Why Standard Springs Wear Out Quickly

Let’s be real, friends. Those flimsy standard torsion springs on your garage door don’t stand a chance against years of wear and tear. Opening and closing that heavy door hundreds of times takes its toll. Before you know it, those sad springs are sagging like an old mattress, leaving your door struggling to open smoothly.

So what gives? Why do garage door springs poop out so fast? For starters, they’re under immense pressure. Picture an 8-foot tall door weighing hundreds of pounds. Those springs are working hard to lift all that weight. It’s no wonder they get overworked and fatigued quickly.

Another issue is size. Many garage doors still have old 4 or 5-inch springs that are too small for the job. They have to work extra hard to provide enough lifting power. Upgrading to a beefier spring with a larger diameter can extend its lifespan significantly.

Material matters too. Standard springs are made from cheap steel that corrodes and rusts over time. The coils weaken and snap under pressure. Choosing springs made of stainless steel or specialty alloys built to resist corrosion will keep them bouncing back longer.

So if creaky springs that poop out too soon are the bane of your existence, it’s time to take action. Read on, garage fans. We’re dishing 7 more tricks to keep those babies lifting for years to come.

Symptoms of Fatigued Torsion Springs

How can you tell when your garage door springs are tiring out and in need of some TLC? Watch for these telltale signs:

• The door becomes difficult to open. You have to heave hard on the handle to get it moving.
• The door closes much faster than normal, sometimes slamming down loudly.
• Spring coils appear loose, stretched out or uneven.
• You hear grinding, creaking noises when opening the door.
• The door starts shaking and vibrating as it opens or closes.

If you notice any of these issues, it means the springs are fatigued and no longer able to properly balance the door. Don’t ignore the problem or it could lead to broken springs or damage to the door and opener.

Dangers of Broken Garage Door Springs

What happens when taxed torsion springs finally give out? Let’s just say it’s not pretty, folks.

Snapping springs can whip around wildly, causing injury if you’re standing nearby. The heavy door can also come crashing down unexpectedly, damaging itself or anything underneath.

Replacing broken springs requires expertise. The large amount of tension in the coils makes it a dangerous DIY project. Leave it to the professionals to avoid mishaps.

The good news? Taking proactive steps to maintain and extend the life of your springs can prevent breakage issues down the road.

Proper Spring Size Matters

Upgrading to longer lasting springs first requires choosing the proper size and type for your door. Garage pros determine this based on the door’s height, weight, and lift type (extension or torsion spring).

For sectional roll-up doors, the general rule is:

• 7 feet tall = 2 inch diameter springs
• 8 feet tall = 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 inch diameter springs
• 10 feet tall = 3 inch diameter springs

Torsion springs also come in different wire sizes or gauges. Heavier doors need thicker wire. Lighter doors can get by with thinner wire. The pros know best and will specify the ideal springs for your unique setup.

Adjust Spring Tension for Smoother Operation

You know that rusty ol’ adjustable tension rod above your springs? Time to put it to use, friends. Here’s the deal – adjusting spring tension can add years to their lifespan.

If your door is too heavy to lift, tighten the tension rod to compress the springs further and increase lifting power. Just a quarter turn can make a huge difference. If the door lifts too quickly, loosen tension slightly to reduce spring force.

Aim for smooth, steady operation without slamming or vibration. Proper tension alignment keeps wear and tear to a minimum. Those springs will just keep on bouncing.

Lubricate Moving Parts Annually

Squeaky springs and grinding lift cables are like nails on a chalkboard, am I right? The solution? Yearly lubrication, folks.

Clean the springs, bearings, pulleys and lift cables then apply quality lubricant. This reduces metal-on-metal friction and wear. Silicone spray is ideal for springs and inside bearings. Light oil or lithium grease works for metal rollers and lift cables.

Don’t forget the garage door track. Clean out dirt and lubricate with liquid silicone to keep those rollers gliding smoothly.

Inspect Cables, Bearings and Sheaves

While you’re oiling and greasing, check for signs of excess wear on other moving parts like lift cables and sheaves (pulleys). Fraying or kinked cables should be replaced. Worn bearing races or wobbly sheaves indicate damaged parts in need of replacement.

