Garage door springs are an essential component of any type of garage door, and it’s important to understand how they work in order to keep your garage door functioning properly. In this article, we’ll walk you through the basics how garage door springs work.
What is a Garage Door Spring?
A garage door spring is a metal tension spring that helps lift and lower heavy garage doors. The springs are usually mounted on the top section of the garage door and are connected to a metal cable that runs through a pulley system. The tension created by the spring and cable helps to lift and lower the garage door.
Types of Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.
- Torsion springs, situated above the garage door on a metal shaft, store energy when the door closes, making it easy to lift. When you open the door, these springs unwind, helping to lift it.
- Extension springs, located on both sides of the garage door opening, store energy when the door shuts, making it easy to lift. They contract and assist in lifting the door when you open it.
The Importance of a Garage Door Spring
Garage door springs are important for several reasons. They provide the necessary tension and balance to lift and lower the garage door, making it much easier to open and close. Additionally, they help to keep the door in place and prevent it from sagging or coming off its track. Garage door springs serve a dual purpose. They not only make it easier to open and close the door while reducing noise but also play a critical role in safety and security.
These springs help keep the door properly aligned, preventing any unexpected openings and enhancing the overall security of your garage. So, they’re not just about convenience; they contribute significantly to the smooth and safe operation of your garage door.
How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?
A garage door spring is a crucial part of your garage door system. It’s a strong coil of metal located above the door, and it’s always under tension when the door is closed. This tension helps counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to lift when you want to open it. When you press that garage door opener, the spring releases its tension, which lifts the door smoothly.
Think of it like a giant rubber band that’s super tough. It’s designed to last a long time, enduring thousands of door cycles – that’s the number of times you open and close the door. Without this spring, lifting the door would be a real struggle. So, it’s a small but mighty component that keeps your garage door working safely and efficiently.
When Do You Need to Have a Spring Replaced?
There are clear signs that your garage door spring needs replacing. If your door is hard to open or seems lopsided when closed, the spring may be stretched or damaged. Noisy operation might mean a loose or damaged spring. Also, if the door visibly sags or droops, it’s a sign the spring can’t support its weight anymore. Replacing a worn-out spring is essential to keep your garage door working smoothly and safely.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have a professional garage door repair technician take a look. My Garage Door Repairman in Dallas, TX, can help with such a service need. We have experienced technicians that can properly diagnose and repair your garage door spring.
The Risks Associated with Using a Broken Spring
There are several risks associated with using a garage door that has a broken or worn spring. One of the most significant risks is that the door may become unstable and could potentially fall or come off its tracks. This can cause serious injury or damage to property.
Another risk is that the garage door may become difficult to open or close, which can make it difficult to access the garage or to get your vehicle in or out.
Additionally, a garage door with a broken or worn spring may not be able to fully close, which can be a security risk as it can leave your garage and the contents inside it exposed to potential intruders.
Conclusion
It is important to get any issues with your garage door spring repaired as soon as possible to avoid these risks and to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your garage door.