Garage Door Springs And The Risk Of Injury

Residential - Commercial - Industrial

Discover The Hidden Danger Lurking In Your Garage. Uncover The Truth About Garage Door Springs And Protect Yourself From Potential Injury

‘Out of sight, out of mind.’ This adage might ring true when it comes to your garage door springs. Hidden away but ever-present, these springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. However, they also pose a significant risk of injury if not properly maintained or understood.

In this article, we will delve into the function and importance of garage door springs, shedding light on the common causes of spring-related injuries that can occur in an instant. By familiarizing yourself with the signs of wear and tear to look out for, you can take proactive steps to prevent accidents before they happen.

Remember, safety should always be paramount when dealing with heavy machinery like garage doors. That’s why we will discuss the importance of professional maintenance and repair to ensure your peace of mind. Stay informed, stay cautious – together we can create a safe haven within our garages where belonging is guaranteed.

Key Takeaways

  • Garage door springs are essential for the smooth operation of the door and counterbalance its weight.
  • Attempting DIY replacement of garage door springs is dangerous and can result in serious injury.
  • Neglecting maintenance, such as lubrication and inspections, can increase the risk of spring injuries.
  • Hiring professionals for maintenance and repair of garage door springs ensures family safety and prevents costly accidents.

Understanding the Function of Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are an essential component in ensuring that your garage door operates smoothly. They have the vital function of counterbalancing the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close effectively. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are typically positioned above the garage door and utilize torque to lift the door. On the other hand, extension springs are located on either side of the door and stretch when the door opens.

Over time, these springs can wear out and may need to be replaced. It is crucial to hire a professional for garage door spring replacement as attempting to do it yourself can be dangerous and result in serious injury.

Now that you have an understanding of the importance of these springs, let’s move on to discussing the common causes of garage door spring injuries.

Common Causes of Garage Door Spring Injuries

One common cause of injuries with garage door springs is improper maintenance. This includes neglecting regular lubrication and inspections. Proper garage door spring maintenance is crucial for preventing accidents and injuries.

Over time, the springs can become worn out or lose tension, making them more susceptible to breaking. Without proper lubrication, the springs may not function smoothly, causing them to strain and eventually snap under the pressure.

Neglecting regular inspections can also lead to unnoticed signs of wear and tear, increasing the risk of sudden spring failure. It’s important to prioritize garage door spring maintenance by regularly applying lubricant and scheduling professional inspections.

By doing so, you can reduce the chances of unexpected emergencies that require immediate garage door repair. Pay attention to signs of wear and tear to look out for in order to avoid potential accidents down the line.

Signs of Wear and Tear to Look Out For

Keep an eye out for any noticeable signs of wear and tear on your garage door springs. This could potentially lead to dangerous situations. Over time, garage door springs can weaken due to constant use and exposure to the elements.

Look for signs such as rust, fraying cables, or gaps in the coils. These are potential dangers that should not be ignored. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to take immediate action and address them properly.

Remember, attempting DIY repairs on garage door springs can be extremely risky and should be avoided. It’s always best to seek professional help from a trained technician who has the knowledge and experience to handle such tasks safely. By doing so, you can prevent accidents and ensure the safety of yourself and others when operating your garage door.

Preventive Measures to Ensure Safety

To safeguard against potential hazards, it’s crucial to implement proactive measures that act as a sturdy shield for the well-being of you and your loved ones. When it comes to garage door maintenance, taking safety precautions is essential.

Here are four preventive measures you can take to ensure the safety of everyone around your garage:

  1. Regular Inspection: Conduct routine inspections of your garage door springs, cables, and rollers to check for any signs of wear and tear.

  2. Lubrication: Apply lubricant to the moving parts of your garage door system regularly to reduce friction and prevent premature wear.

  3. Balance Check: Test the balance of your garage door by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting it halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, call a professional for adjustment.

  4. Safety Sensors: Ensure that the safety sensors on your garage door are properly aligned and functioning correctly.

By following these preventive measures, you can minimize the risk of accidents or injuries associated with faulty garage doors.

Speaking of safety, let’s now explore the importance of professional maintenance and repair services in ensuring a secure environment for your family without skipping a beat.

Importance of Professional Maintenance and Repair

It is important to hire a professional for regular maintenance and repair services to ensure the safety and security of your family. When it comes to garage door springs, it is crucial to leave the repairs and maintenance tasks in the hands of experts.

While DIY repairs may seem like a cost-effective option, they can be dangerous and lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Professionals have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to handle garage door springs safely. They understand the intricacies involved in repairing or replacing these components without compromising on safety.

Neglecting regular maintenance can also have severe consequences. Over time, springs can wear out or become loose, causing the door to malfunction or collapse unexpectedly. By scheduling professional maintenance regularly, you can prevent potential accidents and keep your family safe from harm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, never underestimate the power of garage door springs and the potential risks they pose.

These silent heroes work tirelessly to keep your garage door functioning smoothly, but they can quickly turn into a dangerous weapon if not properly maintained.

Imagine the sound of metal snapping and the sudden weight crashing down on you or your loved ones.

By taking preventive measures, paying attention to signs of wear and tear, and seeking professional help when needed, you can ensure your safety and avoid becoming a victim of this hidden danger lurking above your head.

Stay informed, stay cautious, and stay safe.

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3622 Lakeridge Dr.
Grapevine, TX 76051-4627

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Garage Door Springs And The Risk Of Injury

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Garage Door Springs And The Risk Of Injury FAQ's

What is the average cost of repairing or replacing garage door springs?

The average cost of garage door spring repair is around $200 to $300. However, you should be cautious when attempting a DIY garage door spring replacement as it can be dangerous without proper knowledge and equipment.

Can I attempt to repair or replace garage door springs on my own?

You should not attempt to repair or replace garage door springs on your own. It is a job best left to professionals due to the risk of injury. Common mistakes include improper installation and not using the correct tools.

To ensure your safety and avoid any legal issues, it’s important to follow the legal requirements and safety regulations when it comes to garage door spring maintenance and repair.

How long do garage door springs typically last before they need to be replaced?

Garage door springs typically last around 7-9 years before needing replacement. Signs of worn-out springs include difficulty opening or closing the door, excessive noise, and visible rust or damage. Regular maintenance can help prolong their lifespan.

Are there any alternative types of garage door springs that can be used to minimize the risk of injury?

Looking for alternative spring options to minimize injury risk? Consider using torsion springs or extension springs with safety cables. These can provide added security and reduce the chances of accidents occurring during garage door operation. Stay safe!

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:

Garage Door Springs and Wind Resistance

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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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