The spring mechanism on your garage doors is an integral part of the garage door system. Your garage door closes and opens on a delicate counterbalance system, and the energy required to raise and lower the doors is supplied through the garage door springs.
Want to learn more about how your garage door springs operate, or are you concerned your garage door springs need to be replaced? Here is some invaluable information about your garage door springs, including the cost to replace them and signs it’s time to contact a professional.
Spring Types: Torsion Springs and Extension Springs
Two basic types of garage door springs are found on most doors: torsion springs and extension springs.
Torsion Springs
If you have a newer-model garage door system, chances are it is fitted with torsion springs. The two torsion springs are mounted above the garage door opening. The springs are attached to garage door cables or safety cables. These cables are connected to the two bottom corners of the garage door.
When you close the garage door, the torsion springs become wound, which creates stored energy, just like bed springs. As the door lifts, the stored energy is utilized as the springs unwind.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are also attached to cables. However, as the name would suggest, the energy required to raise the door is created when the springs extend. This extension occurs when the door closes.
When you hit the opener to lift the door, the energy stored is utilized to raise the garage door or garage doors. If you have an extension spring system, be aware that these typically do not last as long as torsion springs, which can last anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 cycles or around 10 to 15 years.
Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost in Harrisburg-York-Lancaster, PA
Typically, you will spend anywhere from $250 to $420 to have the garage door springs replaced by a professional. If you suspect your garage door springs are broken and need to be replaced, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Capital Garage Door Repair for a free estimate.
Garage Door Spring Replacement Cost Factors
There are several factors that will impact the overall cost of having your garage door springs professionally replaced, including:
Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs
Typically, you will spend more for a garage door specialist to replace torsion springs. This is because these springs are more sophisticated. However, remember that because torsion springs last longer and are generally more sturdy than extension springs, it is often better to spend the extra cash and upgrade to torsion springs.
The Type of Garage Door
The door type in your garage can also impact garage door spring replacement costs. For example, if you have a roll-up garage door or tilt-up doors, you may pay more to have the springs replaced. If you are not sure which type of door you have in your garage, we can help you determine if there are any additional costs.
Spring and Cable Replacement
Your garage door pro might recommend replacing the cables, as well as the broken garage door springs. Having safety cables attached to the door and a new torsion spring or extension spring will impact the price of your garage door repair.
Labor Costs
When you make the service call, the garage door repair company will provide you with the cost of labor. The labor costs are dependent on several factors. For example, if you are having a new torsion spring system installed, and no additional repairs are required, you will pay less for the cost of labor.
However, if the technician discovers additional problems with your garage door, such as broken or damaged cables or door tracks, you may incur additional labor costs.
Number of Garage Doors
If you have a double-door garage and need to have both sets of springs replaced on both doors, you will pay more for the cost of labor and parts than a garage with a single entry. Your technician will often recommend replacing garage door springs on double garage doors simultaneously. This will ensure the springs wear at the same rate on the double garage door.
What Exactly Happens When A Garage Door Spring Breaks?
You were enjoying a peaceful afternoon in your backyard when suddenly you heard a loud bang. When garage door springs break, it is not uncommon for the garage door to fall entirely off the track and land on the floor.
This is a potentially dangerous situation. As a homeowner, you need to learn the signs that it is time to contact a garage door repair pro to have the springs on your heavy garage door inspected and possibly replaced.
Signs That You Will Need To Replace Your Garage Door Springs
Once again, a typical torsion spring will last anywhere between 10 to 15 years or around 10,000 to 20,000 cycles. An extension spring typically lasts around 7 to 12 years. In addition to age, here are a few signs you need to have each door spring professionally inspected and replaced:
A Noticeable Gap in the Garage Door Spring
Examine each torsion spring or extension spring. Do the springs appear loose, or are they not as tightly wound as they once were? Functioning garage door springs should always be tightly wound. If there is any slack in the springs or the cables, it is time to schedule a garage door spring replacement.
The Garage Door Looks Bent or Crooked
One of the clearest and most apparent signs of a broken garage door spring is a garage door that appears crooked or off-balance. When single-door springs or double-door springs break, there is not enough force to lift the door properly, which is why one side of the door will be lower than the other.
Because the typical garage door features two springs, a tilted or uneven door will occur when only one spring breaks or suffers damage.
The Garage Door Lowers Much Faster
The springs on roll-up doors, tilt-up doors, and every other type of garage door operate by stored energy. In addition to storing energy, the two springs help ensure the doors open and close smoothly. If the doors appear jerky when they open and close or lower much faster than usual, the culprit is typically a broken garage door spring.
Strange Noises
Several unusual noises are associated with damaged or failing door springs. For example, if you notice an unusual snapping or squeaking sound, the issue could be a failing garage door spring. Once again, if there is a loud bang, it could be that your spring failed completely and your garage door is off the tracks.
Your Automatic Garage Door Opener Is Struggling to Raise and Lower the Door
The springs must function properly for your garage doors to go up and down. In many ways, the springs are the most integral part of your garage door system. If the springs are worn out or broken, and you attempt to use your opener, the door will not function properly.
If the door closes halfway, or you cannot raise the door, give the team at Capital Garage Door Repair a call immediately. We can diagnose the issue, and if the team must replace the springs, you can perform the repair right away!
