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Garage Door Spring FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

Get The Answers To All Your Burning Garage Door Spring Questions In One Place. Don't Miss Out On The Ultimate Faq Guide

What are the different types of garage door springs?
How do I know if my garage door springs are damaged?
Can I replace garage door springs myself, or should I hire a professional?
How long do garage door springs typically last?
What can I do to extend the lifespan of my garage door springs?
Are there any safety precautions I should take when working with garage door springs?
How often should I have my garage door springs inspected and maintained?
What are the signs that my garage door springs need to be replaced?
How much does it cost to replace garage door springs?
Are there any warning signs that my garage door springs are about to fail?
Can I use my garage door if one of the springs is broken?
What are the benefits of having properly functioning garage door springs?

Understanding the answers to these questions will not only help you maintain a safe and functional garage but also save you time and money in the long run. So, let’s dive in and ensure that your garage door springs are in tip-top shape, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of a functional and safe garage.

Key Takeaways

Hiring a professional for garage door spring replacement saves time and ensures safety.
Wearing protective gear during the replacement process prevents potential injuries and promotes overall safety.
Releasing tension in springs slowly and carefully reduces the risk of accidents and ensures a controlled working environment.
Disconnecting power to the garage door opener minimizes the risk of unexpected movements and allows for safe handling of the springs.

Different Types of Garage Door Springs

Curious about the different types of garage door springs? Well, you’re in the right place! When it comes to garage door springs, there are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion springs are usually mounted above the garage door, while extension springs are installed on either side.

Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons. Torsion springs are known for their durability and ability to support heavier doors, making them a popular choice among homeowners. On the other hand, extension springs are more affordable and easier to install. However, they may require more maintenance and have a shorter lifespan.

Understanding the different types of garage door springs is crucial because they play a vital role in the overall functioning of your garage door. So, now that you know the basics, let’s move on to the importance of garage door springs.

Importance of Garage Door Springs

When it comes to the importance of garage door springs, you can’t underestimate their role in balancing the weight of the door. These springs work tirelessly to counterbalance the heavy weight of the door, ensuring easy and smooth operation every time you open and close it.

Without properly functioning springs, you risk putting unnecessary strain on your garage door opener and potentially experiencing a malfunction.

So, make sure to give your springs the attention they deserve to keep your garage door operating smoothly and effortlessly.

Balancing the Weight of the Door

To achieve optimal functionality, it’s essential to ensure the weight of the garage door is properly balanced. This not only ensures smooth operation but also extends the lifespan of your garage door springs. Here are three reasons why balancing the weight of the door is crucial:

Safety: A properly balanced door reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. It prevents sudden slamming or falling of the door, keeping you and your loved ones safe.
Energy Efficiency: When the door is balanced, it requires less effort to open and close. This means your garage door opener works more efficiently, saving energy and reducing your utility bills.
Longevity: Properly balancing the weight of the door reduces strain on the springs and other components. This helps prolong their lifespan, saving you money on costly repairs or replacements.

Now that you understand the importance of balancing the weight of your garage door, let’s move on to ensuring smooth operation by adjusting tension and performing regular spring maintenance.

Ensuring Smooth Operation

Ensuring smooth operation and hassle-free functionality is key to maximizing the performance of your garage door.

Regular garage door maintenance is essential in preventing common issues that can arise over time. By troubleshooting these issues early on, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your garage door operates smoothly for years to come.

Start by inspecting the tracks and rollers for any signs of wear or damage, as these can cause the door to become misaligned. Lubricating the moving parts, such as hinges and springs, will also help to reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.

Additionally, check the cables and pulleys for any signs of fraying or stretching. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your garage door running smoothly and avoid any potential disruptions.

Now, let’s move on to the signs of a damaged or broken spring.

Signs of a Damaged or Broken Spring

Signs of a damaged or broken spring can be easy to overlook, but they can lead to potential hazards. Ignoring these signs can have serious consequences. When it comes to repairing vs. replacing springs, it’s crucial to assess the extent of the damage. Minor issues can be fixed, but severe breakage may require a complete replacement for safety and smooth operation. Common causes of spring damage include wear and tear over time, extreme temperature changes, and improper maintenance. Regular inspection and maintenance can help identify any signs of damage early on, preventing further problems and extending the lifespan of your springs. With that in mind, let’s explore how to maintain and extend the lifespan of your garage door springs.

