Your garage door works hard every day, opening and closing smoothly to allow you in and out of your home. But have you ever wondered what makes it so easy to lift, despite its weight? The answer lies in the garage door springs. These powerful parts help balance the door’s weight, making it easier to open and close. When they break or wear out, you can face serious problems. If you live in East Tennessee and need help, experts in garage doors Knoxville TN are ready to provide safe and reliable spring repairs. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything homeowners need to know about garage door spring repair.
What Are Garage Door Springs?
Garage door springs are essential components that make lifting a heavy garage door possible. There are two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door, while extension springs are found on either side of the door tracks. Both types store energy when the door is closed and release it when the door is opened. This helps counterbalance the door's weight and allows it to move smoothly with just a little force. Without working springs, your garage door could feel impossible to lift manually, and your opener would struggle or even fail to function.
Why Garage Door Springs Break
Garage door springs are strong, but they don’t last forever. Most springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles (one cycle is an open and close). That means if you open your garage door just four times a day, your springs may last around seven years. However, if you use your garage more often, the springs can wear out faster. Other reasons springs break include:
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Rust or corrosion: This can weaken the metal over time.
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Poor maintenance: Lack of lubrication can cause friction and faster wear.
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Improper installation: If springs aren’t correctly installed, they may break early.
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Temperature changes: Cold weather can make springs brittle, leading to sudden breaks.
When springs break, it usually happens all at once with a loud bang that can sound like something heavy falling.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Repair
It’s important to know the warning signs of failing springs so you can act before the problem gets worse. Some common signs include:
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The door is hard to lift manually.
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The garage door won’t open all the way.
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You hear a loud noise from the garage.
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The door opens crookedly or unevenly.
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The opener is working but the door doesn’t move.
If you notice any of these problems, stop using the garage door immediately and call a professional. Trying to use or fix a broken spring can be very dangerous.
Why Spring Repairs Are Dangerous
Garage door spring repair is not a DIY job. These springs are tightly wound and hold a lot of tension. If they snap or release suddenly during repair, they can cause serious injury or damage. In fact, broken springs are one of the most dangerous garage door issues a homeowner can face. Professionals trained in handling garage doors Knoxville TN have the right tools, training, and safety equipment to repair or replace springs without risk. It’s always best to leave spring repairs to the experts.
The Importance of Professional Repair
Hiring a professional for spring repair ensures your garage door works safely and efficiently. They can quickly identify the issue, replace the right parts, and make sure the door is balanced properly. They’ll also check the rest of the system—like the cables, rollers, and opener to make sure everything is working together. Professional repair also comes with the peace of mind of a warranty. Many garage doors Knoxville TN service providers guarantee their work and parts, so if something goes wrong, you’re covered.
How Long Do Repairs Take?
Most spring repairs can be completed in just one to two hours, depending on the condition of your garage door system. Professionals typically carry common spring sizes in their service trucks, so they can replace the broken part on the spot. If your system needs custom springs or additional repairs, it may take a bit longer. Still, having the job done right the first time saves you time and stress in the long run.
How Much Does Garage Door Spring Repair Cost?
The cost of repairing garage door springs can vary depending on the type of spring, the size and weight of the door, and the local labor rate. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a full spring replacement, including labor. Some high-end or heavy-duty garage doors may cost more. Be cautious of prices that seem too low cheap repairs may mean low-quality springs or unlicensed work. Reputable garage doors Knoxville TN technicians offer fair pricing and quality service.
Preventing Future Spring Problems
While you can’t prevent all spring failures, you can extend the life of your garage door springs with simple maintenance. Here are some tips:
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Lubricate the springs every three to six months with garage door lubricant to reduce friction.
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Inspect the springs for signs of rust, stretching, or damage.
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Test the balance of your garage door by lifting it halfway if it stays in place, the springs are balanced; if it falls or rises, they may need adjustment.
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Limit unnecessary use of the garage door. The more you open and close it, the faster the springs wear out.
By keeping up with maintenance and having regular inspections, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns.
Choosing the Right Repair Company
When it comes to spring repair, not all companies are equal. Look for professionals with experience, licenses, and positive customer reviews. They should offer upfront pricing and explain your options clearly. Local providers of garage doors Knoxville TN often have a better understanding of the region’s weather and garage door needs. Choose a company that values customer satisfaction and provides fast, reliable service.
When to Replace Instead of Repair
In some cases, repairing one broken spring isn’t enough. If your garage door uses two springs, it’s best to replace both even if only one is broken. That’s because the other spring has likely experienced the same amount of wear and could break soon. Also, if your garage door system is old or has multiple issues, it might be time to consider a full upgrade. A technician can advise whether repair or replacement is the better option based on the condition of your system.
Conclusion
Garage door springs may be small, but they play a big role in the safety and operation of your garage door. Knowing the signs of spring failure and acting quickly can prevent bigger problems down the line. While DIY repairs might seem tempting, they are dangerous and can cost you more in the long run. Trusting a local expert in garage doors Knoxville TN ensures the job is done right, keeping your home safe and your garage door running smoothly. Whether you need emergency spring repair or a full system inspection, professional service is the smart choice for every homeowner.
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