Addressing these issues ensures everything works together in harmony. Preventative maintenance now avoids untimely spring failure down the road.

Replace Rusty Hardware

Rust is the natural enemy of steel garage door parts. Water seeping in around edges of the door causes hardware like springs, cables, hinges, rollers and tracks to corrode over time.

Replace any rusty components to avoid unpleasant snapping, breaking or jamming. Choose galvanized or stainless steel parts to resist rusting. Keeping the garage dry with a tight weather seal also helps prevent corrosion issues.

Upgrade to Stainless Steel Springs

For long lasting springs, stainless steel is the hero we need. Springs made of rust-resistant alloys like stainless steel or zinc-plated carbon steel stay bouncy and corrosion free for years longer than common galvanized steel.

Red colored springs indicate they’re made of alloy steel. Upgrade old faded grey springs to red ones, or opt for shiny stainless steel that withstands moisture like a champ.

Hire a Professional for Major Repairs

Notice how we haven’t recommended rewinding or replacing busted springs yourself? That’s because DIY spring repairs are downright dangerous, folks.

The extreme tension in torsion springs can lead to injury if you don’t have the right tools and training. Trust a qualified professional to handle spring rewinding, replacement or compensating broken springs with counterbalance techniques.

They have the expertise to get the job done safely while specifying optimal spring types and hardware for your door. Forking over the cash for pro repairs saves money in the long run.

Well, look at that – your garage door knowledge expanded more than a stretched-out spring! With proper care and maintenance, you can keep those babies bouncing for years to come. Give your springs some TLC this season and say bye-bye to saggy, broken springs for good.

Symptoms of Fatigued Torsion Springs

Garage door springs take a beating every time that heavy door lifts and lowers. Over time, all that wear and tear leads to fatigue. The springs get stretched out and can’t provide their normal lifting force. How can you tell when your torsion springs are pooped and need replacing?

Watch for these telltale signs of tired springs on your garage door:

• Groaning Noises – Listen for creaking, grinding or rumbling sounds when opening or closing the door. This indicates dry, worn out springs.
• Uneven Movement – The door may shake, bind up or move unevenly. Fatigued springs can’t smoothly balance the door.
• Slow Operation – You have to heave hard on the handle to get the door moving. Weak springs struggle to lift the weight.
• Quick Dropping – The door may close much faster than normal and slam down loudly. Springs aren’t controlling the descent.
• Sagging Springs – Visually inspect the springs. Stretched out, saggy or uneven coils indicate fatigue.

If you notice these signs, take action before total spring failure. At best, fatigued springs will burn out the motor on your garage door opener as it works overtime to lift the door. At worst, broken springs can injure someone or damage the door.

Why Preventative Spring Maintenance Matters

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to garage door springs. Taking proactive maintenance steps can prevent premature spring fatigue and failure down the road.

Think of it like changing the oil in your car at regular intervals. It keeps everything running smoothly for miles to come. Your garage door springs need TLC too.

But what exactly does preventative maintenance involve? Let’s break it down:

• Inspect Springs – Look for signs of wear like stretched or uneven coils. Check for corrosion.
• Lubricate – Oil the springs and pulleys to prevent sticking and squeaking.
• Adjust Hardware – Tighten bolts and cables. Tune spring tension as needed.
• Replace Worn Parts – Proactively swap out frayed cables or rusty hardware.
• Upgrade Components – Choose springs with thicker gauge wire or stainless steel.

Just like tuning up your car, addressing these maintenance items now avoids bigger problems later. Your springs will stay bouncy and lifted for maximum life.

Choosing the Optimal Spring System

When it’s time to replace worn garage door springs, choosing the optimal system is key. Torsion and extension spring systems each have pros and cons to consider.

