Garage doors are an essential part of our homes and play a significant role in securing our properties. They comprise several components, and one of the most critical ones is the garage door springs. These springs are responsible for counterbalancing the door’s weight and making it easy to lift and lower. However, garage door springs can fail, leading to severe consequences. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the role of garage door springs, why they fail, and how to prevent it from happening.
Understanding the Role of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs come in two types: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the garage door and are designed to lift the weight of the door by winding up when the door is closed. Extension springs, on the other hand, are located above the tracks on either side of the door and extend when the door is closed to support its weight.
Both types of springs are essential to the functioning of your garage door. Garage door springs are responsible for offsetting the door’s weight, making it effortless to open and close. They also serve as shock absorbers that protect the door opener from harm.
Why Garage Door Springs Fail:
Like all mechanical components, garage door springs have a limited lifespan. The average lifespan of a garage door spring is between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles, which is equivalent to 7-14 years of daily use. However, factors such as climate, frequency of use, and maintenance can affect their lifespan.
The most common cause of garage door spring failure is wear and tear. As the springs are wound and unwound, they begin to weaken and lose their tension, eventually leading to failure. Additionally, rust, corrosion, and improper installation can also contribute to garage door spring failure.
Preventing Garage Door Spring Failure:
While garage door springs will eventually fail, there are steps you can take to extend their lifespan and prevent premature failure. Here are some tips to follow:
Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your garage door springs for signs of wear and tear, rust, or corrosion. Lubricate them with a silicone-based spray to keep them in good working condition.
Balance the Door: An unbalanced garage door can put extra strain on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Test the balance of your garage door regularly and adjust it as needed.
Hire a Professional: Garage door spring replacement is a dangerous job that requires specialized tools and knowledge. Attempting to replace the springs yourself can lead to serious injury or damage to your property. Hire a professional garage door repair company for any spring repairs.
Conclusion
Garage door springs play a crucial role in the functioning of your garage door. Understanding their role, why they fail, and how to prevent it can save you time, money, and potentially even prevent injury. If you suspect that your garage door springs are failing, contact a professional garage door repair company for a spring inspection and repair. If you’re in Williamsburg and need garage door spring repair services, contact the Integrity Garage Door Repair team.
An avid traveler, James Lee has been to over 50 countries. He has an extensive background in tourism and hospitality management, along with a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. James is very knowledgeable about travel-related topics – they are always up to date on the latest deals for flights, hotels, and other adventures around the world.
