How to Fix a Garage Door Spring: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t give much thought to your garage door until it stops working. One of the most common garage door problems is a broken spring, which can be a serious safety hazard if not addressed promptly. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to fix a garage door spring, step-by-step.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are the component that is responsible for lifting and lowering your garage door. They work by creating tension and storing energy when the door is closed, and then releasing that energy to lift the door when it’s opened. There are two types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Types of Garage Door Springs

Torsion springs are the most common type of garage door spring. They are mounted horizontally above the garage door and work by twisting and untwisting as the door is opened and closed. Extension springs, on the other hand, are mounted vertically on either side of the door and work by stretching and contracting.

Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring

There are several signs that your garage door spring may be broken or in need of repair, including:

• The door won’t open or close
• The door opens only a few inches before stopping
• You hear a loud noise when the door opens or closes
• The spring is visibly broken or damaged

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue promptly to avoid further damage or injury.

Precautions and Safety Tips

Fixing a garage door spring can be dangerous, so it’s important to take proper precautions to ensure your safety. Before you begin, be sure to:

• Disable the automatic opener
• Wear eye protection and gloves
• Use a sturdy ladder
• Keep children and pets away from the area

Tools You Will Need

To fix a garage door spring, you’ll need a few basic tools, including:

• Winding bars
• Socket wrench
• Vice grips
• Adjustable wrench
• C-clamps

How to Fix a Torsion Spring

Fixing a torsion spring can be challenging, but with the right tools and instructions, it’s possible to do it yourself. Here’s how:

Step 1: Release the Tension

The first step is to release the tension on the old spring. This can be done by using winding bars to loosen the set screws on the winding cone.

Step 2: Remove the Old Spring

Once the tension is released, you can remove the old spring and its center bracket. Be sure to keep a firm grip on the winding bars to prevent the spring from snapping back.

Step 3: Install the New Spring

Next, install the new spring and center bracket. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, as the process may vary depending on the type of spring you’re working with.

Step 4: Wind the New Spring

Finally, wind the new spring using the winding bars. Be sure to wind it in the correct direction and to tighten the set screws on the winding cone.

How to Fix an Extension Spring

Fixing an extension spring is a bit easier than fixing a torsion spring, but it still requires some basic tools and knowledge. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open the Door Completely

The first step is to open the garage door completely, which will relieve the tension on the old spring.

Step 2: Remove the Old Spring

Once the tension is relieved, you can remove the old spring and its safety cable. Be sure to keep a firm grip on the spring to prevent it from snapping back.

Step 3: Install the New Spring

Next, install the new spring and safety cable. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Step 4: Adjust the Tension

Finally, adjust the tension on the new spring using the adjustment rod. Be sure to test the door several times to ensure that it’s opening and closing smoothly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When fixing a garage door spring, there are several common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid, including:

• Not releasing the tension on the old spring before removing it
• Installing the new spring incorrectly
• Using the wrong tools
• Failing to follow the manufacturer’s instructions

To avoid these mistakes, be sure to take your time and follow the instructions carefully.

Conclusion

Fixing a garage door spring may seem intimidating, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s possible to do it yourself. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively fix your garage door spring and get your door working properly again.