Torsion springs mount on a bar above the door. They provide lifting power by twisting and turning as the door opens. Pros:

• Compact size maximizes clearance space
• Safer containment minimizes injury risk if springs break
• Ideal for heavier doors and higher lifting capacities

Extension springs are located alongside the door. They expand and contract to assist lifting. Pros:

• Often less expensive than torsion springs
• Simpler installation for DIYers
• Individual springs can be replaced without affecting the other side

Talk with a garage door pro about which spring system suits your setup. Measurements like door size, weight and lift type factor into recommendations. Investing in quality springs designed for your specific door leads to longer lifespan and smoother operation.

Safety Precautions for DIYers

Replacing garage door springs has inherent dangers. The extreme tension in the coils poses risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. Here are tips for DIYers tackling spring swaps:

• Wear eye protection – Goggles guard against flying shrapnel if a spring breaks.
• Watch your fingers – Wear heavy work gloves to avoid pinches and cuts.
• Secure the door – Use locking pliers to prevent the door from suddenly dropping during spring removal.
• Follow directions – Closely adhere to the manufacturer’s spring winding procedures.
• Consider pros – For anything beyond basic repairs, hire a trained technician to ensure safety.

Expert installation may cost more up front. However, it spares DIYers from injury and prevents improper spring setups that lead to premature failure. Know your limits to stay safe.

Warning Signs of Failing Springs

Catching spring fatigue early provides more options for repair versus total replacement. But left unchecked, worn springs will eventually fail. Warning signs of impending failure include:

• Coils appear drastically stretched, elongated or uneven
• Significant corrosion and rust on springs or pulleys
• Frayed or broken cables at the bottom corners of the door
• Cracked or broken spring coils
• Shaking and bouncing as the door opens or closes

Addressing these issues before spring breakage occurs is critical. If worn parts are left in place, the excess load will transfer to and stress the remaining functional springs.

Think of it like a car with broken suspension parts. Driving with damaged components leads to further wear and breakdowns. Don’t let your springs get to the imminent failure point – replacement is safer and cheaper than a total repair job.

Well garage fans, there’s your deep dive into tired garage door springs! Take the slow and creaky opener as a sign your springs need some TLC. With proper maintenance and proactive replacement, you’ll keep that heavy door lifting smoothly for years to come.

Dangers of Broken Garage Door Springs

It happens without warning – one minute your garage door springs are lifting and lowering as normal, and the next? Snap! A spring breaks, whipping violently as that heavy door comes crashing down.

This dangerous situation is why it’s so important to inspect springs regularly and replace them at the first sign of fatigue. But what exactly makes broken torsion springs so hazardous?

• Whiplash Effect – High tension coils can whip around uncontrollably when broken. Anything in their path – vehicles, items on shelves, or people – risks getting hit.
• Falling Door – Without counterbalance from the springs, the weight of the door comes slamming down. A person or item underneath could be injured or damaged.
• Sharp Spring Edges – Jagged and sharp broken spring coils pose laceration hazards if you’re removing or handling them.

Even extension springs pose risks despite being located alongside the door. The metal pieces can fly across the garage if one side breaks and disconnects from the pulley.

Safety should always come first. At the initial sign of cracked or fatigued springs, get them replaced. Don’t chance injury from a full break.

Can You Repair a Broken Garage Door Spring?

Attempting to repair busted torsion springs is extremely dangerous for DIYers. The amount of tension in the coils poses risks if proper procedures aren’t strictly followed.

That being said, here are two options for fixing broken springs:

1. Rewind a new spring – This involves fully removing and replacing the broken spring with a new one. Winding bars are used to add proper tension.
2. Counterbalance the door – Cables and weights can be adjusted to provide lift without springs. This is temporary until springs are replaced.

The first method requires expertise and special winding tools to control the extreme tension. The second method can buy time but doesn’t provide long-term functionality.

For most homeowners, calling a trained garage door technician is the safest bet. They have the right tools and knowledge to get the springs repaired correctly.

Preventing Broken Springs in the Future

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure when it comes to garage door springs. Proper maintenance and care reduces the chances of breakage down the road.

Here are pro tips for preventing busted springs:

• Visually inspect springs regularly for signs of fatigue
• Lubricate springs and pulleys to prevent sticking
• Listen for squeaking or grinding noises indicating wear
• Upgrade to thicker or stainless steel springs to prevent rust
• Adjust cable tension to balance the door and reduce strain
• Consider professional spring winding to optimize tension

Think of it like maintaining your vehicle. Proper care and servicing at the recommended intervals prevents bigger problems later on.

