As a homeowner, you rely on your garage door to work seamlessly every time you need to access your garage. However, over time, the garage door springs can wear out or break, causing the garage door opener to stop functioning correctly.

In this guide, I will provide you with everything you need to know about garage door spring replacement, including the signs that your garage door springs need replacement, the types of garage door springs, the factors that affect the cost of garage door spring replacement, the tools and equipment required, and the steps for safe garage door spring replacement.

Introduction to Garage Door Spring Replacement

The garage door springs are an essential part of your garage door’s mechanism as they help to lift and lower the heavy garage door smoothly. Without the springs, the double garage door itself would be too heavy to lift manually, making it difficult for you to access your garage. Garage door spring replacement is a common repair that homeowners may face, and it requires careful consideration to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.

Signs That Your Garage Door Springs Need Replacement

If you notice any of the following signs, your garage door springs may need replacement:

When the Door Stops Functioning Correctly

If your garage door suddenly stops opening or closing properly, it could be a sign that your springs have failed. This is because the springs are responsible for providing the necessary force to lift and lower the door, and when they fail, the door won’t function properly.

You Hear a Loud Noise When Opening or Closing the Door

If you hear a loud bang or pop when opening or closing your garage door, it could be a sign that one of your springs has broken. This is a dangerous situation, as a broken spring can cause the door to fall suddenly.

Springs Are Visibly Sagging

If you look at your garage door springs and notice that they are sagging or appear to be stretched out, it could be a sign that they have reached the end of their lifespan. Over time, most garage doors and door springs can become weakened by the constant tension they are under, and they will eventually need to be replaced.

Types of Garage Door Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Here’s what you need to know about each type:

Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are located above the garage door and are mounted on a shaft. They are responsible for providing the necessary force to lift and lower the top to replace a garage door. Torsion springs are typically found on heavier garage doors, and they are known for their durability and long lifespan. However, if they fail, they can be dangerous, as they are under a great deal of tension.

Extension Springs

Extension springs are located on either side of the garage door and are attached to brackets that hold the ends of the two torsion springs together. They have two springs that are responsible for providing the necessary force to lift and lower the door, and they are typically found on lighter garage doors. Extension springs are less expensive than torsion springs, but they have a shorter lifespan and are more prone to failure.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Garage Door Spring Replacement

The cost of garage door spring replacement can vary depending on several factors. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about the replacement process and ensure that you are getting a fair price for the service.

Type of Spring

The type of standard torsion springs or springs that you have in your garage door can have a significant impact on the cost of replacement. Torsion springs are generally more expensive to replace than extension springs due to their complexity and the specialized tools required for the job.

The Size and Weight of the Garage Door

The size and weight of your garage door can also affect spring length and the cost of a new garage door spring replacement. Larger and heavier doors require stronger springs, which can increase the cost of the replacement process. It is important to ensure that the replacement springs are the correct size and strength for your garage door to prevent further damage or safety hazards.

Labor Costs

The labor costs associated with garage door spring replacement can also vary depending on the company you work with. Some garage door spring repair companies may charge a flat fee for the service, while others may charge an hourly rate. It is important to get a detailed estimate from your chosen service provider to ensure that you understand the full cost of the replacement process.

Tools and Equipment Required for Garage Door Spring Replacement

Replacing garage door springs requires specialized tools and equipment to ensure that the job is completed safely and efficiently. Some of the essential tools and equipment required for garage door spring replacement include:

Clamp

A clamp is essential for the safety cables holding the garage door in place while the springs are removed and replaced. This prevents the door from falling and causing injury or damage.

Winding Bar

A winding bar is used to apply tension to the garage door springs, allowing them to be wound or unwound as needed. This second winding bar is a specialized tool that should only be used by trained professionals.

Socket Wrench

A socket wrench is used to remove broken springs and replace the bolts that hold the springs in place. It is important to use a properly sized socket wrench to make new springs to prevent damage to the bolts or the springs themselves.

Safety Glasses

Safety glasses are essential for protecting your eyes during the garage door replacement spring process. Garage door springs can break or snap during the replacement process, causing potential injury or damage. If you’re unsure about the tools required or how to use them, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure that the job is done safely.

Steps for Safe Garage Door Spring Replacement

If you’ve decided to replace your garage door springs yourself, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Here are the steps for safe garage door spring replacement:

Secure the Door to Prevent it From Falling

Before you begin, make sure to secure the garage door in place to prevent it from falling. You can do this by placing a clamp on the track just below the lowest roller on the door. This will prevent the roll-up garage door itself from moving while you work on the springs.

Release the Tension on the Old Spring

The next step is to release the tension on the old spring. This can be done by using a winding bar to turn the spring in the opposite direction of the winding cone. Make sure to keep a firm grip on the spring breaks the winding bar and work slowly to avoid injury.

Remove the Old Spring and Install the New One

Once the tension is released, you can remove the old spring and install the new one. Make sure to use the same size and type of spring as the old one. You can use a spring fitting tool to help guide the new spring into place.

Tighten the New Spring

The final step is to tighten the new spring. This can be done by using a winding bar to turn the spring in the direction of the inner diameter of the winding cone. Again, make sure to work slowly and keep a firm grip on the winding bar.

Final Thoughts

Garage door spring replacement is a common repair that homeowners may face, and it’s essential to understand the signs that your garage door springs need replacement, the types of springs available, the factors that affect the cost of replacement, and the tools and equipment required. While it’s possible to replace the springs yourself, hiring a professional is often the safest and most efficient option. By following the steps for safe garage door spring replacement and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure that your garage door springs last as long as possible, keeping your garage door functioning smoothly.