Garage Door Spring Replacement
A garage door spring replacement is one of the most common repairs needed for any garage. The springs are under constant tension and help lift the heavy garage door easily. However, springs do wear out over time and can snap suddenly when they exceed their lifespan.
Replacing broken or worn out garage door springs is crucial for restoring proper operation of your garage door. Damaged springs can prevent the door from opening or closing properly. In some cases, they can even cause the door to fall rapidly, potentially causing severe injury or property damage.
While a new garage door spring might seem like a straightforward fix, it’s highly recommended to hire a professional for the repair. The springs are under immense tension and require special tools and expertise to remove and install safely.
Give the garage door pros at West Coast Garage Doors a call, for fast, professional, worry-free service.
Types of Garage Door Springs
The first step in any spring replacement project is to identify the type of spring system installed on your garage door. There are two main types of springs used:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are the most common type of garage door springs. They are mounted on a metal rod that runs parallel to the top of the garage door.
- Torsion springs lift the door by twisting and creating tension as the door closes. When opening, the stored energy unwinds and assists in lifting the door.
- They are typically rated by their inside diameter and length. Common sizes range from 1.75 to 2.5 inches in diameter.
- Torsion spring systems usually have one or two springs attached to the torsion rod. Depending on the size and weight of your garage door, the springs will vary in length from 12 to 28 inches.
Extension Springs
Extension springs run vertically alongside the tracks that guide your garage door.
- They lift the door by stretching and contracting as the door moves along the tracks.
- Extension springs are rated by pounds of lift, typically from 50 to 350 pounds.
- The springs come in pairs, one on each side of the door to provide equal lifting force.
- They are between 16 and 26 inches long when fully contracted.
Signs You Need New Garage Door Springs
Some clear indicators that your springs need replacing include:
- The garage door is difficult to lift manually. With broken springs, you’ll notice much more effort needed to open it.
- The door doesn’t open or close fully. Damaged springs prevent the door from moving through its full range of motion.
- There are unusual noises when operating the door. Look out for sounds like grinding, squeaking, or loud bangs.
- The door closes too quickly or forcefully. Be wary if the door slams down rapidly instead of closing smoothly.
- There are gaps or uneven sagging along the edges. This indicates the door is not balanced properly due to spring issues.
- There are broken coils or rust on the springs. Visually inspect the springs for cracks, fraying, or excessive corrosion.
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s advisable to contact a professional garage door technician to inspect and replace the springs. Never attempt repairs on your own without proper training. Call us, West Coast Garage Doors, for any problems you may be having with your garage doors.
Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost
The cost to replace garage door springs can range from $150 to $400 on average. Here are some of the factors that influence the overall price:
- Spring type – Torsion springs tend to be more expensive than extension springs due to more complex installation.
- Spring size – The larger the springs, the higher the cost to purchase replacements.
- Single or double springs – If there are two springs per side, replacing both will nearly double material costs.
- Labor fees – At $60-$100 per hour, specialized labor significantly impacts the total expense.
- Level of damage – Extensive repairs due to rust, coils breaking, or tracks misalignment will increase overall costs.
- Time of day – Emergency repairs or off-hours service calls usually carry an extra fee.
- Location – Pricing can vary by region due to labor costs and local markups.
While a DIY garage door spring replacement can save on labor fees, there are risks involved if not done properly. It’s recommended to get an estimate from at least 3 professional garage door companies to find competitive pricing.
Tools Needed for Garage Door Spring Replacement
If you decide to tackle spring replacement yourself, make sure you have these essential tools:
- Safety glasses and work gloves – For eye protection and handling sharp spring coils.
- Ladder – For accessing high-mounted garage door springs. Use kickout extenders to prevent tipping.
- Tape measure – To double check the correct replacement spring length.
- C-clamps – To secure the torsion spring rod and prevent spinning while replacing springs.
- Winding bars – Long, sturdy metal rods inserted into winding cone holes used to wind and unwind springs.
- Drill with assortment of bits – For loosening and tightening hardware.
- Adjustable wrench and socket set – For removing old springs and fastening new ones.
- Needle nose pliers – Helpful for prying cotter pins and manipulating small hardware in tight areas.
- Duct tape – Can temporarily hold wound springs in place on winding bars.
- WD-40 lubricant – For loosening any corroded parts before disassembly.
Do not attempt this repair without proper training and the right tools. Broken springs can recoil with dangerous amounts of force. Leave it to the professionals.
How to Replace Garage Door Torsion Springs
Follow these steps to replace torsion springs yourself:
1. Measure and Purchase Replacement Springs
- Measure the length and inside diameter of your current torsion springs.
