Knowing how to replace garage door springs is an essential skill that can save you time and money, but it’s not a task to take lightly. Garage door springs are under tremendous tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just curious about the process, this step-by-step guide will walk you through safely and effectively replacing your garage door spring.
Garage door springs play a crucial role in balancing the door’s weight, making it possible to lift and lower it smoothly. A broken spring can make your door unusable and pose significant safety risks. This guide covers everything you need to know, from identifying the spring type to gathering the right tools and performing the replacement.
Before starting, it’s essential to understand the different types of springs and the safety precautions involved. Keep reading to learn how to replace your garage door spring correctly and ensure your door operates safely and efficiently.
Why Replacing a Garage Door Spring is Important
Garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They counterbalance the door’s weight, making it possible for you—or your garage door opener—to lift and lower it easily. When a spring breaks, it can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly, pose safety risks, and render your garage unusable.
- Safety Concerns:
- A broken spring can make the garage door difficult or even impossible to open, which can be a real problem in an emergency. Additionally, a door that slams shut due to a broken spring can cause injury or damage to vehicles or other items.
- A broken spring can make the garage door difficult or even impossible to open, which can be a real problem in an emergency. Additionally, a door that slams shut due to a broken spring can cause injury or damage to vehicles or other items.
- Preventing Further Damage:
- Operating a garage door with a broken spring can strain the door opener, potentially causing more expensive damage. Addressing the issue promptly helps protect the entire system.
- Operating a garage door with a broken spring can strain the door opener, potentially causing more expensive damage. Addressing the issue promptly helps protect the entire system.
- Cost Efficiency:
- Knowing how to replace a garage door spring can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs. Professional repairs can be pricey, especially for something that can be done with a little knowledge and the right tools.
- Knowing how to replace a garage door spring can save you hundreds of dollars in labor costs. Professional repairs can be pricey, especially for something that can be done with a little knowledge and the right tools.
Tip: Always inspect your garage door springs regularly for signs of wear and tear. Replacing them before they snap can prevent unexpected failures.
Understanding Different Types of Garage Door Springs
Before starting the replacement process, it’s essential to know the type of spring your garage door uses. There are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs.
- Torsion Springs:
- These are mounted above the door on a horizontal bar and wind up as the door closes, storing energy that is released when the door opens. They are generally more durable and safer than extension springs because they don’t expand and contract as much. Torsion springs are common in newer garage door systems and provide smoother operation.
- These are mounted above the door on a horizontal bar and wind up as the door closes, storing energy that is released when the door opens. They are generally more durable and safer than extension springs because they don’t expand and contract as much. Torsion springs are common in newer garage door systems and provide smoother operation.
- Extension Springs:
- Found on either side of the door, extension springs stretch and contract as the door opens and closes. They are typically used in older garage door systems and can be more dangerous because they are under a lot of tension when stretched.
- Found on either side of the door, extension springs stretch and contract as the door opens and closes. They are typically used in older garage door systems and can be more dangerous because they are under a lot of tension when stretched.
Tip: If you’re unsure which type of spring you have, check the position of the springs. Torsion springs are above the door, while extension springs are on the sides.
Tools and Materials Needed for Replacing Garage Door Springs
You’ll need the right tools and materials to safely replace a garage door spring. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Safety Gear:
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- A sturdy ladder
- Safety glasses
- Tools:
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Clamps or locking pliers
- Tape measure
- Marker or chalk
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Materials:
- Replacement spring(s) of the correct size and type
- Lubricant for garage doors (such as white lithium grease)
- Torsion bar (if not already installed)
- New safety cables (for extension springs)
- Replacement spring(s) of the correct size and type
Tip: Always use winding bars explicitly designed for garage door springs. Using screwdrivers or other makeshift tools can lead to severe accidents.
Preparing to Replace a Garage Door Spring
Preparation is key to a successful spring replacement. Here are the steps to get ready:
- Measure the Existing Spring:
- Use a tape measure to determine the current spring’s length, inside diameter, and wire size. This information is crucial when purchasing a replacement.
- Use a tape measure to determine the current spring’s length, inside diameter, and wire size. This information is crucial when purchasing a replacement.