Maintaining and Extending the Lifespan of Springs

To maintain and extend the lifespan of your garage door springs, focus on two key points: regular lubrication and visual inspections.

Regularly lubricate the springs to ensure smooth and efficient operation. This reduces the risk of damage or breakage. By keeping the springs well-lubricated, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear.

Conduct visual inspections to identify signs of wear or damage early on. This allows for timely repairs and prevents more serious issues in the future. Look for any signs of rust, fraying, or misalignment. If you notice any problems, address them promptly to avoid further damage.

By following these two simple steps, you can significantly increase the lifespan of your garage door springs. This will save you from costly repairs or replacements in the long run.

Regular Lubrication

Regular lubrication is essential for maintaining the lifespan of your garage door springs and ensuring the smooth operation of your garage door. Using a high-quality lubricant specifically formulated for garage doors is important for optimal performance. These lubricants are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of your garage and provide long-lasting protection. By lubricating your garage door spring regularly, you can prevent premature wear and reduce the risk of costly repairs. Invest in a high-quality lubricant and apply it to your garage door spring at least twice a year to extend the lifespan of your springs and enjoy a garage door that operates smoothly and quietly. Conduct visual inspections to easily identify any potential issues before they become major problems.

Conducting Visual Inspections

Performing regular visual inspections of your garage door spring is crucial to ensure its longevity and prevent potential issues from turning into major repairs. By visually inspecting the spring, you can identify signs of wear or damage before they become serious problems.

Start by closely examining the spring for visible cracks, rust, or fraying cables. Check the balance of the door and listen for any unusual sounds during operation.

These visual inspection techniques help you catch common issues such as misalignment, imbalanced tension, or worn-out components. Addressing these problems early on can save you the hassle and expense of larger repairs.

Now that you understand the importance of visual inspections, let’s move on to when and how to replace garage door springs.

When and How to Replace Garage Door Springs

When it comes to replacing garage door springs, you might be torn between hiring a professional or doing it yourself. However, it’s important to consider the risks and potential dangers involved in DIY replacements.

By hiring a professional, you can ensure that the job is done safely and efficiently, saving you time and preventing potential injuries.

Hiring a Professional vs. DIY Replacement

Consider hiring a professional for your garage door spring replacement to ensure a safe and efficient outcome. While it may be tempting to tackle the task yourself, hiring professionals can save you time, money, and potential injuries.

Yes, there might be a cost involved, but the convenience and peace of mind you’ll gain are worth it. Professionals have the necessary expertise and tools to handle the job correctly, minimizing the risk of accidents or further damage to your garage door system. Plus, they can complete the replacement swiftly and efficiently, freeing up your time for other important tasks.

However, before moving on to safety precautions to take, it’s essential to understand why hiring a professional is the smarter choice.

Safety Precautions to Take

When replacing your garage door springs, it is important to prioritize your safety. Follow these precautions to ensure a safe working environment:

Wear protective gear, such as safety goggles and gloves, to prevent potential injuries.
Be cautious of the tension in the springs. Release it slowly and carefully to avoid sudden movements or accidents.
Disconnect the power to the garage door opener to prevent unexpected movements while working on the springs.
Avoid common mistakes, such as using improper tools or attempting to replace the springs without proper knowledge and experience.

By taking these safety precautions, you can ensure a smooth and accident-free garage door spring replacement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you now have a better understanding of garage door springs and their importance in keeping your garage door functioning smoothly.

Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your springs to extend their lifespan and avoid any potential accidents.

Just like the gears in a well-oiled machine, garage door springs are the backbone of your garage door, ensuring it opens and closes effortlessly like a graceful ballet dancer on stage.

So, don’t underestimate the role of these small but mighty springs and keep them in top-notch condition!

We Work With All Brands

We work with all gate, garage door, fence, and access control brands and models.

Highly-Qualified Technicians

We have a team of licensed, insured & experienced technicians.

Contact Us

Alpha Gate & Door Co.
3622 Lakeridge Dr.
Grapevine, TX 76051-4627

Garage Door Spring FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Garage Door Spring FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered FAQ's

How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?

