Garage door springs play a critical role in the operation of your garage door system. They act as a counterweight to offset the door’s heavyweight, allowing it to open and close smoothly. When these springs malfunction or break, the door can come crashing down with incredible force, risking injury to anyone in its path. Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding such dangerous scenarios.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are the most common type found on modern garage doors. They consist of a heavy-duty spring coiled around a steel shaft that runs parallel to the door. This shaft mounts to the header wall above the garage door opening.
As the door opens, the torsion spring unwinds, and as it closes, the spring winds back up, using its stored torsional energy to help counterbalance the weight of the door. Torsion springs come in a variety of wire sizes to accommodate different door weights and cycle frequencies.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are stretched springs that run perpendicular to the door, along the horizontal track on each side. These springs extend when the door opens to help lift the door, and contract when the door closes to safely control the descent.
While not as common today, extension springs were widely used on older residential garage doors as well as some commercial doors. They require more clearance space compared to torsion springs.
Many homeowners also have Wayne Dalton spring systems, a reputable brand. For commercial properties, businesses frequently need heavier-duty commercial garage door spring repairs.
In terms of materials, there are:
- Galvanized Springs
- Oil-Tempered Springs
- Powder Coated Springs
The Spring Repair Process
When Garage Door Repair Wakefield’s experienced technicians arrive, they will carefully examine your springs to diagnose the issue. Torsion springs often lose their strength over time from repetitive coiling and uncoiling cycles. Extension springs can become unseated or snap entirely.
To replace torsion springs, the technician will use specialized winding bars to control the tension as they remove the old springs and install new ones matched to your garage door’s weight and size specifications. Extension springs are swapped out one at a time to avoid shifting the door’s balance.
Throughout the repair, the utmost safety protocols are followed. This is definitely not a DIY job – replacing garage door springs requires proper training and tools to do it right.
Proactive Garage Door Spring Maintenance
Like any mechanical system, garage doors need routine maintenance to stay in peak operating condition. An annual professional tune-up allows a technician to lubricate components, test safety features, make minor adjustments, and inspect for signs of premature spring fatigue. Catching issues early can prevent many repair calls down the road.
Why Choose Garage Door Repair Wakefield?
When it comes to garage door spring repair and maintenance, you want to work with a company you can trust. Here are the reasons why Garage Door Repair Wakefield stands out:
- Highly trained and certified technicians
- Use only top-quality replacement parts
- Maximum 2-hour response time guarantee
- Same day service available
- Open 7 days a week, including holidays
Call Garage Door Repair Wakefield now at 781-350-5172 to book your garage door spring repair or replacement! A member of our team will be happy to provide you with a free estimate.
FAQs
How do I know if my garage door springs need to be replaced? Warning signs include screeching noises, sluggish or uneven movement, gaps between the door and frames, and visible signs of wear like cracks or deformation on the springs.
How long do garage door springs typically last? With normal use, torsion springs usually need replacement every 5-7 years, while extension springs have a shorter 3-5 year service life.
Is it safe to use my garage door if a spring is broken? Absolutely not! Using the door could cause serious damage or injury. Leave it closed and schedule a repair immediately.
Can I just replace one of my two torsion springs? No, torsion springs need to be replaced as a set to ensure proper balance and safe operation of the door.
How much does garage door spring repair cost? Costs can vary based on spring type, material, and labour, but typically range from $150-$350 for a professional repair.