- Secure the Garage Door:
- Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental operation. Clamp the door to the track to ensure it doesn’t move while you’re working.
- Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental operation. Clamp the door to the track to ensure it doesn’t move while you’re working.
- Release the Tension:
- For torsion springs, use winding bars to unwind the spring tension carefully. For extension springs, you’ll need to open the door fully and secure it in place before removing the springs.
- For torsion springs, use winding bars to unwind the spring tension carefully. For extension springs, you’ll need to open the door fully and secure it in place before removing the springs.
- Double-Check Everything:
- Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials within reach. Double-check that the garage door is securely clamped and the opener is unplugged.
- Ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials within reach. Double-check that the garage door is securely clamped and the opener is unplugged.
Tip: Take a photo of the spring setup before removing anything. This can serve as a handy reference when installing the new spring.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Torsion Spring
If your garage door uses torsion springs, follow these steps to replace them safely:
- Unwind the Broken Spring:
- Insert a winding bar into the winding cone of the broken spring. Use a second winding bar to slowly and carefully unwind the tension, moving in quarter turns.
- Insert a winding bar into the winding cone of the broken spring. Use a second winding bar to slowly and carefully unwind the tension, moving in quarter turns.
- Remove the Spring:
- Once the tension is released, use a wrench to loosen the set screws that hold the spring to the torsion bar. Slide the spring off the bar.
- Once the tension is released, use a wrench to loosen the set screws that hold the spring to the torsion bar. Slide the spring off the bar.
- Install the New Spring:
- Slide the new spring onto the torsion bar, making sure it’s oriented correctly. Tighten the set screws to secure the spring in place.
- Slide the new spring onto the torsion bar, making sure it’s oriented correctly. Tighten the set screws to secure the spring in place.
- Wind the New Spring:
- Use winding bars to wind the new spring, adding the same number of turns as the old spring had (usually indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions). Ensure the spring is evenly wound to avoid imbalance.
- Use winding bars to wind the new spring, adding the same number of turns as the old spring had (usually indicated in the manufacturer’s instructions). Ensure the spring is evenly wound to avoid imbalance.
- Test the Door:
- Remove the clamps from the door and test its operation. The door should open and close smoothly without excessive force.
- Remove the clamps from the door and test its operation. The door should open and close smoothly without excessive force.
Tip: Always work slowly and carefully when winding or unwinding torsion springs. This is the most dangerous part of the process, and it’s important to stay focused and cautious.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing an Extension Spring
Replacing extension springs involves a different process. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Garage Door:
- Fully open the garage door and secure it with clamps or locking pliers. This releases the tension on the springs, making them safe to remove.
- Fully open the garage door and secure it with clamps or locking pliers. This releases the tension on the springs, making them safe to remove.
- Detach the Safety Cables:
- Unhook the safety cables running through the springs. These cables prevent the springs from flying off if they break, so handle them carefully.
- Unhook the safety cables running through the springs. These cables prevent the springs from flying off if they break, so handle them carefully.
- Remove the Broken Spring:
- Disconnect the spring from the brackets and pulleys on either end. You may need to loosen some bolts or clips.
- Disconnect the spring from the brackets and pulleys on either end. You may need to loosen some bolts or clips.
- Install the New Spring:
- Attach the new spring to the brackets and pulleys, ensuring it’s the same type and size as the old one. Reattach the safety cables.
- Attach the new spring to the brackets and pulleys, ensuring it’s the same type and size as the old one. Reattach the safety cables.
- Test the Door:
- Remove the clamps and test the door’s operation. It should move freely and remain balanced. If not, check the spring alignment and tension.
- Remove the clamps and test the door’s operation. It should move freely and remain balanced. If not, check the spring alignment and tension.
Tip: Replace both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. This ensures balanced tension and prevents premature wear on the new spring.
Post-Replacement Maintenance Tips
After replacing your garage door spring, performing routine maintenance is important to keep your garage door in good working condition.
- Lubricate Moving Parts:
- Apply lubricant to the new springs, rollers, and tracks. This reduces friction and helps extend the life of the components.
- Apply lubricant to the new springs, rollers, and tracks. This reduces friction and helps extend the life of the components.