In addition to maintenance, know when to call in the pros. Adjusting winding tension or replacing springs requires expertise. Attempting risky DIY repairs can lead to spring mishaps down the road.

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Springs

Waiting until full spring failure means paying more for repairs versus proactive upgrades. But how do you know when it’s time to swap in new springs?

Watch for these signs of underperforming springs that can’t keep up anymore:

• Door struggles to lift and drifts down slowly
• Opener strains, overheats and burns out prematurely
• Creaking or grinding noises during operation
• Springs appear over-stretched with space between coils
• More tension or winding is needed to lift the door

Upgrading before breakage occurs maintains safety by preventing that uncontrolled whiplash effect. New and higher quality springs ensure smooth lifting for years to come.

Emergency Repairs for Busted Springs

Despite your best efforts, garage door springs do sometimes fail unexpectedly. What do you do when you’re stranded with a busted spring and non-functional door?

In an emergency, focus on minimizing further damage and securing the door. Here are tips:

• Lock the door in the down position using vice grips or clamps to prevent falling.
• Cordon off the area to avoid injury from flying spring parts.
• Disconnect the opener so it doesn’t burn out straining to lift the unbalanced door.
• Call a 24-hour emergency repair company to fix the spring correctly and safely.

Garage door techs have tools to contain violent whipping springs and expertise to get your door operational again quickly. Focus on safety and temporary containment until the pros arrive.

Well folks, now you know why broken springs are no joke, and prevention is so important. With proactive maintenance and timely upgrades, you can avoid the dangers of failing springs down the road.

Proper Spring Size Matters

Upgrading your garage door springs? Choosing the optimal size and type is key to smooth operation and long lifespan. Improperly sized springs lead to premature fatigue and failure down the road.

So how do the pros determine the right springs for your door? Here’s a look at the factors involved:

Door Height

The height of your door determines the minimum spring diameter needed to lift the weight. Here are typical size guidelines:

• 7 ft. tall door = 2″ diameter springs
• 8-10 ft. tall door = 2.5-3″ diameter springs
• 10-12 ft. tall door = 3.5-4″ diameter springs

Taller doors need more surface area on larger diameter springs to provide enough lifting power. Maximize clearance space by choosing the smallest springs that can safely lift the height.

Door Weight

Heavy doors require more lift assistance than lightweight ones. Gauge, which refers to spring wire thickness, correlates with door weight ratings:

• Light doors (150-265 lbs) use .225-.250 gauge wire
• Medium doors (266-410 lbs) use .210-.225 gauge wire
• Heavy doors (411-545 lbs) use .195-.210 gauge wire

Heavier gauge wire provides more lifting capacity. Match this to your door weight to avoid overworked springs.

Lift Type

Extension and torsion spring systems have different size requirements:

• Extension – At least 1 spring on each side of the door.
• Torsion – 1-3 springs above the door based on width.

Torsion springs can lift more weight in a compact space. Extension springs need to run the full width for even lifting. Your technician will recommend the ideal system and number of springs required.

Cycle Frequency

Do you use your garage door sparingly or open/close it multiple times per day? Frequent use requires more heavy duty springs to withstand wear and tear. Let your installer know your usage for optimal recommendations.

With all these factors at play, don’t guess – have a pro assess your door and specify the properly sized spring system. This avoids premature fatigue from undersized or overworked springs.

How to Measure Torsion Springs

Torsion springs above the door come in a range of sizes for different lifting capacities. But with coils and stops in the way, how do you accurately measure the key dimensions?

Here are tips for DIYers to measure torsion springs like a pro:

Inside Diameter

Use calipers to precisely measure the inside diameter or width of the coiled spring metal. Compare to size charts to identify the spring series.

Wire Gauge

Use a wire gauge tool to determine the thickness of the wire. Thicker wire denotes higher weight capacities.

Extended Length

Fully extend the relaxed spring and measure from end to end. This determines minimum shaft length for installation.

