When Should You Replace Garage Door Springs?

 

Having a garage is ever so convenient! You’ve got a place to keep your car secure and have great storage space. If you’re into repairs and crafts, you probably spend there a lot of time. To some people, their garage is like their own kingdom.

But what if the gates to the kingdom stop guarding it as well as they used to? Most likely, the culprit is easy to detect, and it all comes down to a set of garage door springs. It’s a quiet hero of the whole garage door system, and if this part malfunctions, the best solution is to replace it. This article will give you answers regarding all things related to garage door springs. If you want to learn more, keep on reading!

Types of Garage Door Springs

Let’s start with the basics. Your garage is equipped with one of the following types of garage door spring systems:

  • A torsion spring system uses one or two tightly wired springs, depending on the garage door size. The springs are placed on a steel shaft and run parallel to the door, serving as a counterbalance. It’s an option that’s generally considered to be safe and reliable.
  • An extension spring system is made of two springs that are mounted on either side of the garage door track. When the garage door goes up or down, a mechanism of cables and pulleys extends and contracts them. Experts from A1 Garage point out that while this system is cheaper and easier to install, it’s less reliable and doesn’t last that long.

How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?

Once again, it all comes down to the type of springs. Typically, extension springs have a life expectancy of 4 to 10 years or between 5,000 to 15,000 up-and-down cycles. Torsion springs are more durable, with the expected lifespan of 7 to 14 years or between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles.

Replacement: When and Why?

Now you know how durable each system is. Mechanical parts, such as garage door springs, undergo the wear and tear process, and there’s nothing you can do to stop it. At some point, you’ll have to replace them; otherwise, the excessive tension might be too much, and the springs will break. As a result, the door may come crashing down and seriously injure whoever will be underneath.

There’s a couple of factors that can indicate your garage door springs might be having some issues, and their lifespan might be coming to an end. These include:

  • Imbalanced springs – this one is easier to detect than to correct. Your springs are likely out of balance when you notice your garage door is crooked, closes way too fast, and doesn’t open as smoothly as it used to. What’s more, your garage door may open and close on its own.
  • Excessive noise – if your linear garage door opener starts making a sound while opening or closing doors, chances are the springs are beginning to wear down.
  • Rust – if you see rust on the springs, it’s time to replace them. If you leave them as they are, they could potentially break at any time.

Garage Door Springs Replacement Cost

Again, the cost depends on the type of your garage door springs. Obviously, if you decide to do it by yourself, you’ll have to pay for the springs and any additional tools that can make your task easier. However, it’s a dangerous task, and it would be best if you considered hiring a professional to do it for you.

That being said, a professional replacement cost will vary from $120 for a single extension to $350 for a double torsion. Keep in mind that experts advise replacing both springs, even if only one is broken or damaged. This way is more cost-efficient, and the garage door is more balanced.

How Much Time Will It Take?

Garage door springs have a relatively long lifespan, compared with the time needed for them to be replaced. An expert should be able to do it within 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to replace them on your own, keep in mind it can take you more time, especially if you’ve never done this before, and you’re not familiar with all the tools needed to get the task done.

The Bottom Line

Just like any part of your house, your garage door needs to be properly maintained in order to serve its function. In case you notice any wear and tear, or you suspect that the springs’ lifespan might be nearing an end, consider replacing the springs before they break. If they’re broken already, don’t wait! If you’re not comfortable with doing the repairs yourself, hire a professional. A team of garage door experts will have the experience, skills, and tools to do the job safely.