Garage door springs endure significant stress, making regular inspections crucial to avoiding unexpected failures. At 716 Garage Door Repair, we help homeowners maintain their garage doors with expert inspections and repairs. Learning how to spot signs of wear and tear early can prevent inconvenient breakdowns and costly repairs. Here’s what to check when assessing your garage door springs.
Why Garage Door Spring Inspections Matter
Garage door springs play a critical role in the smooth operation of your garage door. These springs counterbalance the door’s weight, allowing it to open and close easily. Over time, they undergo immense pressure, stretching and contracting multiple times a day. Without proper maintenance, worn-out springs can suddenly snap, causing potential injuries or damaging your garage door system. Regular inspections help ensure your door remains safe and functional.
Examine the Springs for Wear
The first step in inspecting your garage door springs is a visual examination. Look for the following signs of wear and damage:
- Rust and Corrosion – Moisture exposure can lead to rust, which weakens the metal over time. If you see rust buildup, it’s a sign that your springs may be deteriorating.
- Gaps in the Coils – Springs should be tightly coiled. If you notice any gaps between the coils, this could indicate that the spring is losing tension and nearing the end of its lifespan.
- Excessive Stretching – If the spring looks elongated compared to its original shape, it’s a sign of fatigue. Springs should maintain their shape even after years of use.
- Broken or Fractured Sections – Any visible cracks or breaks mean the spring is already failing and needs immediate replacement.
Check for Proper Door Balance
A well-functioning garage door should remain balanced when opened manually. To check this:
- Disconnect the automatic opener by pulling the emergency release cord.
- Lift the door manually to the halfway point and let go.
- If the door stays in place, the springs are functioning correctly. If it falls quickly or feels extremely heavy, the springs are likely worn out and need adjustment or replacement.
Watch for Slow or Uneven Movement
When operating your garage door, observe its movement. Signs that the springs might be weakening include:
- Sluggish opening and closing – If your door moves slower than usual, the springs may be losing tension.
- Uneven motion – If one side of the door rises or falls faster than the other, one spring may be wearing out before the other.
- Loud noises – Creaking, squeaking, or grinding sounds could indicate the springs are straining or improperly lubricated.
Warning: Garage Door Springs Are Under Extreme Tension!
Adjusting or replacing garage door springs is extremely dangerous for untrained individuals. The high tension stored in the springs can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities if handled incorrectly.
Imagine loosening a spring without the proper precautions—it could snap violently, sending metal fragments flying across your garage with enough force to cause severe harm or damage property. Improper adjustments may also cause the door to become misaligned, making it unsafe to operate.
For these reasons, it’s always best to leave garage door spring repairs to professionals. Trained technicians have the necessary tools and expertise to handle high-tension components safely and efficiently.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice any of the warning signs above, do not attempt DIY repairs. Instead, contact an experienced garage door repair company to assess the situation and recommend the safest solution.
At 716 Garage Door Repair, we specialize in professional garage door inspections, spring replacements, and overall maintenance. We serve homeowners throughout Buffalo and Western New York, ensuring their garage doors function safely and reliably.
Schedule Your Garage Door Inspection Today
Don’t wait for a broken spring to cause major issues. If you suspect your garage door springs are wearing out, schedule an inspection with 716 Garage Door Repair. Our friendly and experienced team is ready to assist you with fast, reliable service.
Also Read:A Homeowner’s Guide to Inspecting Garage Door Springs
Lois Lane is a professional blogger and a seasoned Content writer for wellhousekeeping.com. With a passion for simplifying complex Home Decor topics, he provides valuable insights to a diverse online audience. With four years of experience, Lois has polished his skills as a professional blogger.
