Garage Door Spring Maintenance: Easy Ways to Avoid Costly Repairs
You probably don’t think much about your garage door springs, but they play a crucial role in keeping your garage door working smoothly. Without them, your garage door would be too heavy to lift, leaving you with an unusable space. Due to all that work, garage door springs are prone to wear and tear. The sooner you can diagnose and fix these problems, the less money you spend on them.
But don’t worry, maintaining your garage door springs doesn’t have to be a headache! We’ll share some easy and practical tips to keep your garage door springs in top shape. If you follow our tips, you’ll not only save yourself money but also avoid the inconvenience of a malfunctioning garage door. Let’s get into it!
What Are Garage Door Springs?
Garage door springs might not be the most glamorous component of your garage door system, but they’re certainly essential! These springs provide the tension needed to lift and lower your garage door, ensuring it operates smoothly and safely.
There are two main types of garage door springs:
- torsion springs; and
- extension springs
Torsion springs are the more common type and are mounted horizontally above the garage door. They work by twisting and exerting torque to lift the door. On the other hand, extension springs are typically found on smaller garage doors and are mounted vertically on either side of the door tracks. They work by stretching and contracting to lift the door.
While garage door springs might seem simple enough, they are actually under a great deal of tension and can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. That’s why it’s important to leave any repairs or replacements to a professional garage door technician with the knowledge and experience to handle these components safely. So, the next time you open and close your garage door, take a moment to appreciate the work that those garage door springs are doing behind the scenes!
Signs of Wear and Tear
How do you know when your garage door springs are starting to show signs of wear and tear? Keep an eye out for the following:
1. Noisy Garage Door
If your garage door suddenly becomes louder than usual, it could be a sign that your springs are starting to wear out. As the springs begin to age, they can start to creak, groan, or make other unusual sounds.
2. Uneven Opening or Closing
You may notice that one side of the door is moving faster than the other, or that the door is jerking or stopping abruptly. Faulty springs are to blame for this.
3. Difficulty in Opening or Closing
If you’re having to use more muscle to open or close your garage door, it’s a good indication that your springs are starting to wear out. This can make the door feel heavy or unresponsive, making it harder to use.
4. Cracks or Rust Spots on the Springs
If you see any visible signs of wear and tear on your garage door springs, such as cracks, rust, or fraying, it’s time to get them replaced. These issues can weaken the springs and make them more likely to break, which can lead to costly repairs or even injury.
DIY Garage Door Spring Maintenance Tips
Your garage door springs work hard to keep your door opening and closing smoothly, so it’s essential to keep them in good condition. While some maintenance tasks require the expertise of a professional, there are a few things you can do yourself to help prolong the lifespan of your garage door springs and avoid costly repairs.
1. Keep an Eye on Your Springs
Regularly inspect your garage door springs for signs of wear and tear such as those we’ve mentioned. If you notice any, it’s best to call in a professional to replace the springs.
2. Lubricate Your Springs
A little bit of lubrication can go a long way in keeping your garage door springs functioning smoothly. Use a silicone-based lubricant to lightly coat the springs and reduce friction, but be careful not to use too much.
3. Check the Balance of Your Door
An unbalanced garage door can put extra strain on your springs, causing them to wear out more quickly. Disconnect your opener and try opening and closing the door manually to check for balance issues. If you notice any difficulty, it may be time to adjust the door.
4. Test the Safety Features of Your Door Opener
Make sure your garage door opener’s safety features are functioning correctly by regularly testing them. These features can help prevent injury and damage to your property.
5. Keep the Tracks and Rollers Clean
Dirt and debris can accumulate on your garage door’s tracks and rollers, putting extra strain on your springs. Keep them clean by using a soft brush or cloth to wipe away any buildup.
With these tips, you can extend the lifespan of your springs and avoid costly repairs. However, always keep in mind that your safety should be your top priority, so don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you’re unsure about performing any maintenance tasks yourself.
Professional Garage Door Spring Maintenance
Here are some reasons why professional garage door spring maintenance is worth the investment:
1. Thorough Inspection
A professional technician can conduct a comprehensive inspection of your garage door springs, detecting any signs of wear and tear, corrosion, or damage. They can identify potential issues before they turn into significant problems, recommending the best course of action to ensure that your garage door operates smoothly.
2. Top-quality replacement parts
If your garage door springs require replacement, a professional technician can use high-quality replacement parts that are built to last. They have access to a wide range of parts and materials that may not be available to the average homeowner, ensuring that your garage door is fixed with the best possible components.
3. Time and cost savings
Although DIY repairs might seem like a cost-effective solution, a professional technician can save you time and money in the long run. They can swiftly diagnose problems and perform repairs efficiently, avoiding costly mistakes that can arise from amateur repairs.
4. Safety
Garage door springs are under high tension and pose a risk of injury if not handled properly. A professional technician has the training and tools to perform repairs safely, minimizing the risk of injury to you and your family.
Get Professional Garage Door Spring Maintenance in Berlin, NJ
Your garage door is more than just a way to enter and exit your home – it’s an essential aspect of your daily routine. That’s why we at Dave Moseley The Door Guy take a comprehensive approach to garage door service, offering not just repairs but also preventative maintenance, safety checks, and customized solutions to suit your unique needs.
We’re committed to excellence in every aspect of our work. We’re highly-trained and certified technicians, and we go above and beyond to ensure that you receive the best service possible.
We also understand that time is valuable. That’s why we offer flexible scheduling options and rapid response times to ensure that your garage door is back up and running as quickly as possible. And with our competitive pricing and transparent communication, you can trust that you’re getting the best value for your money.
So why settle for anything less than exceptional garage door service? Call us today to experience the difference in quality and professionalism. We’re confident that you won’t find a more dedicated and passionate team anywhere else!
