Garage doors are complex systems, and while many homeowners face issues with the opener, cables, or sensors, one of the most serious (and often overlooked) problems is frayed or broken torsion springs. These springs are critical components that provide the tension necessary to lift and lower the heavy garage door. Though issues with torsion springs are less common than problems with cables or the opener, they can still occur and often lead to major malfunctions. This article will explain how torsion springs work, the dangers of a broken spring, how to avoid this problem, and how to fix it. Arlington residents can also learn how to access free estimates from Best Garage Doors Inc., a trusted local expert.
What Are Torsion Springs and How Do They Work?
Torsion springs are large, coiled metal springs located above the garage door opening. They are under tremendous tension and play a crucial role in the opening and closing of the door. When the door is closed, the torsion spring is wound tight. As the door opens, the spring unwinds, providing the necessary force to lift the heavy door. The spring helps to balance the weight of the door and reduces the strain on the garage door opener.
Torsion springs are designed to last for a certain number of cycles (each cycle being one full opening and closing of the door). However, over time, the springs can weaken, fray, or break due to constant wear and tear, temperature fluctuations, and other factors.
Signs of Frayed or Broken Torsion Springs
When a torsion spring breaks or becomes frayed, you may notice several signs, including:
- The door won’t open: If a torsion spring breaks, the garage door may not move at all. It could remain stuck in the closed position.
- Uneven movement: If only one spring breaks, the door may move unevenly, or one side may rise faster than the other.
- Loud noises: A sudden loud bang or a snapping sound may indicate that the torsion spring has snapped.
- The door feels heavy: If the door becomes increasingly difficult to lift manually, it’s a sign that the torsion spring may be failing.
While the issue may be rare, when torsion springs break, it’s important to address the problem immediately, as it can cause significant damage to the door or opener if not repaired.
Why Is a Broken Torsion Spring Dangerous?
Torsion springs are under high tension, and when they break, they release a tremendous amount of force. The force involved in the spring’s breakage can cause injury to anyone nearby and can damage parts of the door, the opener, or the surrounding structure. Attempting to repair a broken torsion spring without proper tools and expertise can be extremely dangerous, so it’s always best to leave this job to a professional.
Additionally, a broken torsion spring can make the garage door inoperable, leaving you unable to open or close it. This can be especially problematic if you need to access your garage regularly or if the door is stuck in an open position, compromising security.
How to Avoid Frayed or Broken Torsion Springs
While it’s difficult to completely prevent torsion spring failure, there are steps you can take to extend their lifespan and avoid premature damage:
- Regular Maintenance: Have your garage door system inspected and maintained at least once a year by a professional. This can help identify any wear on the torsion springs or other components before they fail.
- Lubrication: Apply a suitable lubricant to the torsion springs to reduce friction and wear. This helps the springs function more smoothly and prolongs their life.
- Avoid Overuse: Excessive use of the garage door can strain the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Try to avoid opening and closing the door too frequently, especially during extreme weather conditions that may put extra stress on the system.
- Keep the Door Balanced: If you notice that the door is not balanced (e.g., it moves unevenly), it could indicate an issue with the springs. Promptly address any imbalance to prevent further damage.
How to Fix a Broken Torsion Spring
Repairing a torsion spring should always be done by a professional, as it requires specialized tools and knowledge of the tension involved. Here’s a general overview of the process (but remember, this should not be attempted as a DIY project):
- Disengage the Garage Door Opener: Before working on the springs, disconnect the opener to prevent accidental movement of the door.
- Release Tension from the Springs: The broken torsion spring is under extreme tension, and releasing this tension requires a special winding bar. Without this tool, attempting to adjust or replace the spring can result in injury.
- Remove the Broken Spring: Once the tension is safely released, the broken spring is removed. If there is a second spring still intact, it should also be replaced at the same time to ensure the door operates evenly.
- Install the New Spring: A new torsion spring is installed and properly wound using a winding tool to ensure the correct tension is applied.
- Test the Door: Once the new spring is in place, the garage door is tested to ensure it operates smoothly and evenly.
Where to Find a Garage Door Expert
If you’re dealing with a broken torsion spring, it’s crucial to call a professional to handle the repair. Best Garage Doors Inc. is a trusted garage door expert in Arlington and the surrounding areas. They have experience working with torsion springs and can safely repair or replace broken springs.
Free Estimates for Arlington Residents by Best Garage Doors Inc.
For homeowners in Arlington, Best Garage Doors Inc. offers free estimates for garage door repairs, including torsion spring replacement. Whether you need to replace a broken spring, perform regular maintenance, or address any other garage door issues, their team of certified experts will provide prompt and reliable service.
To request a free estimate, simply visit Best Garage Doors Inc. online or call their office to schedule an appointment. Their professional technicians will assess the situation and provide an accurate quote for the repair, ensuring no hidden fees or surprises.
Conclusion
Torsion springs are vital components of your garage door system, but because they are under such high tension, they can break or become frayed over time. While issues with torsion springs are less common, they can cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. If you experience uneven door movement or the door won’t open at all, a broken torsion spring might be the culprit. It’s important to have the problem fixed by a professional to avoid injury and further damage. Best Garage Doors Inc. in Arlington offers expert garage door services, including free estimates for spring repair and other issues.
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