Garage doors get a lot of use, often being opened and closed several times a day. While they’re built to last, the wear and tear can take a toll over time. Among the first parts to show signs of trouble are the springs, which allow the door to be raised and lowered. When the springs break, the door can become a hazard, potentially slamming down with great force on anything that’s in the way. With that in mind, watch for these signs that you need new springs and replace them right away.

When to Replace Your Garage Door Springs 

1. The Door Is Difficult to Open 

If the door suddenly feels very heavy, becomes difficult to open, or only opens a few inches, that’s a surefire sign of a spring failure. Spring problems will also keep the door from opening or closing smoothly; instead, it will feel jerky and erratic.

2. The Door Closes Hard

A broken spring will cause the door to slam down, even if you have a remote opener. Springs support the door’s weight, and when they break, there’s nothing to hold them in place and keep them from just falling down. 

3. You Hear a Loud Noise

When a spring breaks, the spring will unwind in just one second, producing a sound that’s often loud enough to be heard from inside your home. If you hear a sudden pop or bang from the garage, look at the ceiling—you’ll likely notice what remains of a large, thick, spring dangling there. 

4. The Door Is Uneven

Each side of the garage door has extension springs, which are designed to lift both sides at the same time in one fluid motion. All of the springs don’t always break at once; it’s more common for one side to break, causing the door to be uneven. You’ll be able to easily see the issue, as the door will look crooked when lifted and won’t close properly. 

5. You Can See Loose Cables

When the cables that help lift the door are loose, it usually means that the springs have failed. A broken spring will cause the cables to slip out of place. You might also notice a visible gap in the torsion springs above the door. Because the springs will completely unwind when they break, the gap will likely be noticeable. 

If you’re having trouble with your garage door and suspect a spring problem, turn to the professionals at MAC Garage Door Company Inc. For more than 40 years, they’ve been installing, repairing, and maintaining residential and commercial doors throughout the Davidson County, NC, region. They’re a third-generation, family-owned business, and they take pride in offering comprehensive, expert services. Call (336) 731-7849 to request a quote or visit them online to learn more about their products.