How to Identify and Fix Broken Garage Door Springs
Your garage door springs play one of the most important roles when it comes to operating your garage door. Springs assist with movements, balance, and the overall operation of your garage door. If even one spring breaks, you are likely to experience problems with your garage.
The following article will walk you through some different issues that can present themselves if you have a broken garage door spring. There are a couple of signs and symptoms to look for, as well as specific instructions you should follow if and when the time comes that you need a garage door spring replaced.
Prevent Problems with Proper Maintenance
Before we dive into how to identify and repair broken garage door springs, it is important to know that garage door spring issues can be prevented with proper maintenance. Some homeowners may assume that because their garage seems to be operating fine that there is nothing wrong with it. However, garage door issues can escalate over time. Garage door specialists are trained to pick up on minor issues and address any problems before they become worse. Even if you do not think you are currently dealing with any worn or breaking garage door springs, it is still a good idea to call an expert for a consultation to make sure.
Identifying a Broken Garage Door Spring
Below you will find a list of some of the most common symptoms that will present themselves if your garage door has a broken spring or two.
- You Hear a Loud Noise
This is often one of the first signs that homeowners will experience when their garage door springs are failing or starting to wear out. If you are at home and suddenly hear a loud ‘bang’ or ‘pop’ come from your garage, it is possible that one of your garage door springs is broken.
- The Garage Door is Crooked
You may notice that your garage door is lopsided or crooked if one of the springs breaks. If this is the case, be sure to steer clear of your garage until you can get professional help on-site. A crooked garage door can be dangerous and may even potentially collapse. Keep your loved ones away from the garage door and request a garage door specialist to help you as soon as possible.
- Your Garage Door Refuses to Open Completely
Worn out or broken springs will not be able to support lifting your garage door effectively. You may notice that your garage door will not open at all or cannot open completely if a spring rusted, broken, or beyond repair. Broken springs may be to blame, but it is also possible that the safety sensors may be malfunctioning. Be sure to check for any sensor issues on your garage door before assuming that a broke spring is to blame.
- There are Gaps in the Torsion Springs
The torsion springs in your garage sit right at the top of the garage door in the center. These particular springs will leave a noticeable gap if one of the springs breaks or unwinds. You should call a garage door repair specialist immediately if you notice any gaps in the springs
- Your Garage Door is Suddenly Heavy
Since springs help to support and lift the weight of your garage, you may notice that your garage door is heavier if a spring breaks or wears out. The garage door may be unable to lift itself automatically and you may even struggle to lift it manually due to the added weight.
- There are Loose Cables
Another sign of a broken garage door spring is noticing a loose cable somewhere in your garage. Your garage door springs help keep the garage door cables in place. If you notice a loose cable, it is likely not due to a problem with the cable itself. Rather, it may be that the loose cables are a symptom of a broken spring and not the actual source of the problem.
You Have a Broken Garage Door Spring – Now What?
Unlike some home improvement projects, replacing a broken spring is not a do-it-yourself project, nor is it a procedure that should be attempted by someone inexperienced. Garage door springs repairs and replacements are particularly dangerous and can easily cause serious injury. It is always recommended that you work closely with a garage door specialist if you know or suspect that one of your garage door springs is faulty.
Even if you are confident that you can replace or repair your garage door springs on your own, this is a bad idea. or repairs to be made properly, the right tools and skillsets are needed. Even if you were to make a temporary repair, you may risk hurting yourself or someone else down the line if the garage were to break or collapse.
Do not try to save money or skip corners by attempting a spring repair yourself, especially if you have no prior experience. Spring repairs need to be done correctly to be effective. An amateurish replacement will not suffice. This is one of those repairs where you will need to work closely with an expert to ensure everyone’s safety now and after the spring has been replaced. Work with a Local Expert in Lake Stevens Now!
Garage door spring repairs and other issues are no match for our experts at Lake Stevens Garage Door Repair. For our customers and clients in Lake Stevens, Washington, we offer affordable, fast, and efficient garage door repair and replacement services. We can also help diagnose your garage door problem, offer the right solutions, and do so all at an affordable and fair price. If you want to work with the best garage door repair service in Lake Stevens, contact our experts at Lake Stevens Garage Door Repair today! From the moment you work with our experts, you will know you are in good hands. Give our talented garage door experts a call now!