Garage Door Spring Replacement: When And Why To Do It

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

Is Your Garage Door Spring On Its Last Legs? Discover When And Why You Need To Replace It. Don't Miss Out On This Essential Maintenance

Are you tired of waking up to a noisy garage door that struggles to open? Imagine this scenario: it’s a Monday morning, and you’re rushing to get to work. As you press the button to open your garage door, you hear a loud snap, followed by a sudden drop. Your garage door spring has just broken, leaving you stranded with no way to access your car. Frustrating, right?

In this article, we will explore the importance of timely garage door spring replacement and why it should be on your priority list. We’ll discuss the signs of a failing spring, the different types of springs available, and whether you should attempt a DIY replacement or hire a professional. Additionally, we’ll provide you with maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your springs.

Don’t let a broken garage door spring disrupt your daily routine. Read on to discover when and why you should replace it, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience every time you open your garage door.

Key Takeaways

  • Timely replacement of garage door springs ensures safety and functionality, prevents costly repairs in the future, and allows for smooth and efficient operation.
  • Regular inspections and maintenance of garage door springs can prevent accidents and injuries, as well as avoid further damage to the garage door and other components.
  • DIY replacement of garage door springs may offer cost savings and a sense of accomplishment, but it comes with safety risks and lack of expertise. Professional replacement provides safety assurance, expertise, efficiency, and optimal performance.
  • Regular inspections, lubrication, and addressing issues promptly can extend the lifespan of garage door springs, maximize their longevity, avoid costly replacements, and ensure smooth and efficient operation.

Signs of a Failing Garage Door Spring

You don’t want to wait until your garage door spring completely fails, leaving you trapped inside or outside, so it’s important to be aware of the signs indicating a failing spring. Understanding the garage door spring lifespan and the common causes of garage door spring failure can help you identify potential problems before they escalate.

One of the most common signs of a failing spring is if your garage door starts to close unevenly or becomes slower than usual. You may also hear loud noises or notice visible signs of wear and tear on the spring. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious issues and costly repairs.

Therefore, it’s crucial to address any signs of a failing garage door spring promptly. The importance of timely replacement cannot be overstated as it ensures the safety and functionality of your garage door system.

Importance of Timely Replacement

To ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones, timely replacement of a failing garage door spring is crucial.

Ignoring this issue can lead to potential safety hazards such as a sudden collapse of the door or the spring snapping unexpectedly.

By replacing the spring promptly, you can also prevent further damage to your garage door, saving you from costly repairs in the future.

Moreover, a timely replacement ensures smooth and efficient operation of your garage door, allowing you to go about your daily activities without any inconvenience.

Avoiding potential safety hazards

Regularly inspecting your garage door springs is crucial to avoid potential safety hazards. Malfunctioning springs can lead to an alarming 30,000 injuries in the US each year. Common causes of spring failure include rust, overuse, lack of lubrication, and extreme temperature changes. By addressing these issues promptly, you can prevent accidents and injuries.

Don’t underestimate the importance of this simple task, as neglecting it can have serious consequences. Now that you understand the risks associated with worn-out springs, it’s time to learn how to prevent further damage to your garage door.

Preventing further damage to the garage door

Regularly inspect and address signs of wear and tear on your garage door springs. This is crucial for effective garage door maintenance. By doing so, you can prevent further damage to your garage door and ensure the safety of your home.

Over time, garage door springs can become worn out due to common causes of spring failure, such as rust, lack of lubrication, or excessive tension. Ignoring these issues can lead to more serious problems. These include complete spring failure or damage to other components of your garage door.

Take the time to inspect and replace worn-out springs. This will help you avoid costly repairs and potential accidents. Prioritize the maintenance of your garage door to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

Ensuring smooth and efficient operation

Ensuring a well-maintained and properly functioning garage door is essential for a hassle-free and convenient experience. Regular garage door maintenance is crucial to avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.

