Garage Door Spring

Garage door springs allow your garage door to run smoothly and efficiently. Without these components, lifting a heavy garage door manually would be nearly impossible. Understanding the function, types, and common issues with garage door springs can help you maintain your garage door system and know when to seek professional help.

 

What is a Garage Door Spring?

Garage door springs are essential parts of your garage door’s opening and closing system. These springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easier for the opener—or a person—to lift and lower the door safely. Springs store mechanical energy when wound or stretched and release that energy to perform their task.

Types of Garage Door Springs

When discussing garage door springs, it’s important to note the two primary types:

1. Torsion Springs 
   Torsion springs are located above the garage door and twist to generate energy. These springs typically have a longer lifespan and are more durable than extension springs. The number of torsion springs needed depends on the size and weight of your garage door.
2. Extension Springs 
   Extension springs run parallel to the tracks on either side of the garage door and stretch to open and close the door. They are generally more affordable but may require additional safety cables to prevent accidents in case of a spring failure.

Understanding the different types of garage door springs can help you make informed decisions about maintenance and replacement.

How Garage Door Springs Work?

Garage door springs work by balancing the force needed to lift the door. When you or your automatic garage door opener lifts the door, the springs apply tension to counteract the door's weight. Torsion springs, in particular, store energy through coiled tension and release it as the door moves. Extension springs, on the other hand, stretch and contract to generate the necessary force.

The importance of garage door springs cannot be understated; without them, even the most robust garage door openers would struggle to operate.

Common Issues with Garage Door Springs

Like any mechanical component, garage door springs are prone to wear and tear. Here are some common problems:

• Spring Breakage: One of the most frequent issues is a broken spring. Most springs are rated for a certain number of cycles, and once they reach that limit, they can snap, rendering your garage door inoperable.
• Rust and Corrosion: Rust buildup can shorten the lifespan of garage door springs. Applying a lubricant can help minimize wear from corrosion.
• Spring Misalignment: Springs can sometimes become misaligned, affecting the door’s balance and smooth operation.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, springs naturally wear down. Signs of aging include visible gaps in torsion springs or a garage door that won’t stay up when lifted.

Regular maintenance and timely spring replacement can prevent these common issues from becoming hazardous.

Why Do Garage Doors Need Springs?

You may wonder, why do garage doors need springs in the first place? Simply put, springs offset the door's weight, making it possible to open and close the door with minimal effort. Garage doors can weigh anywhere from 150 to 300 pounds, depending on the material. Springs are engineered to bear this weight, ensuring your garage door opens smoothly and remains in place when lifted.

Without springs, the garage door opener would likely burn out quickly due to the strain, and lifting the door manually would be hazardous and cumbersome. If you’re considering a home warranty that covers essential components like garage door springs, Liberty Home Guard can provide tailored protection to meet your needs.