Replacing garage door springs can be a daunting task. However, with a bit of knowledge and the right tools, it’s manageable. This guide will walk you through how to repair garage door springs, what you should be aware of, the estimated cost for garage door spring repair, and how to locate a garage door spring repair near you.
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs play a critical role in lifting and lowering the garage door. They counterbalance the weight of the door, enabling it to open and close smoothly. There are two main types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs.
- Torsion Springs: Torsion springs are mounted on a bar above the garage door. When the door is operated, these springs wind up and generate torque that’s transferred to the door via drums and cables, assisting in its movement.
- Extension Springs: Extension springs extend and contract as the door moves. They are usually found on either side of the garage door track.
Your garage door might be equipped with one or two springs, depending on its design and weight.
Recognizing a Broken Spring
The first step in the journey to repair garage door spring is identifying that a spring has indeed broken. Some common signs include:
- The garage door opens only partially.
- The door closes faster than usual.
- The door appears to be crooked when moving.
- You hear a loud bang, similar to a firecracker or gunshot, from the garage.
- You can see a gap in the torsion spring.
- The garage door opener struggles or fails to open the door.
Safety First!
Before you proceed with the garage door spring repair, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Torsion springs are under immense tension, and mishandling can lead to serious injury. Here are some safety tips:
- Never touch the set screws without first inserting a winding bar of the right size into the winding cone.
- Do not use screwdrivers or any inappropriate tools to unwind or wind the springs.
- Always keep your body parts and clothes away from the springs.
- Do not stand directly in front of the springs.
- Always wear safety glasses and sturdy gloves.
Tools Needed to Repair Garage Door Spring
Gather all the necessary tools before starting the repair. You’ll need:
- Two winding bars of the correct size
- A sturdy ladder
- Adjustable wrench
- Vise grip pliers
- Safety glasses
- Leather gloves.
Avoid using makeshift tools like screwdrivers or pliers, as they can lead to accidents.
Measuring the Springs
Before you can replace the springs, you need to know their size. Measure the length, inside diameter, and wire size of both the old and new springs. It’s essential to ensure that the replacement springs are the correct size for your garage door.
Unwinding the Old Springs
With all the safety measures in place, you can now start the process to repair garage door spring. Begin by unwinding the old springs. Insert a winding bar into the winding cone and slowly unwind the spring. Remember to keep a firm grip on the bar and be prepared for the cone to slip or explode.
Removing the Old Springs
After unwinding the springs, loosen the set screws and slide the springs off the torsion shaft. Be careful not to damage the cones or cables during removal.
Installing the New Springs
Now, you’re ready to install the new springs. Slide the new springs onto the torsion shaft, ensuring they’re correctly positioned. The stationary end (the one with the larger hole) should face the spring anchor bracket.
Winding the New Springs
Once the new springs are in place, you need to wind them. Use your winding bars to wind the springs the required number of turns. Make sure to wind the springs evenly to prevent any imbalance.
Reconnecting the Cables and Testing the Door
After winding the springs, reconnect the cables and test your garage door. It should open and close smoothly without any signs of struggle or imbalance.
Cost for Garage Door Spring Repair
The cost to repair a garage door spring can vary depending on your location, the type of springs, and the labor charges of the technician. On average, homeowners spend between $200 and $300 for a professional to replace two springs.
Finding a Garage Door Spring Repair Near Me
If the process of replacing the springs seems too daunting or dangerous, it’s best to hire a professional. You can easily find garage door spring repair services near you by performing a simple online search using the keywords “garage door spring repair near me”.
Also, consider checking reviews on platforms like Yelp or the Better Business Bureau to ensure you’re choosing a reputable garage door repair service.
Conclusion
Garage door spring repair isn’t a task for everyone. It requires a certain level of mechanical skill and an understanding of the potential dangers involved. However, with the right knowledge, tools, and safety measures, it’s a job that can be accomplished by a determined homeowner.
If you’re not comfortable handling this task, hiring a professional is a wise decision. The cost for garage door spring repair is a small price to pay for the safety and peace of mind it brings.