Relaxed Coils

Count the number of coils when the tension is released. More coils indicates a longer extended length.

Having these measurements on hand helps determine optimal spring replacements for your door. Take measurements from both sides – they should match if originally installed correctly.

Signs You Need Stronger Springs

Do your garage door springs seem underpowered and fatigued? Time for an upgrade! Here are signs you need springs with more strength:

• Door is difficult to manually lift and drifts down slowly
• Opener strains to lift the door and motors burn out often
• Springs squeak, bind and don’t fully retract when released
• Coils appear overstretched with gaps between windings
• Bottom of door frequently hits and damages vehicles

Upgrading to thicker wire gauge springs provides more lifting power for heavy doors. Stainless steel alloys also resist fatigue longer than plain galvanized steel.

A pro can assess your setup and specify appropriately sized replacement springs. Investing in quality springs designed for your door’s weight and size ensures smooth operation for years to come.

Adjust Spring Tension for Smoother Operation

That rusty old tension rod adjusting your torsion springs – ever consider giving it a turn? Adjusting spring tension can add years to the lifespan by balancing the door for smooth operation.

Here’s the lowdown on fine tuning spring tension for maximum longevity:

When to Adjust

Signs your door needs tension adjustment include:

• Difficulty lifting – tighten springs for more assistance
• Slamming downward – loosen springs to slow descent
• Shaking or bouncing – tension is off and not lifting evenly

Aim for the door to open and close smoothly without too much effort or force. This preserves the springs and prevent fatigue.

Process for Adjusting

Turning the tension rod adjusts torque on the springs. Here’s how to dial it in properly:

1. Release all tension to start fresh
2. partially open door and re-engage tension
3. Turn rod 1/4 turn clockwise to increase tension
4. Test door and re-adjust until satisfied

Go slow – a little turn of the rod makes a big tension difference. Too much can over-compress and damage springs.

When to Call a Pro

If you’re unsure about tension adjustment, call in a pro. They have the specialized tools and expertise for precision tuning.

They can also determine if worn parts like bearings or cables are the root cause of operation issues. Adjusting tension can’t compensate for those worn components.

For continued smooth operation, lubricate springs and moveable parts annually. Keeping everything well-tuned and maintained ensures longer lifespan.

Extension vs. Torsion Springs

Which spring system is best for your garage door – extension or torsion? Both assist lifting, but have key differences to consider.

Extension Spring Benefits

• Often less expensive than torsion
• Loc
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  Lubricate Moving Parts Annually

  Squeaking, grinding springs putting your teeth on edge? That’s a call for lubrication! Annually oiling your garage door’s moving parts reduces wear and friction for smooth, quiet operation.

  Proper lubrication also keeps components like springs, rollers and hinges flexing freely. Here are pro tips for DIY garage door lubrication:

  Clean First

  

  Before lubricating anything, clean the parts thoroughly to remove built-up dirt and gunk. Use a degreaser on rollers and hardware then rinse clean.

  Oil the Springs

  Apply light penetrating oil like WD-40 onto the length of extension springs or torsion spring coils. Run a cloth back and forth to distribute evenly and prevent dripping.

  Grease the Rollers

  Use lithium grease on the garage door’s metal rollers. Put a dab on the wheel’s axle and inside the bearing raceway. Spin the roller to distribute smoothly.

  Lubricate Cables

  Run a lint-free cloth soaked in lightweight oil up and down the lift cables. This keeps them sliding freely through cable pulleys without sticking and fraying.

  Oil the Hinges

  Place a few drops of household oil on all hinges along the sides. Move the door to spread the lubrication across each hinge’s pivot points.

  Seal with Silicone Spray

  Finish up by coating springs, rollers and hinges with silicone spray. This seals moisture out to prevent future rust and sticking.

  Regular DIY lubrication once or twice a year keeps things humming. Listen for squeaks and grinding noises, your cues that it’s time to lube up again.

  How to Quiet a Noisy Garage Door

  Few things are more annoying than the squeak and rattle of a noisy garage door. Luckily, a little DIY detective work can typically pinpoint and fix the problem.

