Hormann Garage Door Springs? The 68 Latest Answer

When we refer to a garage door spring, we are talking about a torsion spring or extension spring that is responsible for actually raising and closing your garage door. A garage door spring break is one of the main causes of a broken garage door and it should be easy to spot.

Fix my garage door

The best way to prevent your garage door springs from breaking is to have regular inspection and maintenance throughout the expected life of the torsion springs, and replacing them when they near the end of their life cycle. It is much better to replace your springs with new ones a few weeks early than to have them break when they finally give out, which can damage the door and cause a dangerous situation.

Not sure how long you want your garage door springs to last, or maybe it’s time for a replacement? We’ve put together a handy guide to garage door spring life expectancy below, but a general rule of thumb is 10,000 cycles or 3-5 years. This will depend on the quality of your garage door springs and other factors, but should help you determine if it’s time to replace your garage door springs or not.

Why garage door springs break:

Age

The most common reason for a broken garage door spring is simply that it’s worn out. The life expectancy of a garage door spring is not unlimited and sooner or later, like any part, it will simply fail. How long do garage springs typically last? The average garage door spring should last about 10,000 open and close cycles when properly installed.

If you only come in and out of your garage once a day, you can expect a broken garage door spring about 14 years after you first installed the spring. If you’re in and out twice a day, you’ve shrunk to 7 years. If you have children who use the garage door as an alternate entry, a spouse who runs errands several times a day going in and out of the garage every time, or regularly bring storage items in and out of the garage, that number goes down quickly.

One way to prevent your garage door spring from breaking prematurely is to purchase extended life torsion springs. They are more expansive but can last about four times as long.

rust

Of course, there are other reasons why your garage door springs may break prematurely. A big one is rust. Rust is disastrous for torsion springs, increasing friction on the hairspring and corroding the spring itself. Inspecting the springs each season and spraying them with WD-40 can keep them lubricated, healthy, and rust-free.

Too much pressure on the spring

Some garage doors may only have one long torsion spring instead of one on each side. We recommend the dual spring model as individual torsion springs have a shorter lifespan and when they fail there is no other spring intact to reduce the impact.

Get an estimate

For quality inspection, maintenance and replacement of garage door springs in the Tampa area, contact Banko Overhead Doors today.

Tension springs for sectional garage doors

On this page you can learn more about extension springs, determine which replacement extension springs you need, and see how to order springs. These springs are for sectional garage doors. If you have a garage door that won’t bend when it rolls up into the horizontal tracks, if it’s a rigid piece that rotates, go to our One Piece Garage Door Tension Springs page.

Introduction to tension springs for sectional garage doors

Sectional garage doors are hinged and flex in the tracks as the door opens and closes. Many of these doors are balanced with tension springs, also known as “extension springs,” and have seven properties. The length is the measure of all coils pressed together. This, along with the inner diameter of the coils and the wire size – the thickness of the wire from which the springs are made – determines the stretch, the distance the spring is extended – usually half the door height, and pulls the force of the spring pulls in the stretched to its normal length. The type of ends determines how the ends of the spring are assembled. The initial tension is the percentage of pull required to separate the windings. This is determined by the pitch at which the springs are wound. For sectional garage door springs it is usually 15 percent. For example, a 100 pound mainspring requires 15 pounds of weight to separate the coils; When a door is open, the two springs support 15 pounds of door weight without stretch.

Most extension springs are made of oil-hardened wire. These are usually coated or painted. Some springs are made of galvanized wire.

tension spring counterweight

Garage door extension springs balance the weight of garage doors so they open and close easily. One end is attached to a stationary bracket or bracket, and the weight of the door pulls the other end.

When a garage door is open, most of the weight of the door is stored in the horizontal tracks. The door stays open without additional support because the preload of the springs counterbalances the weight of the door. Tension springs are tensioned with cables and pulleys. One end of the cable attaches to the bottom of the door; The other end of the cable is usually attached to the horizontal rail bracket with an S-hook. When the door closes, one end of the cable follows the bottom of the door; The remainder of the cable runs over the pulleys above the door onto the horizontal track angle where it is usually secured with a cable clamp and S-hook. (For demonstration purposes, the spring is extended from the ceiling, but typically it hangs from the rear rail hanger.)

With the 100 pound door in our example above, there is a tension spring for each side of the door. Each spring pulls 100 pounds on the pulley, but the cable at the bottom of the door only lifts 50 pounds. Because only half of the spring tension is transferred to the door; the other half of the spring force is transferred to the other end of the rope, where it is attached to the horizontal rail bracket with a rope clamp and S-hook. As a result, the 100 pound door in our example requires a 100 pound extension spring on each side of the door. Also note that the spring stretches from 25 inches to 67 inches. That 42-inch difference—half the door height—is spring stretch.

This spring would be labeled 25-42-100 because it is 25 inches long, extends 42 inches beyond the 25 inch length, and the 100 represents the 100 pound pull force on each spring. So for a seven foot tall garage door that weighs 100 pounds, the door would need two of those 100 pound extension springs.

Temporary fixes for broken spring ends

It is not uncommon for the loop at the end of a tension spring to break off. There are two ways to attach the spring without replacing it, or to have your gate operational until springs can be ordered. One is to separate the last two coils with a screwdriver and attach the S hook or eyebolt.

The other temporary solution is to put a clip on the end of the spring. You can purchase these on our tension spring hardware page. Note that these are temporary fixes. You can expect your spring to break again at the other end or elsewhere along the length of the spring. The only reliable repair is to replace both or all four springs.

Determine which tension springs you need

It is important that you replace your old extension springs with new springs that match your door weight exactly. This gives you a properly balanced garage door that stays on the ground when closed, stays halfway and stays up when you open the door. The blog is written for torsion springs, but testing the balance of a door is the same for both systems. Broken pulleys and cables often go hand in hand with broken tension springs, so you may have a slightly larger project than you anticipate.

take measurements

There are three key pieces of information you need to choose the right springs for your garage door. These are door height, spring length without loops, and door weight. If you can identify the manufacturer and model number, you may not need to weigh the door. Just click on the “Search by model number” tab below.

One method for weighing a 16 foot or wider door is to slide your scale under the end of the door on the side that has a broken spring. Raise the other side to the same height, then prop it up to keep the door level. One method for weighing a 16 foot or wider door is to slide your scale under the end of the door on the side that has a broken spring. Raise the other side to the same height, then prop it up to keep the door level.

The calculation can be difficult. You must use an analog scale as most digital scales do not respond to door weight changes caused by the door binding in the rails. If you have two broken extension springs, slide an analog scale under the center of the door to get the total weight. If one of your two tension springs is broken, you can slide the scale under the door under the side with the broken spring as shown to get half the weight.

Shake the door and check each of the rollers for binding. If a spring is broken, the weight you read off the broken scale is 1/2 the door weight. If you have a total of two springs on your door and both springs are broken, the scale will show the total weight of the door. For more information, see the first five steps of our tutorial on replacing tension springs.

When you have a total of four springs on your door with two springs on each side of your door, open the door, remove the second spring on the side with the broken spring and lower the door onto the scales on the side that is the spring was broken spring. With both springs on that side removed, you can double that weight to find your total door weight. However, it’s important to note that since you can’t weigh the door at the very end, you’ll need to adjust your weight to account for the distance from the end. For example, if the center of your scale is 12 inches from the end, you must add the weight your scale reads. A percentage determined by dividing 16 feet by 15 feet equals 106.66% percent. Therefore a weight of 100 pounds x 106.66% = 107 pounds. Double that, and the estimated total weight of the door should be around 214 pounds. This door would use two 210 pound extension springs. Or, if the door has four mainsprings, the door would use two 100 lb. mainsprings and two 110 lb. mainsprings.

For a more accurate method of weighing a torsion spring door or a tension spring door, visit our YouTube channel.

Door height also helps determine which springs you need. For example, the extension springs for 14-foot doors should stretch twice as much as the springs for 7-foot doors. As a result, the unstretched length of a tension spring generally increases as door height increases.

Another measurement you need to take is the unstretched spring length, not including the ends. Extension springs tend to stretch over time, so you must remove the spring from the door and compress the coils when measuring length. You may need to insert a shaft into the center of the spring to keep it straight as you compress the coils. Some springs have snapped so badly that you may need to measure and count turns to calculate length.

While the door industry has standardized spring lengths, there are multiple spring lengths for some of the more common door heights.

