How to replace broken spring on garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your local garage door experts, we’re dedicated to providing you with the information you need to keep your garage door functioning safely and efficiently. Today, we’re tackling a common, yet potentially dangerous, issue: replacing a broken garage door spring. While we always recommend professional service, we understand some homeowners are inclined to tackle this themselves. This guide will provide you with the information you need, but please proceed with extreme caution. Remember, your safety is paramount. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsure, please don’t hesitate to call us at 801-418-9217. We’re here to help!

How to Identify a Broken Garage Door Spring

Before you even think about replacing a spring, you need to be sure that’s actually the problem. Here are a few telltale signs:

• The door slams shut: This is perhaps the most obvious sign. A broken spring can no longer counterbalance the weight of the door, causing it to crash down.
• The door is difficult to lift: If you have a manual garage door, you’ll notice it’s significantly heavier than usual.
• Visible gap in the spring: Inspect the springs (located above the door). A broken spring will have a noticeable separation.
• The garage door opener struggles: Your opener might strain or fail to lift the door at all.
• A loud bang: Often, the sound of a spring breaking is quite loud and startling.

If you observe any of these signs, it’s highly likely you have a broken spring.

Safety First A Critical Warning

Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or even death if mishandled. This is not an exaggeration. If you are not comfortable working with high-tension components, please, for your own safety, contact a professional garage door technician. We at MM Garage Door Repair Utah are always ready to assist. Before attempting any repairs, disconnect the garage door opener from the power source. This prevents accidental operation during the repair process. Wear safety glasses and gloves at all times. Do not attempt to replace a spring without the proper tools.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

If you’re determined to proceed, you’ll need the following:

• New Garage Door Springs: These must be the correct size and type for your door. Measure the old springs (length, wire diameter, and inside diameter) before ordering. We can help you determine the correct springs if you call us.
• Winding Bars: These are essential for safely winding and unwinding the springs.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Gloves: Protect your hands.
• Wrench: For loosening and tightening bolts.
• Vice Grips: To secure the torsion tube.
• Ladder: To reach the springs.
• Marker: To mark the spring position.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Torsion Springs

Note: This guide focuses on torsion springs, which are located above the garage door. Extension springs (located on the sides) require a different procedure. If you have extension springs, please call us for assistance.

Step 1: Secure the Door

Use vice grips clamped to the track just below the rollers to prevent the door from moving while you are working. This is crucial for safety.

Step 2: Loosen the Set Screws

Locate the set screws on the winding cone of the broken spring. Use a wrench to loosen them. Do not remove them completely.

Step 3: Insert Winding Bars and Unwind the Spring

Insert one winding bar into a hole in the winding cone. Use the bar to carefully unwind the spring a quarter turn at a time. Insert the second winding bar into the next hole to hold the spring in place as you remove the first bar. Repeat this process until the spring is completely unwound. This is the most dangerous part of the process, so proceed slowly and cautiously.

Step 4: Remove the Old Spring

Once the spring is fully unwound, loosen the set screws on the stationary cone (the cone attached to the center bracket). Slide the spring off the torsion tube.

Step 5: 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). Secure the stationary cone to the center bracket.

Step 6: Wind the New Spring

This is the reverse of unwinding. Insert a winding bar into the winding cone and begin winding the spring. The number of turns required depends on the height of your door (typically around 30-36 quarter turns for a standard 7-foot door). Consult a professional if you are unsure of the correct number of turns. As you wind, use the second winding bar to hold the spring in place.

Step 7: Tighten the Set Screws

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

Step 8: Repeat for the Other Spring (If Necessary)

If you have two springs, repeat the process 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 failures.

Step 9: Lubricate the Springs

Apply a garage door lubricant to the springs to reduce friction and extend their lifespan.

Step 10: Test the Door

Remove the vice grips from the track. Manually lift the door to ensure it moves smoothly and stays in place at various points. Reconnect the garage door opener and test its operation.

Troubleshooting Tips

Door is still heavy: You may not have wound the spring enough. Add a few more quarter turns, but be careful not to overwind.

Door slams shut: The spring is likely overwound. Release a few quarter turns.

Door is uneven: The springs may not be wound equally. Adjust the winding on each spring until the door is balanced.

FAQs

How long do garage door springs last?

Garage door springs typically last for 7-10 years, or around 10,000 cycles (opening and closing). However, this can vary depending on usage and maintenance.

Should I replace both springs at the same time?

Yes, it’s highly recommended. If one spring breaks, the other is likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing both ensures balanced operation and prevents future breakdowns.

How much does it cost to have a professional replace garage door springs?

The cost varies depending on the type of springs and the labor involved. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah for a free estimate.

Final Solution

Replacing a broken garage door spring is a complex and potentially dangerous task. While this guide provides a detailed overview of the process, it’s crucial to prioritize your safety. If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, or if you lack the necessary tools and experience, please don’t hesitate to contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah. Our experienced technicians can quickly and safely replace your springs, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and reliably.

Safety Note: Always exercise extreme caution when working with garage door springs. Disconnect the power to the opener before starting any repairs. Wear safety glasses and gloves. If you are unsure about any step, call a professional.

Don’t let a broken garage door spring disrupt your day! For fast, reliable, and safe garage door spring replacement, contact the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We’re here to provide you with peace of mind and ensure your garage door is functioning perfectly. Give us a call today at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com for a free quote. Let us spring into action for you!