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Garage door springs are an essential component of your entire garage system. They are responsible for lifting and lowering the door. These mechanical devices are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous to replace without proper training and tools. However, your door may not open if you have a broken spring. We explain the garage door springs and how to tell what type you have. Plus, we look at when to replace them and how much they cost. While it isn’t safe to replace them yourself, we also explain how to replace a garage door spring.
How To Replace a Garage Door Spring
Garage door springs are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous to replace without proper training and tools. You should never attempt to repair or replace a spring yourself.
Always call a professional garage door repair and installation company to have it safely replaced. However, here are the general steps involved in replacing a garage door spring:
- Remove the door from its track: Safely release the tension on the springs, then lift the door out of the track.
- Measure the spring: Measure the length, diameter, and wire size of the spring to determine the replacement size you need.
- Purchase the replacement spring: Purchase a replacement spring that matches the measurements of the original spring.
- Remove the old spring: Carefully remove the old spring by releasing the tension and then disconnecting it from the door.
- Install the new spring: Carefully install the new spring by attaching it to the door and then winding it to the correct tension.
- Reinstall the garage door: Carefully reinstall the door onto the track, making sure that it is properly aligned.
- Test the door: Test the door to make sure that it is working properly and that the spring is providing the correct amount of tension.
Your garage door repair and replacement company can explain specific steps related to your door.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Garage Door Spring?
The average cost of garage door spring replacement will range from $100 to $300 per spring. Some doors have two springs, so the cost of replacing both can range from $200 to $600. These prices include the cost of the spring and expert installation.
Also, the cost can vary widely based on the specific circumstances of the job. For example, if the garage door is particularly heavy or has a high level of insulation, the cost of replacement springs may be higher.
Strictly speaking, there is no difference between garage door spring repair and replacement. In most cases, the only way to repair the springs is to replace them. However, a local garage door professional can explain your options.
The exact cost can vary depending on a number of factors:
- Type of spring: Torsion springs are typically more expensive than extension springs. This is because they are more complex to replace and require specialized tools.
- Size of the spring: Larger springs will typically cost more to replace than smaller springs.
- Number of springs: Replacing one spring will cost less than replacing two springs.
- Quality of the spring: Higher-quality springs will typically cost more, but they will also last longer and provide better performance.
- Labor cost: The cost of labor can vary depending on the location and the experience level of the professional installing the spring.
- Additional services: Additional services, such as realignment or door repair, can increase the overall cost of the replacement.
- Brand of the spring: Some brands have a premium price and that will affect the total cost of replacing the spring.
You should always replace all of the springs, even if only one spring is broken. While it isn’t always necessary, you should consider replacing the springs for both doors if you have a double garage.
It’s also worth mentioning that some garage door companies offer spring replacement as part of a service package, which can include a warranty on the springs and labor. It’s recommended to shop around and compare prices from different companies to get a fair and accurate estimate.
What Is a Garage Door Spring?
A garage door spring is a mechanical device used to lift and lower the door on your garage. There are two types of springs, but you will only have one of them. Both types of springs are under a lot of tension.
They counteract the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. However, due to the tension and the constant use, garage door springs may wear out and need to be replaced.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are located above the door and work by twisting. They are typically longer and more cylindrical in shape and are usually located in the middle. There are typically one or two torsion springs per door.
When the garage door is closed, the torsion spring is wound up, storing energy in the form of tension. When the door is opened, the energy stored in the spring is released, causing the spring to unwind and lift the door. This allows the opener to lift the door with less effort.
Extension Springs
On the other hand, extension springs are located on either side of the garage door and work by stretching. They are typically shorter and have a more “C” shaped design. There are typically one or two torsion springs per door.
When the door is closed, the extension springs are stretched. When the door is opened, the extension springs contract and lift the door. The tension in the springs counteracts the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close.
How To Tell What Type of Garage Door Spring You Have
There are a few ways to tell what type of garage door spring you have:
- Location: Torsion springs are located above the door, while extension springs are located on either side of the door.
- Shape: Torsion springs are typically longer and more cylindrical in shape, while extension springs are shorter and have a more “C” shaped design.
- Size: Torsion springs are larger in diameter, while extension springs are smaller in diameter.
- Position: Torsion springs are located above the door and usually in the middle. Extension springs are located on the sides and usually at the end of the tracks.
- Number of springs: Torsion springs are typically one or two per door, while extension springs are typically one or two per side.
These are general guidelines, and there may be variations depending on the specific design of your door. If you’re unsure, it’s best to talk with a professional or check the manual for your garage door to determine what type of spring you have.
How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?
On average, a residential garage door spring will usually last between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles. Each cycle is one opening and closing of the door. Assuming you use your garage 2 to 4 times a day, you can expect the spring to last between 5 and 14 years.
However, the lifespan of a spring can vary depending on a number of factors. This includes the type and quality of the spring, how often you use your garage, and the environment.
What Are the Signs You Need To Replace Your Springs?
Since most of us aren’t counting how often we cycle our doors, it’s not always easy to tell when to replace the springs. There are a few signs that it could be time to replace your garage door springs:
- The door is difficult to open or close: If your door is becoming increasingly difficult to open or close, it may be a sign that the springs are worn and need to be replaced.
- The door is uneven: If your door is uneven or sagging, it may be a sign that one or both of the springs are broken and need to be replaced.
- Loud noises: If you hear loud noises, such as creaking, popping, or snapping sounds, when you open or close your door, it may be a sign that the springs are worn and need to be replaced.
- The door is visibly damaged: If you notice visible damage, such as rust or corrosion, on the springs, it may be a sign that the springs are worn and need to be replaced.
- It does not open or close all the way: If your door is not opening or closing all the way, it may be a sign that the springs are not providing enough tension and need to be replaced.
- The door opener is working harder: If your garage door opener is working harder than usual and the motor is running longer than it used to, it may be a sign that the springs are worn and need to be replaced.
If you have any questions about whether you need to replace your springs, contact a local garage door repair company for assistance. They can inspect your garage and make repair recommendations.