Garage door springs provide essential support to your garage door opener. It’s the spring –or springs, depending on the type of garage door — that enables you to lift and close your garage door without requiring super-human strength. These springs are thick, strong, and tightly wound.
A broken spring can suddenly send pieces flying across the room, and may cause damage or injuries. Knowing the signs that your garage door spring is breaking can help you avoid a potentially devastating problem. Here’s what you need to know.
Signs Your Garage Door Spring Needs Maintenance or Repair
Garage door springs last between four and ten years, depending on the weight of the door, how often it’s used and other factors. When your door springs start to lose their functionality, you might notice these warning signs:
- The garage door won’t stay open on its own. When disengaged from the automatic garage door opener, the door should be capable of staying partially open without help from you and without falling closed. If it won’t stay open, then the spring likely needs to be repaired.
- A rumbling or grumbling sound. Listen for a rumbling or grumbling noise when the door is opening or closing.
- Corrosion or rust on the spring. If your garage has a water leak and the spring has recently been exposed to excessive moisture, this could cause the spring to deteriorate early.
Even if your spring seems to be in good condition, if it’s more than five years old and you use your door regularly, have it inspected by a garage door contractor. Your contractor can look for warning signs and can help you decide when repair or replacement is warranted.
Signs Your Spring Has Already Broken
If you’re in the garage when the spring breaks, you’ll likely hear a loud noise as the spring snaps. Once the spring is broken, you’ll see a gap in the coils, and the door will suddenly seem too heavy to lift. That’s when you know you need a garage door spring replacement.
Should You DIY Garage Door Spring Repair?
Garage door springs are under an incredible amount of pressure. Incorrect removal or installation of the spring could lead to an injury. If the spring is not properly installed or calibrated, it could easily snap under the weight of the door, which could also lead to potential injury.
Need Your Garage Door Springs Replaced?
At Overhead Door of Oklahoma City, we perform garage door spring repair, spring replacements, panel repairs and other garage door services. Whether it’s time for a tune-up or garage door replacement, we can help. Call today to schedule an appointment or consultation.