If you decide to buy an extension spring with a shorter unstretched length than your old spring, you will need to adjust your cables. For every inch your new spring is shorter than the old spring, there must be 2 inches of extra length. If your cables are not adjustable or are too short you will need to either replace the cables or order a longer spring If you require a spring with dimensions not listed in our parts catalog we can order a custom spring. These generally cost around £50 % more than our standard springs, so it’s probably better to switch cables instead.

If your new spring is longer than your old spring, you will need to adjust the cables to shorten the pull. Sometimes this requires the S-hook on the new springs to be mounted closer to the garage door.

It’s also helpful to examine your nib for color codes. The elevators for extension springs follow these colors:

Tan – 100#, 200# & 300#

White – 110#, 210# & 310#

Green – 120#, 220# & 320#

Yellow – 130#, 230# & 330#

Blue – 40#, 140# and 240#

Red – 50#, 150# and 250#

Brown – 60#, 160# and 260#

Orange – 70#, 170# & 270#

Gold – 80#, 180# & 280#

Light Blue – 90#, 190# & 290#.

This pattern is repeated for all elevators.

Types of Tension Spring Ends

Front to back: open ends, double loop ends and cropped ends. There are three types of extension spring ends, and each of the springs has its own advantages and disadvantages. Front to back: open ends, double loop ends and cropped ends. There are three types of extension spring ends, and each of the springs has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Open loop ends are the easiest to replace. You don’t need to open the eyebolt, and you don’t need to disassemble the pulley. A downside, however, is that the entire spring ends up relying on an open wire. If that’s the only part of your nib that breaks, you might be able to save a few bucks and sometimes you can add a clip to the end of the nib, as shown above.

Double looped ends are more stable than open loops because there are two coils of spring connected to the eyebolt and pulley. However, a disadvantage is that the exchange takes longer.

Clipped ends are even more durable than double loops. The spring clips put less stress on the spring ends to increase spring life. These are standard on extension springs for doors weighing 200 pounds or more. However, the downside is that they are more difficult to replace.

Replace a spring or two?

We recommend that you replace all of the tension springs on your door. As the springs tire, they loosen up and don’t provide as much lift as the new spring. Replacing just one of two springs can cause the door to open unevenly and cause problems such as sticking. B. Bindings or rollers coming out of the rails.

Cables & Pulleys

Worn pulleys can cause problems, and it’s good to swap them out while you change your mainsprings. Worn pulleys can cause problems, and it’s good to swap them out while you change your mainsprings.

often wear out and sometimes need to be replaced along with the springs. We strongly encourage you to check the status of your four pulleys. Since each roller on your door wears out at roughly the same rate every time you open the door, we recommend replacing all four of your rollers when you find one that is worn. This will also save you time and shipping costs in the future.

Mainspring balancers often wear out with the springs. If you examine your cables now, you may not find any problems. However, often the cable is frayed or worn out in the cable clamp and the cables need to be replaced. This is something to consider if you’re looking to buy new extension springs.

If one of your cables is frayed or rusted, we recommend replacing both cables. This could save you trouble in the future. The required cable length determines the cable prices for other door heights.

Safety cables are crucial in tension spring doors. You usually don’t need to replace these cables, but if you don’t have them, you should buy them. The cables run the length of the spring and will restrain the spring pieces if it breaks. These protect people from injury or death, and they protect cars and other valuables from damage if the spring breaks.

All of these parts and more can be purchased on our Tension Spring Hardware page. See our ordering section below for help purchasing your extension springs.

How to order feathers

Notice the two tabs below for selecting extension springs.

Order by door weight. If you know your door weight, click the Search by Door Weight tab. Then select the number of springs on your door, the door height, the spring length and the door weight. You’ll find the menu offers lifts in £10 increments. If your door falls between two door weights, choose the lower weight. For example, if your door weighs 168 pounds, select two of the 160-pound lift springs. It’s better to go down than up so the door stays down when closing and up when opening. stronger is not better. The cable and pulley system limits adjustment options if the springs are too strong for the door.

After clicking “Go!” A new page will appear with up to three options for spring ends: open loops, closed double loops, and clips. You’ll also see the spring part number, length without end loops or clips, spring weight, and stroke or pull of each spring. You will also see the unit price of each spring. If you have more than one door, you can save on both the price of the springs and the shipping cost. If a durable spring is available, it will appear under the first option or options above.

Next, you can click on the part number for more information and then click Add to Cart. Or you can just click the buy button and then follow the links to buy the feathers.

Order by model number. Most newer garage doors have identification stickers that indicate the manufacturer and model number. Once you have this information, click the Search by Model Number tab.

You then enter the manufacturer, model number, door dimensions, and additional information to help you order the correct springs. Click “Go!”

After clicking “Go!” A new page will appear with up to three options for spring ends: open loops, closed double loops, and clips. You’ll also see the spring part number, length without end loops or clips, spring weight, and stroke or pull of each spring. You will also see the unit price of each spring. If you have more than one door, you can save on both the price of the springs and the shipping cost. If a durable spring is available, it will appear under the first option or options above.

Next, you can click on the part number for more information and then click Add to Cart. Or you can just click the buy button and then follow the links to buy the feathers.

Durable tension springs like the one on the right last about three times longer than the one on the left. Durable tension springs like the one on the right last about three times longer than the one on the left.

Longer life extension springs are now available. In our testing here at DDM Garage Doors, Inc., we’ve found that the standard life springs begin to gape at just over 7,000 cycles. These usually work beyond 10,000 cycles, but only after additional gaps or until the spring breaks. We also noticed that the springs are about an inch longer at this point. Three problems arise as a result of spring gaps.

Tension springs often fatigue before they break. Others just break without warning. The spring on the left is fatigued and stretched at 10,000 cycles; The right one is a durable spring that broke after 28,000 cycles. Tension springs often fatigue before they break. Others just break without warning. The spring on the left is fatigued and stretched at 10,000 cycles; The right one is a durable spring that broke after 28,000 cycles.

For one thing, the springs lift about 10% less. For a 200 pound door, that’s about 20 pounds, and if the opener force is set correctly, the opener will stop lifting the door as soon as it starts.

A second common problem is that when the door is opened, the ropes come loose and fall off the rollers. When the homeowner tries to close the garage door, it bangs in and overturns. Often the elongation can be adjusted, but tests have shown that after several gaps, springs grow an inch or more every 1,000 cycles. They are also more likely to break, causing damage to hangers and pulleys. Even more extensive damage is possible if there are no security cables attached to the door.

The third problem with expired mainsprings is that one side fatigues before the other. When this happens, one side pulls up before the other and the top section hits the pulley or mounting bolt, causing the gate to stop. For this reason, we also advise our customers not to buy just one spring. The door does not open or close smoothly causing additional problems with wear, binding and rollers coming off the tracks.

The main benefit of longer life nibs is that you may never have any of these issues as they typically last about 3 times longer than the standard nibs. When you buy the springs we recommend reinstalling your safety cables or buying new ones if you don’t have them. If durable springs are available in the sizes you need, the option with part numbers ending in “LL” will appear in the list that appears after entering information in the drawdown menus.

In the early decades of door manufacture, the springs were often much larger than the standard extension springs made today. Older springs also tire and become longer. For this reason, a 25 inch spring that has been stretched five inches will measure 30 inches when measured while the spring is still on the door. For these reasons, and because there are no standard technical specifications among spring manufacturers, your new extension springs will likely look different than your old springs. This is normal and assuming your new springs are rated for the same door height and have the same pull force as your old ones, you can rest assured that they are fully compatible.

For one thing, the springs lift about 10% less. For a 200 pound door, that’s about 20 pounds, and if the opener force is set correctly, the opener will stop lifting the door once it’s started.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to production delays, spring orders for doors taller than 8ft may be delayed by 3-4 weeks. If you can wait that long for your feathers, please make a note in the comments section of your order.