Replacing a garage door spring can cost anywhere from $150 to $350, depending on various factors like the type of spring needed, the size of the door, and the complexity of the installation.

Can I replace the garage door spring by myself, or should I hire a professional?

Replacing a garage door spring by yourself is like trying to untangle a giant knot without any guidance. Hiring a professional technician not only ensures safety, but also brings expertise and peace of mind.

How long do garage door springs typically last?

Garage door springs typically last around 10,000 cycles, but proper maintenance can extend their lifespan. Look out for signs of a worn out spring like squeaking, difficulty opening or closing, or visible wear and tear. Take care of your spring to ensure a safe and functional garage.

What are the potential dangers of attempting to repair or replace a garage door spring without proper knowledge or experience?

Attempting to repair or replace a garage door spring without proper knowledge or experience is like trying to navigate treacherous waters without a map or compass. The risks are high, and the consequences can be severe. Don’t gamble with your safety.

Are there any warning signs or safety precautions to be aware of when dealing with garage door springs?

Warning signs of a faulty garage door spring include: frayed cables, excessive noise, and uneven door movement. Essential safety precautions when dealing with garage door springs include: wearing safety glasses, using proper tools, and seeking professional help when needed.

Author Bio

Terry Wooten

Terry Wooten is a distinguished professional in the realm of automated gate systems, renowned for his expertise as a Certified Automated Gate Systems Designer and Automated Gate Operator Installer. With a passion for innovative technology and a keen eye for detail, Terry has carved a niche for himself in the industry, ensuring the seamless integration of cutting-edge gate automation solutions.

A dedicated member of the International Door Association and the Institute of Door Dealers, Terry is committed to staying at the forefront of industry advancements. His involvement in these esteemed organizations reflects his unwavering dedication to professional development and the highest standards of excellence in the field.

Drawing on years of hands-on experience and a comprehensive understanding of automated gate systems, Terry Wooten has become a trusted name in the industry. His commitment to delivering top-notch services and staying abreast of the latest industry trends positions him as a leading authority in the design and installation of automated gate systems. Through his work, Terry continues to contribute to the evolution of the industry, ensuring secure and efficient access solutions for a wide range of clients.

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Alpha Gate & Door Co.

4.9

Based on 87 reviews

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Randy Rutledge

23:18 02 Apr 25

Great to work with a supplier that actually bids a job, completes it on time and on budget. Terry and his crew were a pleasure to deal with and installed a great product on a very challenging area. Would definitely recommend and use again

Eric Welman

15:51 02 Apr 25

The gate replacement work was performed professionally and to my complete satisfaction. They also did the work at a very fair price. Very happy with them.

Lynn Davoudian

12:49 18 Mar 25

Fantastic company & services ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Rita Egeland

00:58 16 Mar 25

The service and the work that was done was exceptional. We needed to replace three very old (and very heavy) garage doors in a home that was built in 1960. There were a number of challenges along the way and each one was met professionally and in a timely manner. Lisa was an excellent communicator and highly responsive. Kevin did an extraordinary job with a fairly involved installation. His 'can do' attitude was very refreshing and reassuring. As noted, the final result was terrific. The pricing was VERY reasonable and very fair. The install was completed two days ago and I have already received compliments from the neighbors!

Gordon Crow

01:49 01 Mar 25

Easy to schedule. Fair & competitive pricing for a quick gate opener repair

Barrett Campbell

23:46 15 Jan 25

I called Terry to help with a damaged gate and masonry column. He came out the same day to help diagnose the issue and offered a sensible solution. He got the gate system repaired quickly and I was back up and running. I will definitely be calling Terry in the future. Thank you,

Scott Kirscht

18:41 15 Dec 24

Excellent door and gate company. I would give them 10 stars. I had extremely tight tolerances and Terry and his crew engineered the gate down to the inch. Top of the line materials and great service. Highly recommend.

