How Do I Know If My Garage Door Spring Needs to Be Replaced?
The most common way to know if your garage door spring is broken is if your door suddenly feels extremely heavy or the opener refuses to lift it more than a few inches. You may also hear a loud "bang" from the garage, even if you aren't using the door at the time. Door Master Clinic recommends checking for a visible gap in the coils of the spring located above your door. If you see a break or hear the door struggling, the spring has likely reached the end of its life and needs professional replacement.
Signs Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken
Before you try to force the door open, look for these common warning signs. If you notice any of these, stop using the door immediately to prevent further damage.
- A Visible Gap in the Spring: Most garage doors use torsion springs. When they break, they snap in two, leaving a 1-to-2-inch gap between the coils.
- The Door "Heavy" Feel: Your garage door can weigh over 200 pounds. The springs do the heavy lifting. If the springs are broken, the door will feel nearly impossible to lift by hand.
- A Loud Bang in the Garage: Springs are under a lot of tension. When they snap, they release that energy all at once, creating a noise like a loud pop or a heavy object falling.
- Cables Are Loose or Hanging: When a spring breaks, the tension on the cables is lost. You might see the steel cables dangling or tangled around the side of the door.
- The Door Opens Crookedly: If you have two springs and only one breaks, the door may start to lift on one side but get stuck or tilt on the other.
Why You Should Never Fix a Spring Yourself
Garage door springs are under an incredible amount of pressure. At Door Master Clinic, we have seen the results of DIY repair attempts gone wrong.
- High-Tension Danger: The tools and force required to wind a spring can cause serious injury if they slip.
- Proper Sizing: Not all springs are the same. We calculate the exact weight and height of your door to ensure the new spring is the perfect match.
- Specialized Tools: We use professional winding bars and safety gear designed specifically for this task.
Can I still use my garage door opener if the spring is broken?
We strongly recommend that you do not. Your garage door opener is designed to move the door, but the springs do the actual lifting. Trying to use the opener with a broken spring can burn out the motor.
Should I replace both springs if only one is broken?
Yes. If one has snapped, the other one is likely very close to breaking as well. Replacing both ensures your door stays balanced and saves you from a second service call.
How long do garage door springs usually last?
Most standard springs last between 7 and 10 years. Factors like Florida humidity and how often you use your door can change this timeline.
Fast, Safe Spring Replacement for Your Home
A broken garage door spring is a major inconvenience and a safety risk. Don’t leave your car stuck in the garage or your home unsecured. Door Master Clinic offers fast, professional spring replacement to get your door back in balance.
