Torsion Tension: Everything You Need to Know About Garage Door Spring Repair

Table of Contents

• Key Points
• The Physics Behind Garage Door Springs
• Signs Your Torsion Springs Need Replacement
• Safety Concerns When Repairing Torsion Springs
• Steps for Repairing Garage Door Torsion Springs
• When to Call a Professional
• Preventive Maintenance Tips
• Learn More About Garage Door Spring Repair and Replacement

---

Key Points

Garage door torsion springs are essential components of any overhead garage door system. They are responsible for storing energy to open and close the door, while counterbalancing the weight of the door, ensuring smooth operation.

These springs are prone to wear and tear due to their constant use, which can lead to operational issues and safety risks. And replacing or repairing them is a complex enterprise that requires careful labor and meticulous calibration. 

This article explores common problems associated with torsion springs, especially signs that indicate they need repair or replacement. It also lays out steps involved in the process. Keep reading to find out how to diagnose torsion spring issues and get your door working properly. 

The Physics Behind Garage Door Springs

First, let’s get a bit scientific. The operation of garage door springs relies on fundamental principles of physics. Hooke’s Law states that the force required to extend or compress a spring is directly proportional to the distance it is stretched or compressed. In simpler terms, the more pulling or pushing done on a garage door spring, the more force it generates to counterbalance the weight of the door. 

When the garage door is closed, the springs are in a state of tension. As the door begins to open, the springs experience an increase in tension, storing potential energy. Once the door is released, this stored energy is unleashed, assisting the door in its upward motion—the result of a harmonious interplay of forces dictated by the laws of physics.

Common Problems with Garage Door Torsion Springs

As mentioned, torsion springs are under immense tension, which makes them both critical for functionality and potentially hazardous, should they fail. Here are some common problems you might encounter with torsion springs:

• • Spring (Metal) Breakage: Torsion springs have a limited lifespan, typically rated for about 10,000 cycles, with one cycle equaling a single full opening and a single full closing of the door. Over time, the metal fatigues and can eventually break. A loud snapping or popping sound often accompanies this.

• • Loss of Tension: Another common issue with torsion springs is that they lose tension. This loss of energy means the door will have difficulty opening. Problems closing or failing to stay in a mid-level position also could occur, but are less likely.

• • Imbalance: Worn-out or broken torsion springs can cause one side of the garage door to move unevenly. This can lead to sagging and often results in misalignment. 

• • Excessive Noise: Grinding or scraping noises during operation can indicate a problem with the torsion springs. This usually occurs when the springs are stretched out or starting to lose tension. 

• • Visible Wear and Tear: Rust, cracks, or gaps in the coils are clear signs that the springs are deteriorating and may soon fail. While the garage door may continue to function, such signs should not be ignored. 

Signs Your Torsion Springs Need Replacement

It is crucial to recognize early warning signs of failing torsion springs to avoid sudden breakdowns. Below are conditions that homeowners should immediately address. 

• • Heavier Door: If the garage door feels heavier than usual when lifting manually, it is likely due to weakened springs.

• • Sudden Door Closure: A door that slams shut without warning could signal a broken torsion spring. 

• • Inability to Hold Mid-Level Position: If you manually position the door halfway and it does not stay put, this is often a sign of a worn-out spring.

• • Older Springs: If your torsion spring is several years old (or has gone through approximately 10,000 cycles), it is time to have it replaced or, at the very least, inspected by a professional garage door service technician. 

Safety Concerns When Repairing Torsion Springs

Repairing or replacing torsion springs is inherently dangerous due to the high tension they are under. Mishandling them can result in severe injuries. Here are a few key safety tips:

• • Clear the Work Area: Remove vehicles and valuables from the garage before beginning repairs. This will prevent accidental damage from falling tools or components. 

• • Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses and leather gloves. These will offer some level of protection against flying debris or accidental contact with sharp edges. 

• • Use Proper Tools: Always use professional-grade winding bars that are specifically designed for torsion spring adjustments. Avoid makeshift tools like screwdrivers, which can slip and cause injuries. 

• • Maintain a Safe Zone: Keep your body clear of the spring’s path while winding or unwinding it. Stand to the side rather than directly in front of the spring cone. 

Steps for Repairing Garage Door Torsion Springs

Given the complexity and related safety issues associated with repairing garage door torsion springs, this task is best left up to professionals. They will have the right tools and knowledge for carrying out the project. Here is an overview of the process. 

1. Gather Tools and Materials

Requisite tools include:

• • Winding bars

• • Vice grips

• • Wrenches (various sizes)

• • Replacement torsion spring

• • Safety gear (gloves and goggles)

• • A step ladder

2. Release Spring Tension

This first main step is to disconnect the garage door opener. Then, the technician will use winding bars to carefully unwind the tension from the old spring. This is done by inserting the bars into the winding cone slots, then turning them counterclockwise. 

3. Remove Old Springs

The next step in garage door spring repair involves loosening the set of screws on the cable drums. This lets the technician remove the old spring from its position. 

4. Measure and Select Replacement Springs

The next phase involves measuring the length, wire diameter, and inner diameter of the old spring to ensure an appropriate replacement is obtained. 

5. Install New Springs

The next task involves sliding the new spring onto the torsion tube with its stationary cone facing the center bracket. The technician will then reattach the cable drums and wind the cables back into place. 

6. Wind New Springs

Using winding bars, the repair person will ratchet each spring (toward the ceiling). Every spring is unique, so they will likely need to consult manufacturer recommendations to know the number of quarter turns needed. 

7. Test Balance

Finally, the garage door company will test the balance of the door. They will remove the clamps from the tracks and manually lift the garage door halfway. 

If properly balanced, it should stay in place without assistance. If not, they will need to adjust the spring tension as needed. 

When to Call a Professional

While DIY garage door repairs have the potential to save a lot of money, as mentioned, they can come with significant risks if not done correctly. This is especially true if you:

• • If you lack proper tools or experience.

• • If your garage door has multiple complex components.

In such cases, hiring a professional ensures safety and proper installation. Something else to keep in mind is that the amount of money you could save could quickly be offset by damage to your door, door system hardware, or the infrastructure of your home, if torsion spring replacement is not done correctly. It is not worth the risk. 

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Fortunately, there are some things that homeowners can do to improve the function and extend the life of their garage door torsion springs. Routine maintenance tips include: 

1. • Lubricate springs regularly (with a dedicated garage door lubricant) to prevent rust and reduce friction during operation. 

• • Inspect them for visible signs of wear, at least twice a year.

• • Avoid overusing your garage door opener, as each cycle adds wear to your springs.

Learn More About Garage Door Spring Repair and Replacement

Garage door torsion springs are vital yet vulnerable components that require regular attention for safe operation. Recognizing issues early on can save you from costly repairs or dangerous failures. Remember that garage door spring repair should only be carried out by a trained professional. 

Door Tech offers premier residential and commercial garage door repair in Anderson SC, and throughout the Upstate. Our technicians can recommend torsion spring upgrades, maintenance, and repairs that will ensure smooth, reliable, and safe operation of your door. Call today to line up the best services for garage doors Anderson SC has to offer.