Need to change garage door springs? Don’t panic; our DIY guide will help you do it right and stay safe doing it!
If a spring breaks, your garage door may not open or close right. If you follow safety steps and take your time, you can fix it yourself. With just a few tools and some careful work, you can save money and avoid waiting for help. Always stay safe, follow each step, and check your work.
Start by checking if you have torsion or extension springs. Use simple tools like clamps and safety glasses. Slowly release the tension, remove the old spring, and install the new one. This guide demonstrates how to change garage door springs safely. Call a garage door repair professional if you’re unsure.
What Are Garage Door Springs and How Do They Work?
Before learning how to change garage door springs, it is essential to determine the type of spring your garage door uses. There are two main types:
1. Torsion Springs
Torsion springs sit horizontally above the garage door. When the door opens, these springs unwind to help lift the door. They hold a lot of tension and can be risky to handle without the proper tools or training. Always be careful around torsion springs.
2. Extension Springs
Extension springs are found on both sides of the garage door. They stretch to build force that helps raise the door. While they are somewhat easier to change than torsion springs, they are still hazardous if mishandled. Proper care is always important.
Safety Tips Before You Change Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, which can range from 100 to 400 pounds. A sudden release of tension can lead to severe injuries or property damage. Follow these safety measures before attempting a replacement:
1. Wear Protective Gear
Put on safety glasses and gloves before working on a garage door. Glasses protect your eyes from dust or metal particles. Gloves protect your hands from sharp parts or strong springs. Wearing the right gear helps you stay safe while working on the garage door.
2. Disconnect the Opener
Unplug the garage door opener before starting any work. This keeps the door from moving if someone presses the remote by mistake. Turning off the power makes sure the door won’t open or close suddenly while you are fixing or checking garage door parts.
3. Use the Right Tools
Ensure you have the proper tools before you start. Use winding bars for torsion springs, strong vice grips to hold parts, and a steady ladder to reach higher spots. Using the wrong tools can be dangerous and may damage the garage door system.
4. Work with a Partner
Never work on a garage door alone. Ask someone to help you. A partner can hold the ladder, hand you tools, or help keep an eye on safety. Two people can do the job more safely and fix problems faster than one person working alone.
Steps on How to Change Garage Door Springs
Learning how to change garage door springs can be risky, so safety is key. Follow the right steps to avoid injury or damage during the process.
1. Gather the Necessary Tools
You’ll need:
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Adjustable wrench
- Vice grips or locking pliers
- Socket set
- New springs (correct size and type)
- C-clamps
2. Release Tension from the Old Spring
For Torsion Springs:
- Insert winding bars into the winding cone.
- Slowly unwind the spring (usually 1/4 turns at a time) until all tension is released.
- Loosen the set screws and remove the spring from the center bracket.
For Extension Springs:
- Open the door fully and secure it with C-clamps.
- Unhook the safety cable and carefully detach the spring from the pulley system.
3. Remove the Old Springs
Once tension is released, unbolt the springs from their mounting points. Take note of how they were installed; this will help when installing the new ones.
4. Install the New Springs
For Torsion Springs:
- Place the new spring on the torsion tube and tighten it with set screws.
- Use winding bars to wind the spring to the required number of turns (varies by door weight).
- Test the door balance; it should stay in place when lifted halfway.
For Extension Springs:
- Connect the new springs to the pulleys and put the safety cables back in place.
- Slowly release the C-clamps and check the door’s operation.
5. Test the Garage Door
Once you replace the springs, lift the garage door by hand to check if it moves smoothly. It should open and close without trouble. Then, reconnect the opener and press the remote. If the door feels heavy or uneven, adjust the spring tension carefully.
When to Call a Pro to Change Garage Door Springs
While many homeowners can handle this project, some situations require professional help, especially if they don’t know how to change garage door springs safely.
1. Uncomfortable with Tension
Garage door springs hold a lot of tension and can break if not handled properly. If you feel nervous or unsure, don’t try to fix them yourself. It’s safer to call a trained technician. A tiny mistake can lead to injury or damage to your garage door.
2. Door Still Unbalanced
When you replace springs or cables, the door should move smoothly and stay halfway open if balanced. If it still feels heavy or uneven, there may be another issue. It’s a good idea to call a garage door repair expert to check and fix it.
3. Heavy Commercial Door
Commercial garage doors are much heavier and more complex to repair than residential doors. They need strong springs and special tools. If you have a big or heavy door like this, it’s safer to let a trained professional handle the repair for you.
Maintenance Tips After You Change Garage Door Springs
To extend the life of your new springs:
1. Lubricate Springs
Lubricating your garage door springs every six months keeps them working smoothly. Use a silicone-based spray to reduce friction and stop squeaky sounds. This also helps prevent rust and wear. Regular maintenance like this extends the life of your garage door and keeps it running quietly.
2. Check for Damage
Take time once a year to check your garage door springs. Look for signs like rust, cracks, or loose coils. These can cause problems if ignored. Finding damage early helps avoid bigger repairs. If anything looks wrong, contact a garage door repair expert for help.
3. Balance the Door
A balanced garage door is easier to open and safer to use. If your door feels too heavy or doesn’t stay halfway open, it may be off balance. An unbalanced door puts stress on the springs, so keeping it level helps your whole system last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change a garage door spring myself?
You can try to change a garage door spring yourself, but it’s not safe. These springs hold a lot of pressure and can cause serious injury. It’s smarter to call a garage door repair expert who knows how to replace garage door springs correctly.
How do you determine the correct tension for a garage door spring?
To know the right tension for a garage door spring, you need to know your door’s weight. Too much or too little pressure can cause damage or pose a danger. It’s best to follow a guide or get help from someone who replaces garage door springs.
How often should garage door springs be changed?
You should change garage door springs every 7 to 9 years. If you use your door many times each day, it may break sooner. Replacing garage door springs on time keeps your door working right and helps avoid surprise problems later.
How do I know if my garage door springs need to be replaced?
If your garage door feels heavy, moves unevenly, or won’t stay open, the springs may be bad. You may also hear a loud pop when they break. These signs mean it’s time to replace garage door springs before they cause more trouble.
How to Find the Correct Spring for a Garage Door?
To find the right spring for a garage door, check the length, thickness, and type of your old spring. It must match your door’s size and weight. Getting the right spring helps your garage door work safely and makes the replacement go smoothly.
Conclusion
Changing your garage door springs by yourself might feel tough at first, but this guide makes the job easier. It explains every step clearly, so you can work safely and avoid problems. Take your time, follow each step, and use the right tools for the best results.
Learning how to change garage door springs can save you money and time. But always put safety first. If anything feels unsafe or confusing, stop and get help from a professional. Fixing it the right way will help your garage door last longer and work better every day.
If you’re not sure what to do, EDM Garage Doors is here to help. Our team offers fast, reliable service you can count on. Call us at (847) 416-3036 to schedule a repair. We’ll ensure your garage door operates safely and smoothly.
End Note
If you’re looking for trusted garage door services, visit EDM Garage Doors to explore the full range of services we offer. Learn more about our team on the About Us page and see real project results in our Gallery. We proudly serve Vernon Hills. For more details, please visit our Vernon Hills page.
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