How to install new garage door springs?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we’re dedicated to providing you with valuable information and reliable services. Today, we’re tackling a common but potentially dangerous task: replacing garage door springs. While we always recommend professional installation for safety reasons, we understand some homeowners prefer to DIY. This guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the process. However, please remember that garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or even death if handled improperly. If you’re at all uncomfortable with any of these steps, please call us at 801-418-9217 for professional assistance.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. They provide the counterbalance that allows you to easily lift and lower your heavy garage door. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door opening, while extension springs are located along the horizontal tracks on either side of the door.

Identifying the type of spring you have is crucial before you begin any work. This guide will primarily focus on replacing torsion springs, as they are the more common type. Extension springs require a slightly different approach, and we recommend seeking professional help for their replacement.

Safety First A Critical Warning

Before we dive into the steps, let’s reiterate the importance of safety. Garage door springs store a tremendous amount of energy. Releasing this energy improperly can lead to severe injuries, including broken bones, lacerations, and even death. Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Never attempt to loosen or remove a spring without the proper tools and knowledge. If you’re unsure about any step, stop and call a professional. We at MM Garage Door Repair Utah are always ready to assist you.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To replace your garage door springs safely and effectively, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

• New garage door springs (correct size and type)
• Winding bars (correct size for your springs)
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Wrench
• Vice grips
• Ladder
• Marker or tape

Make sure you purchase the correct replacement springs. Measure the old springs’ length, wire diameter, and inside diameter. You can also find this information on a sticker on the spring itself. Using the wrong springs can lead to improper door operation and potential safety hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Torsion Springs

Now, let’s walk through the process of replacing torsion springs. Remember to proceed with caution and double-check each step.

1. Secure the Garage Door: Before you begin, ensure the garage door is completely closed. Clamp the door to the tracks using vice grips to prevent it from accidentally opening during the spring replacement process. This is a critical safety measure.
2. Loosen the Set Screws: Locate the set screws on the spring’s winding cone (the cone at the end of the spring). Use a wrench to loosen these screws. Do not remove them completely.
3. Insert the Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into the bottom hole of the winding cone. Hold the bar firmly and insert the second winding bar into the top hole.
4. Unwind the Spring: Carefully unwind the spring by pushing up on the bottom winding bar. Control the spring’s release by alternating between the two winding bars. Count the number of quarter turns you make as you unwind the spring. This number is important for winding the new spring later.
5. Remove the Old Spring: Once the spring is fully unwound, carefully remove the winding bars and slide the spring off the torsion tube.
6. Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (the winding cone should be on the same side as the old spring).
7. Wind the New Spring: Insert both winding bars into the winding cone. Using the same number of quarter turns you counted when unwinding the old spring, wind the new spring.
8. Tighten the Set Screws: Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone securely.
9. Repeat for the Other Spring: If you have two torsion springs, repeat steps 2-8 for the second spring. It’s generally recommended to replace both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. This ensures balanced operation and prevents premature failure of the remaining spring.
10. Remove the Vice Grips: Carefully remove the vice grips from the garage door tracks.
11. Test the Door: Slowly lift the garage door to test its balance. It should move smoothly and stay in place when you release it. If the door is unbalanced, you may need to adjust the spring tension slightly by adding or removing a quarter turn.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful execution, you might encounter some issues during the spring replacement process. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:

• Door is too heavy or too light: Adjust the spring tension by adding or removing quarter turns.
• Springs are making noise: Lubricate the springs with a garage door lubricant.
• Door is not opening or closing smoothly: Check the tracks for obstructions and lubricate the rollers.

FAQs About Garage Door Spring Replacement

Here are some frequently asked questions about garage door spring replacement:

Q: How long do garage door springs last?

A: Garage door springs typically last for 7-12 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

Q: Can I replace just one garage door spring?

A: While it’s possible, we strongly recommend replacing both springs at the same time. This ensures balanced operation and prevents the other spring from failing prematurely.

Q: How much does it cost to replace garage door springs?

A: The cost of garage door spring replacement varies depending on the type of springs, the complexity of the job, and the labor rates in your area. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah for a free estimate.

Final Solution Professional Installation

While this guide provides a detailed overview of how to replace garage door springs, we strongly recommend professional installation. Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. Our experienced technicians at MM Garage Door Repair Utah have the knowledge, tools, and expertise to replace your springs safely and efficiently. We also offer a warranty on our work, giving you peace of mind.

Ready for a Smooth, Safe Garage Door?

Don’t risk your safety or the integrity of your garage door system. Let the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah handle your garage door spring replacement. We offer fast, reliable, and affordable service. Contact us today for a free estimate and experience the difference of professional garage door care. Give us a call at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com. Let’s get your garage door working like new – because a smooth-running door is a happy door!