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Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Springs

Putting grease on the garage door spring.

Maximizing the Lifespan of Your Garage Door Springs

September 27, 2024

Your garage door springs are like the unsung heroes of your home, quietly lifting and lowering that heavy door without a fuss. But here’s the deal—these springs have a shelf life. They typically last around 10,000 cycles, which translates to about 13 years if you’re opening and closing your door twice a day. 

However, if your garage door sees more action, those springs could wear out sooner. So, what can you do to make sure they last as long as possible? Let’s dive into some tips that’ll keep those springs in top shape.

What Garage Door Springs Actually Do

Garage door springs aren’t exactly glamorous, but they’re doing the heavy lifting—literally. Without them, you’d be stuck trying to lift that door by yourself. Not fun, right?

Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension. Sounds technical, but here’s the simple scoop:

  • Torsion Springs: These are mounted right above your garage door. When the door moves, these springs twist and coil, storing energy that helps lift the door smoothly.
  • Extension Springs: These run along the sides of your door. They stretch out when the door is down and snap back into place when it goes up, helping with the door’s movement.

Both types are essential for making sure your garage door opens and closes without a hitch.

Drilling the panel.

What Affects the Life of Your Garage Door Springs?

Even though garage door springs are pretty durable, a few things can either shorten or extend their lifespan. Let’s talk about what you can control.

1. How Often You Use Your Door

This one’s straightforward: The more you use your garage door, the quicker the springs wear out. If your garage is your main entryway, those springs are getting a workout every day.

2. Weather Woes

Weather can be tough on garage door springs. Cold temperatures can make them brittle, while extreme heat can weaken the metal. If you live somewhere with wild weather swings, your springs are taking the brunt of it.

3. A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way

Giving your garage door springs some regular love—like lubrication—can keep them in good shape. It’s a small task that can help them last longer by reducing friction and preventing rust.

4. Quality Counts

Not all springs are created equal. Higher-quality springs might cost a bit more upfront, but they tend to last longer and work better. It’s like buying a pair of sturdy boots—they just hold up better over time.

Easy Tips to Make Your Springs Last Longer

You don’t need to be a garage door guru to keep those springs working well. Here are some simple steps you can take to help them last as long as possible.

1. Keep an Eye on Them

Once a month, take a quick look at your garage door springs. You’re just checking for anything obvious—rust, gaps in the coils, or anything that looks off. If something doesn’t seem right, it’s better to call in a pro sooner rather than later.

2. Lubricate, Lubricate, Lubricate

A little garage door lubricant can go a long way. Spray the springs, rollers, and tracks to keep everything moving smoothly. Less friction means less wear and tear, which is exactly what you want.

3. Make Sure Your Door Is Balanced

If your garage door isn’t balanced, it’s putting extra strain on the springs. You can check this by disconnecting the opener and lifting the door halfway. If it stays in place, you’re good. If not, it’s time to get that balance sorted out.

4. Leave Repairs to the Pros

Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, and trying to fix them yourself can be risky. If something goes wrong, it’s safer and smarter to let a professional handle it.

Garage door spring within its best condition.

Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Some TLC

Even with the best care, garage door springs will eventually wear out. Here are some signs that it might be time to give them some attention.

1. The Door Moves Slower Than Usual

If your garage door seems to be taking its sweet time, the springs might be losing their tension. They’re like a rubber band that’s been stretched too many times—it just doesn’t snap back like it used to.

2. Noisy Door? Not a Good Sign

Garage doors make noise, sure, but if yours starts making weird sounds—like grinding, squeaking, or popping—it could be a sign that the springs are struggling.

3. Door Won’t Stay Open

If your garage door starts sliding down after you’ve opened it, the springs might not be able to hold the weight anymore. This is a clear sign that they’re wearing out.

4. Visible Damage

If you see rust, gaps in the coils, or a sagging spring, it’s time to think about getting them replaced. Don’t wait until they snap—address the issue before it turns into a bigger problem.

When to Call in the Experts

If you notice any of these signs or if you’re just not sure about the state of your springs, it’s time to call in a professional. They can make sure everything’s in good shape and take care of any necessary repairs or replacements.

The Perks of Professional Maintenance

Bringing in a pro to check out your garage door springs has its benefits. They can spot issues before they become major problems, saving you time, money, and frustration. Plus, they can recommend the best springs for your setup, helping you get the most out of your garage door.

Locking the garage door spring.

Conclusion

Garage door springs might not be top of mind, but they’re doing a lot of heavy lifting behind the scenes. By keeping an eye on them and doing a little maintenance, you can help them last as long as possible.

And when it’s time for a replacement, working with experts like Right Choice Doors makes sure the job gets done right, keeping your garage door running smoothly and saving you from unnecessary headaches. Follow us on Facebook for useful content like this.

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