A garage door plays a vital role in every household. They keep your home secure and provide easy access for vehicles and storage. One of the most important parts of a garage door is the spring. Garage springs are under high tension. They lift and lower the door with ease. When a spring breaks, the door becomes difficult or impossible to operate. It can also be dangerous. Understanding why garage springs break can help you prevent problems and save money.
In this blog, we will cover the top three reasons garage springs break. We will also give tips on how to avoid these issues. If you are in Fircrest and need assistance, our services like Garage Spring Repair Fircrest can help.
Reason 1: Wear and Tear
The most common reason garage springs break is normal wear and tear. Garage springs open and close the door hundreds of times a year. Over time, the metal weakens. This can cause the spring to snap suddenly.
Even if the spring looks fine on the outside, the internal tension can weaken. Springs have a life cycle measured in cycles. A cycle is one full open and close of the garage door. Most springs last between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles. If your spring reaches its cycle limit, it is more likely to break.
How to Avoid Wear and Tear
- Regular Inspections – Check your springs every few months. Look for signs of rust, wear, or stretching.
- Lubrication – Apply a garage door lubricant to the springs. This reduces friction and prolongs life.
- Balanced Door – Make sure the garage door is properly balanced. An unbalanced door puts extra strain on the springs.
By taking care of your garage springs, you can prevent sudden failures. Regular maintenance is key.
Reason 2: Rust and Corrosion
Rust is another major reason garage springs break. Moisture and humidity can cause metal springs to corrode. Once rust forms, it weakens the metal. A rusted spring is much more likely to snap under tension.
Even a small amount of rust can be dangerous. Rust also makes the springs noisier. If your garage door creaks or squeaks, it may be a sign of corrosion. Ignoring rust can lead to a complete spring failure.
How to Avoid Rust and Corrosion
- Regular Cleaning – Wipe your springs with a dry cloth to remove dirt and moisture.
- Lubrication – A good garage door lubricant forms a protective layer over the metal.
- Climate Control – If possible, reduce moisture in the garage. Use a dehumidifier or keep vents open to improve airflow.
Preventing rust not only extends spring life but also improves the door’s performance.
Reason 3: Improper Installation or Overuse
Improper installation is another common cause of broken garage springs. If a spring is not installed correctly, it can wear out faster. The tension may be uneven, which increases the risk of snapping.
Overuse of the garage door also leads to spring failure. Frequent openings and closings can strain the spring. Homes with multiple drivers or commercial properties may open the door many times a day. This accelerates wear.
How to Avoid Installation and Overuse Problems
- Hire a Professional – Always get springs installed or replaced by certified technicians.
- Use the Door Correctly – Avoid forcing the door open or closed manually.
- Consider High-Cycle Springs – If your garage door is used frequently, opt for high-cycle springs that last longer.
Proper installation and responsible use are essential to prevent premature spring failure.
When to Call a Professional
If your spring shows signs of damage, do not attempt to fix it yourself. Garage springs are under extreme tension. A broken spring can cause serious injury. Professional services like Garage Spring Repair Fircrest can safely handle the problem.
Signs You Need Professional Help
- Garage door feels heavy or unbalanced
- Loud snapping or creaking sounds
- Visible gaps or breaks in the spring
- Door does not open fully or closes unevenly
Calling a professional ensures the repair is done safely and correctly.
Maintenance Tips to Extend Spring Life
Regular maintenance can prevent most garage spring problems. Here are some tips:
- Lubricate Springs – Use a silicone-based or lithium lubricant every six months.
- Check Door Balance – Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door. It should stay open at any position.
- Inspect for Wear – Look for gaps, rust, or stretched coils.
- Replace When Needed – Don’t wait for the spring to break. Timely replacement prevents accidents.
Following these steps reduces the risk of sudden spring failure.
Great Value Garage Door Services
At Great Value Garage Door, we have over 20 years of experience in garage door services. We understand the importance of safety and reliability. Our team uses high-quality parts and follows strict safety procedures. We offer emergency services and same-day repairs whenever possible. We specialize in Garage Door Torsion Spring Repair Fircrest, ensuring your springs are repaired safely and efficiently. We also perform regular inspections and maintenance to extend the life of your garage springs. Our goal is to make your garage door safe, efficient, and trouble-free. When you call us, you can trust that the job will be done right the first time.
Conclusion
Garage springs are key parts that keep your garage door functioning properly. They handle the heavy lifting and ensure smooth operation. The three main reasons garage springs break are normal wear and tear, rust and corrosion, and improper installation or overuse.
Preventing these issues requires regular maintenance, proper lubrication, and professional installation. Ignoring spring problems can lead to expensive repairs and serious safety risks.
If you are in Fircrest, services like garage spring replacement Fircrest are essential for keeping your garage door safe and functional.By understanding the causes of spring failure and taking proactive steps, you can save time, money, and prevent accidents. For expert garage spring care, contact Great Value Garage Door today. We are here to keep your garage door operating smoothly and safely for years to come.
