Garage door springs play a bigger role in daily safety and convenience than many of us realize. They carry the weight of the door and make opening and closing possible with minimal effort. Because of this heavy workload, springs are one of the most common components to wear out. When they fail, it not only creates a major inconvenience but can also pose safety risks. We at Garage Door Repairman want to share practical ways to extend their life and prevent early breakdowns.
Understand How Springs Work
Springs counterbalance the door’s weight so the opener does not carry the full load. They store energy when stretched or wound and release it to lift the door smoothly. When springs weaken, the door becomes harder to operate and puts stress on the opener. Consequently, understanding this simple function helps us see why small habits can make a big difference in longevity.
Our team knows that garage doors can weigh over a hundred pounds. Without the springs, the opener motor alone would fail quickly. Therefore, keeping the springs healthy reduces wear on the entire system and saves us from costly breakdowns later.
Schedule Seasonal Inspections
Every season brings changes in temperature and humidity that affect metal components. Springs contract in cold weather and expand in heat, which can weaken them over time. Regular inspections allow us to catch small issues like surface rust or uneven tension before they turn into emergencies.
We recommend checking for gaps in the spring coils, unusual noises, or uneven door movement. For instance, if one side of the door lifts faster than the other, that is a clear warning sign. Our team at garage door repair Calgary provides full checks to make sure every component works safely.
Keep Springs Properly Lubricated
Friction is one of the main reasons springs break early. When coils grind against each other without lubrication, heat builds up and weakens the metal. That is why applying a light coat of garage door lubricant every few months extends their service life significantly.
We avoid using heavy grease since it collects dust and makes the springs sticky. Instead, a silicone-based spray works best. After applying, we wipe off any excess so it does not drip onto the floor. This small task takes just a few minutes but prevents unnecessary strain on the system.
Maintain Door Balance
A poorly balanced door forces springs to carry uneven weight, causing one to wear out faster than the other. To check balance, we disconnect the opener and lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the balance is good. If it slams down or shoots up, adjustment is needed.
Balancing requires precise tensioning, and it should be done by professionals. Our team has seen many doors with broken springs caused by years of imbalance. By keeping the load even, we reduce stress on the coils and extend their lifespan.
Avoid Overloading the Door
Sometimes we forget that garage doors are not designed to carry extra weight. Attaching hooks, insulation panels, or heavy decorations adds strain to the springs. Over time, the added load forces them to stretch beyond their intended range.
We suggest keeping the door as light as possible. If insulation is necessary for energy efficiency, we choose lightweight materials designed for garage doors. This way, we improve comfort without sacrificing spring durability.
Watch the Opener Settings
Garage door openers apply force to move the door, and if the settings are too high, the springs take unnecessary stress. Incorrect force settings often happen after new installations or power outages that reset the system. We always test the opener after adjustments to make sure it is not straining against the springs.
If the opener keeps working harder than necessary, we notice grinding sounds or jerky door movement. By correcting these issues early, we save both the opener and the springs from premature damage.
Prevent Rust and Corrosion
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of garage door springs. Rust eats away at the coils and makes them brittle. Once corrosion starts, the weakened spots become the first points of breakage. To avoid this, we keep the garage well ventilated and protect the springs with proper lubrication.
For homes in areas with salty air or frequent humidity changes, more frequent maintenance is needed. Even a simple step like wiping springs dry after cleaning the garage can go a long way. Protecting the metal ensures consistent performance for years.
Use the Door Gently
Every time we manually pull the door up or down, the springs absorb the motion. Slamming the door shut or yanking it open puts unnecessary shock on the coils. Over time, these harsh movements shorten the lifespan.
We encourage family members to handle the door smoothly. Teaching children not to hang or swing on the door is equally important. A little mindfulness in daily use prevents damage that no amount of maintenance can fix.
Replace Parts in Pairs
Springs work as a matched set, and replacing only one creates uneven tension. The older spring will fail quickly, leading to repeated repairs. That is why we always recommend replacing both together. This approach ensures balance and prevents additional strain on the opener.
Our team has seen many cases where one new spring was installed and the other failed within weeks. By replacing both, we restore equal strength and reduce the chances of future breakdowns. For safe and effective service, we encourage scheduling a professional garage door spring replacement with experts who understand the correct process.
Monitor Noise and Movement
Springs often give subtle warnings before failing. Squeaking, grinding, or popping sounds mean the coils are under stress. Likewise, if the door jerks or moves unevenly, the springs may be weakening. Paying attention to these signs gives us a chance to fix problems before they become emergencies.
We recommend stopping use immediately if a spring breaks or shows signs of severe wear. Attempting to operate the door can cause injuries or further system damage. Calling for help right away is always the safer choice.
Plan for Professional Maintenance
Even with regular care, springs eventually wear out due to the constant cycles of opening and closing. A professional can measure tension, inspect hidden damage, and adjust settings with the right tools. Our team at Garage Door Repairman provides scheduled tune-ups that keep systems running safely year-round.
For ongoing care and safety, reaching out through garage door service experts in Calgary ensures that every component, including the springs, is checked thoroughly. This proactive approach saves us time and money in the long run while maintaining peace of mind.
FAQs
How long do garage door springs usually last?
Most springs last between seven and ten years depending on use. Doors that open multiple times a day may need new springs sooner.
Can I replace garage door springs myself?
It is not recommended because springs hold high tension. Replacing them without proper training and tools can be dangerous.
What signs show that springs are wearing out?
Common signs include squeaking, uneven door movement, or difficulty lifting the door. If you see gaps in the coils, they may be near failure.
Should springs be lubricated often?
Yes, lubrication should be applied every few months to reduce friction. This helps the coils move smoothly and prevents early breakage.
Why do both springs need replacing at once?
Springs work in pairs to balance the door. If only one is replaced, the older spring may break soon after, leading to further repairs.