Garage door springs may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your garage door, but they play a crucial role in its operation. These springs are responsible for carrying the weight of the garage door as it opens and closes, and they help to keep it balanced and properly aligned. Understanding how garage door springs work and why they matter is essential for maintaining a safe and functional garage door.
Why Garage Door Springs Matter
Garage door springs are an integral component of your garage door system. They are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the garage door so that it can be lifted and lowered easily. Without garage door springs, the opener would need to support the entire weight of the door, making it much more difficult to operate and potentially leading to damage or failure of the opener. Additionally, garage door springs help to keep the door properly aligned, preventing it from binding or becoming misaligned.
The Risks of Malfunctioning Garage Door Springs
When garage door springs fail or malfunction, they can pose serious risks to people and property. A broken spring can cause the garage door to become unbalanced and difficult to operate, and can even cause the door to fall unexpectedly. This can result in property damage, as well as injuries to anyone in the vicinity of the door.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door, while extension springs are mounted vertically on either side of the door.
Torsion springs are considered to be more durable and longer-lasting than extension springs. They are designed to wind and unwind as the garage door is opened and closed, using the force of the winding to counterbalance the weight of the door. Torsion springs are generally safer than extension springs, as they are less likely to break and cause the door to fall.
Extension springs, on the other hand, are less expensive than torsion springs and are often used in lighter-weight garage doors. They work by stretching and contracting as the door is opened and closed, and are typically mounted above the horizontal tracks of the garage door.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are made up of a tightly wound metal wire that is mounted on a shaft above the garage door. When the door is closed, the springs are wound tightly, storing potential energy in the form of torque. As the door is opened, the springs unwind, releasing the stored energy and using it to lift the weight of the door.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are made up of tightly coiled metal wires that stretch and contract as the garage door is opened and closed. They are typically mounted above the horizontal tracks of the door, and are connected to a pulley and cable system that helps to lift and lower the door.
Signs of Garage Door Spring Malfunction
There are several signs that your garage door springs may be malfunctioning, including:
- The door is difficult to open or close
- The door is misaligned or appears crooked
- The door opens or closes unevenly
- There is a visible gap between the spring and the shaft
- The spring appears to be stretched or has gaps in the coils
- The door makes unusual or loud noises when opening or closing
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your garage door springs inspected and repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage or injury.
Garage Door Spring Maintenance
Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity and safe operation of your garage door springs.
Lubricate the springs and other moving parts of the garage door system, such as the tracks and hinges, on a regular basis to reduce friction and prevent rust or corrosion.
Avoid putting too much strain on the garage door system by opening and closing the door gently and avoiding overloading it.
Have a professional garage door technician inspect and maintain your garage door system at least once a year. Attempting to repair or replace garage door springs on your own can be extremely dangerous and should not be attempted unless you have the proper training and equipment.
Bonus Read
Garage door springs are a critical component of your garage door system, and proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring their safe and reliable operation. If you suspect that your garage door springs may be malfunctioning, it is important to have them inspected and repaired by a trained professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage or injury. By understanding the importance of garage door springs and how they work, you can help to ensure the safe and efficient operation of your garage door system for years to come.
