Garage door springs are essential for keeping your door balanced and helping it open and close quickly. Over time, these springs can wear out, lose tension, or even break, which can cause problems with your garage door. Learning how to replace garage door springs can save you money compared to hiring someone for a garage door repair. With the right tools and instructions, it’s a job most homeowners can do themselves.
Following safety steps and taking time, you can replace the spring and get your garage door working correctly. This DIY approach helps you save on repair costs and ensures your garage door runs smoothly. Understanding how to replace garage door springs gives you the power to handle future maintenance and keeps your garage door in good shape for years.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door, and torque is used to lift and lower it. They are known for their durability, offering smoother operation than other springs. While torsion springs are more expensive upfront, their longer lifespan and reliable performance make them a worthwhile investment for maintaining your garage door.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are located on the sides of the garage door and stretch as the door opens and closes. These more affordable springs tend to wear out faster than torsion springs. While extension springs are effective, they may require more frequent maintenance and replacement to keep your garage door functioning correctly.
Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Garage Door Spring
Several signs indicate your garage door spring may need to be replaced, including:
- The door is hard to open or close.
- The door doesn’t stay open or closed on its own
- The door appears unbalanced or lopsided
- The spring is visibly damaged or corroded
- The spring has lost significant tension or elasticity
Safety Tips Before Replacing a Garage Door Spring
Replacing a garage door spring can be dangerous, as the springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury if not handled properly. Before attempting any repairs, it’s essential to take the following safety precautions:
- Unplug the garage door opener to stop the door from moving unexpectedly.
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses
- Ensure the area is clear of any obstructions or people
- Use the appropriate tools and equipment for the job
Must-Have Tools and Materials for Replacing a Garage Door Spring
Here’s what you’ll need to replace a garage door spring:
- Replacement garage door spring(s)
- Winding bars or spring hooks
- Pliers or vice grips
- Adjustable wrench
- Ladder or step stool
- Lubricant (such as silicone or lithium-based grease)
Steps to Replace a Garage Door Spring Safely
Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
To begin with, disconnect the garage door opener to ensure the door doesn’t move unexpectedly during the spring replacement process. This important step keeps the door in place, ensuring safety while you work. Properly disconnecting the opener is essential for a smooth and secure garage door spring replacement.
Safely Release the Tension
Carefully release the garage door spring tension using the appropriate winding bars or spring hooks. Garage door springs are under high stress, so handling them cautiously is essential. Taking your time ensures safety and reduces the risk of injury or damage during the garage door spring replacement process.
Remove the Old Spring
After releasing the tension, remove the old garage door spring from the mounting brackets. Be careful while handling the spring, as it can still be heavy. Proper removal of the old spring is necessary to ensure a smooth installation of the new garage door spring.
Install the New Spring
Position the new garage door spring in the mounting brackets and securely fasten it. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for a correct installation. Correct installation is essential for the door to operate smoothly and safely during everyday use.
Tension the New Spring
Slowly wind the new garage door spring to the proper tension using winding bars or hooks. This may require several adjustments to ensure the door is balanced correctly. Properly tensioning the garage door spring is essential to allow the door to open and close quickly.
Reconnect the Garage Door Opener
Once the new garage door spring is installed and tensioned, reconnect the garage door opener. Ensure that all components are secure before testing the door’s operation. Reconnecting the opener is the final step to ensure the garage door operates smoothly after spring replacement.
Test the Door’s Operation
Manually open and close the garage door to check if it’s operating smoothly. The new garage door spring should provide proper balance, allowing the door to move quickly. Further adjustments may be needed to ensure the door functions properly if it feels off.
Adjust the Spring Tension as Needed
If the garage door is still not balanced after the initial installation, adjust the spring tension. Making minor adjustments will help fine-tune the door’s operation, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly. Proper spring tension is key for the safe and efficient use of the garage door.
Mistakes to Avoid During the Replacement Process
When replacing a garage door spring, it’s essential to avoid the following common mistakes:
- Failing to release the spring tension properly
- Incorrectly winding or tensioning the new spring
- Forgetting to disconnect the garage door opener
- Not wearing proper safety equipment
- Attempting to replace the spring without the necessary tools and materials
How to Test and Adjust Your New Garage Door Spring
After finishing the garage door installation and replacing the spring, it’s essential to check how the door moves. Open and close the new garage door by hand to ensure it glides smoothly and stays in place. If the door feels off or doesn’t stay where it should, you may need to make minor adjustments to ensure everything is balanced correctly for safe use.
