time, springs experience wear and tear due to frequent use, temperature changes, and metal fatigue, leading to the need for replacement. Identifying the right type of spring and understanding its function is crucial before attempting any repairs.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door, these springs provide balance by twisting and storing mechanical energy.
- Extension Springs: Located on the sides of the door, these springs stretch and contract to lift and lower the door.
Signs Your Garage Door Spring Needs Replacement
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to replace your garage door spring:
- The garage door won’t open or is extremely heavy.
- A loud bang was heard from the garage.
- The springs are visibly broken or stretched out.
- The door opens unevenly or jerks during movement.
- The garage door moves too quickly when closing.
- Gaps in the spring coil indicate wear and loss of tension.
Safety Precautions Before Replacing a Garage Door Spring
Handling garage door springs is inherently dangerous due to the high tension they hold. A sudden release of tension can cause serious injuries or damage to property. It is crucial to follow safety guidelines, use the correct tools, and take necessary precautions before starting the replacement process. If at any point you feel unsure or unsafe, consider seeking professional help to avoid risks.
“Safety first! Over 30,000 garage door-related injuries occur in the U.S. every year.” (Source)
Replacing a garage door spring can be dangerous if not done correctly. Here’s how to stay safe:
- Wear protective gear such as safety glasses and gloves.
- Disconnect the garage door opener to prevent accidental activation.
- Secure the door in place using locking pliers or a clamp.
- Use the right tools like winding bars for torsion springs.
- Work with a partner to minimize risks.
- Check manufacturer instructions for specific guidance.
- Keep children and pets away from the work area.
- Ensure your ladder is stable before climbing.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Replace Garage Door Springs
Replacing a garage door spring requires patience and precision. It’s crucial to follow the right steps to avoid injuries and ensure proper functionality.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide that will walk you through the entire process from start to finish. Whether you’re replacing a torsion spring or an extension spring, these instructions will help you complete the task safely and efficiently. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools
Before starting, gather these essential tools:
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Adjustable wrench
- Locking pliers
- Socket set
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Tape measure
- Ladder
- C-clamps
- Replacement spring
- Lubricant
- Vice grips
- Cordless drill (optional, for faster disassembly)
Step 2: Release Tension from the Broken Spring
- For torsion springs, insert the winding bar into the winding cone and slowly release the tension by turning it in small increments.
- For extension springs, disconnect the safety cables and carefully detach the spring from the bracket.
- Ensure the garage door is fully closed and secured to prevent any sudden movements.
- Use vice grips to hold the torsion bar in place while working.
Step 3: Remove the Old Spring
- Loosen the set screws on the torsion spring using an adjustable wrench.
- If you are dealing with extension springs, carefully remove the pulleys and cables.
- Slide the damaged spring off the torsion bar or remove the extension spring from the brackets.
- Check for any wear and tear on other components, such as cables and pulleys, and replace them if necessary.
Step 4: Install the New Spring
- For torsion springs, slide the new spring onto the torsion bar, ensuring it is properly aligned.
- For extension springs, attach the new spring to the pulley system and secure it in place with safety cables.
- Tighten all screws and ensure the spring is firmly positioned before proceeding.
- Confirm that both sides of the garage door have properly balanced springs.
Step 5: Wind the Torsion Spring
- Use winding bars to carefully add the correct number of turns to the spring as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Typically, a standard garage door requires about 30 quarter turns for proper tension.
- Double-check the alignment and balance before proceeding to the next step.
- Make sure to alternate between winding bars to ensure even tension.
Step 6: Test the Garage Door
- Reconnect the garage door opener and remove any clamps or pliers holding the door in place.
- Slowly lift the garage door manually to test the tension.
- If the door does not stay in place or moves unevenly, adjust the spring tension accordingly.
- Apply a light layer of lubricant to reduce wear and enhance smooth operation.
- Test the auto-reverse mechanism of the garage door opener to ensure safety.
Step 7: Final Safety Check
- Inspect all components to ensure everything is securely tightened.
- Open and close the door a few times to confirm smooth operation.
- Listen for any unusual sounds and make necessary adjustments.
- Ensure safety cables are properly attached to extension springs.
Read More: Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing Garage Door Spring
“DIY garage door repairs cause thousands of injuries each year. Avoid these mistakes!”
- Using improper tools like screwdrivers instead of winding bars.
- Forgetting to secure the garage door before starting the work.
- Not winding the torsion spring properly, leads to imbalance.
- Skipping the lubrication step can cause early wear and tear.
- Installing mismatched springs leads to uneven tension.
- Overtightening or under tightening the spring tension.
When Should You Consider Professional Help?
If you are unsure about the process or if the garage door spring is under extreme tension, it is always best to call a professional. According to industry statistics, over 60% of homeowners prefer hiring experts for spring replacement due to safety concerns. Professional technicians have the right tools and expertise to replace the spring safely and efficiently.
While replacing a garage door spring can be a DIY project, it’s important to recognize when professional assistance is the safer and more practical choice. Here are some situations where calling an expert is the best decision:
- If your garage door has two springs: Replacing both ensures proper balance.
- If the spring tension is too high: Mishandling can lead to dangerous snap-backs.
- If you don’t have the right tools: Using improper tools can increase the risk of injury.
- If the garage door is extra heavy: Larger doors require additional expertise.
- If you prefer a hassle-free repair: A professional ensures correct installation and safety checks.
Many homeowners start a DIY repair only to realize midway that they need expert assistance. That’s why local garage door specialists, like Upstate Doors, help homeowners safely and efficiently replace garage door springs without the risks of DIY mistakes. If you’re unsure whether to proceed yourself, consulting a professional can save time, money, and stress.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a garage door spring might seem daunting, but with the right tools and guidance, it’s a manageable DIY task. However, always prioritize safety, and if in doubt, seek professional assistance.By learning how to replace a garage door spring, you can ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely for years to come. Don’t wait until it’s too late, address the issue today and keep your garage door in top condition!