Find my section tension spring

Search for door weight

Search by Model Number 1. Springs on Door 2 4 2. Door Height – Select – 6′ 0″ 6′ 6″ 7′ 0″ 7′ 6″ 8′ 0″ 9′ 0″ 10′ 0″ 11′ 0″ 12′ 0″ 13′ 0″ 14′ 0″ 3. Spring Length (inches) – Select – 4. Door Weight (lbs) – Select – 1. Manufacturer –Select — Amarr CHI Clopay Holmes Ideal Wayne Dalton Windsor 2. Model Number –Select– 3. Door Dimensions –Select– Window –Select– No Single Disc Double Disc Braces (example) –Select– 0 1 2 3 4 Springs on Door 2 4 Spring Length (inches) – Select – 25 27 29 30 32 Note: Spring options listed are based on original door weights. Hurricane bracing, decorative hardware and other door additions may alter door weight and render suggested springs unusable. The model number search does not cover all door heights. If your door height is not listed, please use the “Search by door weight” tab.

If you would like us to verify your calculations prior to ordering, you can contact us with your door weight, total number of springs on the door, or any door information such as manufacturer and model number that you can find.

Having trouble opening your manual garage door?

Having trouble opening your manual garage door? For many homeowners, the garage is the center of activity in their home and the location of vehicles, gym equipment, gaming tables, and DIY tools. As such, it can be frustrating when access is hampered by a faulty garage door that just won’t open properly. In this article, we’re going to examine the most common causes of a garage door that won’t close and describe the best solutions to solve these problems.

Damage to torsion springs

Cause: Garage torsion springs are important aspects of the garage opening system as no other part of the mechanism is strong enough to lift the heavy door. If a torsion spring fails or breaks, you may find that your garage feels a lot heavier when you lift it, or it just won’t open at all. If you are close to hear the spring snap, the sound resembles a loud pop.

Solution: To get your garage running again, the affected torsion spring needs to be replaced. Don’t try to fix it with a DIY project. This procedure involves risks for a layperson and should only be performed by a trained professional.

Problems with the stands or castors

Cause: A garage door track misalignment, damage, or clogging can pose a serious problem when attempting to open your garage door smoothly. Telltale signs of track problems include gaps between the rollers and track, deformed elements, a grinding noise, or a stiff feeling when opening. Over time, constantly opening your garage door with misaligned or damaged tracks can make the problem worse.

Solution: Depending on the severity of the damage, you may be able to use a mallet or mallet to gently pry the splint back into the correct shape or position. Blockages or obstacles can be removed with a cloth. If the damage is particularly severe or you are unsure how to fix the problem yourself, you should leave the work to a specialist who has the skills to fix the problem.

Broken tension spring or cable

Cause: The task of controlling the slow and gentle lowering of your garage door is performed by the tension springs or cables. If these become damaged, the garage door could slam shut very quickly. And if the cables snap, the loose ends can fly out and hit someone standing nearby.

Solution: To avoid injury to yourself and your property, try not to go near your garage door until you have called a technician to assess the damage and fix the problem.

obstacles

Cause: Rocks and debris can become lodged in the garage door mechanism and jam important components. This can prevent the door from closing properly.

Solution: If you suspect an object is blocking your door, do a quick inspection of the garage door mechanism and look for rocks or other objects that may be caught. Only remove it if you feel absolutely safe to do so, and you may even want to enlist someone else’s help to make sure the door doesn’t hurt you. If you are unsure about the safety of this process, contact the professionals to deal with the issue.

A faulty emergency release

Cause: If your emergency release is defective, your garage door may be stiff. This is a particularly annoying problem with broken automatic garage doors; in these cases the emergency release is used to open the door manually. If this is also defective, your garage door will remain in the closed position.

Solution: Contact a professional who can diagnose the problem with your emergency release and offer a solution.

If you still can’t identify the problem with your garage door, it’s time to call the experts at Eastern Garage Doors who can help you get your door back in perfect condition. We are a leading garage door installation and repair company, operating across the east of England including Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. Contact us today to book your free, no-obligation survey.e

Quick guide to frequently asked questions

We thought we’d take a moment to go through some of the most common questions about garage door torsion springs and how they work.

Answers:

Q) How long do garage door torsion springs last? A) Torsion springs for garage doors have an average life expectancy of 7-10 years depending on use. Most homes today use their garage doors as front doors, and the more you use the door, the shorter the springs will last.

Q) How do I know what size spring I need? A) Not all garage doors are created equal and use the same springs. We have a number of ways to help you determine the springs you need for your garage door, from how-to videos to step-by-step instructions with pictures on our Springs page. You also have the option to send us a picture of your garage door and we will tell you which springs you need!

Q) Why is my torsion spring(s) broken? A) Torsion springs for garage doors have an average life expectancy and will wear out or break depending on how often you use them. The more often you operate your garage door, the shorter the springs will last. Call us to upgrade your feathers and make them last longer!

Q) What is the average cost for a garage door repair company to fix my broken spring(s)? A) The average cost of repair companies varies from country to country. We’ve heard prices ranging from $300 to $1000 in some parts of the country. You will be charged most of the price for the feathers themselves, so you can save a lot of money by getting the feathers yourself!

Q) How do I know if my springs are broken or bad? A) Torsion springs will expand about 1-2 inches when coiled from previous installation. If you look up and see a 1 to 2 inch gap in your feathers, it’s time to replace them. Springs also wear out over time and if they just don’t have the lifting capacity they are used to, or if the springs have gaps or binding, it may be a good idea to replace them before you garage your car!

Q) I was trying to raise my garage door after the spring broke. Why is the garage door so heavy? A) On garage doors, the springs lift the entire weight of the door. The opener is there to easily open the door with very little force. Most garage doors weigh between 180 and 240 pounds and can be difficult to open without the assistance of the springs.

Q) How long should I expect it to take to replace my springs? A) The average homeowner with the proper training and knowledge can complete the repair in less than an hour. Make sure whoever is doing the repair has the right winding tools to ensure job safety.

Q) What is High Cycle Life? A) High-Cycle Life is changing the dimensions and size of your spring(s) to make them last longer on your garage door. High-Cycle Life isn’t changing the quality of the metal used or a special coating on the spring, it’s increasing the wire size and length that results in the spring wearing out less quickly. Call us and get the right measurements to upgrade your spring!

Q) What do I need to replace my torsion spring(s)? A) Thankfully, replacing your springs requires very few tools. All you need is a pair of winding bars, followed by a couple of wrenches and maybe a hammer and file. For wrenches, the two bolts that hold the springs to the center bracket are most commonly 1/2″ or 9/16″, and these wrench sizes make the job a lot quicker. It’s also helpful to have a hammer or file handy to give stubborn feathers an excuse to move.

Q) My springs are not mounted in the center of the door. Is this okay? A) The torsion springs can be positioned anywhere on the torsion tube. The springs simply turn the torsion tube, which turns the cable reels that raise the garage door. It’s common to see the springs off-center to allow for low headroom situations to use an opener.

Q) Why do I have two different sized springs on my garage door? A) Torsion springs may be mismatched from the factory or when replaced earlier. We prefer the springs to match so they work together, wear the same, and better balance the door over time. Give us a call or email us so you can set yourself up with a matching pair!

Q) How many coils or coils do I put on my new springs? A) The number of coils required for your springs depends on the height of your garage door. If your door is 7 feet tall, we recommend starting with 31 quarter turns on each spring. If you have an 8 foot door, start with 34 quarter turns. Inserting your coil rods into your springs and pushing up is a quarter turn, just do this as many times as recommended for each spring. Remember that this is only true if the garage door springs are correct!

Q) What is that black bushing in your pictures? A) We include a black plastic bushing with every spring set we sell. This only serves as a placeholder so that the torsion tube does not rattle around in the springs. It also helps keep the tube stationary while spinning. Only one bushing is required per pair of springs.

Q) Should I replace both springs if only one spring is broken? A) We ALWAYS recommend replacing both springs if one breaks. We do this because the springs tend to wear out and break at about the same rate. We see again and again that when just one spring is replaced, the other spring tends to break within the next week or month. It’s best to do the job once and get it done while everything is already torn apart!

Q) My garage door only has one spring. Can I upgrade to a pair? A) This depends on the weight of your garage door. If you have a single 9×7 garage door for a car, most often they only have a torsion spring. We recommend any door that weighs over 150 pounds have a pair of springs. There is a line where it is actually more advantageous to have one heavier gauge spring on the door than two smaller gauge springs, since the larger spring actually lasts longer. Most commonly, if you have a two car garage door with a single torsion spring, we recommend upgrading to a pair.

Q) Should I replace anything else while changing my springs? A) It depends if there is anything else broken or worn out. If a spring breaks, you can usually simply replace it and, with the right lubrication, you are well equipped for another 10 years. We usually offer a FREE cable set with every spring order, so be sure to take advantage of this! If you have a spring break, check your garage door once and see if the bearings are still working properly and the rollers are still “rolling”.