One of the most common causes of spring failure in garage doors is wear and tear over time. These springs bear the weight of the door and enable its smooth operation. When they become worn or damaged, the door may become unbalanced, making it difficult to open or close. Moreover, broken springs can put unnecessary strain on other components of the garage door system, leading to further damage.

By replacing worn-out or broken springs promptly, you can ensure the smooth and efficient operation of your garage door. This will not only prevent inconvenience but also extend the lifespan of the entire system.

Moving on to the next section, let’s discuss the pros and cons of DIY vs professional replacement.

DIY vs Professional Replacement

Choosing between DIY or professional garage door spring replacement can be a tough decision, but it’s essential to consider the potential risks and benefits before diving in.

  • DIY Replacement:
  • Pros:
  • Cost Comparison: DIY replacement may seem appealing because it can save you money on labor costs.
  • Sense of Accomplishment: Successfully completing the task on your own can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment.

  • Cons:

  • Safety Risks: Replacing garage door springs can be dangerous, as they are under high tension and could cause serious injury if mishandled.
  • Lack of Expertise: Without proper knowledge and experience, you might not be able to identify other underlying issues or perform the replacement correctly.

  • Professional Replacement:

  • Pros:
  • Safety Assurance: Hiring a professional ensures the work is done safely and reduces the risk of accidents.
  • Expertise and Efficiency: Professionals have the knowledge, tools, and experience to quickly and efficiently replace the springs, ensuring optimal performance.

  • Cons:

  • Higher Cost: Professional services come with a price tag, as you need to pay for their expertise and labor.

Considering the pros and cons, it’s important to make an informed decision that prioritizes safety and efficiency. Now, let’s explore the different types of garage door springs.

Types of Garage Door Springs

When it comes to addressing the different types of springs for your garage door, you might find yourself in a coiled situation, trying to untangle the complexities.

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion springs are located above the door and use torque to lift and lower the door. They are known for their durability and ability to handle heavy doors.

On the other hand, extension springs are located on either side of the door and stretch to provide the necessary force. They are more common in residential garages.

Understanding the types of springs can help you make an informed decision when it comes to replacement.

Now that you know about the different types of springs, let’s explore maintenance tips to extend their lifespan.

Maintenance Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Springs

To maximize the longevity of your springs, regularly perform maintenance tasks. This can significantly increase their lifespan. Incorporate a few simple practices into your routine to extend the longevity of your garage door springs and avoid costly replacements.

Start by conducting regular inspections of your springs. Check for any signs of wear and tear such as rust or fraying. Additionally, lubricate the springs every few months to help reduce friction and prevent premature wear.

Remember to also inspect the cables and pulleys for any signs of damage. If you notice any issues during your inspections, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

By taking these maintenance steps, you can ensure that your garage door springs last longer. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing when and why to replace your garage door springs is crucial for the safety and functionality of your garage.

Don’t wait for disaster to strike; be proactive and look out for signs of a failing spring.

Remember, a garage door spring is like the backbone of your garage, supporting and lifting the heavy load effortlessly.

So, whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire a professional, make sure to address any issues promptly.

By doing so, you’ll ensure a smoothly operating garage door for years to come.

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Alpha Gate & Door Co.
3622 Lakeridge Dr.
Grapevine, TX 76051-4627

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Garage Door Spring Replacement: When And Why To Do It

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Garage Door Spring Replacement: When And Why To Do It FAQ's

How often do garage door springs need to be replaced?

You’ll want to keep an eye on your garage door springs since they have a limited lifespan. Look out for signs of worn out springs, like difficulty opening or closing the door.

Can I continue using my garage door if the springs are failing?

Using a faulty garage door with failing springs is dangerous and poses a risk to you and your belongings. It is recommended to replace the springs professionally due to the complexity and potential hazards involved.

Are there any dangers associated with DIY garage door spring replacement?

Dangers of DIY garage door spring replacement include the risk of serious injury or death. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective gear and understanding the proper techniques, are crucial to minimize these risks.

