Explore 7 Common Causes of Garage Door Spring Failure

Garage door springs might seem small and insignificant, but they do some heavy lifting—literally. These springs are responsible for balancing the weight of your garage door, making it easy to open and close. But what happens when they fail? It’s not just an inconvenience; it can also be a safety hazard. Let’s dive into the common causes of garage door spring failure and how you can prevent these issues from disrupting your day.

1. Wear and Tear Over Time

Just like any other mechanical component, garage door springs wear out over time. Most springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles, which sounds like a lot, but if you’re opening and closing your garage door several times a day, those cycles can add up quickly.

If your springs are nearing the end of their life cycle, you might notice your door feels heavier or the opener struggles to lift it. This is a sign that the springs are wearing out and could fail soon. Luckily, regular inspections can help you keep track of how your springs are holding up. If you know they’re getting old, consider replacing them before they fail.

2. Rust and Corrosion

Rust is a garage door spring’s worst enemy. When metal springs are exposed to moisture, they can rust, which weakens the metal and increases the chances of a sudden break. Rust not only shortens the lifespan of the springs but also affects their ability to operate smoothly.

You should look for signs of rust or corrosion on the springs. If you see any, it’s time to take action before they weaken further. To prevent corrosion, apply a lubricant to the springs every few months. This simple maintenance task can extend the life of your springs significantly.

3. Lack of Maintenance

Garage door springs need a little TLC to keep them functioning properly. Without regular maintenance, they can wear out more quickly, leading to failure. If you’ve never lubricated or checked your springs, they might be overdue for some attention. Squeaking or grinding noises are signs that the springs aren’t operating as smoothly as they should. Make a habit of lubricating your springs with a high-quality garage door lubricant every six months. This helps reduce friction and wear, keeping your springs in good shape.

4. Imbalanced Garage Door

Your garage door needs to be balanced for the springs to work correctly. If the door is imbalanced, one spring might bear more weight than the other, causing it to wear out faster. If your door looks crooked or doesn’t close evenly, it’s likely imbalanced. This can put extra stress on the springs, leading to premature failure. For this reason, it’s vital to regularly check the balance of your garage door. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, it’s imbalanced and needs adjustment.

5. Extreme Temperatures

Garage door springs are made of metal, which means they expand and contract with temperature changes. In areas with extreme hot or cold weather, this constant expansion and contraction can weaken the springs over time.

In very cold weather, springs can become brittle and break more easily. In hot weather, they might expand and lose tension. While you can’t control the weather, you can be aware of how temperature changes might affect your springs. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, more frequent inspections and maintenance are a good idea.

6. Poor-Quality Springs

Not all garage door springs are created equal. If your springs were low-quality to begin with, they’re more likely to fail prematurely. Cheap springs might save you money upfront, but they can cost you more in repairs and replacements down the line.

If you’ve had multiple spring failures in a short period, it might be a sign that the springs are of poor quality. That’s why you should invest in high-quality springs when it’s time for a replacement. They might cost a bit more, but they’ll last longer and perform better.

7. Overloading the Door

Garage doors are designed to handle a certain amount of weight. Adding insulation, windows, or other heavy materials can overload the door, putting extra strain on the springs.

If you’ve added anything to your garage door, like a new layer of insulation or decorative features, the added weight might be too much for the current springs. Next time you upgrade your garage door, make sure the springs are rated for the new weight. It might be necessary to replace the springs with ones that can handle the added load.

Preventing Garage Door Spring Failure

While you can’t prevent all spring failures, regular maintenance and awareness of the common causes can significantly reduce the risk. Here’s a quick checklist to keep your springs in top shape:

• Regular Inspections: Check your springs every few months for signs of wear, rust, or imbalance.
• Lubrication: Apply lubricant to the springs every six months to reduce friction and prevent rust.
• Balance Checks: Test the balance of your garage door periodically to ensure even weight distribution.
• Professional Help: If you’re unsure about the condition of your springs or if you suspect a problem, call a professional for an inspection.

Garage door springs might be small, but they play a big role in the safety and functionality of your garage door. By understanding the common causes of spring failure and taking steps to prevent them, you can keep your door operating smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns.

If you’re experiencing issues with your garage door springs or want to schedule a maintenance check, Same Day Garage Door Service & Repair is here to help. Give us a call at (346) 445-7253 to ensure your garage door springs are in top condition and ready to handle the daily grind.