Q) In which direction do I pull my feathers? A) The most common way to push UP is when rewinding your new torsion springs. This applies when your black cone spring is to the right of the center bracket and the red cone spring is to the left. There are special cases where you actually have to pull the springs down to wind them up. If you’re not sure what to do, give us a call or send us a picture and we’ll let you know!

Q) How can I service my garage door springs? A) Proper lubrication of your torsion springs every 6 months can help extend their life and reduce spring binding. While you’re spraying your feathers, be sure to give your hinges, rollers, and bearings a quick spray too. To relieve your opener, once a year pull the latch on your opener and test the balance of your garage door to see if your springs need a turn or two.

Q) How long will it take to receive my new nibs after I order them? A) We ship all of our orders placed before 1pm EST the same day they are ordered Monday through Friday. We are located in northern Indiana and if you are located on the east coast you will receive your feathers within 1-2 business days. If you are on the West Coast, it will take 2-3 business days. Anywhere in between takes 1-3 business days but rest assured that you will be emailed a tracking number notifying you of the day your new springs or parts will arrive. You can also always give us a quick call or email and we can let you know the day we can expect to arrive.

Q) Where is your business located? A) We are located in northern Indiana, just west of Fort Wayne. We love being so centrally located in the countryside so we can get you your torsion springs asap!

Q) What shipping service do you use? A) We ship most of our packages with UPS. Once your order has been placed we will dispatch it as quickly as possible and email you a tracking number so you know when your new parts will arrive.

If your garage door has a broken spring and you are taking your cars out of the garage or need to open it for some reason, the best and safest (although not recommended) option is to open it manually. Be extremely careful! Detach the door from the opener and carefully lift the door. Be careful not to bend the panels and do not put your fingers between the panels (!), the door will be heavy. Some doors are too heavy to lift.

Depending on the dimensions and construction of the door. Raising a door with a broken spring means you have to lift the weight of the door panels. Given that most are made of steel or wood, it’s going to be heavy. Stand in the center of the door, have each hand on a different panel to minimize damage to the panel, and lift like you do at the gym, a good grunt might help. Keep the gate completely level, if the gate tilts it may go off track or at least bend the vertical tracks.

Getting it off the ground is the hardest part. Once the door is up, it should be easy to keep it in the up position as the weight will be carried by the horizontal rails. When you’re ready to close it, do it slowly, making sure you hold it all the way down. Don’t drop it, it will likely damage a record. It is recommended that 2 people do this just to be safe.

If you know or suspect that your garage door has a broken spring of any kind, we strongly recommend calling a garage door technician and not operating the door. At American Veteran Garage Doors we always offer same day service, we can take care of it today!

Even the best garage door systems are not immune to damage. Garage doors are one of the largest and most used parts of our homes. Read on to learn what happens when a garage door spring breaks and what you should do in this situation.

Identify your garage door springs

There are two types of garage door springs – extension springs and torsion springs. Tension springs↗ are located near the top of the gate track. Torsion springs↗ are placed horizontally above the head of the doorway.

If you don’t see any exposed springs and your gate is functional, you may have Wayne Dalton TorqueMaster torsion springs↗.

Which one do you have?

torque master

Springs in the metal tube just above the door – NOT VISIBLE

rotation

Springs mounted on metal bar just above door – VISIBLE

renewal

Springs floating over rails on a cable system – VISIBLE

What happens when your garage door spring breaks?

Garage doors may be sturdy, but they’re not unbreakable. Damaged springs often go unnoticed until the gate is stationary. The following signs will answer your question: what happens when a garage door spring breaks?

6 signs your garage door spring just broke

1 – A sudden loud noise from the garage

If you hear a loud noise in your garage but don’t see anything when you inspect it, take a closer look. The noise you heard was probably caused by a spring suddenly unwinding. When springs break, they can make a loud popping noise, even if the door hasn’t slammed shut.

2 – There is a gap in spring

A gap in the spring is the most obvious way to identify a broken spring. The feathers should be tightly coiled and connected end to end.

3 – A bend at the top of the door

Another sign that the spring on your door is broken is if the top plate bends when you try to open the door. Without working springs, the force of the strike is insufficient to lift the weight of the door leaves.

4 – The garage door falls fast

A functional garage door opener and spring gently raises and lowers the weight of the door. If the spring breaks, the door can fall down because it no longer has a counterweight against gravity on the door leaves.

5 – The door is crooked

Depending on the weight of the door, the number of springs, and the number of broken springs, the door may still open. What you may notice is that the door becomes crooked as it moves up or down the track. This happens because the weight is no longer evenly distributed.

6 – Loose cables

A broken spring can lead to other problems. Loose cables are often caused by broken springs. If the spring breaks, cables and pulleys can become loose and you may find cables hanging slack from the ceiling.

Why are the garage door springs broken?

Garage door springs break from both accident and neglect. Below are some examples of what can cause a spring to break.

rust

Bad maintenance

wear and tear

Wrong parts

4 reasons why garage door springs break

rust

Metal springs are susceptible to rust. Rust weakens the spring and increases friction, shortening the cycle span. Rust can be prevented by occasionally spraying the spring with a lubricant such as WD-40.

Bad maintenance

Garage doors do not require much maintenance. Occasionally spray the springs with WD-40 and make sure there are no obstructions on the track or floor in the path of the gate. These small steps, plus a visual inspection of the garage door system every few months, can help you spot problems before they cause chaos.

wear and tear

Most garage doors are used frequently. Regular use will cause normal wear and tear on the springs, eventually causing them to break. The more wear they experience, the more likely it is that the springs will give way. Springs should be replaced when rusted, warped, or broken.

Wrong parts

It is important to use the correct garage door replacement parts. This is especially true for garage door springs. Springs are one of the most important parts of your garage door system – they do the heavy lifting. Installing incorrect springs can cause the springs to wear out faster and damage other parts of the system.

What do I do if my garage door springs break?

Contact a garage door professional if the springs break or are noticeably worn. Garage door problems are never easy, but many garage door companies, like ours, offer emergency repair services. Larger companies even offer same-day service.

Heritage Garage Door provides garage door installation, parts and repair services to homeowners in Southern California. Contact us today for immediate assistance.

garage door spring cost

Repairing a broken garage door spring will cost $40 to $80 for spring winding, balancing, and lubricating. Replacing garage door springs costs an average of $120 to $350. Garage door springs alone cost $30-$100 for a torsion spring and $20-$50 for an extension spring.

Garage Door Spring Cost Project Average Cost Torsion spring replacement $140-350 Extension spring replacement $120-200 Convert extension to torsion system $200-500 Spring and cable replacement $200-500 Cable replacement only $80-185 Torsion spring parts $30-100 Extension spring parts $20-$50 Spring Tuning (winding, balancing, greasing) $40-$80

*Prices dependent on spring type, door size, door weight and local labor costs.

With a two-spring system, always replace both springs, even if only one is broken. Equal tension in both springs improves the balance and functionality of the garage door. Also, it’s cheaper to replace both springs at once.

Average Garage Door Spring Cost National Average Cost $200 Minimum Cost $40 Maximum Cost $500 Average Range $100 to $350

Replacing garage door springs takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

New garage door springs last 7 to 14 years, or between 10,000 and 20,000 up and down cycles.

Replacing a garage door spring can be dangerous. Always hire a professional garage door repair company to help, because

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Cost of replacing the garage door spring

Replacing garage door springs costs an average of $120 to $350, depending on the type. A torsion spring replacement costs $140-$350, while an extension spring replacement costs $120-$200. The spring parts alone cost $20-$70 each, and labor costs $100-$200.

Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost Spring Type Springs Labor Cost Single Turn $30-70 $110-200 $140-270 Double Turn $50-100 $150-250 $200-350 Single Extension $20-40 $100-120 $120-160 Double Extension $30-50 $130 USD – $150 $160 – $200

*Prices are for standard 1 and 2 car garage doors. Springs for heavily insulated wood doors cost an additional $60 to $100 per set.

Prices vary depending on the size and load capacity of the spring(s), the type of garage door and the condition of the existing garage door system.

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Garage door torsion spring and bar replacement cost

Replacing a garage door torsion spring costs $140-$270 for one spring and between $200-$350 for two springs. Torsion springs for garage doors alone cost $30 to $70 each. Most garage doors have two torsion springs per door that need to be replaced at the same time.

