A garage door is one of the most frequently used entry points in any home or commercial property. However, when a garage door spring breaks, it can pose serious risks to your safety and property. Whether you own a residential garage door or require commercial garage door services, understanding the dangers of a broken spring is crucial.
A garage door spring is responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. When it fails, the door can become extremely heavy and difficult to operate. Worse, a sudden break can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly, leading to potential injuries or property damage.
In this guide, we’ll explore the dangers of a broken garage door spring, the warning signs to look out for, and why you should seek professional garage door repair services immediately.
Why Garage Door Springs Break
Garage door springs are under immense tension every time you open or close the door. Over time, this wear and tear can lead to failure. Here are some common reasons why garage door springs break:
1. Wear and Tear
Most garage door springs have a lifespan of around 10,000 cycles (one cycle being an open and close action). If you use your garage door multiple times a day, the springs can wear out faster than expected.
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your springs, but eventually, they will need replacement. If you notice your door becoming harder to lift, it may be time for a garage door spring repair.
2. Rust and Corrosion
Rust can weaken the metal in your garage door springs, making them more prone to snapping. Moisture and humidity can accelerate this process, especially in areas with extreme weather conditions.
Applying a silicone-based lubricant periodically can help prevent rust buildup and prolong the life of your springs.
3. Poor Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to premature spring failure. A professional inspection from expert garage door technicians can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
The Dangers of a Broken Garage Door Spring
A broken garage door spring is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a serious safety hazard. Here’s why:
1. Sudden Door Collapse
When a garage door spring snaps, the door can come crashing down unexpectedly. This can cause severe injuries to anyone standing nearby and significant damage to vehicles or other property.
If your garage door suddenly slams shut, avoid using it and seek emergency garage door service immediately.
2. Increased Strain on the Garage Door Opener
A broken spring forces the garage door opener to work harder to lift the door. This extra strain can lead to motor burnout, resulting in costly repairs or replacements.
If you notice your opener struggling, stop using the door and contact a professional for an inspection.
3. Risk of Injury
Attempting to manually lift a garage door with a broken spring can be dangerous. The door is significantly heavier without the counterbalance provided by the spring, increasing the risk of muscle strain or injury.
For safety reasons, always rely on professional garage door services to handle spring repairs.
Signs That Your Garage Door Spring Is Failing
Recognizing the early warning signs of a failing garage door spring can help prevent accidents and costly repairs. Here’s what to look for:
1. Loud Bang or Snapping Sound
A sudden loud noise coming from your garage is often the first sign of a broken spring. This sound occurs when the spring snaps under tension.
2. Difficulty Opening the Door
If your garage door feels unusually heavy or won’t open at all, the spring may be broken. Avoid forcing it open, as this can cause further damage.
3. Uneven Door Movement
A garage door that appears lopsided or moves unevenly when opening or closing may have a broken spring. This can put additional stress on other components, leading to further issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Attempt DIY Garage Door Spring Repair
While DIY projects can be tempting, garage door spring repair is not one of them. Here’s why:
1. High Risk of Injury
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. A sudden release of this tension can cause serious injuries, including broken bones or lacerations.
2. Potential for Further Damage
Incorrectly installing a new spring can lead to additional damage to your garage door system. Professional garage door replacement services ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
3. Voiding Manufacturer Warranty
Many garage door manufacturers require professional installation and repairs to maintain warranty coverage. Attempting a DIY repair could void your warranty, leaving you responsible for future repairs.
How to Prevent Garage Door Spring Failure
Preventative maintenance is key to extending the life of your garage door springs. Here are some tips:
1. Schedule Regular Inspections
Having your garage door inspected by expert garage door technicians can help identify potential issues before they become major problems.
2. Lubricate Moving Parts
Applying a high-quality lubricant to your garage door springs can reduce friction and prevent rust buildup.
3. Replace Springs in Pairs
If one spring breaks, the other is likely close to failure as well. Replacing both springs at the same time ensures balanced operation.
Conclusion
A broken garage door spring is a serious issue that should never be ignored. From sudden door collapses to increased strain on your opener, the risks are too great to overlook. If you suspect your garage door spring is failing, don’t wait—contact DMV garage door services for professional repairs.
With expert garage door repair and garage door opener installation services, you can ensure your garage door remains safe and functional.
FAQs
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken?
Signs of a broken spring include a loud snapping noise, difficulty opening the door, and uneven movement. If you notice any of these, seek professional repair immediately.
Can I still use my garage door if the spring is broken?
It’s not recommended. A broken spring makes the door extremely heavy and difficult to operate, increasing the risk of injury or further damage.
How long do garage door springs last?
Most springs last around 10,000 cycles. With regular maintenance, you can extend their lifespan, but they will eventually need replacement.
Can I replace just one garage door spring?
It’s best to replace both springs at the same time to ensure balanced operation and prevent uneven wear.
How much does garage door spring repair cost?
The cost varies based on the type of spring and labor involved. Contact DMV garage door services for a free quote.