Are there any alternative options to traditional garage door springs?

If you’re looking for alternative options to traditional garage door springs, there are a few to consider. One option is the torsion spring system, which offers smoother operation and longer lifespan. However, it can be more expensive to install and repair.

What steps can I take to prevent premature wear and tear on my garage door springs?

To prevent spring damage and extend the life of your garage door springs, follow these maintenance tips: regularly lubricate the springs, inspect and tighten all hardware, balance the door, and avoid excessive door use. Keep your garage door in top shape!

Author Bio

Terry Wooten

Terry Wooten

Terry Wooten is a distinguished professional in the realm of automated gate systems, renowned for his expertise as a Certified Automated Gate Systems Designer and Automated Gate Operator Installer. With a passion for innovative technology and a keen eye for detail, Terry has carved a niche for himself in the industry, ensuring the seamless integration of cutting-edge gate automation solutions.

A dedicated member of the International Door Association and the Institute of Door Dealers, Terry is committed to staying at the forefront of industry advancements. His involvement in these esteemed organizations reflects his unwavering dedication to professional development and the highest standards of excellence in the field.

Drawing on years of hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of automated gate systems, Terry Wooten has become a trusted name in the industry. His commitment to delivering top-notch services and staying abreast of the latest industry trends positions him as a leading authority in the design and installation of automated gate systems. Through his work, Terry continues to contribute to the evolution of the industry, ensuring secure and efficient access solutions for a wide range of clients.

Further reading:

Garage Door Spring Safety: Tips and Precautions

Return Back to Our Parent Service: Garage Door Springs

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Randy Rutledge
23:18 02 Apr 25
Great to work with a supplier that actually bids a job, completes it on time and on budget. Terry and his crew were a pleasure to deal with and installed a great product on a very challenging area. Would definitely recommend and use again
Eric Welman
15:51 02 Apr 25
The gate replacement work was performed professionally and to my complete satisfaction. They also did the work at a very fair price. Very happy with them.
Lynn Davoudian
12:49 18 Mar 25
Fantastic company & services ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Rita Egeland
00:58 16 Mar 25
The service and the work that was done was exceptional. We needed to replace three very old (and very heavy) garage doors in a home that was built in 1960. There were a number of challenges along the way and each one was met professionally and in a timely manner. Lisa was an excellent communicator and highly responsive. Kevin did an extraordinary job with a fairly involved installation. His 'can do' attitude was very refreshing and reassuring. As noted, the final result was terrific. The pricing was VERY reasonable and very fair. The install was completed two days ago and I have already received compliments from the neighbors!
Gordon Crow
01:49 01 Mar 25
Easy to schedule. Fair & competitive pricing for a quick gate opener repair
Barrett Campbell
23:46 15 Jan 25
I called Terry to help with a damaged gate and masonry column. He came out the same day to help diagnose the issue and offered a sensible solution. He got the gate system repaired quickly and I was back up and running. I will definitely be calling Terry in the future. Thank you,
Scott Kirscht
18:41 15 Dec 24
Excellent door and gate company. I would give them 10 stars. I had extremely tight tolerances and Terry and his crew engineered the gate down to the inch. Top of the line materials and great service. Highly recommend.
E Yaeger
16:35 11 Dec 24
On Oct. 31 my electric gate stopped working and I called Alpha Gate and Door and talked to Lisa. She was great and based on my symptoms said she thought it was the battery and she would send Kealan out the next day. He came and replaced the battery with a 12 v 55ah battery. I asked him to rehang my reflector light on my neighbors new fence so the motion sensor would work. It had worked fine prior to that being taken down. He did that and it worked for a minute and then stopped. He rewired it and it worked once and he left. The next day I noticed the sensor was not working but I didn’t really care because my dog is too small to trigger it. I was charged $448 -$169 for the service call, $249 for the battery and $30 to rewire the sensor. I work exclusively from home as an attorney and never even use the gate during the week. A few weeks later the gate stopped operation completely and I called on Dec. 6. Lisa said she would send Kealan out. He called me and I said the gate would not open at all, the sensor was not working and the sensor was making a nonstop buzzing noise. He arrived fairly late in the day and I saw him pull into my driveway but he did not come to my door and went straight to the gate. I immediately went out there and I saw when he opened the cover that the battery charger lights were not on. He was in a very bad mood and starting ripping the battery out and said I needed a new battery. I said I guess it was because the battery charger wasn’t plugged in. I was not mad about it because that can happen to anyone. He got really mad at that point, I guess because I knew what had happened. He demanded to know whether I had unplugged it, grabbed a huge battery that would not even fit in my unit, then declared the charger had “allegedly” not been plugged in. As he was trying to force the battery in and was slamming everything around, I asked him if he had a smaller battery. He said no, it was whomever installed my gate opener’s fault because the antenna was on the left and they were usually on the right. He continued to try to force it but could not get the cover on. So he gave up and said he would come back Monday with a smaller battery. I assumed the sensor was not working because the battery had died. I heard nothing from anyone the following Monday and had had it so I called Lisa and yelled and told her the way Kealan had behaved and when was the battery actually going to be installed. She said she would talk to Kealan and I said do you have anybody else who is not a jackass who could come instead. She said she would investigate and call me back. She never called me back and apparently the next day around lunch Kealan snuck onto my property, did not tell me he was there, and put in another battery and texted me the gate was now working. I went outside to try it and the remote was not working at all. I have programmed remotes many times (I have done a lot of products liability work and handled cases with complex machinery failures and deposed a lot of engineers so I am not unfamiliar with this type of equipment) and checked it and the receiver was getting the signal from the transmitter but the control board was not opening the gate.So I called Lisa, explained he had come but not told me he was there, and that the remote was not opening the gate. I also apologized for yelling at her the day before because it was not her fault. She said she would tell him. After that call I remembered there is a reset button on the Patriot control board so I went out and pushed it and that caused the remote to work so I called Lisa and said it was working. The new battery is smaller than the one he had originally put in and retails for about $95. The motion sensor still does not work, I have done jumping jacks in front of of it to know avail. I am not bothering to call again about that because Kealan would probably get really mad again. He does NOT like his competence put into question. You decide if $249 is a fair markup on a $95 battery.
Julie Bealke
00:55 09 Nov 24
We are very happy with the service we received from Alpha Gate & Door. We had a 20-year old gate that stopped working. Upon our first call, they were quick to respond, provide an estimate & schedule the work. The tech was very thorough and at the end explained all of the updates. I know that if I ever need anything else, I will call them.
Carl Robertson
13:52 26 Sep 24
I highly recommend Alpha Gate and Door. Lisa was very helpful and honest and answered all of my questions.
Jim Wallin
20:37 25 Sep 24
I am extremely happy with the installation and operation of the our new Alpha Gate / gate opener. Their tech was very thorough and gave me an excellent walk through of the installed hardware and operation of the system. The installation of our new gate opener was completed on time and on the agreed to day of installation. I believe that I really got my moneys worth on this on this home upgrade.
Rahim Fancy
14:12 10 Sep 24
Excellent service on both a gate and a garage door motor update. Needed help, got it immediately, price was great, technicians were very well versed, and explained everything to me. I felt very comfortable and satisfied. Highly recommend.
Greg Pressly
20:35 11 Aug 24
Great Service from Alpha Gate & Door! We have used them for almost 20 years. They are professional, honest, and reasonable. Lisa is always easy to deal with and very efficient in getting us scheduled for a service call. She is so helpful in trying to solve the problem before sending someone out - how great is that! Kealan is AMAZING as our Service Tech. He is very knowledgeable & professional and provides great tips on how to care for and maintain our gate. Kealan makes for a perfect customer experience!
David
21:42 02 Jun 24
Excellent service from arrival time to departure. Very knowledgeable and had a lot of good suggestions for improving my gates performance.
GregB
15:47 29 Apr 24
I was having issues with a noisy garage door. I called alpha gate and doors and they came out in no time and fixed the issue. I highly recommend this company
Phillip Staggs
18:43 19 Apr 24
Priyank Desai
18:06 19 Mar 24
Had to have the hinges on my gate replaced. Alpha Gate was knowledgeable and fairly priced. They conducted the repair the next day and my gate is whisper quiet now. I highly recommend them!
joe valencia
00:14 19 Mar 24
Alpha Gate &Door Co. , The owners are amazing I had several questions and they where quick to respond, and got me the info. I will always call them as they made me feel like family, and had me fixed up in no time. Thanks for such an amazing experience!
Brian G
00:24 11 Nov 23
I highly recommend Alpha Gate & Door Company! The entire process was incredibly quick and professional! I spoke with Lisa (she’s amazing and extremely knowledgeable) on Tuesday and she came out Wednesday with a recommendation to replace the gate opener that was faulty and couldn’t handle the weight of my gate. I received the reasonable quote the same day and their technician, Keelan, was at my house on Friday of the SAME WEEK to install. Keelan was just as courteous and professional as Lisa and did an amazing job! The install was perfect and pristine! I’ve tried working with other companies and honestly they are hands down the best! If there were 10 stars available, I would give them 10!
Thank you Alpha team!
Greg McAllister
22:31 06 Sep 23
Mark Wilgus
22:02 18 Jul 23
I highly recommend Alpha Gate & Door Co.for your gate repair or installation needs. We were in need of a replacement system for or driveway gate. Lisa immediately understood my situation and had a perfect recommendation for a replacement. She emailed me a detailed proposal and followed up with a visit to our site. In a timely manner the technician, Kealin and his assistant George, professionally installed a complete Patriot 1 system that looks great and works perfectly. I am very pleased with all aspects of their service.
B WBURG
14:47 20 Apr 23
Alpha Gate & Door recently replaced our 3-gate system thats used by over 250 residents and visitors on a daily basis.

