Garage door springs allow the structure to open and close, so if they break, you won’t be able to use your garage properly. If you need garage door spring repair to regain access, hire a professional to complete the repairs safely and efficiently. The information below will help you to maintain the springs and know when to call the experts.

What Are Common Problems with Garage Door Springs?

1. Rust

The springs on garage doors are usually made with steel, which means the iron can rust over time if exposed to wetness. Rust is caused by exposure to oxygen and moisture over a long period of time, which is unavoidable when it comes to garage doors.

If the springs rust, there is greater friction on the coils when they move, and the corrosion will weaken the structure. This means the springs are more likely to break. However, you can extend their lifespan by applying a silicone-based lubricant once every season.

2. Wear & Tear

Garage door springs bear a lot of weight, so it’s inevitable that they’ll eventually wear out. Typical springs last for around 10,000 cycles—one cycle is the door being opened and closed again. If you only open and close your door twice a day, the springs should last for around 13 years.

However, most people will use their garage more often than that. Scheduling garage door spring repair is a quick and easy process, but you can buy high-quality springs if you want to avoid replacement for longer.

3. Insufficient Maintenance

You can ensure your garage door springs last for their expected lifespan by keeping up with good maintenance. Along with applying lubricant to avoid rust and keep the parts working smoothly, you should check the door balance a few times a year, particularly in winter.

This can be done by turning off the automatic opener and pulling down the manual release cord. Open the door by hand around three or four feet high and check that it stays in position and does not appear to be uneven.

4. Poor Installation 

Damaged garage door springs may not have been installed properly in the first place or the correct springs were not used. They need to be calibrated correctly according to the weight of the door. There may even have been a defect in the springs when they first came from the manufacturer that went unnoticed at the time the springs were installed. 

When you need a trusted professional for garage door spring repair, rely on Automatic Garage Door Repair Service in Rochester, NY. This fully licensed and insured company has served the area for more than 35 years and offers door opener installations and repairs. They’re also available for emergency garage door service. Call (585) 663-1180 for a free estimate or visit them online for more information.