Your garage door spring plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of your garage door. It counterbalances the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close easily.

The spring does not pull with enough force to open the door, but it does bear most of the door’s weight. Your garage door spring can carry up 80 percent of the weight of the door.

Like any mechanical component, garage door springs can break. When this happens, it’s essential to know how to identify a broken spring, understand the causes behind it, determine whether it’s safe to operate the door and know when to seek professional help.

Identifying a Broken Garage Door Spring

One of the first signs of a broken garage door spring is difficulty in opening or closing the door. The door may become heavy, start to sag, or not move at all. Do not attempt to open or close your garage door if you suspect you have a broken spring.

Another indication is a visible gap or separation in the spring itself. Garage door springs are usually located above the door (sectional garage doors) or along the sides (tilt doors), and if you notice any visible damage or a broken spring, it’s a clear sign that it needs attention.

You may also have heard a loud bang as the spring broke. This occurs when the tension of the spring is released suddenly. In many cases a spring breaks when opening the door, with the door falling back to the floor with great force.

Tip: Regularly check your garage door springs to ensure they are one continuous unbroken piece.

Causes of Garage Door Springs Breaking

The most common cause of springs breaking is simply wear-and-tear over time. Garage door springs have a limited lifespan and are designed to withstand a certain number of cycles. Constant use can weaken the metal, leading to eventual failure. Additionally, rust and corrosion can contribute to spring deterioration.

Other factors that can cause garage door springs to break include improper spring installation, poor maintenance, extreme temperature fluctuations, and using springs that are not properly rated for the weight of the door.

Tip: Invest in high-quality springs and have them installed by a professional to minimise the risk of breakage.

Is It Safe to Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring?

No, you should not attempt to open a garage door with a broken spring. The spring’s primary function is to counterbalance the weight of the door, and without it, the door becomes incredibly heavy.

If automated, a garage door motor is only designed to lift approximately 20 percent of the door’s weight (with the tension of the springs assisting to lift the rest of the door’s actual weight).

If you attempt to lift the door with the motor, while the spring is broken, the motor will be lifting the full weight of the door. Unfortunately, the full weight of the door will be too heavy for the motor to handle and the motor will likely burn out. You will then need a new motor as well as new springs.

Similarly, attempting to lift the door manually can be dangerous and potentially cause injuries to you and damage to the door.

Leave the garage door closed and refrain from using the door until the spring is repaired or replaced.

If the door is open, do not attempt to close it. Ensure there is nothing beneath the door and keep everyone away from it, as any movement could cause the door to crash down.

Tip: If your garage door spring breaks, leave the garage door as it is (do not attempt to open or close it) and call a professional technician such as Perth’s Pinnacle Garage Doors to attend to the repair.

Repairing a Broken Garage Door Spring

Repairing a broken garage door spring can be a challenging task that requires the right tools, knowledge and expertise. While some experienced handypeople may be able to replace the spring themselves, there is risk involved.

Working with garage door springs can be hazardous, as they are under high tension and can cause serious injuries if mishandled. We recommend seeking professional assistance as the safest and most efficient option.

Call a Professional Garage Door Technician

Given the potential risks associated with handling garage door springs, why not contact us for a quote. We’re experienced technicians with the necessary tools to handle the task safely and efficiently.

Our technicians will diagnose the issue, select the right replacement springs and ensure proper installation.

Hiring a professional will not only minimise your risk of accident or injury occurring but also provides you with peace of mind, knowing that the repair is done correctly.

You’ll also have the added protection of a warranty on the work carried out and parts used.

Tips To Keep Your Garage Door Spring from Breaking

Here are three tips to keep your garage door springs operating efficiently and to reduce deterioration:

  • Have your garage door regularly serviced. We recommend having your garage door serviced every 12-18 months to ensure the door is working as it should and all parts are inspected. An inspection will include checking and lubricating the springs.
  • Visually inspect your garage door springs. Regularly check your garage door springs to ensure they are one continuous unbroken piece and there are no signs of rust or deterioration.
  • Check the tension of your garage door springs. A simple test can tell you whether the springs need attention or need to be re-sprung. To test, close your garage door, disengage the motor and manually lift the door to chest height. Step back slightly (so your toes aren’t under the door) and let go of the garage door. If correctly tensioned, the spring should hold the garage door in position. If the door drops, the spring may be under tensioned and need maintenance.

Having trouble with your garage door springs or need your garage door serviced? Call us on 61615665 or contact us today for a quote and fast professional service.