Garage Door Springs
Garage Door Springs Page
If you're experiencing an issue with opening and closing your garage door, you may be dealing with a broken or damaged spring. Most garage door models employ a spring mechanism to aid their basic function. If it begins to fail, you might notice changes in your door's mobility, which could lead to more serious problems if left unchecked. Read on to find out how you can address common problems with your garage door spring.
How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?
Depending on whether your model uses a torsion spring or an extension spring, the cost of spring replacement may vary. Cost also depends on factors of size and diameter. The overall cost for replacement ranges from about $75-135 for each spring. Labor for this particular job costs about $75. While many doors employ a torsion spring mechanism, some use an extension spring, which is much less costly to repair. Begin by finding out what type of spring your door uses and work from there.
How many times do you turn a garage door spring?
The general rule, when it comes to replacing torsion springs, is to leave it to a professional. Because torsion springs employ a high degree of tension, their replacement can be a dangerous task for homeowners without the proper training or experience. However, if you're set on replacing your own spring, you'll be able to judge the appropriate number of turns based on the height of your door. For instance, if your door is 7 feet in height, you'll want to add a half-turn to that number, making a total of 7 and ½ turns.
How do you measure a garage door spring?
To correctly measure a torsion spring, first look at one of its ends to determine its wind direction. A clockwise-pointing end means that your spring winds to the left. If it points counter-clockwise, it points to the right. Next, you want to measure the inside of the coil's diameter, rounding up to within 1/16 of an inch. Finally, you need to measure the entire length of the coil that needs to be replaced. After you've done this, you will have all the information you need to order a new spring.
What is a torsion spring used for? Extension springs?
A torsion spring is a commonly used, high-tension spring mechanism in modern garage doors. It allows a door to open through the use of winding tension and pressure, creating a spring-loaded effect. Extension springs employ an older technology to guide wheels and pulleys up a garage door's track. Both use tension to raise and release a garage door seamlessly, however, since torsion springs are considered to be safer and easier to repair and adjust, many professionals suggest switching extension spring systems over to torsion springs.
How to open a garage door with a broken spring
When opening a door with a broken spring, use extreme caution to make sure no one gets injured. Using two 6-foot ladders placed on either side of the door, position yourself at one end and a friend or neighbor at the other. Use pry bars to lift the door from the bottom opening, making sure to synchronize your movements. Work your way up the ladder until you can rest the bottom of the door on the top of each ladder.