Torsion Springs: The Unsung Hero of Garage Doors
Garage door springs don’t get any credit, even though they do all the work!
We know what you’re thinking; yes, the motor is essential too. However, when it comes to what makes a door function the way it should, the garage door spring, or torsion spring, is what allows the door to move up and down physically. If your torsion spring breaks, then your garage door breaks with it. Which begs the question: how long do garage door springs last on average?
The Lifespan of a Garage Door Spring
The short answer is around three to five years if you use your garage doors like we do (a lot). However, these numbers will always vary depending on a few key factors.
The first factor is how often you use your garage door, which, in turn, translates to how often you use your spring. If you use your door twice a day, once to open and once to close, you’re looking at a garage door spring that could last more than ten years.
The second factor is how well you maintain your garage door spring, ensure it doesn’t rust, lubricate it properly, have it inspected, etc. These simple actions, which require little time out of your day, can extend the life of your torsion spring by several years. Not doing these things can shorten that very same lifespan.
Adjusting Garage Door Springs
If your door is crooked, slow-moving, or makes strange noises when opening, it could mean that your garage door spring needs adjusting. Adjusting garage door springs will have to happen based on how often you use your door. Regardless, it needs to be done if you want your garage door spring to last.
We do not recommend that you try adjusting garage door springs by yourself. The process may seem simple enough, but the reality is that it is hazardous and much more complex than you might think. Adjusting garage door springs must be done while the door is closed and there is tension within said spring. That tension, if released the wrong way, can result in serious injury, even death.
Caring for Garage Door Springs
Again, we wanted to focus on the need to maintain your garage door spring. Keeping your torsion spring free of dust, dirt, and lubricated will save you from any future problems.
We recommend applying silicone-based lubrication to your garage door spring at least two times a year. However, three to four times a year would guarantee the spring would last longer.
How much does it Cost to Replace Garage Door Springs?
The cost of a garage door spring is circumstantial, depending on door type, spring type, setup, etc. It also depends on the maintenance required to install said spring. Contact us and we can give you an excellent estimate on how much the process will cost, based on your specific circumstances.
Not Sure about Your Garage Door Spring Situation? Call Us!
Garage door springs are essential for any functioning opening and closing system. Maintained springs can last more than a decade. Garage door springs that are neglected may need replacement after less than three years. Regardless, the reality is that we don’t appreciate what garage door springs do for us until they can no longer do it.
At Overhead Door, we understand how frustrating a tricky torsion spring can be because we deal with them all the time. If your garage door spring is broken, feel free to give us a call!
Remember, we also do inspections. Not everyone has the time, energy, and mobility to care for their garage doors and garage door springs. If that is your case, book an inspection with us!