While most people would say it’s the garage door opener, the springs on your garage door do most of the heavy lifting, which helps prevent overexerting the motor. Often installed two to a door, garage door springs are manufactured with limited longevity, expressed in cycles. They are one of the most common parts to break. Once they fail, whether from cycle depletion or severe damage, they must be professionally replaced.
What Type of Spring Do I Have?
Today’s doors use either extension or torsion springs. You can quickly tell the difference between the two by looking at where they’re installed.
Extension: Extension springs are installed in pairs and located on both sides of the vertical tracks. These springs are ideal for lightweight applications. Extension springs use a system of safety cables and pulleys to raise and lower the door.
Torsion: Torsion springs are also installed in pairs and located on a bar directly above the garage door. These springs are the preferred choice among service professionals as they’re incredibly durable. Torsion springs are available with up to 20,000 cycles.
How Long Should Garage Door Springs Last?
Most springs are rated for 10,000 cycles. The lifespan in which those cycles last primarily depends on the frequency of use. That is because one cycle is depleted each time you open and close the garage door. For most residential applications, seven years is the typical lifespan of springs, as the average family uses their door four times each day.
Busy households with multiple drivers may benefit from extended lifespan torsion springs. Also known as high-cycle torsion springs, these are a cost-effective way to double the number of cycles available to you.
The springs may break after their cycles have been used up, necessitating professional replacement. The door cannot be safely operated with broken garage door springs. Experts recommend replacing both at the same time – even if only one breaks – as this helps ensure the door is properly balanced. Professionals have the skills and tools necessary to safely replace broken garage door springs.
Broken garage door springs can be caused by rust and corrosion and an unbalanced garage door as well. Damage that develops from backing or driving into the door can also result in the springs breakage and, potentially, additional garage door repairs. These factors are, fortunately, very preventable.
Professional Service You Can Count On
If you have a broken garage door spring, or another issue affecting your garage door’s performance, don’t hesitate to contact Garage Door Repair Boise at (208) 614-4032. We can get your door back on track in the least amount of time, so it doesn’t continue to interrupt your daily routine.
Garage Door Repair Boise is committed to providing the highest quality garage door and garage door opener installation and repair services to Boise residents and businesses at competitive prices. Our technicians are certified to work with every type of garage door and garage door opener. Schedule an appointment today.
