Have you ever opened your garage door only to find the springs starting to creak and groan as they struggle to lift the weight? If so, you’re not alone – garage door springs don’t last forever and eventually need to be replaced. But did you know there are things you can do to extend the life of your springs and delay that inevitable repair bill?
In this post, we will share some simple tips and tricks on how to make garage door springs last longer.
From basic maintenance checks to adjustments you can do yourself, learning how to care for these hard-working parts can buy you valuable time before you need to call in a professional. So if you’re starting to hear those tell-tale signs that your springs are wearing out, keep reading to discover how to keep them going just a little while longer.
Why May You Want to Make Garage Door Springs Last Longer?
1 . To Save Money
Perhaps the most obvious reason to want garage door springs that last longer is to save money. Garage doors are heavy, and they need strong springs to operate smoothly. If those springs break down regularly, you’ll soon find yourself shelling out hundreds of dollars every year on spring replacement costs alone.
2 . Convenience
Not only does replacing broken garage door springs cost you money, it also causes inconvenience. A broken spring means your garage door won’t work properly and can even become a safety hazard. By following the tips to make your garage door springs last longer, you’ll save yourself the hassle of having to deal with frequent breakdowns.
3 . Safety
As mentioned before, a broken garage door spring can pose a serious safety hazard. If the spring suddenly snaps while the door is in motion, it can cause significant damage and even injury. By properly maintaining your springs, you can ensure that they’ll operate safely and avoid any potential accidents.
12 Ideas on How to Make Garage Door Springs Last Longer
1 . Regular Maintenance
The key to extending the lifespan of your garage door springs is regular maintenance. Just like any other mechanical part, garage door springs also require routine care and attention. This can include lubrication, cleaning, and tightening of bolts.
2 . Clean and Lubricate
Dirt, dust, and grime can build up on your garage door springs over time. This can cause friction between the coils which will eventually lead to wear and tear. Regularly cleaning and lubricating your garage door springs can help prevent this from happening.
3 . Use High-Quality Lubricant
When it comes to lubricating your garage door springs, not all products are created equal. It is important to use a high-quality lubricant that is specifically designed for garage doors. This will ensure maximum protection and longevity for your springs.
4 . Check for Wear and Tear
Regularly check your garage door springs for any signs of wear and tear. Look for cracks, breaks, or gaps in the coils. If you notice any damage, it is important to have them replaced as soon as possible.
5 . Don’t Overburden Springs
Garage door springs are designed to support a certain amount of weight. Overloading your door with too much weight can put unnecessary strain on the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Be mindful of the weight limit and avoid storing heavy items on your garage door.
6 . Balance Your Garage Door
An unbalanced garage door can put extra strain on one side of the springs, causing them to wear out faster. Make sure to regularly check and balance your garage door to ensure equal distribution of weight on both sides.
7 . Be Gentle with Your Garage Door
It may seem obvious, but being gentle with your garage door can go a long way in extending the lifespan of your springs. Avoid slamming or jerking the door open and closed, as this puts unnecessary stress on the springs.
8 . Don’t Use It as a Play Area
Many people use their garage as an additional play area for kids or pets. While this may seem harmless, the extra weight and movement can cause strain on the springs. Avoid using your garage door as a play area to prevent premature wear and tear.
9 . Keep Springs Protected from Weather
Exposure to harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat or cold can cause garage door springs to weaken and deteriorate faster. Make sure your garage is properly insulated and protected from the elements.
10 . Avoid DIY Repairs
Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, making them dangerous to handle without proper training and equipment. Attempting DIY repairs on your springs can not only be dangerous, but it can also cause further damage. It is best to leave repairs to trained professionals.
11 . Regularly Inspect Other Garage Door Components
While the focus may be on the springs, it is important to regularly inspect other components of your garage door as well. This includes cables, rollers, and pulleys. If any of these parts are damaged, it can put extra strain on the springs.
12 . Replace Both Springs at the Same Time
If one of your garage door springs needs to be replaced, it is highly recommended to replace both at the same time. This will ensure equal wear and tear on both springs and prevent any imbalances or further damage in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should You Take When Maintaining Your Garage Door Springs?
Your garage door springs are an essential component of your garage door, responsible for supporting its weight and allowing it to open smoothly. It is crucial to maintain them properly to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some precautions you should take when maintaining your garage door springs:
Whenever you are handling any parts of your garage door, make sure to unplug the power supply or turn off the circuit breaker to avoid any accidental opening or closing. Always wear protective gear when working on your garage door springs, as they are under a lot of tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
How Often Should You Check Your Garage Door Springs?
It is recommended to check your garage door springs at least twice a year, ideally during the spring and fall seasons. These are times when the temperature changes can affect your springs, causing them to expand or contract. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, it is best to check your springs more frequently.
What Are Some Signs That Indicate Your Garage Door Springs Need Maintenance?
Some signs that indicate your garage door springs need maintenance include:
- Difficulty opening or closing the garage door smoothly
- The door makes loud noises when opening or closing
- Noticeable gaps or uneven spaces between the door and the ground when closed
- Visible damage or wear on the springs, such as rust or fraying wires
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the longevity of your garage door springs.
How Can You Make Your Garage Door Springs Last Longer?
Aside from regular maintenance, here are some tips to make your garage door springs last longer: Be aware of the weight limitations and try not to store heavy items on or near the garage door. Lubricate your springs regularly to reduce friction and wear.
Avoid using your garage door as a play area or attempting to manually open it when the power is out. These actions can put unnecessary strain on the springs and cause them to wear out quickly.
Can I Replace My Garage Door Springs on My Own?
It is not recommended to replace your garage door springs on your own, as it can be dangerous and requires specific knowledge and tools. It is best to leave this task to a professional who has the necessary expertise and experience. Attempting to DIY could result in serious injury or damage to your garage door.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Garage Door Springs?
The cost of replacing garage door springs can vary depending on the type and size of your door, as well as the extent of damage or wear. On average, it can range from $150 to $350 for a single spring replacement and $200 to $400 for a double spring replacement.
It is important to get quotes from different professionals and compare prices before making a decision. Remember, it’s not always about the lowest price; you want to ensure quality work and reliable parts for long-lasting results.
Conclusion
In interpreting this blog post, we see that garage door springs have a tendency to weaken and corrode over time. However, we have seen that there are various ways in which these problems can be addressed.
Taking the necessary steps to prevent rust, dirt and dust build-up, and keeping a well-serviced and maintained garage door will increase the longevity of the springs while making sure that they remain in optimal condition.
Now you know how to make garage door springs last longer! Doing all of these things will help minimize the risk of costly repairs or replacements down the road and make sure your garage door springs last as long as possible. So what are you waiting for? Don’t wait for something to break!
Act now to maintain your garage door springs so you can keep them running efficiently for years to come.
