A broken garage door spring is not just an inconvenience; it’s a safety hazard. This article will guide you through the steps to repair a broken garage door spring like a pro.
What You’ll Need:
- New garage door spring (matching the type and size of the broken one)
- C-clamps or locking pliers
- Adjustable wrench
- 2 winding bars (never use screwdrivers or other substitutes)
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
Steps To Repair A Broken Garage Door Spring:
- Ensure Safety First: Before starting, disconnect the garage door opener. This will ensure the door doesn’t activate while you’re working. Always wear safety goggles and gloves.
- Secure the Door: Place C-clamps or locking pliers on the track just below the bottom door roller. This will keep the door secured in place.
- Identify the Spring: Garage doors either have extension springs (alongside the overhead track) or torsion springs (above the door). Make sure you have the correct replacement.
- Unwind Old Torsion Spring:
- Insert a winding bar into the bottom hole of the winding cone (part of the torsion spring).
- Hold the bar and loosen the screws on the cone.
- Insert the second winding bar into the next hole. With both bars in place, turn the bottom bar counterclockwise to unwind the spring.
- Repeat this process until the spring is fully unwound.
- Remove The Spring: Use the adjustable wrench to remove the nuts and bolts that secure the stationary spring cones to the bracket. Remove the spring and cable.
- Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube. Make sure the winding cone’s side faces the end bracket. Reconnect the cable and stationary cone.
- Wind the New Spring:
- Push the winding bar into the winding cone and wind the spring.
- Turn the bar quarter turns at a time, jumping from one winding hole to another.
- Once wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone.
- Test the Door: After everything is secured, remove the clamps or pliers, reconnect the garage door opener, and test the door.
Note: If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, always seek professional help.
Our Expert Company Can Help
- Experienced Technicians: Our team is highly trained to handle all garage door repairs.
- Quick Turnaround: We value your time and ensure speedy service.
- Affordable Pricing: Quality service doesn’t have to break the bank with us.
- 24/7 Support: Our 24/7 repair service ensures help whenever you need.
Service Areas: Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township, Robinson, and more!
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often should I replace my garage door springs?
Typically, garage door springs have a lifespan of 7-9 years with regular usage. However, frequent usage might require replacement sooner.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
While it’s possible to replace a spring yourself, it can be dangerous without the right tools and knowledge. We recommend reading our safety article before deciding.
What are the signs of a broken garage door spring?
A loud bang, a door that’s hard to lift, or a door that doesn’t open fully often indicates a broken spring. Additionally, a visual check might show a spring that’s visibly separated.
Are there different types of garage door springs?
Yes, there are two main types: torsion springs (above the door) and extension springs (alongside the overhead track). Ensure you replace with the right type. Learn more about them here.
In Conclusion
A broken garage door spring can be a hassle, but with the right tools and steps, it can be fixed. Ensure you prioritize safety and get the correct replacement spring. For any queries or professional help, contact us. Our team is always ready to assist.