Garage torsion spring replacement cost Number of springs Average cost One spring $140-270 Two springs $200-350

Torsion springs are attached to a single bar above the garage door opening. Torsion springs wrap around the bar to create tension when the door closes and then release to release tension to assist in raising the sectional door. Torsion springs are common on hinged doors and are safer than extension springs.

Torsion springs are the most common, are safer to use than extension springs and last 7 to 14 years or between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles. The following list contains the different types of torsion springs:

Oil Tempered – Most common, long life, low maintenance, minimal operating noise and affordable. Look dark and oily.

– Most common, long life, low maintenance, minimal operating noise and affordable. Look dark and oily. Zinc Plated – A modern looking zinc coating protects metal from moisture and rust. Ideal for wet rooms. Requires annual adjustment.

– A modern zinc coating protects metal from moisture and rust. Ideal for wet rooms. Requires annual adjustment. Powder Coated – Long life and easy to use. Non-oily, modern-looking, moisture-proof and rust-proof. Coated with electro-adhesive paint in different colors.

Cost of replacing the garage door tension spring

The average cost of replacing garage door tension springs is $120-$150 for one spring and $150-$200 for two springs. The tension springs alone cost $20 to $50 each. Extension springs are cheaper, easier to install, and require less maintenance than torsion springs.

However, extension springs have a shorter life expectancy of 4 to 10 years or 5,000 to 15,000 cycles and should be upgraded to torsion springs.

Cost of Garage Door Tension Spring Replacement Number of Springs Average Cost One Spring $120-150 Two Springs $150-200

Tension springs hang from the ceiling next to the garage door tracks or vertically on either side of the door. Extension springs stretch as the garage door closes, creating the tension needed to raise the door again. Tension springs are typically found on lightweight overhead sectional doors.

Cost of replacing garage door spring and cable

The average cost of replacing garage door springs and wiring is $200 to $500. Repairing the garage door wire will cost $80 to $185 to replace yourself, but it’s cheaper when combined with spring replacement. Signs that the cables need to be replaced:

The door becomes uneven or one side becomes heavier.

The door makes squeaking or howling noises.

The door came off the track and possibly fell down.

Garage door cables cost $8 to $15 each without installation. Wires are under high tension and connect the springs to the underside of the garage door to help raise the door.

Cost of replacing the roller shutter spring

The average cost of replacing roller door springs is $200-$250, typically using two torsion springs. Prices add $50 to $100 if the shaft cannot slide sideways because the installer has to disassemble the brackets to access the springs.

Cost of replacing spring on garage roller shutter Door type Average cost Up-and-over roller shutter $150-200 Roller shutter $200-250 Additional charge for bracket removal + $50-100

A roll up garage door does not have an overhead track and instead the door wraps around a single pole.

Cost of replacing springs for double garage doors

Replacing a double garage door spring costs an average of $200 to $375. A double garage door has thicker wire and uses two springs with a higher load capacity to handle the extra weight.

Sears garage door spring replacement cost

Sears garage door spring replacements range from $139 to $199 plus tax depending on whether the spring is extension or torsion. Sears trained, insured, and vetted technicians use high-quality parts and perform a 20-point safety check on repairs.

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Repair costs for defective garage door springs

Repairing a failed garage door spring will cost $40 to $80 for spring winding, balancing and lubrication, $85 to $185 to replace broken spring cables, and between $120 and $350 for a full spring replacement. It costs $100 to $200 to take down and reset a garage door.

Other garage door spring problems include:

Defective Garage Door Spring Repair Costs Problem Symptoms Solution Repair Costs Defective spring door will not open or is difficult to move

Springs shows a gap of a few centimeters

Door crashes during operation

Door is heavy, difficult to lift

The opening motor works but the door does not move

Loud bang or snapping sound when the door moves

Loose hanging cables

door becomes crooked

Door jerkily opens and closes Spring replacement $120-$350 Unbalanced springs Difficult to operate Spring adjustment $40-$80 Stretched springs Door does not stay fully open

Moves up or down more slowly Spring replacement $120-$350 Broken wire Door becomes uneven

One side becomes heavier

The door falls down when both cables are broken

Door went off track Wire replacement $85-$185 Springs need service Garage door makes noise when operating Spring adjustment $40-$80 Wrong size spring installed Door moves too fast or feels too light or heavy to open Spring replacement 120 – $350

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Each type of garage door spring has a specific method of checking if they are broken:

Torsion springs have a few inch gap in the coil or body of the broken spring.

Springs have a few inch gap in the coil or body of the broken spring. Broken mainsprings will have a missing hook on either side of the springs where the coil has broken off.

Springs that are broken will have a missing hook on one side of the spring where the coil broke off. Torquemaster systems will not normally lower the door after the spring breaks. This safety lock is activated if the spring breaks in the tube that the spring is in.

Garage door spring tune-up cost

A garage door tuning costs an average of $40 to $80 per door. A tune-up increases the service life of the garage door and ensures efficient operation. Annual maintenance is advisable to minimize spring wear.

A garage door service and inspection usually includes the following:

Spring tension adjustment

Lubricate the springs and other parts

Engine cleaning (with automatic model)

Alignment and tightening of all bolts and screws

Torsion spring shaft inspection, rollers and general safety check

Check for damaged and loose parts

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Conversion costs for torsion springs for garage doors

Converting from extension to torsion springs costs $200 to $500 per door, depending on door size and current system. A torsion spring conversion kit costs $50 to $200 without installation. Torsion springs last longer, use fewer parts, and are safer to operate than extension springs.

Torsion spring conversion kits include a tube, safety cable, drums, end and center bearing plates, and mounting bracket. Always hire a professional to carry out the conversion to prevent possible injury and property damage.

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Spring prices for new garage doors

New garage door springs without installation cost $30 to $100 for torsion springs and $20 to $50 for extension springs. High-cycle springs range from $55 to $95 and last two to three times longer than average. Torsion springs are the most common, last longer and are safer to use.

Garage Door Spring Prices Torsion Extension Price $30 – $100 $20 – $50 Cycles 10,000 – 20,000 5,000 – 15,000 Lasts 7 – 14 years 4 – 10 years Benefits Most common

Longer lifespan

Safer to use

Smoother operation Better for locations with less headroom

Cheaper

Less maintenance Cons More expensive

More maintenance Shorter lifespan

Jerky operation

Dangerous if it breaks

The best garage door spring brands are interchangeable for most garage doors. Purchasing the correct replacement spring depends on the type of spring and the size and weight of the garage door. There are also right and left coiled springs, one for each side.

Always hire a professional to buy the right spring. Also, hardware stores avoid selling springs directly to homeowners because replacing the springs is dangerous.

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Wayne Dalton Garage Door Spring Cost

A Wayne Dalton Torquemaster torsion spring costs $50 to $180 for just the spring, or anywhere from $200 to $350 for a complete replacement. Compatible extension or torsion springs for other types of Wayne Dalton doors are $20-$60 each.

Wayne Dalton Garage Door Spring Cost Type Replacement Cost Single Spring $200-$250 Dual Spring $250-$350

The advantages of Torquemaster springs are:

Springs are enclosed in a steel tube

Numbered dials on the side of the bracket that allow technicians to see the current tension of the springs. Technicians can safely depressurize the coils to ‘0’ prior to replacement

Built in safety feature to lock the door in the raised position if the springs break to prevent the door from falling on you.

Compatible with Wayne Dalton garage door systems only

Liftmaster garage door spring replacement costs

Replacing garage door springs to work with a Liftmaster opener costs $120 to $350. Prices depend on door size and weight, and whether you are replacing a single tension spring or a dual torsion spring set.

Spring prices for commercial garage door openers

Commercial garage door springs cost $100 to $500 per spring, depending on length, coil ID, and wire size. Commercially available springs lift heavier, oversized overhead and vertical lift doors that require the use of a dual spring opener to handle the extra weight.

Commercial Garage Door Springs Prices Size Average Cost 25 to 55 inches $100 to 300 55 to 100+ inches $200 to 400

Upgrading to thicker springs that last up to 25,000 cycles will cost an additional $20-$30 per spring.

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frequently asked Questions

How long does it take to replace garage door springs?

Replacing the garage door springs takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the type and size of the garage door and the number of springs. Replacing old garage doors with multiple broken parts takes up to two hours. A garage door spring adjustment takes 10 to 15 minutes per door.

