How to Spot a Broken Garage Door Spring Before It Fails
Your garage door is one of the most frequently used entry points to your home, and its smooth operation depends heavily on the condition of its springs. Garage door springs help carry the weight of the door and make it easy to lift manually or with an opener. When a spring breaks, it can cause serious inconvenience and even pose safety risks.
Fortunately, there are several warning signs that you can keep an eye out for to help you spot an ailing spring before it completely gives out.
1. Unusual Noises
If you start hearing strange noises during operation of your garage door, that is a sign that the springs are weakening. Loud creaking, snapping, or grinding sounds when the door opens or closes indicate that the spring is under stress or beginning to wear out. A sudden loud bang when opening or closing can even mean that a spring has already broken entirely.
2. Door Opens Unevenly or Jerks
Your garage door should move smoothly and evenly. If, instead, your door starts to open unevenly, jerks during movement, or seems to struggle halfway, that’s a strong indicator that the springs are no longer functioning properly. Torsion springs, which are mounted horizontally above the door, and extension springs, located on either side, must work in tandem. If one of them fails, the door’s balance is compromised.
3. Visible Gaps or Damage
A torsion spring should be tightly wound with no visible gaps. If you inspect your springs visually and notice a gap in the coil or signs of rust, wear, or stretching, your spring may be on its last legs. Extension springs should also be intact and free from deformation. Any visible damage is a clear sign that a professional replacement is needed soon.
4. Heavy Door or Manual Operation Issues
If your garage door suddenly feels heavier or is difficult to lift manually, that can mean the spring is losing tension. Springs are designed to counterbalance the weight of the door, so when they weaken or break, the door becomes much harder to lift, even with the help of an automatic opener. Not only is this inconvenient but it can also strain the opener motor, leading to faster burnout and repair bills.
5. Slow or Incomplete Opening
If your garage door opens slowly or won’t open completely, that may be a sign that the springs are weakened or broken. The opener might still work but will struggle to lift the door without the support of the spring. You’ll often notice this sign before complete spring failure.
Don’t Wait Until It Breaks
Garage door spring failure can be sudden and dangerous and you shouldn’t attempt to replace the springs yourself. If you notice any of these signs, you should call a professional technician from Garage One for an inspection. Our experts are trained to safely assess and replace worn-out springs, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely.
Preventative maintenance is your greatest ally. Regular inspections and timely repairs from a professional can save you from costly emergency service and keep your home secure. Contact Garage One today to schedule a spring check-up and keep your garage door in top shape.