You Have Trouble Manually Lifting the Garage Door
Finally, one of the most surefire ways to determine if you need a professional garage door spring replacement is to pull the red safety cord and try to open the garage doors manually. If you cannot open the doors at all, give the crew at Capital Garage Door Repair a call!
Questions to Ask About Your Professional Garage Door Spring Replacement
You suspect the issue with your garage doors is broken springs, but you need a professional opinion. When a technician from the garage door company arrives, here are a few critical questions to ask about the garage door spring replacement:
How Much Will It Cost to Replace the Broken Spring?
Don’t be afraid to ask for a complete breakdown of all the costs associated with your garage door spring replacement, including the cost of the new garage door spring and the cost of labor.
Should I Opt For a Total Garage Door Replacement?
You have a broken spring but aren’t sure if you should also simply replace the entire door rather than opting for a garage door spring replacement. Your technician can help you understand if it is time to replace a garage door or if the door is still in good shape, and a spring replacement is the better option.
Are There Any Ways I Can Save Money on the Garage Door Spring Costs?
There are several ways you can save cash on your garage door spring replacement costs. For example, you can opt for extension springs rather than torsion springs to save money on upfront costs. Scheduling the repair on the off-season or on certain days of the week, when garage door contractors are not as busy, is another easy way to save money.
Garage Door Spring Replacement: Do-It-Yourself vs. Hiring a Professional
Replacing springs is one of the most common garage door repairs, so as a homeowner, I should be able to handle it, right? In addition to being easy, a DIY replacement is a simple way to save money on a garage door spring cost.
Be aware that although it might seem inexpensive or straightforward to replace a torsion spring or extension spring on your tilt-up or overhead door, it is actually very dangerous! The two springs must be attached correctly for the doors to function properly.
At Capital Garage Door Repair, if your garage door breaks and the springs are the culprits, we always recommend leaving this complicated and potentially dangerous repair to the professionals.
Spring Replacement vs. Whole Garage Door Replacement
A typical garage door will last anywhere from 15 to 30 years. If a spring replacement is warranted, your garage door is also getting older and damaged, and if you are considering selling your home, it might be time to get a whole new garage door.
For many homeowners, a new door is the better option because the cost to repair the door is more than the door’s current value. If you are selling your home, a new garage door is an excellent way to increase the property’s curb appeal and attract potential buyers.
At Capital Garage Door, we can help you determine if it is more economically feasible to replace the broken spring or if it is time to opt for a complete door upgrade. In addition to being more aesthetically pleasing, newer-model garage doors also have several features that are not found on older models.
How Do I Know if a Garage Door Spring Needs to be Repaired or Replaced?
You schedule a yearly garage door tune-up, and the springs are not in great shape. Should I replace the two springs or just have the garage door springs tuned? No matter what the age or the extent of the damage, you should always have the door springs replaced and never professionally repaired.
How Long Does it Take to Completely Replace Garage Door Springs?
The time it takes to have garage door springs professionally replaced depends on several factors. For example, if you have a single garage door and only need two springs replaced, it will take less time than double-door garages. If the technician notices another issue that requires attention, it will also take longer to perform this additional repair.
What Causes The Springs on Garage Doors to Break?
There are several reasons why each garage door spring will break and require a professional replacement, including:
Normal Wear and Tear
Over time and after repeated use, each garage door spring will eventually wear down and require replacement.
Rust
Each torsion spring and extension spring is fabricated from metal. Unfortunately, metal rusts, and even if the springs are covered with a rubber or plastic coating, they will still eventually corrode and require a professional replacement.
Improper Care and Maintenance
As a homeowner, you might not realize that your garage door springs need to be cared for properly. Proper maintenance, including a periodic tune-up or cleaning, is a straightforward way to extend the life of your single or double garage door springs.
How Can I Make Garage Door Springs Last Longer?
Proper care and maintenance is the easiest and most inexpensive way to extend the life of each garage door spring. Here are some simple steps to help you extend the life of your current garage door springs:
- Cleaning each garage door spring. Use a plastic scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. Prevent rust formation by periodically wiping off the springs with a dry cloth. Remove grease or heavy dirt buildup with a mixture of dish soap and water.
- Lubrication. Apply a silicone-based spray according to the package directions. Wipe the springs with a dry rag or cloth before applying the spray.
- Protect your garage door springs. Keep your garage doors closed during the winter or when it is raining. If there is a leak in the garage door roof, have it repaired immediately. These simple steps will prevent water from coming into contact with the springs.
Hiring A Garage Door Spring Repair Service
Do you need to replace the springs on your garage door or schedule an overdue tune-up? Do you need to upgrade your residential or commercial-grade springs? Is your garage door not functioning properly, or are you considering selling your home and want to upgrade your garage door?
At Capital Garage Door Repair, we can handle any garage door-related repair, including:
We work with the top names in the garage door industry, including:
- Raynor
- Wayne Dalton
- Clopay
- Hormann
- DoorLink
- Amarr
If you want to replace your heavy door with a newer, state-of-the-art model that will last for several decades, we can help.
Garage Door Repairman Services Near You!
We are a locally owned business conveniently located in Harrisburg, PA. Our team of highly-trained technicians can replace springs or overhead door tracks any day of the week, including weekends. At Capital Garage Door Repair, the satisfaction of our customers is a top priority.
Ready to schedule a tune-up or replace a garage door spring? Give us a call or schedule a service!