E Yaeger

16:35 11 Dec 24

On Oct. 31 my electric gate stopped working and I called Alpha Gate and Door and talked to Lisa. She was great and based on my symptoms said she thought it was the battery and she would send Kealan out the next day. He came and replaced the battery with a 12 v 55ah battery. I asked him to rehang my reflector light on my neighbors new fence so the motion sensor would work. It had worked fine prior to that being taken down. He did that and it worked for a minute and then stopped. He rewired it and it worked once and he left. The next day I noticed the sensor was not working but I didn’t really care because my dog is too small to trigger it. I was charged $448 -$169 for the service call, $249 for the battery and $30 to rewire the sensor. I work exclusively from home as an attorney and never even use the gate during the week. A few weeks later the gate stopped operation completely and I called on Dec. 6. Lisa said she would send Kealan out. He called me and I said the gate would not open at all, the sensor was not working and the sensor was making a nonstop buzzing noise. He arrived fairly late in the day and I saw him pull into my driveway but he did not come to my door and went straight to the gate. I immediately went out there and I saw when he opened the cover that the battery charger lights were not on. He was in a very bad mood and starting ripping the battery out and said I needed a new battery. I said I guess it was because the battery charger wasn’t plugged in. I was not mad about it because that can happen to anyone. He got really mad at that point, I guess because I knew what had happened. He demanded to know whether I had unplugged it, grabbed a huge battery that would not even fit in my unit, then declared the charger had “allegedly” not been plugged in. As he was trying to force the battery in and was slamming everything around, I asked him if he had a smaller battery. He said no, it was whomever installed my gate opener’s fault because the antenna was on the left and they were usually on the right. He continued to try to force it but could not get the cover on. So he gave up and said he would come back Monday with a smaller battery. I assumed the sensor was not working because the battery had died. I heard nothing from anyone the following Monday and had had it so I called Lisa and yelled and told her the way Kealan had behaved and when was the battery actually going to be installed. She said she would talk to Kealan and I said do you have anybody else who is not a jackass who could come instead. She said she would investigate and call me back. She never called me back and apparently the next day around lunch Kealan snuck onto my property, did not tell me he was there, and put in another battery and texted me the gate was now working. I went outside to try it and the remote was not working at all. I have programmed remotes many times (I have done a lot of products liability work and handled cases with complex machinery failures and deposed a lot of engineers so I am not unfamiliar with this type of equipment) and checked it and the receiver was getting the signal from the transmitter but the control board was not opening the gate.So I called Lisa, explained he had come but not told me he was there, and that the remote was not opening the gate. I also apologized for yelling at her the day before because it was not her fault. She said she would tell him. After that call I remembered there is a reset button on the Patriot control board so I went out and pushed it and that caused the remote to work so I called Lisa and said it was working. The new battery is smaller than the one he had originally put in and retails for about $95. The motion sensor still does not work, I have done jumping jacks in front of of it to know avail. I am not bothering to call again about that because Kealan would probably get really mad again. He does NOT like his competence put into question. You decide if $249 is a fair markup on a $95 battery.

Julie Bealke

00:55 09 Nov 24

We are very happy with the service we received from Alpha Gate & Door. We had a 20-year old gate that stopped working. Upon our first call, they were quick to respond, provide an estimate & schedule the work. The tech was very thorough and at the end explained all of the updates. I know that if I ever need anything else, I will call them.

Carl Robertson

13:52 26 Sep 24

I highly recommend Alpha Gate and Door. Lisa was very helpful and honest and answered all of my questions.

Jim Wallin

20:37 25 Sep 24

I am extremely happy with the installation and operation of the our new Alpha Gate / gate opener. Their tech was very thorough and gave me an excellent walk through of the installed hardware and operation of the system. The installation of our new gate opener was completed on time and on the agreed to day of installation. I believe that I really got my moneys worth on this on this home upgrade.

Rahim Fancy

14:12 10 Sep 24

Excellent service on both a gate and a garage door motor update. Needed help, got it immediately, price was great, technicians were very well versed, and explained everything to me. I felt very comfortable and satisfied. Highly recommend.

Greg Pressly

20:35 11 Aug 24

Great Service from Alpha Gate & Door! We have used them for almost 20 years. They are professional, honest, and reasonable. Lisa is always easy to deal with and very efficient in getting us scheduled for a service call. She is so helpful in trying to solve the problem before sending someone out - how great is that! Kealan is AMAZING as our Service Tech. He is very knowledgeable & professional and provides great tips on how to care for and maintain our gate. Kealan makes for a perfect customer experience!

