How to put a spring on a garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked about garage door spring replacement. It’s a common issue, and while some homeowners are tempted to tackle it themselves, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved. Garage door springs are under immense tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. This post will explain the process, but we strongly recommend calling a professional technician like us at MM Garage Door Repair Utah for safe and reliable service.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are the unsung heroes that make lifting and lowering your heavy garage door seem effortless. There are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door opening, while extension springs run along the sides of the door, parallel to the tracks. Both types work by storing energy when the door is closed and releasing it to help lift the door.

Knowing which type of spring you have is essential before attempting any repairs. This guide primarily focuses on torsion springs, as they are more common in newer installations and generally considered more efficient. However, the dangers associated with both types are equally significant.

Safety First A Critical Warning

Before we proceed, let’s reiterate the importance of safety. Garage door springs are incredibly dangerous. The tension they hold can cause severe injury or even death if released improperly. If you are not experienced in working with garage door springs, please do not attempt this repair yourself. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah at 801-418-9217 for professional assistance. Your safety is our top priority.

Tools You’ll Need (If You Insist)

If, after reading the safety warnings, you still choose to proceed, you’ll need the following tools:

• Winding bars (correct size for your springs)
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• Adjustable wrench
• Vice grips
• Ladder
• New garage door spring(s) – Correct size and type are crucial!

Using the wrong tools or incorrect spring size can lead to further damage and potential injury. Make sure you have everything prepared before you begin.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Torsion Springs

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. MM Garage Door Repair Utah is not responsible for any injuries or damages resulting from attempting this repair yourself.

Step 1: Secure the Door

Before you touch anything, ensure the garage door is completely closed. Clamp the door to the tracks using vice grips just above the rollers. This will prevent the door from accidentally opening while you’re working on the springs.

Step 2: Loosen the Old Spring

This is the most dangerous part. Insert one winding bar into the winding cone of the spring. Loosen the set screws on the winding cone. With a firm grip on the winding bar, slowly release the tension by carefully unwinding the spring. Insert the second winding bar as you unwind to maintain control. Repeat this process until the spring is fully unwound.

Important Tip: Count the number of quarter turns it takes to unwind the spring. You’ll need this number later when winding the new spring.

Step 3: Remove the Old Spring

Once the spring is fully unwound, loosen the set screws on the stationary cone (the one attached to the center bracket). Slide the spring off the torsion tube. You may need to loosen the bolts holding the center bracket to make this easier.

Step 4: Install the New Spring

Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (check the spring’s winding direction – left-wound or right-wound). Secure the stationary cone to the center bracket.

Step 5: Wind the New Spring

Insert one winding bar into the winding cone. Using the other winding bar, wind the spring the same number of quarter turns you counted when unwinding the old spring. This is where precision is crucial. Too much or too little tension can affect the door’s balance.

Step 6: Secure the Winding Cone

Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone. Remove the winding bars carefully.

Step 7: Repeat for the Other Spring (If Necessary)

If you have two torsion springs, repeat steps 2-6 for the other spring. It’s generally recommended to replace both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken, to ensure balanced operation and prevent future issues.

Step 8: Test the Door

Remove the vice grips from the tracks. Carefully lift the door halfway and then release it. It should stay in place. If it drifts up or down, you may need to adjust the spring tension slightly. Repeat this test until the door is properly balanced.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Door is too heavy to lift: The spring tension may be too low. Add a few more quarter turns to the spring.

Door slams shut: The spring tension may be too high. Remove a few quarter turns from the spring.

Door is uneven: One spring may have more tension than the other. Adjust the springs until the door is balanced.

FAQs About Garage Door Springs

How long do garage door springs last?

Garage door springs typically last between 5 and 10 years, depending on usage and maintenance.

How do I know if my garage door spring is broken?

Common signs include a loud bang, a visible gap in the spring, or difficulty opening or closing the door.

Can I replace just one garage door spring?

While possible, it’s generally recommended to replace both springs at the same time to ensure balanced operation and prevent future issues.

Final Solution Call the Professionals

As you can see, replacing garage door springs is a complex and potentially dangerous task. While this guide provides a general overview, it’s no substitute for professional expertise. At MM Garage Door Repair Utah, our experienced technicians have the knowledge, tools, and training to safely and efficiently replace your garage door springs. We also offer a comprehensive inspection to identify any other potential issues with your garage door system.

We understand the temptation to save money by doing it yourself, but the risks simply aren’t worth it. Protect yourself and your family by calling the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We offer competitive pricing, fast service, and a commitment to your satisfaction.

Don’t risk injury or further damage to your garage door. Let MM Garage Door Repair Utah handle your spring replacement needs. We’ll get your door working smoothly and safely in no time.

Ready to experience the MM Garage Door Repair Utah difference? Give us a call today at 801-418-9217 for a free quote. Or, visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to learn more about our services. We’re here to help you keep your garage door running smoothly for years to come!