- Purchase new springs based on these measurements.
- Be sure to buy left-winding and right-winding springs. Double check this by examining which direction your old springs are wound.
- It’s ideal to replace both springs as a pair for balanced lifting force.
2. Prepare Work Area
- Park vehicles and remove obstructions to provide clear access.
- Lock the garage door in the down position using vise grips on the track.
- Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental operation.
3. Remove Old Springs
- Identify the winding cone: this is where the winding bars will insert.
- Mark the direction the spring coil is wound on the winding cone with chalk or tape.
- Secure winding bars into the cones to prevent them from spinning.
- Loosen the set screws at the opposite ends of the torsion rod.
- Unwind the old springs completely using the winding bars. Caution – never unwind old springs fully without winding bars inserted.
- Remove the old springs and clean the torsion rod with WD-40.
4. Install New Springs
- Slide on the new springs, making sure they match the wind direction marked previously.
- Tighten down the set screws on the torsion rod to hold them in place.
- Secure the winding bars and begin winding the new springs. Be extremely careful during the winding process. Wound springs are under strong tension.
- Wind according to the number of turns specified by the spring manufacturer. This info should come with the new springs.
- Test the door balance. Lift manually and adjust spring tension if needed.
- Lubricate the springs with WD-40 once installed and before using the door.
5. Re-assemble and Test
- Remove any clamps or pliers used to secure components during the job.
- Plug the garage door opener back in and conduct safety sensor tests.
- Open and close the door manually first to check smooth operation.
- Run several full door cycles and watch for any unusual sounds or behaviors.
How to Replace Garage Door Extension Springs
Follow these instructions to replace extension springs on your garage door:
1. Disconnect Garage Door Opener
Unplug the garage door opener to avoid accidental activation during the repair project.
2. Remove Old Springs
- Use a ladder to access the old extension springs above the horizontal tracks. Exercise extreme caution when handling them.
- stabilized with safety cables, disconnect these before proceeding.
- Use C-clamps or vise grips to hold the door tracks completely stable and stationary.
- Loosen and remove the bolts at either end of the spring.
- Detach the pulley if present.
- Slowly release the tension on the old springs. Pay close attention in case there is still residual tension.
- Remove the old extension springs. Also replace the spring mount if corroded or damaged.
3. Install New Springs
- Position the new extension springs on the tracks. Make sure the spring ends rest properly on the mounting plates.
- Reconnect pulleys if needed.
- Insert mounting bolts but leave them slightly loose initially.
- Attach safety cables to the springs for an added precaution.
- Tighten bolts at either end to secure the springs. Do this slowly and alternately to ensure equal tension.
4. Test Balance and Function
- Carefully unclamp track and test door operation. Lift manually; the door should move smoothly and easily.
- If the door lifts or drops on its own, the spring tension likely needs adjustment.
- Plug the garage door opener back in only after verifying proper manual operation.
- Open and close the door fully several times with the opener to confirm all systems are go.
FAQs About Replacing Garage Door Springs
Get answers to some common questions about garage door spring replacement projects:
Are garage door springs hard to replace?
Garage door springs are extremely difficult and hazardous to replace without proper training and tools. The extreme tension makes them prone to causing serious injury if handled incorrectly.
How long do garage door springs last?
On average, residential garage door springs last 7-10 years or 10,000-20,000 life cycles before needing replacement. High traffic, weathering, and lack of maintenance can shorten lifespan.
Should I replace both garage door springs or just one?
It’s always recommended to replace old springs in pairs to ensure balanced lifting force. Replacing just one can put additional strain on the remaining spring.
Can I replace garage door springs myself?
It is possible to replace springs yourself, but comes with substantial risk if proper precautions aren’t taken Using winding bars and securing components properly takes experience.
What happens if a garage door spring breaks?
When a spring breaks suddenly, the door can rapidly drop, causing damage to vehicles, belongings, and people underneath. Do not operate a garage door with broken springs.
How much does it cost to replace garage door springs?
On average, expect to pay $180-$350 in total for new garage door springs and professional installation. This can vary based on location, size of the door, and type of springs.
Conclusion
Replacing worn out or broken garage door springs is necessary to restore proper operation and safety. However, it presents severe danger if not done correctly. The powerful tension in the springs can cause serious injury if they recoil suddenly when being removed or reinstalled.
It’s highly advised to have a trained garage door technician handle the spring replacement. And you can’t go wrong by calling us, West Coast Garage Doors! We have the expertise, tools, and preparation for this hazardous repair. Understanding the costs and processes involved can help you make an informed decision when garage door springs need replacement.