Repairing a broken garage door spring is a task that can be quite challenging and potentially dangerous. It requires attention to detail, a strict adherence to safety precautions, and the right tools. Below, I will guide you through the step-by-step process of fixing a broken garage door spring.
Safety First
Before attempting any repair, safety must be your top priority.
- Wear protective gear: Safety goggles and gloves are essential.
- Secure the door: Use C-clamps or locking pliers to secure the door from opening.
- Unplug the opener: If you have an automatic opener, disconnect it to prevent accidental activation.
Identifying the Spring Type
Garage doors typically use one of two types of springs:
- Torsion springs, which are mounted above the closed garage door.
- Extension springs, located above the upper tracks on both sides.
Knowing which type you have is crucial because the repair processes differ.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Winding bars
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket set
- C-clamps or locking pliers
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Detailed Repair Process
For Torsion Springs:
- Secure the Door: Keep the garage door closed and secure it with C-clamps on the track.
- Unwind the Spring: Insert a winding bar into the winding cone and slowly unwind the spring.
- Detach the Spring: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the set screws and detach the spring from the center bracket.
- Remove the Spring: Slide the spring off the bar after removing any necessary hardware.
- Replace the Spring: Slide the new spring in place, secure it, and wind it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
For Extension Springs:
- Secure the Door: Keep the garage door open and secure it with C-clamps under the bottom rollers.
- Disconnect the Spring: Disconnect the spring from the track bracket and the pulley.
- Replace the Spring: Attach the new spring to the pulley and track bracket.
- Adjust the Tension: Adjust the tension as needed by pulling on the lift cable.
Repair Table Overview
| Step | Torsion Spring | Extension Spring |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Secure Door Closed with C-clamps | Secure Door Open with C-clamps |
| 2 | Unwind the Spring | Disconnect Spring from Track Bracket |
| 3 | Detach Spring from Center Bracket | Attach New Spring to Pulley |
| 4 | Remove Spring from Bar | Attach Spring to Track Bracket |
| 5 | Replace with New Spring and Wind | Adjust Tension on Lift Cable |
Why Choose Us
Choosing us means opting for a team that understands the complexity and risks associated with garage door spring repairs. Our technicians are certified and experienced, ensuring that each job is performed safely and efficiently. We offer:
- Quick response time
- Professional-grade parts and tools
- A commitment to safety and quality
- Comprehensive service warranties
Service Areas
We proudly serve a broad range of locations, including:
- Edmonton
- Beaumont
- Sherwood Park
- St. Albert
- Spruce Grove
- And more…
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken?
The door may not open, or you might see a visible gap in the torsion spring. An extension spring may hang down.
Can I replace my garage door spring myself?
It’s possible, but not recommended unless you have the right tools and experience. The tension in the springs can be dangerous.
How long do garage door springs last?
Typically, springs have a lifespan of 10,000 cycles. With average use, this usually amounts to 7-9 years.
Is it better to replace both garage door springs?
Yes, because springs tend to wear out at the same rate. Replacing both ensures balanced operation and prevents future issues.
Conclusion
Repairing a garage door spring requires precision and care. Whether you’re facing an issue with torsion or extension springs, following the correct procedures can mean the difference between a smooth operation and a potential hazard. If you’re uncomfortable performing these repairs or lack the necessary tools, contact us. Our team at Legion Garage Doors specializes in garage door spring replacement and offers comprehensive services across a wide area. Don’t let a broken spring disrupt your day—reach out to us for professional and reliable assistance.
