Your garage door springs play a vital role in the operation of your garage door system. These sturdy components are what allow the heavy door to open and close with ease. However, just like any other mechanical part, garage door springs can wear out over time due to repeated tension and use. When this happens, it’s crucial to have them repaired or replaced by professionals like the team at Garage Door Repair Carpentersville.
Signs You Need Garage Door Spring Repair
Ignoring worn-out or broken garage door springs can lead to potentially dangerous situations. Here are some telltale signs that it’s time for garage door spring repair or replacement:
- The garage door becomes difficult to open manually
- You hear loud popping, cracking, or grinding noises when operating the door
- The door fails to open or close completely
- There are visible gaps between the door panels when closed
- You notice broken or stretched coil springs
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of springs used in residential garage door systems:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are the most common type used in modern residential garage door systems. These springs work by winding and unwinding torsional force (torque) around a metal shaft or tube that runs parallel to the garage door.
As the door opens, the torsion springs wind tighter, storing potential energy. When the door closes, that stored energy is released in a controlled manner, effectively counterbalancing the weight of the door panels.
Torsion springs are available in various wire sizes and lengths to accommodate different garage door weights and sizes. Reputable brands like Clopay, Amarr, and Ideal offer pre-assembled torsion spring systems for easy installation.
According to industry data, a standard 7-foot tall garage door typically requires two torsion springs, each capable of up to 30,000 cycles (openings and closings). Heavier or taller doors may need additional or upgraded springs.
Extension Springs
As an alternative to torsion springs, some garage doors—particularly older models or those with low headroom—utilize extension springs. These stretchy springs extend and contract along the horizontal track sections on both sides of the door.
When the door closes, the extension springs stretch out, storing potential energy. As the door opens, that energy is released in a controlled manner to help lift the door panels.
Extension springs are available in different wire gauges and lengths to match the specific weight and height of the garage door. Common extension spring materials include oil-tempered steel, galvanized steel, and powder-coated steel for enhanced durability and corrosion resistance.
Popular extension spring brands include Century Spring, IDC Spring, and Dura-Lift. These springs may need to be replaced more frequently than torsion springs, as they tend to have a shorter lifespan due to the constant stretching and contracting motion.
Wayne Dalton TorqueMaster & Torquemaster Plus
For Wayne Dalton garage doors, the company’s proprietary TorqueMaster and TorqueMaster Plus spring systems are commonly used. These feature torsion springs mounted on a steel tube with specialized cones or winding units for smooth, balanced operation.
The TorqueMaster system uses one or two torsion springs, while the TorqueMaster Plus employs two heavy-duty torsion springs designed for improved cycle life and durability, especially for larger or heavier doors.
Wayne Dalton’s website and product literature provide specific TorqueMaster spring sizing recommendations based on door width, height, and weight.
Commercial/Industrial Garage Door Springs
For heavy-duty applications like commercial warehouses, industrial facilities, or large residential properties, specialized high-cycle torsion or extension springs are often required. These springs are engineered to withstand significantly more open/close cycles compared to standard residential springs.
Brands like Cook, Amarr, and IDC Spring offer heavy-duty commercial garage door spring systems rated for 25,000 to 100,000 cycles or more. Some even feature cycle counters to track spring life and recommend replacement intervals.
Spring Materials
Galvanized, Oil-Tempered, and Coated Garage door springs are typically made from galvanized steel, which provides rust and corrosion resistance. However, you’ll also find oil-tempered and powder-coated springs, each offering unique benefits in terms of lubrication, rust prevention, and enhanced cycle life.
The Garage Door Spring Repair Process
At Garage Door Repair Carpentersville, our trained technicians follow a comprehensive process to ensure your garage door springs are repaired or replaced correctly:
- Inspection: We assess the condition of your existing springs, identifying any damage, wear, or improper adjustment.
- Spring Removal: Using proper safety protocols, we carefully remove the old springs.
- Spring Replacement: We install new springs matched to your garage door’s weight and size specifications.
- Adjustment and Testing: The new springs are properly adjusted and lubricated, and the entire system is tested for smooth, safe operation.
Proactive Garage Door Spring Maintenance
Like many homeowners, you may not give your garage door springs much thought until they cause issues. However, regular maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your springs and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Our team offers proactive spring inspection and lubrication services to keep your system running at peak performance.
Why Choose Garage Door Repair Carpentersville?
- 24/7 emergency services
- Highly trained technicians
- Maximum 2-hour response time
- Same-day service available
- Open weekends and holidays
- Competitive pricing
- Solid warranty on parts and labor
Book your garage door spring repair appointment now
CALL 847-448-0959 or request a free quote online. Our friendly staff is standing by to schedule your service call at a convenient time, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should garage door springs be replaced? The lifespan of garage door springs varies, but most manufacturers recommend replacement every 5-7 years or after 10,000 cycles (openings and closings).
Can I repair or replace garage door springs myself? While it’s possible for experienced DIYers, we strongly advise against attempting garage door spring repair yourself. These components are under extreme tension and can cause severe injury if mishandled.
How much does garage door spring repair cost? The cost can vary based on factors like the spring type, material, and whether additional components need replacement. However, professional repair typically ranges from $150 to $350 for a two-car garage door.
What causes garage door springs to break? Common culprits include age, repeated cycling, lack of lubrication, rust/corrosion, and improper installation or adjustment.
Can I continue using my garage door if a spring is broken? Using a garage door with a broken spring is extremely dangerous and can lead to further damage or injury. We recommend calling a professional for immediate repair.
