Have you ever had that sinking feeling when you press the garage door opener, and nothing happens? Or worse, when your garage door starts to close and then suddenly slams shut? It’s enough to send shivers down your spine! So, what’s the root cause of all this trouble? It’s a small but mighty part sitting just out of your direct line of sight.
Today, we’re going to tackle a topic that often goes unnoticed but is crucial for the proper functioning of your garage door: the springs. That’s right; these discrete springs play a significant role in the smooth operation of your garage door. So, how do you know if your garage door springs need to be replaced ASAP? We’re here to shed some light on the matter and help you identify the signs that indicate it’s time for a spring replacement.
Loud Noise When Opening or Closing the Door
If you hear an unusually loud noise when your garage door opens and closes, it could be a sign that your garage door spring is broken. This can happen to either type of garage door spring: the garage door torsion spring or the extension spring. The noise results from the sudden release of tension when the spring breaks, so it’s essential to contact a garage door repair company immediately to avoid further damage.
The Door Feels Heavy
Does your door feel heavy when you try to open or close it manually? This might be a sign that your garage door springs need to be replaced. Both torsion springs and extension springs help to counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. If you notice your door feeling heavier than usual, it’s likely that one or both springs have lost tension and need to be replaced.
The Door Closes Too Fast
A garage door that closes too fast is not only dangerous but also a clear indication that there’s a spring problem. When functioning correctly, the springs on either side of the door work together to control the speed at which the door closes. If one of the springs is broken or damaged, the door can close too quickly, posing a safety risk to you and your family. Don’t ignore this sign — call a garage door spring repair expert right away.
The Door Doesn’t Open or Close Completely
If your garage door struggles to open or close completely, it could be due to a broken torsion spring or extension spring. When one of these springs fails, the garage door opener may not have enough power to lift the door fully or lower it all the way. In such cases, it’s essential to contact a garage door services provider for a spring replacement before the problem worsens.
Visible Damage to the Springs
Sometimes, you can see visible signs that your garage door spring is broken. For instance, you might notice gaps in the coils of the torsion springs, or the extension springs may appear stretched out. If you spot any damage, don’t attempt to fix it yourself — garage door springs are under immense tension, and handling them without proper training can be dangerous. Instead, call a professional to handle the spring replacement safely.
An Unbalanced Door
An unbalanced garage door is another sign that your garage door springs need to be replaced. When the springs on either side of the door become worn or damaged, they can no longer provide the necessary support to keep the door balanced. As a result, the door may appear crooked or sagging. If you notice your door looking unbalanced, it’s time to call a garage door spring repair specialist.
Leave Your Spring Replacement to the Experts
Don’t wait for your garage door to slam shut or any other frightening scenario to occur before addressing a spring problem. Be proactive and look for the signs that it’s time to replace your garage door springs.
If you suspect that your garage door spring is broken or needs to be replaced, don’t hesitate to contact On Trac Garage Door Company. We provide top-notch garage door spring replacement services in Southern California and are always ready to help you keep your garage door in tip-top shape. Contact us today to book a service!