How often should I have my garage door serviced?

We recommend having your garage door professionally serviced at least once a year. Regular maintenance extends the life of your door, prevents costly repairs, and ensures safe operation. During a maintenance visit, our technicians will lubricate moving parts, check spring tension, inspect cables and rollers, test the auto-reverse safety feature, and tighten all hardware. If you use your garage door more than 4 times per day, you may benefit from bi-annual maintenance.

How long does a garage door installation take?

A standard garage door installation typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the installation and the type of door. This includes removing the old door (if applicable), installing the new door, setting up the opener, programming remotes, and testing all safety features. For custom doors or doors requiring additional framing work, installation may take a full day. We'll provide you with a specific time estimate during your free consultation.

What are signs that my garage door springs need replacement?

Common signs that your garage door springs need replacement include: the door feels heavy when lifting manually, the door opens unevenly or crooked, visible gaps in the spring coils, squeaking or grinding noises, the door slams shut quickly, and the opener struggles to lift the door. Springs typically last 10,000-15,000 cycles (about 7-10 years for average use). Never attempt to replace springs yourself—they are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury. Our technicians are trained and equipped to safely handle spring replacement.

Everything You Need to Know About Garage Door Spring Replacement

7 min read Garage Door San Marcos Team

# Everything You Need to Know About Garage Door Spring Replacement

Garage door springs are the hardest-working components of your garage door system. They counterbalance the weight of the door (typically 150-400 pounds) and make it possible for you—or your opener—to lift it with minimal effort. Understanding how springs work and recognizing when they need replacement can save you from costly damage and dangerous situations.

Types of Garage Door Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs, each with distinct characteristics.

Torsion Springs

Located horizontally above the door opening, torsion springs use torque to lift the door. When the door closes, the springs wind up, storing energy. When you open the door, this energy is released to assist in lifting.

Characteristics: - More common in modern installations - Smoother, more controlled operation - Longer lifespan (15,000-20,000 cycles) - Safer when properly installed - Easier to adjust for balance

Extension Springs

Mounted on either side of the door, parallel to the horizontal tracks, extension springs stretch and contract to operate the door.

Characteristics: - More common in older homes - Less expensive to purchase and install - Shorter lifespan (10,000-15,000 cycles) - Require safety cables to prevent injury if they break - Can be more challenging to balance

Warning Signs Your Springs Need Replacement

Recognizing the signs of failing springs can prevent you from being stranded with a non-functioning garage door.

Visual Signs

- Visible gaps in coils: A broken torsion spring will have a visible gap - Stretched or elongated springs: Extension springs may appear stretched - Rust and corrosion: Weakens the metal and shortens lifespan - Worn or frayed cables: Often indicates spring problems

Operational Signs

- Door feels heavy when lifting manually: Springs aren't providing proper counterbalance - Door opens unevenly: One spring may be weaker than the other - Loud bang from garage: The sound of a spring breaking - Opener struggles or strains: Motor working harder to lift the door - Door won't stay open: Falls when you let go halfway up

Why Spring Replacement Is Not a DIY Job

We cannot stress this enough: garage door spring replacement should only be done by trained professionals. Here's why:

Extreme Tension

Torsion springs are under tremendous tension—enough to lift a 300+ pound door thousands of times. A spring that releases unexpectedly can cause severe injury or death.

Specialized Tools Required

Proper spring replacement requires winding bars, torque specifications, and safety equipment that most homeowners don't have.

Precise Calibration

Springs must be precisely calibrated to the door's weight and size. Incorrect tension can damage the opener, wear out other components, or create safety hazards.

Professional Warranties

DIY work voids most manufacturer warranties and could affect your homeowner's insurance coverage.

What to Expect During Professional Replacement

When you call Garage Door San Marcos for spring replacement:

1. Safety inspection of the entire system 2. Proper spring sizing based on your door's specifications 3. Safe removal of the old springs 4. Installation of new, high-quality springs 5. Balance testing and adjustment 6. Lubrication of all moving parts 7. Safety testing of the entire system

Most replacements take 1-2 hours and come with our satisfaction guarantee.

Extending Spring Life

While springs will eventually wear out, you can extend their lifespan:

- Regular lubrication with silicone-based lubricant - Annual professional maintenance - Keeping the door balanced - Addressing minor issues promptly

If you're experiencing any signs of spring problems, don't wait. Contact Garage Door San Marcos for safe, professional spring replacement with same-day service available.

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