Can I open my garage door with a broken spring?

A garage door with a broken spring should not be opened or closed with an automatic opener. Wait for a professional to replace the springs. Although the gate can still be opened manually, this is dangerous and can cause damage to the operator and gate, e.g. e.g.:

The opener can burn out or break a gear.

The garage door panels can break or collapse.

The opening bar can bend.

The belt, chain or pulley may break.

The opening arm or other parts may break off.

The door may break and fall down.

In an emergency, get help to raise the door manually and stop lifting if the resistance is too great. Place a ladder under the door or use screw clamps on the rails under the casters to prevent the door from falling.

How long do garage door springs last?

Garage door springs last an average of 7 to 14 years or between 10,000 and 20,000 cycles at 4 cycles per day. Using the garage door as a front door with 10 daily cycles can cause springs to break within 3 to 6 years. The opening and closing of the garage door is a cycle.

How long do garage door springs last? Daily Cycles 10,000 Cycles 20,000 Cycles 50,000 Cycles 2 14.0 Years 28.0 Years 68.5 Years 4 7.0 Years 14.0 Years 34.0 Years 6 4.5 Years 9.0 Years 23.0 Years 8 3, 5 years 7.0 years 17.0 years 10 3.0 years 6.0 years 14.0 years

Increase the lifespan of the garage door by:

Park in the driveway more often.

Use fewer garage doors and more side/front doors.

Schedule annual maintenance for repairs and spring lubrication.

Lock the garage door to keep children from playing with it.

What happens when a garage door spring breaks?

When a garage door spring breaks, you can tell by the following signs:

The door becomes harder to open or crooked as it moves up and down.

The door doesn’t stay up by itself.

The pulley and safety cables can become loose and hang down.

The spring relaxes and makes a loud noise

The door suddenly becomes very heavy and may bend at the top if forced open.

The door may not open or may jerk when the opener is pressed.

The garage door can slam shut with force.

The spring has a gap of a few centimeters where it broke.

The manual emergency rope no longer works.

The door goes up, but a security lock prevents the door from going down.

Why do garage door springs break?

Rust, lack of lubrication and maintenance, installing cheap springs, regular wear and tear, and extreme winter temperatures all cause garage door springs to break. The following list includes reasons why garage door springs break and ways to extend their life.

Rust – Any moisture that comes in contact with the springs will cause the coils to rust and weaken. Protect the springs from rust by spraying them annually with a silicone based lubricant or WD-40 White Lithium Grease.

Lack of Maintenance – Annually check the balance of the springs by opening the garage door halfway. If the door stays centered, the springs are in good condition. If the gate is constantly moving up or down, or if one side is moving up at a different rate, the springs need service.

Cheap Springs – The cheapest springs use lower quality metal spools that tend to break more easily. Investing in higher quality springs reduces repairs and saves money in the long run.

Cold Climates – In extreme winter temperatures, the metal springs contract and are more likely to break. Insulating the garage and keeping the gate closed will protect the springs from the cold.

Wear – The more often you open and close your garage door, the quicker the springs will wear out. Investing in high cycle springs offers 50,000 cycles while regular springs only offer 10,000 cycles.

What does a garage door spring do?

A garage door spring counteracts gravity and makes the door light enough for you or a garage door opener to lift it easily. Garage door springs also act as a safety mechanism to prevent the door from accidentally falling on you.

Tension on the springs builds up as the door closes and relaxes as the door opens. Do not attempt to pull down a garage door with broken springs as the door will be too heavy for one person and will fall causing damage and injury.

Do you have anymore questions? Ask a garage door repair professional. View Benefits

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DIY garage door spring replacement

Is it dangerous to replace a garage door spring?

You can carry out minor repairs to the garage door spring yourself, such as lubricating the spiral wire or rebalancing. Do-it-yourself garage door spring replacement is dangerous because these high-pressure springs can force them loose and cause serious injury. Also, over-tightening a torsion spring can crush the hollow torsion tube and damage the garage door system.

Hiring a professional with experience and certifications is easier, safer and necessary to avoid accidents. They also inspect the rest of the garage door system to identify and prevent other potential problems.

Garage door spring repair kit

Garage door spring repair kits range from $20 to $90, depending on whether the kits are single or double, and whether they are for torsion or lengthening. Kits are available from retailers such as Home Depot, Lowe’s, Wal-Mart and Sears. However, most stores only sell springs to certified installers for safety reasons.

With a two-spring system, always replace both springs, even if only one is broken. Before purchasing, compare the expected lifespan and warranty for each spring or consult a professional.

Professionals buy new springs by exact model, size and load capacity. They also use special tools like a winding bar, braces, and extra vise grips.

Garage door spring maintenance

The following steps will help extend the life of your garage door springs:

Cleaning the garage door rails with WD-40 or brake cleaner will remove waxy deposits, grease, dirt and reduce stress on the springs. Lubricate the springs with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent rust and corrosion, but only after cleaning them first. Spray the metal coils with a yellow-capped can of WD-40 White Lithium Grease or garage door grease. Avoid using regular WD-40 as it will damage plastic parts and remove the oil from metal. Lubricate the door hinges on the inside of the door where it flexes when the door is raised. Lubricating these points will further reduce the stress on your springs as they pull the door up. Check the spring balance by switching the door opener to manual mode (pulling the red cord) and opening the door by hand. If the garage doors do not open and close easily or stay open by themselves, the spring needs to be balanced. Have a professional inspect it as unbalanced springs could indicate it’s time for a replacement. Repair any leaks in the roof, walls, and garage door. All water problems cause rust, which weakens and breaks your feathers. Schedule an annual inspection for a professional to check your garage door springs and other parts.

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Hire a garage door spring repair service

Below are tips for hiring a reputable garage door repair technician in your area.

Get at least three estimates from HomeGuide and Google, or ask family, friends, and neighbors for recommendations.

Read reviews and see their past work on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Ask if the quoted price covers parts and labor and for how long.

Check in advance if there is an additional fee for calling service.

Ask if they offer a labor guarantee.

Make sure the company is insured and bonded for every worker on your property.

Lifetime Guarantee Scam

Beware of the “lifetime warranty” scam that comes with the required annual maintenance and high labor costs to keep the warranty valid. Failure to pay for this annual maintenance or hire another company will void the warranty.

Other misleading warranties only cover the cost of the spring but do not include the service and installation fees. Always read the warranty in its entirety to understand the terms of the agreement.

Get free HomeGuide quotes from trusted garage door spring repair services:

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7 warning signs of broken garage door springs

Garage door problems can result in immediate and inconvenient changes to your daily routines. In some cases, garage door problems can even pose a safety hazard to you and your family, especially when these problems interfere with the controlled operation of the door when opening and closing manually or automatically.

Garage door springs are among the components most likely to fail, especially if the springs in question are aged, of poor quality, or corroded. These springs are the parts primarily responsible for maintaining the tension required for your garage door to raise and lower at a constant rate.

When garage door springs break, many homeowners worry that they are facing a full door repair. Fortunately, if you have the springs replaced in a timely manner, this drastic measure is usually not necessary.

If you know the signs of a failed spring, you can make sure you’ve fixed the problem without possibly causing other damage by trying to use the door normally. In this blog, we list seven common warning signs of broken garage door springs.

1. Automatic opener does not fully open the door

Garage door springs take most of the door weight off the opening system to allow smooth operation. When newer automatic openers detect that the weight has been removed, a safety measure known as opening force is activated.

The opening force prevents the mechanism from pulling the door higher than about half a foot off the floor. This measure will prevent the broken spring from burning out the drive system or causing the door to crash unexpectedly.

2. Door closes too quickly

If your opener system does not have an open force safety feature built in, or the open force feature does not activate, the opener can continue to operate normally for the most part. However, the excessive weight of the door may prevent the mechanism from lowering it at a controlled rate.

Instead, you may find your garage door slamming down or lowering significantly faster than usual.

3. Door opens askew

Your garage door can have two different types of springs: torsion or extension. The torsion spring runs parallel to the bottom of the door while the two extension springs run perpendicular to the torsion spring on either side of the garage door.

If a tension spring breaks, one side of the door will be pulled up faster than the other. This imbalance can cause your garage door to rise crookedly.

4. Loud cracking noise coming from the garage

Garage door springs can break even when the door is not actively operated. If a spring snaps while the door is closed and not trying to open, homeowners may hear the problem rather than see it.