  Here are tips for silencing common garage door noise culprits:

  Squeaky Springs

  Springs make grinding, binding noises when dry. Lubricate coils with silicone spray or lightweight oil to restore smooth operation.

  Sticking Rollers

  Grease wheel bearings and lubricate tracks to stop sticky, squeaking rollers. Replace damaged rollers causing extra friction.

  Loose Hardware

  Rattling sounds often stem from loose bolts, cables or hinges. Tighten and secure all hardware to eliminate shaking and vibration.

  Metal-on-Metal Rubbing

  Sections rubbing together as door operates can create racket. Adjust alignment or shim gaps to prevent abrasion noises.

  Don’t tolerate bothersome operation. With proactive maintenance like lubrication and repairs, you can keep your door quiet as a mouse.

  How Weather Affects Garage Door Springs

  

  Garage door springs work hard through sun, wind, and rain. How do dramatic weather shifts impact these important components?

  Humidity

  Moisture in the air causes springs and hardware to rust, bind up and require more force to operate. Keeping garage properly ventilated helps minimize issues.

  Temperature Extremes

  Heat causes springs to expand and cold leads to contraction. These temperature shifts can impact tension and winding needs seasonally.

  Rain and Snow

  Precipitation worsens rusting issues if water leaks in around edges. Ensure weatherstripping seals tightly to protect springs from exposure.

  Windstorms

  Strong wind gusts can place extra pressure on doors and springs, leading to faster wear and tear over time.

  While you can’t control the weather, proactive maintenance helps minimize its impacts. Seasonal inspection and tensioning adjustments keep springs operating optimally year-round.

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  Inspect Cables, Bearings and Sheaves

  

  Garage door springs don’t operate in isolation – cables, pulleys, and bearings work in sync to smoothly raise and lower the door. While lubricating and tensioning springs, take time to inspect these other important components too.

  Check Cables

  Cables connecting the bottom corners of the door to the spring system routinely endure heavy strain. Inspect along the full length for fraying and kinks, which indicate internal damage.

  Frayed or broken cables should be replaced immediately to avoid uncontrolled drooping. Regularly oiling cables reduces friction and deterioration.

  Inspect Pulleys

  The sheaves, or pulley wheels, at the ends of springs guide the lift cables as the door operates. Check for wobbling, binding, and excessive wear on the wheel’s axle and inside the bearing raceway.

  Lubricate pulley axles and races annually. Replace visibly damaged pulleys to maintain smooth cable operation.

  Monitor Bearings

  Torsion spring tubes contain bearings that the shaft spins within. Listen for grinding noises and check for binding or difficult rotation, which indicate worn bearings.

  Lubricating bearing internals can reduce noise. But replacement is required if bearings are seizing up and impeding spring/shaft movement.

  Like changing the oil in your car, inspecting and maintaining these surrounding parts prevents bigger problems down the road. Proactively replace worn components for safety.

  How to Balance Garage Door Springs

  When one spring wears out faster than the other, it’s time to rebalance the system. Unbalanced springs lead to uneven door lifting, premature fatigue, and added stress.

  Here are tips for rebalancing extension and torsion springs:

  Extensions Springs

  • Measure and note the length of each uncompressed spring.
  • Adjust cable length and spring stops until both sides match.
  • Replace any overstretched springs causing the imbalance.

  Torsion Springs

  • Mark and count the coils on each spring at rest.
  • Add or remove coils to achieve equal coil counts.
  • Adjust spring tension with winding bars to fine tune balance.

  Equalizing the components on both sides of the door distributes weight evenly and prevents lifting issues. Keep springs in sync for smooth operation.

  How to Contain Broken Garage Door Springs

  Snapped garage door springs can whip around dangerously until secured. Here are tips for containing spring ends until repairs can be made:

  • Put on protective gloves and eyewear before approaching.
  • Carefully clamp vise grips onto the ends of broken springs.
  • Loosen the hardware securing the spring ends in place.
  • Remove the broken spring by sliding it off the shaft.
  • Slowly release the vise grips to deactivate the tension.

  With the spring ends clamped and the tension released, the pieces can be safely removed and discarded. Always call in pros for replacement to avoid injury risks.

