A broken garage door spring can turn into a major hassle fast. If your garage door won’t open or closes too quickly, chances are you need a garage door spring fix. Knowing what to do next can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s dive into how to handle a broken garage door spring, the cost to fix a garage door spring, and why professional help is often the best choice.
How to Tell If Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken
Not sure if you need to fix your garage door spring? Here are some common signs:
- Garage door won’t open – If the door feels extremely heavy or won’t lift at all, the spring may be broken.
- Loud snapping sound – A garage door spring breaking often makes a loud bang.
- Door closes too fast – Springs help control movement. If your door slams shut, the spring could be the issue.
- Visible gap in the spring – A torsion spring with a gap in the coils is a clear sign it’s broken.
- Loose or hanging cables – Springs and cables work together. If your cables look loose, the spring may be faulty.
- Uneven door movement – If one side of the door moves faster than the other, it could be due to a damaged spring.
- Rust or corrosion – Over time, springs wear out due to rust, causing them to weaken and eventually break.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to consider a garage door spring fix.
Understanding Different Types of Garage Door Springs
Garage doors use two primary types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Understanding the difference helps in determining what type of repair is needed.
Torsion Springs
- Located above the garage door opening.
- Work by twisting and creating torque to lift the door.
- Generally last between 10,000 to 20,000 cycles (one cycle is one full open and close).
- More durable and commonly used in modern garage doors.
Extension Springs
- Positioned on either side of the door.
- Stretch and contract to support movement.
- Typically last around 10,000 cycles.
- Require additional safety cables to prevent accidents if they snap.
Knowing which type of spring your garage door uses can help you understand repair options and costs.
Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
While some home repairs are easy DIY projects, fixing a garage door spring is not one of them. Garage door springs hold a lot of tension, and one wrong move can cause injury or damage. Professional garage door technicians have the right tools and expertise to handle the job safely.
If you’re considering a DIY repair, keep in mind:
- Torsion springs are dangerous – They are tightly wound and can snap if handled incorrectly.
- Improper installation leads to bigger problems – A poorly installed spring can cause more damage to your garage door system.
- Professional repairs come with warranties – A pro will ensure the job is done right and provide a warranty for peace of mind.
- Specialized tools are required – Replacing springs requires winding bars, clamps, and specific safety gear.
For safety and reliability, calling a professional is the best choice.
Cost to Fix a Garage Door Spring
The cost to fix a garage door spring depends on several factors, including the type of spring, the labor required, and any additional repairs needed. Here’s a general price range:
- Torsion spring replacement – $200 to $500
- Extension spring replacement – $100 to $300
- Full spring system replacement – $200 to $1000
Labor costs may add $75 to $200, depending on the complexity of the job and your location.
Factors that affect the cost:
- Type of garage door springs (torsion vs. extension)
- Size and weight of your garage door
- Number of springs that need replacing
- Additional repairs needed (cables, rollers, etc.)
- Urgency of the repair – Emergency repairs may have higher service fees.
Preventing Future Garage Door Spring Issues
While garage door springs don’t last forever, proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. Follow these tips to keep your garage door working smoothly:
- Lubricate springs regularly – Use a silicone-based lubricant every few months.
- Check spring balance – If your door isn’t balanced, it puts extra strain on the springs.
- Schedule annual inspections – A professional can catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
- Replace both springs together – If one breaks, the other is likely worn out too.
- Avoid DIY adjustments – Tampering with springs without proper knowledge can cause damage and safety risks.
- Monitor your door’s operation – If the door starts making unusual noises, slows down, or behaves erratically, it may indicate a spring issue.
Taking these simple steps can help you avoid unexpected repairs.
Can you fix a garage door spring yourself?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Garage door springs are under high tension and can cause severe injury if mishandled. A professional repair ensures safety and prevents further damage.
How much does it cost to replace a spring on a garage door?
The cost varies based on the type of spring and labor charges. Typically, torsion spring replacement costs between $200 and $500, while extension spring replacement ranges from $100 to $300. Labor fees may add $75 to $200.
How to raise a garage door with a broken spring?
If you must open your garage door with a broken spring, use extreme caution. Here’s a method:
Disconnect the opener – Pull the emergency release cord.
Get assistance – A broken spring makes the door extremely heavy.
Lift manually – Carefully raise the door while keeping a firm grip.
Prop it open – Secure the door with clamps or blocks to prevent it from crashing down. For safety, call a professional for immediate repair.
Is it safe to replace your own garage door spring?
No, replacing a garage door spring is dangerous due to the high tension involved. A wrong move can lead to severe injury or property damage. It’s always best to hire a trained technician for safe and reliable repairs.
A broken garage door spring doesn’t have to ruin your day. Whether you need a quick fix or a full spring replacement, we’ve got you covered. Call (360) 734-5960 today for expert garage door spring repair!
Our team of experienced professionals is ready to help you get your garage door back in top shape. Don’t wait until the problem gets worse—schedule your repair today!