If the spring breaks, you may hear a thumping or snapping noise in your garage.

5. Operation involves a lot of noise

As springs wear out, normal use stresses the affected springs significantly more than they should. This extra pressure can result in unusual noises, like your garage door complaining every time it opens or closes.

Failing springs can groan, burst, or squeak. Certain garage door noises can have multiple causes, so look for the other symptoms on this list and have the door evaluated by an expert to eliminate other possible explanations for your noisy door.

6. Feathers have gaps

When a torsion garage door spring snaps in the middle, the two sides of the spring separate, leaving a visible gap, sometimes several inches wide. This is because torsion springs have plenty of room to stretch during normal operation, giving them more room to separate if they break.

If you suspect you have a broken torsion spring, close your garage door and locate the spring. If you see any gaps in the spring, it is broken and needs to be replaced.

7. Springs look rusty or stretched

Visible spring problems are not always as obvious as wide gaps. In some cases, failed springs may simply appear rusty or appear as if they have not coiled up as they should after use.

When looking at the torsion spring for gaps, examine all three springs for any visible signs that the springs are not in good condition. If you notice any strange characteristics, have the springs checked by a professional for possible problems, including progressive weakness or complete failure.

If you notice a combination of the telltale signs above, have your garage door evaluated by a garage door professional and the affected spring replaced. This visit may also provide an opportunity to identify and address other potential issues early.

If you suspect a torsion or extension spring has broken, do not attempt to use your garage door normally. Instead, schedule a repair as soon as possible to eliminate the risk of property damage and personal injury associated with this problem.

Trust Plano Overhead Garage Door for full garage door services, including installation of some of the highest quality door springs available.

The spring is undeniably an essential part of an overhead garage door. It essentially works to assist in either mechanized or manual closing or opening of the garage door. In any case, garage door springs are an integral part of the garage door system and independent of the automatic garage door operator.

When preparing to buy a garage door spring, you also need to consider the overall cost of buying or replacing your springs. In general, the average cost of buying or replacing your garage door spring can range from around $50 (if you do the job yourself) to as much as $400 (if you hire professional technicians to do the job).

While it’s easy to be tempted by the cheaper DIY option, you need to consider every little aspect of the process.

How much it costs to replace/repair a garage door spring usually depends on various factors. Some of the common factors include what condition your garage door is in, what types of springs are needed, what type of garage door is, what professional company is doing the work, and where you live, among many other factors .

The average national cost to have your garage door springs repaired or replaced by a professional is approximately between $200 and $400. As with any other type of service, when you replace or repair your garage door springs, the overall cost of repair and replacement is affected by supply and demand.

In essence, where there is cheap labor and there are multiple firms/companies offering this service, the overall cost is obviously lower.

You should also keep in mind that garage door springs are usually installed in pairs, even if the spring is damaged. So if one of your garage door springs is defective, chances are the other spring is also damaged or worn and therefore needs to be replaced as well.

If you want to know the exact cost, you can contact several different garage door repair companies in your area and compare their quotes.

All in all, the cost of replacing or repairing your garage door springs is not constant. So when trying to determine how much it will cost you, you should consider the numerous different factors as mentioned above.

While you might actually be able to do it yourself at a relatively lower cost, it might be better if you choose to hire experts. Why? Although it may seem a bit more expensive (and rightly so), you’ll enjoy guaranteed quality of service and comfort, all in a much shorter time.

DASMA Color Coding Guide for Garage Door Springs

Updated June 1, 2020

If you are looking for springs to match your garage door, you may have noticed that these springs come in different colors. Spring colors for garage doors aren’t just decorative. They actually provide important information about the properties of these garage door springs and industry standards. DASMA has created an industry standard for color coding springs. To help you understand the garage door spring color chart, here’s what you need to know.

What type of garage door springs do you work with?

Before you can understand what the garage spring color code means, you need to know what type of springs you are working with. Most garage doors use either torsion springs or extension springs. Torsion springs are typically mounted parallel to the top of the door, while extension springs are mounted at the top corners of the door.

Garage Door Tension Spring DASMA Color Code Chart

In the case of tension springs, the color only refers to the height of the door weight. Two tension springs are able to lift the weight indicated by the color. There is a range of 10 colors so the colors will repeat for springs designed for light doors or extra heavy doors. The color map works as follows:

Color Pounds Kilograms White 10/110/210 5/50/95 Green 20/120/220 10/55/100 Yellow 30/130/230 15/60/105 Blue 40/140/240 20/65/110 Red 50/ 150/250 25/70/115 brown 60/160/260 xxx orange 70/170/270 30/75/120 gold 80/180/280 35/80/125 light blue 90/190/290 40/85/130 light brown 100 /200/300 45/90/135

Garage door torsion spring DASMA color code table

Torsion springs work quite differently in terms of spring color code. These feathers are given two colors: one that indicates wind direction and another that indicates wire gauge. Red cone springs are right hand coil springs, meaning you would install them on the left side of the garage door. Springs with black cones are left-handed springs, i. H. You would install them on the right side. Wire gauge colors are listed below:

Color Inch Millimeter Orange .120/.192/.273/.363/.485 3.00/4.20/6.25/8.00/11.10 Light Blue .125/.200/.283/.375/.4900 xx/4.50/6.40/8.10 / 11.50 Yellow .135/.207/.289/.394/.500 3.20/4.60/6.50/8.40/11.70 White .139/.218/.295/.406/.531 xx/4.70/6.80/8.80/12.00 Red .143/.225/.297/.422/.563 3.40/4.80/7.00/9.20/12.30 brown .148/.234/.307/.431/.625 xx/5.00/7.30/9.60/13.00 light brown . 156/.238/.313/.438 3.50/5.25/7.35/10.00 Green .162/.244/.319/.453 3.60/5.50/7.50/10.50 Gold .177/.250/.331/.462 xx/ 5.75/7.60/10.70 Purple .182/.257/.594 3.80/6.00/12.50 Blue .188/.263/.344/.469 4.00/6.05/7.80/11.00

Find the right torsion and extension springs for your business

At IDC Spring we can find the right size torsion or extension spring for your business. We manufacture Extension and Torsion Springs from .125 to .625 diameter using high quality, durable steel materials such as stainless steel, high carbon steel, square wire, round wire and more. Our reputation for quality in mechanical springs is undisputed and is one of the reasons why we are used by two-thirds of the top 25 manufacturers in our industry.

If you don’t want to go through all the color codes or are unsure which color is right for your applications, just give us a call. Give us the basic information about your project and we’ll find the perfect springs for you. We custom manufacture springs to meet the needs of a range of industries and we can certainly accommodate you. To get started, contact us today.

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3 reasons why garage torsion spring length matters

If you come across a broken garage door opener or find that the wires on a garage door seem to be worn out for their age, the problem may not be a mechanical problem. Instead, there could be an issue with the springs used in the door.

Incorrectly dimensioned torsion springs can lead to safety problems. The garage door is not working as it should and this could cause it to malfunction and possibly put users at risk. Here are three reasons garage door torsion springs are important and why you should make sure they fit properly.

1. Springs that are too large can damage the garage door opener

When garage door springs are too big, they provide more force than the door needs. It opens with too much force, rolls up very quickly and endangers his safety. Children or even unprepared adults could be knocked over by the sudden force trying to open it. The door also bounces up and down after opening, which is another safety issue.

2. Springs that are too small can make the opener less effective

If the spring for the door is small, it can make the door too heavy. If someone tries to lift the door, it will fall back instead of continuing to rise. A user who is unaware of the garage door problem could be injured by the door slamming shut. Children could also become entangled when trying to push the door up and walk under it.

3. Right garage door torsion spring specifications protect the door

Replacing an oversized or undersized torsion spring with the correct size will balance the door and make it safe again. The door lifts with less effort and stays securely in place. The garage door opener may also need to be replaced if it has been damaged by springs that are too large or too small.

Note that only a trained garage door technician should attempt to replace garage torsion springs. Attempting this operation alone could result in serious injury.

How do I know what torsion spring size I need?

This is a question we often hear from our customers, and luckily it’s easy to find an answer to. You can use a correct existing spring to determine torsion spring size in four easy steps:

Find out which way spring is blowing, right or left. If it rotates counterclockwise, it winds to the left, and if it rotates clockwise, it winds to the right. Measure either 10 or 20 turns and find the correct length according to that number in our chart. Measure the inside diameter of the spring. Measure the total length of the spring.