  Broken extension springs can also fling loose. Contain by clamping the ends to stabilize until the springs can be detached from pulleys and removed entirely.

  Exercising caution protects DIYers when dealing with failing springs. Don’t take chances – call pros for repairs requiring
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  Replace Rusty Hardware This Year? 8 Clever Hacks to Extend Lifespan of Torsion Springs

  

  Is your garage door making that dreaded grinding noise when you open or close it? Chances are the torsion springs need replacing. But before you call the repairman, try these 8 ingenious tricks first to squeeze a little more life out of those springs.

  Torsion springs are designed to lift the immense weight of your garage door. After years of use, the steel can become fatigued and rusty. The good news is with some DIY maintenance, you can prolong the lifespan of 8 foot garage door springs.

  1. Lubricate the Springs

  One of the easiest ways to maintain your red torsion springs is to lubricate them. This helps prevent friction and corrosion. Spray white lithium grease or machine oil on the springs, particularly where the coils rub together. Run the garage door up and down a few times to distribute the lubricant.

  2. Check for Rust

  Inspect the springs closely for any flakes or pits from rust. Use a wire brush to scrub off any loose debris. Wipe clean with a dry rag. For minor surface rust, use naval jelly to etch the metal and convert reddish rust into black primer.

  3. Adjust the Tension

  

  If your door is sagging or crooked, the spring tension needs adjusting. The old rule of thumb was to turn the tension bolt 1/4 turn at a time until the door operates smoothly. But with newer torsion springs, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  4. Replace Broken Parts

  Examine the torsion spring system for any broken or worn parts, like cables, bottom brackets, or drums. Replace any defective parts immediately to prevent more damage. Don’t forget to re-lubricate after replacing anything.

  5. Check the Door Balance

  An unbalanced door stresses the springs and hardware. Disconnect the opener and raise the door manually. It should hold steady around three to four feet open. If not, adjust the spring tension and check the rollers and track alignment until balanced.

  6. Install Reinforcement Brackets

  Adding steel reinforcement brackets provides extra support and stability. They bolt to the wall around the springs to prevent lateral movement. Just be sure they don’t obstruct the coils when operating the door.

  7. Avoid Moisture Damage

  To prevent rust, keep the springs dry and protected. Check for water leaks near the foundation that could splash onto hardware. Lubricate after getting the springs wet to displace moisture. And spray with WD-40 to prevent corrosion.

  8. Know When to Call a Pro

  If the springs are visibly damaged or worn out, it’s best to have a professional garage door technician handle the replacement. They have the expertise to specify and install matched torsion spring sets with the correct size and windings.

  With a little DIY TLC, you can keep those garage door springs bouncing along. But when they reach the end of their lifespan, don’t risk injury trying to replace them yourself. Hire a pro to safely install new torsion springs and get your garage door moving smoothly once again.

  Upgrade to Stainless Steel Springs This Year? 8 Clever Hacks to Extend Lifespan of Torsion Springs

  Is your garage door making that dreaded grinding noise when you open or close it? Chances are the torsion springs need replacing. But before you call the repairman, try these 8 ingenious tricks first to squeeze a little more life out of those springs.

  Torsion springs are designed to lift the immense weight of your garage door. After years of use, the steel can become fatigued and rusty. One solution is to upgrade to stainless steel springs which are more durable and corrosion resistant. But you can also prolong the lifespan of existing 8 foot garage door springs with some DIY maintenance.

  1. Lubricate the Springs

  

  One of the easiest ways to maintain your red torsion springs is to lubricate them. This helps prevent friction and corrosion. Spray white lithium grease or machine oil on the springs, particularly where the coils rub together. Run the garage door up and down a few times to distribute the lubricant.

  2. Check for Rust

  Inspect the springs closely for any flakes or pits from rust. Use a wire brush to scrub off any loose debris. Wipe clean with a dry rag. For minor surface rust, use naval jelly to etch the metal and convert reddish rust into black primer.

