Garage doors are a necessity because they secure one of the many entry points in homes. They remain functional in part because of the springs attached to them. But while the springs are important, they are also the most common malfunctioning components of garage doors. The doors may not close completely due to damaged springs.

There are two main types of garage door springs. One type operates the doors through extension. Extension springs are placed above the horizontal track of the door. The second type is the torsion spring. Even though the first type is a more popular choice, it is because they are cheaper. That doesn’t necessarily mean they are also a better choice. A garage door that has extension springs is easier to force open.

Unlike the first kind, torsion springs are less likely to break and difficult to interfere with. They attach to the wall above a garage door. That is also why they are able to handle much weightier garage doors than extension springs.

Garage door spring problems

Both types of springs do wear out due to daily – or frequent — use. If you keep using them even after that, they will break. Replacement of a broken spring will depend on the type of the spring. Extension springs are cheaper to replace than torsion ones. A broken spring is useless and can make your home vulnerable to break-ins. Why wait until that time is close?

Experts say that few indications can signal that malfunction of a garage door’s springs. By checking for these signs, you may be able to prevent breakage and get the door fixed before time:

• Springs usually require little to no maintenance, except for frequent lubrication. If you hear a squeak when you operate your garage door, it is a sign that its springs need some lubricant. Any excessive noise that wasn’t there before signals a problem with the springs. In such a case, you may either have to replace them or repair the springs. You may need a professional opinion to decide which.
• Is your garage door taking longer and longer to close or open properly? In such situations, the springs may be out of balance. Balance issues usually arise when a new spring is installed with an older one. We will discuss this problem below.
• The reason why extension springs cannot handle heavier doors is that they don’t have safety cables. You may want to ask in a professional to come and install them. The cables are another level of protection for the people who use the garage doors regularly. Unsupported doors can fall and hurt someone!

Cost of spring replacement

The cost of Frisco Garage Door Repair may depend on several factors. The condition of both your garage door springs and your garage are two determinants of the price. Other factors include the type of springs – extension or torsion–, the type of garage door, and even the company performing the job.

The firm you hire to replace the springs must be reputable. If they charge outrageous prices, you may want to reconsider working with them. We’d suggest calling up several companies, comparing the prices they quote to you and then hiring someone. Remember to hire only a professional, or you could be calling them back for a job not well done!

There could even be other issues that only a skilled technician will recognize.

Factors that matter when buying springs

One question that homeowners have during replacement is whether they should only remove one spring or both. You may not know this, but the springs mounted on a garage door are in pairs. One of them can see more wear and tear, making it break down earlier. If you plan to get only that spring taken out, think again! Since it is likely both were installed at the same time; the other one is probably close to breaking point as well.

Moreover, forcing a new spring to work with the old one is a recipe for disaster. They might not be compatible. You’d end up spending the same amount when you have to call in the repair company for the second one!

The life expectancy of a garage door spring

Three things determine how long your garage door springs will last. Typically, extension springs break earlier than the torsion type. So, the type of spring will matter. Another thing is that each spring has its life expectancy on its packaging. The duration is in the form of cycles – a cycle means one complete opening and closing instance of a garage door. Thirdly, the frequency of use that the springs see will also determine their life expectancy in part.

Clearly, your garage door requires the expertise of trained and qualified technicians. Whether you want to replace the springs on the door replaced or repaired, it is better that you let the experts handle it!

Author Bio:

About Michelle Joe: Michelle Joe is a blogger by choice. She loves to discover the world around her. She likes to share her discoveries, experiences, and express herself through her blogs. You can find her on twitter: @michellejoe524