How To Properly Maintain Garage Door Springs

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

Learn The Secrets Of Keeping Your Garage Door Springs In Tip-Top Shape. Say Goodbye To Costly Repairs With Our Proper Maintenance Guide

Do you ever wonder what keeps your garage door functioning smoothly and effortlessly? Well, the answer lies in those trusty garage door springs. These unsung heroes work tirelessly to support the weight of your garage door, allowing it to open and close with ease. They are essential for ensuring the safety and proper functioning of your garage door system.

But like any other part of your home, these springs require regular maintenance to ensure they continue performing their duty effectively. Neglecting them could lead to costly repairs or even accidents. In this article, we will guide you through the steps necessary to properly maintain your garage door springs.

From inspecting and lubricating the springs to understanding spring tension and balance, we will cover everything you need to know. We’ll also emphasize the importance of hiring a professional for any repairs or replacements that may be needed.

So get ready to dive into the world of garage door spring maintenance and ensure that your beloved garage door remains in top-notch condition!

Key Takeaways

  • Garage door springs are important for balancing the weight of the door and allowing smooth opening and closing.
  • Regular inspection and lubrication of springs is necessary to prevent wear, rust, and cracks.
  • Spring tension and balance should be regularly checked for safe operation, and any issues should be addressed with professional assistance.
  • Hiring a professional for maintenance and repairs is highly recommended to ensure safety and efficiency, and to avoid potential expenses and stress.

Understand the Function and Importance of Garage Door Springs

Understanding the function and importance of garage door springs is crucial for proper maintenance. These springs play a vital role in balancing the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close smoothly. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion and extension. Torsion springs are located above the door, while extension springs are mounted on either side.

Over time, constant tension and usage can cause these springs to wear out. Signs of worn out garage door springs include loud noises during operation, difficulty opening or closing the door, or a visible gap in the spring coils.

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the springs, it is important to regularly inspect and lubricate them. By doing so, you can prevent potential problems and ensure your garage door functions seamlessly for years to come.

Regularly Inspect and Lubricate the Springs

Regularly inspect and lubricate the springs to ensure smooth and efficient operation of your garage door.

To properly maintain your garage door springs, start by inspecting them for any signs of wear or damage. Look for rust, cracks, or gaps in the coils. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent further damage.

When choosing a lubrication product, opt for a silicone-based spray or grease specifically designed for garage doors. Avoid using WD-40 or other petroleum-based products as they can attract dust and debris, causing more harm than good.

Apply the lubricant sparingly to the springs, focusing on the coils and hinges. This will help reduce friction and noise while prolonging the lifespan of your springs.

Remember, proper maintenance also includes being mindful of spring tension and balance. We’ll discuss this further in the next section on maintaining garage door springs effectively!

Be Mindful of Spring Tension and Balance

It is important to always keep in mind the tension and balance of your springs. This is crucial for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of your garage door. The springs are under a significant amount of pressure, so spring safety precautions are necessary. Regularly inspect the springs for any signs of wear, such as fraying or rust. This is essential for preventing accidents and potential damage to your garage door. Pay attention to how smoothly your door opens and closes. If you notice any jerking or imbalance, it may indicate an issue with the spring tension. Adjusting these tensions should only be done by a professional to avoid further complications or injuries. By being mindful of spring tension and balance, you can maintain a well-functioning garage door that operates safely and reliably without risking unnecessary DIY repairs.

Avoid DIY Repairs and Hire a Professional for Maintenance

When it comes to maintaining your garage door, it’s best to leave the repairs to a professional for optimal safety and efficiency.

While there may be cost-effective alternatives that tempt you into attempting a DIY repair, it’s important to consider the potential risks involved. Garage door springs can be dangerous if mishandled, and without proper knowledge and tools, you may end up exacerbating the problem or even injuring yourself.

Professionals have the expertise to identify common garage door spring problems such as rusting or worn-out coils and provide appropriate solutions. By hiring a professional, you not only ensure that the job is done right but also save yourself from unnecessary stress and potential expenses down the line.

So, let’s explore how to replace springs when necessary and follow safety guidelines in order to maintain your garage door effectively.

Replace Springs When Necessary and Follow Safety Guidelines

To ensure the safety and functionality of your garage door, it’s important to promptly replace worn-out springs and adhere to recommended safety guidelines.

If you notice that your garage door is suddenly slamming shut instead of closing gently, this may indicate a broken spring.

When it comes to spring replacement, it’s crucial to hire a professional who has the knowledge and experience to handle the task correctly. Trying to replace garage door springs yourself can be dangerous and could lead to serious injuries.

Additionally, always follow safety precautions when dealing with springs. Wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles, and make sure to disconnect the power supply before starting any repair work.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain a safe and functional garage door for years to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, properly maintaining your garage door springs is crucial for the proper functioning and longevity of your garage door. Understanding the function and importance of the springs is the first step. Regularly inspecting and lubricating the springs is essential to keep them in good condition. It is also important to be mindful of the tension and balance of the springs, as imbalances can lead to issues with the garage door. Avoiding DIY repairs and hiring a professional when needed is recommended, as working with springs can be dangerous. Finally, replacing springs when necessary is important to ensure the safety and efficiency of your garage door. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safety and efficiency of your garage door for years to come.

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

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How To Properly Maintain Garage Door Springs

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How To Properly Maintain Garage Door Springs FAQ's

How often do garage door springs need to be replaced?

On average, garage door springs need to be replaced every 7-9 years. Common causes for replacement include frequent use, lack of maintenance, and exposure to extreme temperatures. Regular inspection and lubrication can help extend their lifespan.

Can I use any type of lubricant on garage door springs?

You wouldn’t use just any oil on your garage door springs. Like a well-oiled machine, they deserve the best. Choose a lubricant specifically designed for garage door springs to keep them running smoothly and prevent rust.

What are the signs of a garage door spring that needs to be replaced?

If your garage door spring is making loud noises, sagging or causing the door to move unevenly, it may need to be replaced. Common causes include wear and tear over time. The cost of replacing a garage door spring can vary depending on factors such as the type of spring and labor involved.

Can I adjust the tension of my garage door springs myself?

Yes, you can adjust the tension of your garage door springs yourself, but it’s highly recommended to hire a professional. One wrong move could lead to serious injury or damage. Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with garage door springs.

Are there any safety precautions I should take when inspecting or maintaining garage door springs?

During garage door spring maintenance, it’s crucial to prioritize safety precautions. Always wear safety goggles and gloves, use a sturdy ladder, disconnect the power, and avoid attempting repairs if you’re unsure. These tips will ensure a safe and successful maintenance experience.

Author Bio

Terry Wooten

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.

Further reading:

Identifying Common Problems with Garage Door Springs

Return Back to Our Parent Service: Garage Door Springs

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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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