Garage doors are an important part of the home. They provide security and can enhance the aesthetic of a property. That being said, they come with their own set of problems that should be addressed quickly and correctly in order to ensure their longevity. One such problem is the upkeep and continued function of the many different garage door parts, most especially, the garage door torsion springs.
Essential Garage Door Parts: The Torsion Spring
Torsion springs are crucial for keeping a garage door operational and safe, but they can easily become damaged or worn out over time. In this article, we will discuss what torsion springs are, why they’re important, and how you can tell when they need to be replaced.
What are Garage Door Torsion Springs?
Different types of garage doors have different types of garage door springs. Garage door torsion springs are one of the most common, and most important components of your garage door. These springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of your garage door so that it can be opened and closed with ease. Without the torsion spring, your garage door would be very difficult to operate.
Wound & Unwound Torsion Spring
There are two types of torsion springs: wound and unwound. Wound springs are tightly coiled and have more torque, making them ideal for heavier doors. Unwound springs are less tightly coiled and have less torque, making them better suited for lighter doors.
Check your Garage Door Springs Regularly
It is important to check your garage door springs for wear and tear often. If you notice any damage, it is important to replace the garage door spring immediately as they can break suddenly and cause serious injury.
How to keep your torsion springs working well
If your garage door is equipped with torsion springs, it’s important to know how to keep them in good working order. Here are some tips:
- Check the balance of your door. If the door is unbalanced, the torsion springs will have to work harder and could wear out prematurely.
- Lubricate the springs regularly with a spray of light oil. This will help keep them running smoothly.
- Inspect the springs periodically for signs of wear or damage, and replace them if necessary. Call a professional garage door repair company like 716 Garage Door Repair for peace of mind that the broken spring is installed properly.
Following these simple tips will help ensure that your torsion springs last for many years to come, and will help you know when to replace them before any catastrophic garage door damage occurs.
Common Garage Door Problems
If your garage door isn’t opening or closing properly, it may be due to a problem with the torsion springs. Torsion springs are responsible for supporting the weight of the garage door and counterbalancing the garage door as it opens and closes. Over time, torsion springs can become worn out or damaged, which can cause them to break. If one of your torsion springs breaks, it’s important a professional replaces it as soon as possible.
Other Garage Door Parts That Need Regular Maintenance
There are several garage door parts that need regular maintenance in order to keep your garage door operating properly. The hinges and tracks can become corroded, bent or damaged over time, and the cable drums and garage door openers can also suffer from wear and tear. Panels can become cracked or dented from impact or ice, and an extension spring can break due to wear, inclement weather or rust. Cables can also become frayed or broken.
When to call a professional
If your garage door isn’t opening or closing properly, or if the torsion springs are damaged, it’s time to call a professional. Many people don’t realize just how heavy their garage door actually is. When the torsion springs break, the force of a free-falling door can cause serious injury to people, a car or other objects in the path of the door.
That’s why it’s important to contact a professional garage door repair company. Not only will they be able to diagnose the garage door problem, determine the best course of action, and make the necessary repairs or replacements but they know how to make the repairs safely.
Call 716 Garage Door Repair Today
If you are like most home owners, you rarely think about your garage door. But you can save money by scheduling a garage door inspection and regular garage door maintenance to extend the life of your garage door parts and identify worn out parts before they fail and cause much bigger, and costly, problems.
Daily Stress on Your Garage Door Springs
Residential garage doors get daily use. The non-stop door open and door close function puts miles of wear on the track, cable, and spring. Over time you need to be replacing those parts. If you’re not sure when your garage door was last serviced, we can help you. Our certified garage door technicians will arrive at your home with a fully stocked service truck that contains a wide assortment of the most common high quality springs including both torsion springs, extension springs along with a slew of other parts.
Fair Prices for Top Brands
We offer fair prices for the industries leading garage door brands. We have the largest selection of hardware on hand and the expertise to install, replace or upgrade and individual component or your entire system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Door Springs
How do I know what torsion spring I need for my garage door?
If your garage door is in need of a new spring, you may be wondering how to go about finding the right one. There are a few things you’ll need to take into account in order to make sure you get the right spring for your door.
First, you’ll need to know the size of your garage door. This will determine the size of the spring you need. You’ll also need to know the weight of your door, as this will impact the tension of the spring.
Once you have these measurements, you can begin to look for a torsion spring that will fit your needs. You can find springs at most hardware stores, or online if you prefer. Just make sure to double check the specifications before making your purchase.
Installing a new spring can be a bit tricky, so it’s always best to consult with a professional if possible. They’ll be able to help you select the right spring and install it properly, ensuring that your garage door is back in working order in no time.
How much does it cost to replace the torsion spring on a garage door?
It typically costs between $200 and $500 to replace a torsion spring on a garage door. The exact cost will depend on the size and weight of the door, as well as the type, and number of springs that need to be exchanged. The springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the garage door, so it is important to make sure that they are in good working condition. If you notice that your garage door is not opening or closing as smoothly as it should, it may be time to replace the springs.
How long do torsion springs last?
Torsion garage door springs are one of the most important parts of your garage door. They provide the counterbalance that allows your door to open and close smoothly. These springs typically last between 10,000 and 15,000 cycles, which is about five to nine years for the average homeowner.
However, if you use your garage door frequently or if it’s particularly heavy, your springs may not last as long. If you have high-quality springs, and they get proper lubrication and servicing you may be able to get closer to nine or ten years of use before they need to be changed out. Since there are so many factors that go into determining the lifespan of your torsion springs, it’s always best to keep an eye on your springs and have newones installed as soon as they start showing signs of wear.
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