If the new garage door isn’t balanced, you’ll need to tweak the spring tension slightly. Keep adjusting it until the door moves smoothly and stays where it should be without any issues. These simple adjustments can help the door function correctly. Testing and fine-tuning the balance ensures the garage door installation is completed successfully and your door works safely and efficiently.
Maintenance Tips for a Longer-Lasting Garage Door Spring
To help extend the lifespan of your garage door spring, consider the following maintenance tips:
Lubricate the Garage Door Spring
Apply a small amount of silicone or lithium-based grease regularly to keep your garage door spring in good shape. This helps the spring stay well-lubricated and prevents it from wearing out too quickly. Proper lubrication of your garage door spring ensures smoother operation and a longer-lasting spring.
Inspect the Garage Door Spring Regularly
Check your garage door spring often for signs of wear, rust, or damage. If you spot any issues, it’s best to replace the spring immediately. Regularly inspecting your garage door spring can help you avoid bigger problems and keep your garage door working safely and efficiently.
Avoid Overloading the Garage Door
Don’t let your garage door’s weight exceed its recommended limit. If the door is too heavy, it can put extra pressure on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Keeping your new garage door within its weight limit helps protect the springs and ensures smooth operation.
Adjust the Garage Door Spring Tension as Needed
If your garage door is hard to open or close, it may be due to incorrect spring tension. Make minor adjustments to the tension to bring the door back into balance. Regularly checking and adjusting the garage door spring tension helps the door operate smoothly and stay well-balanced.
FAQs About Replacing a Garage Door Spring
Can I replace the garage door spring myself?
While you can replace a garage door spring yourself, it’s only recommended if you’re experienced. These springs are highly tensioned and can cause serious injury if improperly handled. Hiring a garage door spring replacement professional ensures your safety and that the job is done right. It’s better to be safe than sorry regarding this repair.
How much does it cost to replace a coil spring on a garage door?
Replacing a garage door coil spring typically costs between $150 and $350, depending on the type of spring, labor fees, and your location. Having a professional do the spring replacement is worth the cost, as it ensures your door functions safely and efficiently. Always get a quote before committing to a repair.
How do I open a garage door with a broken spring?
Opening a garage door with a broken spring can be dangerous since the door is heavy without spring support. Use the emergency release cord to disengage the opener if needed, then manually lift the door. However, contacting a professional for immediate garage door repair is safer than risking injury or further damage to the door or opener.
How long does it take to replace a garage door spring?
A professional can replace a garage door spring within 1 to 2 hours. The time depends on the garage door type, the spring system’s complexity, and the technician’s experience. Hiring a professional ensures that the repair is done quickly and safely, getting your garage door back in working order without much downtime.
What causes a spring to break on a garage door?
Garage door springs break due to natural wear and tear, rust buildup, or lack of maintenance. Over time, springs lose their tension and eventually end their cycle life, causing them to snap. Regular garage door spring maintenance can help extend their lifespan, reducing the chances of unexpected spring breaks and keeping your door functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Knowing how to replace garage door springs can help you save on costly repair services. You can handle minor fixes like replacing a spring independently with the right tools and careful steps. This keeps your garage door running smoothly and puts you in control of essential maintenance.
If the spring replacement doesn’t fully fix your door’s problems, it may be time to consider a garage door replacement. A new garage door can improve your home’s appearance, increase security, and boost energy efficiency. Investing in a replacement is a smart choice that benefits both your home’s function and value.
For more complex tasks, working with a trusted garage door contractor like BH Doors & Gates is the best way to ensure your door is in top condition. From repairs to replacements, we provide professional, reliable service. Don’t let minor issues become more significant problems—contact us today, and let us handle your garage door needs.
End Note
If you’re looking for expert garage door replacement, BH Doors and Gates is here to help. Whether you need a quick repair or a complete door upgrade, we have the skills and experience to ensure your garage door runs like new. Discover our services on our website or learn more about us on our About Us page.
Serving Garland and nearby areas, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch garage door replacement services that you can trust. If you want tips on maintaining your door or staying updated on the latest trends, visit our blog for expert advice and helpful insights. Check out what our customers have to say on our testimonials page.
If you have a question or are ready for a free estimate, please reach out via our contact page. BH Doors and Gates is dedicated to providing exceptional garage door replacement services, keeping your doors functioning smoothly and looking great for years to come!