Garage Door Spring Maintenance: Tips to Extend the Life of Your Springs
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your garage door system. They bear the brunt of the work every time you open or close the door, counterbalancing its weight to ensure smooth operation. Because of their critical role and constant use, springs are prone to wear and tear, which can lead to costly repairs or replacements if not properly maintained.
At Nabors Garage Doors, your trusted local garage door company in North Carolina, we’re committed to helping you keep your springs in top condition. In this blog, we’ll share essential maintenance tips to extend the life of your garage door springs and ensure the safety and functionality of your door.
Why Garage Door Spring Maintenance Matters
Garage door springs are under immense tension, which makes them both essential and potentially dangerous. Without regular maintenance, springs can weaken, rust, or even break, leading to:
- A malfunctioning or stuck garage door.
- Safety risks to people and property.
- Strain on other components like the motor and cables.
Regular maintenance can help you avoid these issues, extend the life of your springs, and save money on repairs or replacements.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Before diving into maintenance tips, it’s helpful to understand the two main types of springs:
- Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door, torsion springs use torque to lift the door. They are durable and typically last 10,000–20,000 cycles.
- Extension Springs: Positioned on either side of the door, extension springs stretch and contract to handle the door’s movement. They generally last 5,000–10,000 cycles.
Both types require regular maintenance to stay in good working order.
Tips for Maintaining Garage Door Springs
1. Lubricate Regularly
Proper lubrication reduces friction and prevents rust, helping your springs last longer.
- Use a silicone-based or lithium grease lubricant specifically designed for garage doors.
- Apply the lubricant to the coils of the springs every six months. Avoid using WD-40, as it’s not suitable for this purpose.
- Wipe off any excess lubricant to prevent buildup.
2. Inspect for Wear and Tear
Regular visual inspections can help you spot early signs of damage. Look for:
- Rust or corrosion on the springs.
- Gaps in the coils, which indicate the spring has broken or weakened.
- Uneven door movement, which may suggest a failing spring.
If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional immediately. Attempting to fix springs yourself can be dangerous due to the high tension they are under.
3. Balance Your Door
An unbalanced garage door puts additional strain on the springs, leading to premature wear. To check the balance:
- Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the door halfway.
- If the door stays in place, it’s properly balanced. If it falls or rises, the springs may need adjustment.
Balancing the door is a job best left to professionals. Visit our Spring Repair Page to schedule an inspection.
4. Test the Springs Regularly
Testing the tension of your springs can help ensure they are functioning correctly:
- Close the garage door and pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the opener.
- Manually lift the door. If it’s difficult to lift or doesn’t stay open, the springs may need adjustment or replacement.
5. Schedule Professional Tune-Ups
While DIY maintenance is helpful, a professional tune-up is essential for long-term spring health. During a tune-up, a technician will:
- Inspect and adjust the tension of your springs.
- Check other components like cables, tracks, and rollers for wear.
- Lubricate all moving parts for optimal performance.
At Nabors Garage Doors, we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your garage door system in top shape. Contact Us today to schedule a tune-up.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your springs last as long as possible, steer clear of these common maintenance mistakes:
- Skipping Regular Inspections: Neglecting to check your springs for damage can lead to sudden failures.
- Using the Wrong Lubricant: Always use a product specifically designed for garage door systems.
- Overloading the Door: Avoid hanging heavy items from your door, as this adds unnecessary strain on the springs.
- Ignoring Unusual Noises: If you hear creaking, grinding, or snapping sounds, don’t wait to address the issue.
When to Replace Your Garage Door Springs
Even with regular maintenance, garage door springs have a limited lifespan. Signs that it’s time for a replacement include:
- A loud snapping noise, indicating a spring has broken.
- The door becomes heavy and difficult to lift.
- The door doesn’t open evenly or gets stuck.
Replacing springs is a job for professionals. At Nabors Garage Doors, we specialize in safe and efficient spring replacement services. Visit our Spring Repair Page for more information.
Why Choose Nabors Garage Doors for Spring Maintenance?
As your local garage door experts in North Carolina, we understand the unique needs of homeowners in our area. Here’s why Nabors Garage Doors is the right choice for spring maintenance and repair:
- Experienced Technicians: Our team is trained to handle all types of garage door springs with precision and care.
- High-Quality Parts: We use durable, weather-resistant springs that stand up to North Carolina’s climate.
- Transparent Pricing: We provide clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees.
- Fast, Reliable Service: We prioritize quick response times to minimize disruptions to your day.
Final Thoughts
Proper garage door spring maintenance is essential for the safety, functionality, and longevity of your garage door system. By following these tips and scheduling regular professional tune-ups, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy peace of mind knowing your springs are in good condition.
At Nabors Garage Doors, we’re here to help with all your garage door maintenance needs. Whether you need a routine inspection, lubrication, or a complete spring replacement, our team has you covered.
Ready to extend the life of your garage door springs? Visit our Spring Repair Page to learn more, or Contact Us today to schedule a service.