David

21:42 02 Jun 24

Excellent service from arrival time to departure. Very knowledgeable and had a lot of good suggestions for improving my gates performance.

GregB

15:47 29 Apr 24

I was having issues with a noisy garage door. I called alpha gate and doors and they came out in no time and fixed the issue. I highly recommend this company

Phillip Staggs

18:43 19 Apr 24

Priyank Desai

18:06 19 Mar 24

Had to have the hinges on my gate replaced. Alpha Gate was knowledgeable and fairly priced. They conducted the repair the next day and my gate is whisper quiet now. I highly recommend them!

joe valencia

00:14 19 Mar 24

Alpha Gate &Door Co. , The owners are amazing I had several questions and they where quick to respond, and got me the info. I will always call them as they made me feel like family, and had me fixed up in no time. Thanks for such an amazing experience!

Brian G

00:24 11 Nov 23

I highly recommend Alpha Gate & Door Company! The entire process was incredibly quick and professional! I spoke with Lisa (she’s amazing and extremely knowledgeable) on Tuesday and she came out Wednesday with a recommendation to replace the gate opener that was faulty and couldn’t handle the weight of my gate. I received the reasonable quote the same day and their technician, Keelan, was at my house on Friday of the SAME WEEK to install. Keelan was just as courteous and professional as Lisa and did an amazing job! The install was perfect and pristine! I’ve tried working with other companies and honestly they are hands down the best! If there were 10 stars available, I would give them 10!
Thank you Alpha team!

Greg McAllister

22:31 06 Sep 23

Mark Wilgus

22:02 18 Jul 23

I highly recommend Alpha Gate & Door Co.for your gate repair or installation needs. We were in need of a replacement system for or driveway gate. Lisa immediately understood my situation and had a perfect recommendation for a replacement. She emailed me a detailed proposal and followed up with a visit to our site. In a timely manner the technician, Kealin and his assistant George, professionally installed a complete Patriot 1 system that looks great and works perfectly. I am very pleased with all aspects of their service.

B WBURG

14:47 20 Apr 23

Alpha Gate & Door recently replaced our 3-gate system thats used by over 250 residents and visitors on a daily basis.

Terry was excellent in guiding us from the first visit to the final inspection, including his experiences on what to expect and where any likely issues would occur. With a large property, that was critical to avoiding problems that could pop up.

The crews, clean up and invoicing were all done professionally.

We would strongly recommend Alpha Gate & Door for your gate access needs.

Bobby Broyles

14:52 21 Mar 23

These folks were great! They could have charged me for a new garage door opener, but instead they fix the one I had. Way to go!

Craig DeMoss

21:32 11 Feb 23

We were having some issues with our gate opener and contacted Alpha while looking for a company to take care of it. From the first call to explain what was going on it was great. Very friendly folks! Kealan came out and has us fixed up in no time at all. Fair pricing and great service!

Bradford Gardner

14:18 30 Jan 23

Called on a Saturday morning around 0800 and left a message about issue I was having. I received a call back a few minutes later and was ask to send some pictures of the gate. Once I sent over the pictures, I got another call around 1200, asking if they could come by today as a crew was finished early and could swing by to fix. The gate was fixed by 3:00 same day. Thanks for the quick response and repair. I wasn't expecting that on a Saturday morning. So far so good.

John Hopkins

23:20 21 Nov 22

Great service. They were truly experts at install. Understanding what we needed. Highly recommend. Will use them again.

richard arini

21:19 16 Nov 22

The workmanship was very well done. Price was reasonable, the new bracket on our electric gate is an improvement from what was the original part. I highly recommend Alpha Gate and Door.

Justin Huffman

19:17 09 Aug 22

Alpha gate was incredible to work with. From beginning to end, they were responsive, flexible and provided quality work to go along with great service. We will definitely recommend!

Grant Good

13:15 29 Nov 21

Alpha Gate & Door installed a gate at my home. My wife and are more than pleased with the quality and workmanship of our get. The gate is heavy gauge steel with highest quality. The actuator works very well and is also highest quality. Service was great and can't recommend them enough!

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3622 Lakeridge Dr.,
Grapevine, TX

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Alpha Gate & Door Co.
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