Terry was excellent in guiding us from the first visit to the final inspection, including his experiences on what to expect and where any likely issues would occur. With a large property, that was critical to avoiding problems that could pop up.

The crews, clean up and invoicing were all done professionally.

We would strongly recommend Alpha Gate & Door for your gate access needs.
Bobby Broyles
14:52 21 Mar 23
These folks were great! They could have charged me for a new garage door opener, but instead they fix the one I had. Way to go!
Craig DeMoss
21:32 11 Feb 23
We were having some issues with our gate opener and contacted Alpha while looking for a company to take care of it. From the first call to explain what was going on it was great. Very friendly folks! Kealan came out and has us fixed up in no time at all. Fair pricing and great service!
Bradford Gardner
14:18 30 Jan 23
Called on a Saturday morning around 0800 and left a message about issue I was having. I received a call back a few minutes later and was ask to send some pictures of the gate. Once I sent over the pictures, I got another call around 1200, asking if they could come by today as a crew was finished early and could swing by to fix. The gate was fixed by 3:00 same day. Thanks for the quick response and repair. I wasn't expecting that on a Saturday morning. So far so good.
John Hopkins
23:20 21 Nov 22
Great service. They were truly experts at install. Understanding what we needed. Highly recommend. Will use them again.
richard arini
21:19 16 Nov 22
The workmanship was very well done. Price was reasonable, the new bracket on our electric gate is an improvement from what was the original part. I highly recommend Alpha Gate and Door.
Justin Huffman
19:17 09 Aug 22
Alpha gate was incredible to work with. From beginning to end, they were responsive, flexible and provided quality work to go along with great service. We will definitely recommend!
Grant Good
13:15 29 Nov 21
Alpha Gate & Door installed a gate at my home. My wife and are more than pleased with the quality and workmanship of our get. The gate is heavy gauge steel with highest quality. The actuator works very well and is also highest quality. Service was great and can't recommend them enough!

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