6 Things to Know Before You Replace a Garage Door Spring

 

Most homeowners never give a garage door spring a second thought – until it breaks and they’re locked in the garage with a door that won’t open and a car that won’t start.

You might choose to replace the garage door spring yourself or call a professional when presented with this dilemma. A professional broken garage door spring repair in Sacramento might cost you between $150 and $350. However, if you decide to do it yourself, all you’ll need to pay for are the components.

Even though you can replace garage door springs yourselves while saving a few dollars, hiring a professional will spare you from the risks involved. This is true – especially if you lack prior do-it-yourself knowledge.

So, if you have planned to repair or replace your garage door springs yourselves – there are a few things you must know first-hand. These suggestions can help you to understand if you need to call a professional or go to the hardware shop.

What Should You Know Before Replacing A Garage Door Spring?

Types Of Garage Door Spring

Before replacing the garage door spring, you must know the kind of spring that is used for the garage door. Here are two types of garage door springs available –

1. Extension Spring

Long and thin springs, called extension springs, are positioned parallel to the horizontal tracks of the door. When the door is moved, this kind of spring stretches or extends, storing energy. Extension springs are available with –

• Open-Looped Extension Springs – They are the weakest type, relying on an open wire at the end; if this wire breaks, the entire spring must be replaced.
• Double-Looped Extension Springs – They are stronger and feature two coils that connect to the pulley and eyebolt.
• Clipped-End Extension Springs – They are the most durable, designed for heavier garage doors over 200 pounds, offering enhanced longevity and strength.

These variations ensure you can choose the right spring based on your garage door’s weight and requirements.

2. Torsion Spring

Torsion springs are broad and can be seen on a metal shaft right above the door opening. The metal shaft is fitted with aluminum drums at both ends, and the springs are wrapped to a precise torsion setting with respect to the assembly.

The number of torsion springs in a garage door varies based on the size, weight, and strength of the door. Some popular options available in torsion spring are –

• Early-Set Torsion Springs – These are similar but mounted in the middle of the torsion shaft.
• Steel Rolling-Door Torsion Springs – They are found in commercial settings and contained within a torsion barrel.
• Torque-Master Torsion Springs – They are enclosed in the shaft and secured by a winding cone at each rod’s end.
• Standard Torsion Springs – They are commonly used in residential garage doors, with lighter doors typically requiring just one spring.

Look For Signs Of A Failing Garage Door Spring

Even the best garage doors can have issues. This leads to frustration, especially when you are not exactly aware of what or where the issue is. Common signs of garage door spring problems include – loud snapping noises. This indicates a broken spring and difficulty lifting the door due to worn springs.

If the door closes too quickly or appears uneven, know there is something wrong with your spring. You might notice stretched-out springs that no longer coil tightly. In some extreme cases, the garage door may not open at all, and that isn’t very pleasant. You can always reach out to a broken garage door spring repair in Sacramento.

Another sign of a failing garage is – a jammed spring. You can address the issue with lubricants. In some cases, broken springs require complete replacement, as they cannot be repaired.

Regular inspections can help control these issues. This helps make sure the garage door functions smoothly and safely. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above – it’s advisable to consult a professional for a thorough inspection and necessary repairs.

Learn How To Replace Extension Garage Door Springs

Extension spring replacement is an easy task that does not involve the danger of spring tension. You should start by opening the garage door to remove tension, clamping it in place, and disconnecting the opener.

Mark the pulley’s position with tape, then disconnect the spring from the track bracket and pulley using a safety cable. Identify the spring type by its color code for replacement. Then, install the new spring by threading the safety cable and reattaching it to the pulley. This ensures proper alignment with the tape.

Finally, test if the door is opening well. If required, adjust as needed. However, if, for some reason, the issues persist – consider hiring a professional for assistance.

Learn How To Replace Torsion Garage Door Springs

If you are an experienced DIYer, replacing an extension garage door springs is a easy-peasy. However, replacing a torsion garage door spring is pretty challenging and is potentially dangerous. It is advisable to do it on your own – if you have extensive experience doing that. If not, leave it to the pros!

If you decide to replace the torsion garage door spring all by yourself, start by fastening the door to keep it from opening and unplugging the opener. After testing the force with a winding bar inserted into the cone, remove the screws while leaving one bar in place.

Lower the first winding bar, put in a second, and so on until the spring is completely unwound. Remove the drums, springs, wires, and torsion hardware. After that, wind in the other direction, install the required parts and insert the new left spring onto the torsion tube.

Try lifting the door to see if it is working well. If you feel the door spring is behaving odd – hiring a professional garage door repair Sacramento, CA, is recommended.

If It Bothers You – STOP!

While some garage door maintenance, like lubrication, is DIY-friendly, changing garage door springs can be risky. Garage doors are heavy – hence, they can be very dangerous if a spring breaks. This can result in severe injuries.

Furthermore, when it comes to tools, you must always use tools that are in good condition. Using aged or rusted metal might cause cuts that need medical attention. While many homeowners prefer to hire specialists, those with the necessary tools and skills can try repairs themselves.

A professional Sacramento garage door repair has the right kind of spring on hand. Also, they can answer any queries. So, it is advisable not to get involved in the garage door spring replacement all by yourselves – to save a few dollars. Call professionals such as Eudy Door now!

Take Precautions With DIYs

Replacing a garage door spring has several potential risks – depending on whether the springs are extension or torsion types. DIYers can replace extension springs with basic knowledge. However, there are certain risks involved, such as –

• Falling doors
• Cuts from old metal
• Accidental opener activation

On the other hand, torsion springs pose greater dangers under significant tension. You might face severe cuts and potential injuries from falling doors. You should ensure you know the correct spring type and measurements before purchasing replacements online or at home improvement stores.

To ensure safety, you must hire professionals. They have years of experience and expertise in handling heavy garage doors and springs.

Takeaway

Before replacing a garage door spring, it’s essential to understand the challenges and risks involved. Replacing a garage door spring can cause long-term injury if you are not used to doing it yourself. Hence, it is advisable to hire an expert for garage door repair in Sacramento, CA. They get the job done safely and correctly.

They possess the expertise to identify the right spring type and handle heavy components. Also, they have specialized tools and materials, saving you time, effort – and money in the long run.

So, hire the best garage door repair service company, such as Eudy Door, for a professional touch to your door.

Want Professionals To Replace Your Garage Door Spring? Contact Eudy Door For Professional Services!

If you’re looking for professional assistance to replace your garage door spring – we are just a phone call away. Our team specializes in Sacramento garage door repair, which ensures your garage door operates safely and efficiently.

Large parts have risks involved – so doing this task alone can be dangerous. With Eudy Door, you can reduce the possibility of harm or additional damage. We identify the problem and offer premium alternatives that suit your needs.

Trust us to deal with your garage door spring replacement. Call us now!