  3. Adjust the Tension

  If your door is sagging or crooked, the spring tension needs adjusting. The old rule of thumb was to turn the tension bolt 1/4 turn at a time until the door operates smoothly. But with newer torsion springs, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  4. Replace Broken Parts

  Examine the torsion spring system for any broken or worn parts, like cables, bottom brackets, or drums. Replace any defective parts immediately to prevent more damage. Don’t forget to re-lubricate after replacing anything.

  5. Check the Door Balance

  

  An unbalanced door stresses the springs and hardware. Disconnect the opener and raise the door manually. It should hold steady around three to four feet open. If not, adjust the spring tension and check the rollers and track alignment until balanced.

  6. Install Reinforcement Brackets

  Adding steel reinforcement brackets provides extra support and stability. They bolt to the wall around the springs to prevent lateral movement. Just be sure they don’t obstruct the coils when operating the door.

  7. Avoid Moisture Damage

  To prevent rust, keep the springs dry and protected. Check for water leaks near the foundation that could splash onto hardware. Lubricate after getting the springs wet to displace moisture. And spray with WD-40 to prevent corrosion.

  8. Know When to Upgrade

  If the springs are visibly worn out, consider upgrading to stainless steel for maximum strength and longevity. They resist rust and last much longer than plain steel springs. But the upgrade can be expensive, so try prolonging existing springs first.

  With a little DIY TLC, you can keep those garage door springs bouncing along. But when they reach the end of their lifespan, don’t risk injury trying to replace them yourself. Hire a pro to safely install new stainless steel torsion springs and get your garage door moving smoothly once again.

  Hire a Professional for Major Repairs This Year? 8 Clever Hacks to Extend Lifespan of Torsion Springs

  Is your garage door making that dreaded grinding noise when you open or close it? Chances are the torsion springs need replacing. But before you call the repairman, try these 8 ingenious tricks first to squeeze a little more life out of those springs.

  Torsion springs are designed to lift the immense weight of your garage door. After years of use, the steel can become fatigued and rusty. While minor DIY repairs can prolong the lifespan of springs, major repairs like replacements are best left to professionals.

  1. Lubricate the Springs

  One of the easiest ways to maintain your red torsion springs is to lubricate them. This helps prevent friction and corrosion. Spray white lithium grease or machine oil on the springs, particularly where the coils rub together. Run the garage door up and down a few times to distribute the lubricant.

  2. Check for Rust

  Inspect the 8 foot garage door springs closely for any flakes or pits from rust. Use a wire brush to scrub off any loose debris. Wipe clean with a dry rag. For minor surface rust, use naval jelly to etch the metal and convert reddish rust into black primer.

  3. Adjust the Tension

  

  If your door is sagging or crooked, the spring tension needs adjusting. The old rule of thumb was to turn the tension bolt 1/4 turn at a time until the door operates smoothly. But with newer torsion springs, it’s best to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.

  4. Replace Broken Parts

  Examine the torsion spring system for any broken or worn parts, like cables, bottom brackets, or drums. Replace any defective parts immediately to prevent more damage. Don’t forget to re-lubricate after replacing anything.

  5. Check the Door Balance

  An unbalanced door stresses the springs and hardware. Disconnect the opener and raise the door manually. It should hold steady around three to four feet open. If not, adjust the spring tension and check the rollers and track alignment until balanced.

  6. Install Reinforcement Brackets

  Adding steel reinforcement brackets provides extra support and stability. They bolt to the wall around the springs to prevent lateral movement. Just be sure they don’t obstruct the coils when operating the door.

  7. Avoid Moisture Damage

  

  To prevent rust, keep the springs dry and protected. Check for water leaks near the foundation that could splash onto hardware. Lubricate after getting the springs wet to displace moisture. And spray with WD-40 to prevent corrosion.

  8. Know When to Call a Pro

  If the springs are visibly damaged or worn out, it’s best to have a professional garage door technician handle replacements. They have the expertise to specify and install matched torsion spring sets safely. DIY spring replacements risk serious injury.

  With a little DIY TLC, you can keep those garage door springs bouncing along. But when major repairs are needed, don’t risk injury – hire a pro to safely install new torsion springs and get your garage door moving smoothly once again.