One of the most common causes of a broken garage door is spring breakage. Garage door springs typically last for years, but their longevity depends on a few factors. Find out more about garage door springs, why they break, and how to avoid this issue. Plus, find garage door repair in Denver for broken garage door springs.
Factors of garage door spring damage
Garage door springs are a type of torsion or extension spring. Their primary function is to help lift and close the heavy door of the garage. If your garage door is broken, it’s likely that a damaged spring is the culprit! The most common reasons for broken garage door springs are:
They are too old or at the end of their usage cycle
Depending on how often you use your garage, springs last around 5 years. This is dependent on usage, however, because properly installed springs boast about ten thousand cycles. A single cycle is equal to one opening and closing of the garage door. So, if you’re opening and closing the garage multiple times a day, that puts more wear and tear on the springs over time.
They need more maintenance
Rust buildup is a common issue, and causes excess damage to the springs. Friction from rust grinds down the coil and weakens the spring, as well. Properly applying lubricant to the springs every few months will keep them rust-free and working properly. You can also test the springs to see if they are wearing out. Simply lift the garage door halfway to test the strength of the springs. If the door doesn’t stay put, this is a sign the springs are weakening.
Incorrect springs were installed
A typical garage door has two torsion springs installed. This helps even the distribution of weight while ensuring a smooth transition every time. Occasionally, smaller garage doors can function with a single, long spring. This isn’t often recommended, however, since it causes more wear and tear on the single spring. Incorrect spring size or length immediately shortens the life of the spring and causes garage door failure more often. Seek out garage door repair in Denver to ensure the correct springs are installed.
Sudden temperature changes
Extreme temperature changes cause excess pressure on the springs. This is why garage door failure often occurs during the colder months. The use of high-quality, durable springs is needed to keep garage doors functioning properly during this time. If you experience reoccurring spring issues, consider upgrading to better quality steel springs.
Garage Door Repair in Denver
Ultimately, garage door spring damage or failure is a very common issue. You can help avoid a broken garage door by investing in good quality springs, performing regular maintenance, and replacing springs properly when needed. Testing your garage door strength is also important in recognizing when it’s time to replace or repair springs. Be sure to replace springs before they snap to avoid damage to your door, vehicle, or self.
If you have questions regarding garage door spring replacement, contact Chris’ Garage Doors in Denver.