The Complete Guide to Garage Door Springs and How to Care for Them

Garage door springs are one of the most essential components of your garage door system. They bear the door’s weight and help it open and close smoothly. Without properly functioning springs, your garage door would become difficult or impossible to operate. This guide covers everything you need to know about garage door springs, from how they work to how you can take care of them to keep your door running smoothly.

Garage door springs are critical for ensuring your door operates efficiently. There are two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

• Torsion Springs: These springs are mounted above the garage door and twist as the door opens and closes. Torsion springs are commonly used for heavier garage doors due to their durability and smooth operation.
• Extension Springs: These springs are found on either side of the door tracks. As the door opens, the springs stretch, providing the force to lift it.

Spring tension directly affects the balance and movement of modern overhead garage doors, which is why it’s important to have these springs properly maintained. A well-maintained spring system ensures the door operates smoothly, reducing wear and tear throughout the system.

Garage door springs are under constant tension and require regular care to avoid premature failure. Here’s how you can maintain them to ensure optimal performance:

• Lubricate the Springs: Apply a high-quality lubricant to the springs to reduce friction. This helps keep them moving smoothly and prevents rust. Lubricating your springs once a year is a simple but effective way to extend their lifespan.
• Regular Inspections: Inspect your springs regularly for any signs of wear, such as visible rust, cracks, or unusual movement. If you notice any of these issues, it may be time to call a professional for a more in-depth inspection.
• Adjust Tension: The tension of your garage door springs needs to be carefully balanced. If one side is tighter than the other, it can cause the door to operate unevenly and lead to damage. If you’re unsure how to adjust the tension, it’s best to call a professional. Spring tension directly affects the balance and movement of modern overhead garage doors, so it’s essential to get it right.

Regular garage door maintenance helps keep your springs in good condition and avoids the need for expensive repairs. If you’re unsure about adjusting the tension or lubricating the springs yourself, it’s always best to call in a professional.

There are several issues that can arise with garage door springs, and some of them require professional attention. Here are the most common problems that homeowners experience:

• Broken Springs: The most common reason for a garage door failure is a broken spring. If your garage door won’t open or close properly, this is often the issue. Broken or worn components are one of the most common reasons homeowners need professional garage door repair. If you hear a loud bang or your door stops moving, it’s time to call a technician for a garage door spring repair.
• Uneven Door Movement: If your garage door is higher on one side or closes unevenly, it’s likely that one of the springs is not properly balanced. This imbalance can cause unnecessary strain on the opener and other components.
• Noisy Operation: If your garage door is making a grinding or squeaking noise, it could indicate that the springs are worn or need lubrication. This is one of the early indicators that your springs need attention before they fail completely.

Regular inspections can help you catch these problems early, saving you from costly repairs or replacements.

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one for your garage door depends on your needs.

Torsion Springs

• Durable and Long-Lasting: Torsion springs are more durable and last longer than extension springs. They are typically used for heavier garage doors and are better suited for homes with frequent garage door use.
• Smooth Operation: Torsion springs provide smoother, quieter operation than extension springs.
• Higher Cost: While they are more durable, torsion springs are typically more expensive to install.

Extension Springs

• Affordable Option: Extension springs are generally more affordable than torsion springs and can be a good choice for lighter garage doors.
• Less Durable: These springs wear out faster than torsion springs and require more frequent replacement.
• Quieter, but Less Efficient: Extension springs can be noisy and less efficient than torsion springs, especially on heavier doors.

At Elite Garage Door, we typically recommend torsion springs for most homeowners in Northwest Arkansas due to their durability and better performance. Our team can help you choose the right spring type for your door based on your needs.

Garage door springs typically last around 10,000 cycles, which can be 7-10 years depending on usage. Here are some signs it’s time to replace your garage door springs:

• The Door Won’t Open: If the door isn’t opening or closing, or you hear a loud bang, it’s often a sign that one of the springs has snapped.
• The Door Moves Unevenly: If your door opens or closes unevenly or appears tilted, it could mean that one of the springs is broken or misaligned.
• Excessive Noise: Squeaky or grinding noises are often a sign that your springs need maintenance or replacement.

Torsion system issues can place extra strain on garage door openers, which is why it’s important to replace your springs as soon as you notice signs of wear. Ignoring these issues can lead to further damage to the opener and other parts of the system.

Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to repair without proper training. Here’s why you should always hire a professional for spring repairs:

• Safety: Springs are under significant tension, and attempting to repair or replace them without the right tools and expertise can lead to serious injury.
• Expertise: Professionals have the skills and experience to handle all types of spring issues, from tension adjustments to complete spring replacements.
• Efficiency: A professional can quickly fix the issue, preventing further damage to your garage door system.

At Elite Garage Door, our team is trained to handle all types of spring repairs and replacements safely and efficiently. We offer fast, reliable service to homeowners in Northwest Arkansas, ensuring your garage door is back in working order as soon as possible.

Your garage door springs are essential for the smooth operation of your garage door system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can save you money, extend the life of your door, and ensure your home stays secure. If your garage door is showing signs of spring wear or imbalance, contact Elite Garage Door to schedule a professional inspection. We’re here to help with all your garage door spring repair needs in Northwest Arkansas.