- Check the Balance:
- Disconnect the opener and manually lift the garage door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If it moves up or down, the spring tension needs adjusting.
- Disconnect the opener and manually lift the garage door halfway. If it stays in place, the door is balanced. If it moves up or down, the spring tension needs adjusting.
- Inspect Cables and Pulleys:
- Check for frayed cables or worn pulleys. Replace any damaged parts to avoid future issues.
- Check for frayed cables or worn pulleys. Replace any damaged parts to avoid future issues.
- Tighten Hardware:
- Periodically check and tighten all bolts and screws on your new garage door system to ensure everything is secure.
- Periodically check and tighten all bolts and screws on your new garage door system to ensure everything is secure.
Tip: Schedule a professional inspection every few years, even if everything seems fine. A professional can spot issues before they become serious problems.
Safety Precautions and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Replacing a garage door spring can be hazardous. Follow these safety precautions to minimize risk:
- Never Attempt This Alone:
- Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency. They can assist you or call for help if needed.
- Always have someone nearby in case of an emergency. They can assist you or call for help if needed.
- Don’t Use Improper Tools:
- Using the wrong tools, like a screwdriver instead of winding bars, can result in injury. Invest in the right tools for the job.
- Using the wrong tools, like a screwdriver instead of winding bars, can result in injury. Invest in the right tools for the job.
- Avoid Over-Winding the Springs:
- Adding too much tension can cause the spring to snap. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the number of turns.
- Adding too much tension can cause the spring to snap. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the number of turns.
- Don’t Skip the Safety Cables:
- Always ensure the safety cables are in place for extension springs. They can prevent serious injuries if a spring breaks unexpectedly.
- Always ensure the safety cables are in place for extension springs. They can prevent serious injuries if a spring breaks unexpectedly.
Tip: If you’re unsure about any part of the garage door repair process, it’s best to call a professional. The cost of professional help is worth your safety.
FAQs on How to Replace Garage Door Spring
How many years do garage door springs last?
Depending on usage, garage door springs typically last between 7 to 10 years. With regular use, springs can last about 10,000 cycles, but more frequent use or lack of maintenance may shorten their lifespan.
Should you lubricate your garage door spring?
Yes, lubricating garage door springs regularly can help extend their lifespan and keep them operating smoothly. Use a high-quality lubricant for garage door parts to prevent rust and reduce friction.
Can I open a garage door with a broken spring?
Opening a garage door with a broken spring is not recommended, as it can be dangerous and damage the opener. The door becomes heavy and difficult to lift, so it’s best to seek professional help for repairs.
What causes garage door springs to break?
Garage door springs can break due to wear and tear from frequent use, rust buildup, extreme temperature changes, or lack of maintenance. Over time, the metal weakens, leading to eventual failure.
How do you know if coil springs need to be replaced?
You’ll know it’s time to replace coil springs if the door becomes difficult to open, opens unevenly, or if you hear a loud snap. Visible signs like rust, gaps in the springs, or uneven tension are also indicators.
Conclusion
Learning how to replace a garage door spring can be a valuable skill, saving you money and giving you a better understanding of your home’s mechanical systems. However, it’s not without its risks. Always prioritize safety and take your time during the process. You can tackle this project confidently with the right tools, preparation, and knowledge.
Remember, if you feel uncomfortable or uncertain at any point, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. Your safety is the top priority, and a well-functioning garage door is essential for your home’s security and convenience. Whether you’re a DIY pro or a cautious beginner, understanding how to replace a garage door spring equips you with the knowledge to maintain and protect one of your home’s most important entry points.
End Note
Replacing a garage door spring can be tricky and dangerous, but we’re here to help you with professional support and services at Platinum Garage Doors. If you’re unsure about tackling this alone, our garage door repair experts are just a call away. From broken springs to complete garage door installations, we offer reliable solutions for all your needs.
Thinking about upgrading or customizing your door? Explore our range of garage door models and stylish garage windows. To see our work in action, check out our gallery for inspiration. If you need assistance or want to discuss your options, visit our contact page and let us know how we can help.
We’re dedicated to providing top-notch service and quality products that ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely. Discover all that we offer at Platinum Garage Doors today!
