Garage door springs are essential for the efficient and smooth operation of your garage door. They bear the entire weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. However, over time, these springs can break, causing inconvenience and potential safety hazards. Understanding why garage door springs fail can help you prevent unexpected issues and prolong their lifespan.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage doors operate with two different types of springs:

• Torsion springs are installed above the garage door and use rotational force to raise the door.
  
• Extension Springs – Located on the sides of the door, these springs stretch and contract as the door moves.

Both types experience heavy strain over time, leading to eventual failure if not properly maintained.

Common Causes of Garage Door Spring Failure

1. Normal Wear and Tear

Garage door springs have a lifespan of 10,000 cycles (one cycle = opening and closing the door). If you use your garage door frequently, these cycles can add up quickly. On average, if you open and close your garage door four times daily, the springs may last about 7 years before breaking.

2. Poor Maintenance & Lack of Lubrication

Performing regular maintenance, like oiling the springs, helps minimize friction and prevents excessive wear. Without lubrication, metal-on-metal contact increases, causing the springs to weaken and snap. A simple routine of applying a garage door lubricant every 3-6 months can extend the lifespan of your springs.

3. Rust and Corrosion

Moisture and humidity cause metal springs to rust, making them brittle and more likely to break. Once corrosion starts, the springs lose their flexibility, increasing the risk of snapping. Using a silicone-based lubricant or an anti-rust spray can help prevent rust buildup.

4. Poor Installation or Low-Quality Springs

Using low-quality springs or improper installation can lead to premature failure. Some manufacturers use cheaper, thinner metal to cut costs, reducing the durability of the springs. Always opt for high-quality, oil-tempered steel springs and ensure professional installation for safety and longevity.

5. Extreme Temperature Changes

Metal expands in heat and contracts in cold weather. In areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, garage door springs experience added stress, weakening over time. Cold weather can make the springs brittle, increasing the chances of breakage. If you live in a harsh climate, consider using weather-resistant springs.

6. Extra Weight on the Garage Door

If you’ve added insulation, new panels, or heavier materials to your garage door, the springs may no longer be strong enough to handle the weight. Overloading them can lead to quicker wear and sudden failure. If you upgrade your garage door, make sure to upgrade your springs as well.

Indications that your garage door springs are failing

Before a spring breaks completely, there are warning signs:

• Loud snapping sounds – A spring that has already snapped will make a loud, gunshot-like noise.
• Garage door opens unevenly – One side may rise higher than the other.
• Difficulty lifting the door manually – If the door feels unusually heavy, the springs may be failing.
• Visible gaps or stretched-out springs – A broken spring will have a visible gap where it has snapped.

How to Prevent Garage Door Spring Breakage

To increase the lifespan of your garage door springs

• Lubricate the springs every 3-6 months to prevent rust and reduce friction.
• Balance the garage door to ensure the springs are not under excessive stress.
• Use high-quality springs and ensure professional installation.

Steps to Take When a Garage Door Spring Breaks

If a spring breaks, follow these steps:

1. Do not attempt to open or close the garage door manually or with an opener. The door can be very heavy and hazardous to move
2. Avoid DIY repairs. Garage door springs are highly tensioned and can lead to serious injuries if not handled properly.
3. Call a professional immediately. They possess the necessary tools and expertise to replace the damaged spring securely.

Conclusion

Garage door springs break due to normal wear, lack of maintenance, rust, poor installation, weather changes, and excessive weight. Consistent maintenance, proper lubrication, and regular inspections can greatly prolong the lifespan of your springs. If a spring breaks, it’s essential to contact a professional, like Sunrise Garage Doors LLC, to ensure safe and proper repair.