This will help you determine the correct torsion spring size and order a replacement. Have all three dimensions and wind direction ready when ordering your torsion springs. Or to make the process even easier, you can use our handy IDC spring calculator app!

If the existing spring is the wrong size and you need further assistance, IDC Spring can help. We have the right size torsion springs for all types of garage doors. Trusted by the top manufacturers in the industry, we can help you find the right solution for your project. Contact us to learn more about our products or to request a quote.

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Springs play a very important role in the opening and closing mechanism of a garage door. While the garage door opener is responsible for initiating and controlling a garage door’s movements, it is the springs that open and close the door.

Springs are used to overcome the weight of the garage door as it moves. How long do garage door springs last? Springs have a lifespan of around 7-8 years depending on how often you open the door, so you can expect the springs to wear out. The good news is that you can replace them.

You have two options, either call a professional or buy new springs. Should you choose the latter option, you may be wondering, “How do I know which garage door spring to buy?”. Read on to learn everything you need to know about choosing a garage door spring. This garage door spring selector guide has all the details you need to make the right choice.

Types of garage door springs

Before we discuss how to know which garage door spring to buy, it’s better to understand the types. There are two types of garage door springs: torsion and extension.

torsion springs

Torsion springs are sturdy coil springs mounted on a metal rod. This metal bar is parallel to the garage door. Due to their tight winding, torsion springs store a lot of energy that is generated when the garage door moves and is transferred to the springs. Torsion springs make opening and closing the garage door easier. When the door opens, the springs unfurl and release energy that opens the garage door. There are two types of torsion springs:

Default. This type is usually mounted on the garage door. It is cheaper and mainly used for garage doors in residential buildings.

torque master. Because these springs stay in place, they are considered the safest.

tension springs

Unlike torsion springs, which are heavy and stiff, extension springs are much lighter. They are almost the opposite of torsion springs. These are perpendicular to the garage door. Tension springs are attached to the door rails. You can find these springs between the ceiling and the garage door rails. The main function of extension springs is to store energy when the door closes. The energy is released when the door is opened.

Although these two types of nibs are different, it’s unlikely you can go wrong when making your purchase. Tension springs can be further divided into:

open loop. This type is easy to replace and does not need to be dismantled.

Double looped. These are harder than open loop springs; They have two coils at each end.

clip ends. This option includes the strongest tension springs; Clip end springs have a longer service life.

All you need to know is what kind of spring is damaged and you can buy accordingly. However, if you cannot trace which spring has suffered damage, you can always seek advice from an expert.

What you should know about the spring color-coding system

Garage door springs usually come with color codes that can help you understand the size. This coding system can be confusing, so let’s discuss the tension and torsion spring color coding system. The color codes are different depending on the spring type.

Torsion springs use a color coding system based on wind direction. Black represents right wind and red represents left wind. The color code system is also used to determine wire size. This makes it easier for professionals to understand the type of spring to buy. Technicians typically look at the shape of the gauge to determine the condition of a spring.

The tension spring color coding system is designed to help technicians figure out the lifting capacity. Lifting capacity varies with different garage doors. The main factor causing these differences is garage door weight. Only certain springs can raise the garage door. The color correlates with the lifting power. Here are some examples:

Tan: 100, 200 pounds

White: 110, 210 pounds

Green: 120, 220 pounds

Yellow: 130, 230 pounds

Blue: 140, 240 pounds

Red: 150, 250 pounds

Brown: 160, 260 pounds

Orange: 170, 270 pounds

Gold: 180, 280 pounds

Light Blue: 190, 290 pounds

How to choose the torsion spring for a garage door

Our torsion spring selection guide for garage doors is designed to get you started. How to choose the right torsion spring for garage doors.

1. Determine the wire size

This is one of the most important things to consider when choosing the right torsion spring for a garage door. This will help you determine the exact size of the feather to get. Measure the entire length of the feather. There should be at least 10 to 20 turns. Measurements should be in inches.

Once you have the measurement, use wire size charts to determine the correct spring to purchase. Avoid manipulating the springs above the door when measuring.

2. Measure the inside diameter

Most garage doors have the inside diameter between the springs above the door. The inside diameter is measured to the nearest ⅙ inch. However, if you don’t have that, you can measure yourself. To do this, you should remove the spring. This can be a dangerous task, so it’s best left to a professional. Measuring the inside diameter is important so that you buy a spring that is tight and will produce just the right amount of torque.

3. Measure the overall length

If you’re wondering how to choose a torsion spring for a garage door, consider the length. Overall length is measured from end to end of a spring. This length determines the winding capacity of a spring.

Spring length should be measured to the nearest ¼ inch. If the spring is too short, the door may not open. Only measure the length when the garage door is closed.

4. Check the wind direction

Another thing to consider when choosing torsion springs for garage doors is wind direction. To check the wind direction, you need to look inside the garage door. There are two springs, left and right, which can help you figure this out. When opening the garage door, pay attention to the two springs that are in the middle.

Check the ends of the springs. The spring on the left points clockwise, the spring on the right counterclockwise. However, remember that the two springs are reversed when you open the inside of the garage door.

How to choose garage door extension springs

Do you want to know how to choose tension springs for garage doors? You have two options for this: via color codes or the weight of the garage door. Color codes provide an easier and quicker way to select which nib to buy. Always consider weight when choosing the right extension spring for a garage door. The code is at the end of the pen. While this is an accurate method of purchasing extension springs, you can use other methods.

For example, you can compare the spring to the weight of the garage door. Different doors have tension springs depending on the weight and height of the door. To measure the door you will need some clamps and a bathroom scale. Place the clamps under the lower rollers and carefully remove the tension springs. Slowly place the edge of the door on the scale. The weight that the scale shows is the size of the extension springs you should buy.

What are the recommended springs based on garage door type?

Because garage doors are different, the type of spring you buy should depend on your door. The main factors that determine the spring type are the door height and width. Here is a table of recommended springs.

Width Height Recommended Spring 8′ 7′ SK7153, SK7155 9′ 7′ SK7155, SK7157 10′ 7′ SK7159, SK7157 16′ 7′ SK7159 16′ 7′ SK7159, SK7153

How much does a garage door spring cost?

Now that you know a strategy for choosing torsion springs for garage doors, let’s talk about the cost. If a spring is damaged, it should be replaced immediately. A single spring typically costs around $120-300. Some manufacturers have springs that cost less than $20. The downside to buying cheaper ones is that they don’t last long. So, in the long run, you will end up spending more money.

The total cost depends on where you buy the springs and how many are damaged. Another thing to consider is work. Different companies have different prices for replacing springs. Regardless, it shouldn’t cost more than $500 to replace your old springs with new ones.

For example, high-quality torsion springs should not have less than 10,000 cycles. This means that they should last at least 7 years before they break. Tension springs must have about 10,000 to 12,000 cycles. Depending on the frequency of use, the garage door can last up to 10 years.

Consider STI garage doors your trusted partner

Need to replace your garage door springs? Then you’ve come to the right place with STI garage doors. We can help you choose a torsion spring for garage doors. Because we work with all types of doors, we can also help you choose a garage door tension spring. Our experts will help you to buy the right torsion and tension springs. Our services include maintenance, repair and replacement.

Because we’ve been around for years, you can only expect the best work from us. Regular maintenance allows our experts to detect damage to springs at an early stage. Avoid harmful situations by letting our experts do the work for you. Whether you have a commercial or residential garage door, no job is impossible for us. Our main goal is to ensure that all of our customers are satisfied with the services we provide.

Call STI Garage Door now to find out how to buy and respond to torsion and extension springs. Enjoy great services at a great price!

Final Thoughts

Choosing a suitable torsion spring for a garage door is very important. Knowing the type of spring that is damaged is a good way to understand which garage door spring you should buy. Garage doors have two types of springs: torsion and extension. Both facilitate the opening and closing movements of the door. They serve to store energy when the door opens and closes. To choose the right torsion spring, you need to measure the wire size, inside diameter, overall length, and coil direction. You can also use color codes based on spring wind direction. Extension springs also have a color-coding system to help professionals choose the right type. The different colors are placed at the end of a spring depending on the weight or type of garage door.

Replacing a spring can lead to accidents if not done correctly. So give STI Garage Door a call to replace your torsion and extension springs.