When a garage door suddenly stops functioning, one of the most common culprits is a broken garage door spring. It’s tempting to tackle the repair yourself, especially with DIY guides available online. However, garage door spring repair is fraught with risks and potential hazards that can result in serious injury. In this article, we’ll explore why repairing a broken garage door spring is so dangerous, what it entails, and why it’s crucial to seek professional help.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are essential components that bear the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close smoothly. There are two main types of garage door springs. Torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion Springs: these are very large and are mounted horizontally above the door and rotate to lift the door. Extension Springs: these are mounted on either side of the door and extend to open the door. Both types of springs are under tension, making them dangerous to handle without proper knowledge and tools.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
One of the most common questions is “How long do garage door springs last?”. The lifespan of a garage door spring depends on its type and usage. On average, torsion springs typically last between 15,000 to 20,000 cycles. A cycle is measured as an opening and closing of the door. Extension springs, on the other hand, usually last about 10,000 cycles.
For a family that uses the garage door multiple times a day, this translates to roughly 7 to 10 years for torsion springs and 5 to 7 years for extension springs. Regular maintenance and inspections by a professional can help extend the life of your garage door springs and ensure they function safely.
Causes for Broken Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs, crucial for the smooth operation of your garage door, can break down due to various factors. The primary cause is regular wear and tear from frequent use, which leads to the gradual weakening of the springs. Each opening and closing action puts the springs under significant stress, eventually exceeding their cycle count. Humid climates and corrosion from moisture exposure can further weaken and decrease the life of garage door springs. Additionally, poor maintenance, such as neglecting lubrication and failing to address imbalance issues, can accelerate wear and lead to premature failure.
Other factors contributing to broken springs include improper installation, which can lead to incorrect tension, early breakage, and extreme temperature fluctuations that cause metal fatigue. While manufacturing defects are less common, they can also play a role in premature spring failure. To prevent these issues, regular inspections and maintenance by professionals, proper lubrication, and correct installation are essential. Investing in high-quality springs and addressing any signs of wear or imbalance promptly can help extend the lifespan of your garage door system and ensure its safe operation.
Importance of Professional Repair
Given the dangers associated with garage door spring repair, it’s clear that this is not a DIY project. Here are a few reasons why you should always hire a professional for your garage door repair:
Safety
Trained garage door technicians have the expertise to handle high-tension springs safely. They use specialized tools to adjust and replace springs without risking injury. They also follow strict safety protocols to protect themselves and their clients.
Accuracy
Garage professionals know how to install garage door springs correctly, ensuring that the doors operate smoothly and evenly. They can also identify any underlying issues that may have contributed to the spring failure, addressing the root cause of the problem.
Warranty and Insurance
Reputable garage door repair companies offer warranties, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, they are insured, meaning that any accidental damage or injury during the repair process is covered.
Conclusion
While the temptation to save money by repairing a broken garage door spring yourself is understandable, the risks far outweigh the potential benefits. The high tension of garage door springs makes them extremely dangerous to handle without proper training and tools. Professional repair ensures not only your safety but also the long-term functionality of your garage door. If you’re facing issues with your garage door springs, don’t hesitate to contact a reputable garage door repair service, to handle the job safely and efficiently.
If you are unsure about the operation of your garage door spring, call A Plus Garage Doors. You can trust the experts at A Plus Garage Doors to skillfully repair or install your garage door spring. Our team of expert garage door technicians is equipped with the right tools and expertise to handle any repair safely and efficiently. With our professional service, you can rest assured that your garage door will be back in optimal condition in no time. Contact A Plus Garage Doors today for a consultation and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your garage door is in the best hands.
