Discovering that your garage door spring is broken can be a daunting experience, especially when you need immediate access to your garage. The garage door spring is a critical component that bears the door’s weight and allows for smooth opening and closing. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how to open garage when spring is broken. When it
breaks, the door becomes extremely heavy and difficult to lift manually, posing safety risks and potential damage. Understanding how to safely open your garage door in this situation is essential to avoid injury and further complications. This scenario typically requires a careful approach, as forcing the door open can exacerbate the issue or cause harm. It may involve enlisting
the help of another person to manage the weight and using tools to prop the door securely. Furthermore, it’s crucial to recognize the need for professional repair or replacement of the broken spring to restore proper functionality and ensure safety. This article delves into the necessary steps and precautions for opening a garage door when the spring is broken, emphasizing the importance of safety and professional assistance.
Understanding the Role of Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs play a pivotal role in the operation of your garage door, working as a counterbalance to the door’s weight. There are primarily two types of springs used in garage doors: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and use torque to lift the door, while extension springs are located on either side of the door track and rely on expansion to handle the door’s weight.
Torsion springs are usually more durable and provide a smoother operation compared to extension springs. They store mechanical energy created by winding the spring when the door is closed, which is then released to assist in lifting the door when opened. Extension springs, on the other hand, stretch and contract to create the necessary force to open or close the door.
10 Methods How to Open Garage when Spring Is Broken
1. Use a Partner to Help Lift the Door
One of the most straightforward methods to open a garage door with a broken spring is to enlist the help of a partner. The weight of the door can be substantial, and lifting it alone might be dangerous. By working together, you and your partner can lift the door more evenly and reduce the risk of injury. Before attempting to lift the door, make sure both of you are wearing gloves to
protect your hands and that you have a good grip. Lift the door slowly and steadily, communicating throughout the process to ensure synchronized movements. Once the door is open, prop it securely with a sturdy object or have one person hold it while the other performs necessary tasks in the garage.
2. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
If your garage door opener is still attached, it’s essential to disconnect it before attempting to open the door manually. Operating the opener with a broken spring can cause further damage to the motor and the opener’s components. To disconnect the opener, locate the emergency release cord, usually a red rope hanging from the opener rail. Pull the cord down and towards the door to
disengage the opener’s trolley from the rail. This action allows you to manually lift the door without interference from the motor. After disconnecting the opener, you can proceed with manually lifting the door, preferably with assistance.
3. Use a Lever or Pry Bar
For those without assistance, using a lever or pry bar can provide the necessary leverage to lift the door. This method requires caution to avoid damaging the door or the floor. Insert the lever or pry bar under the bottom edge of the door and apply steady pressure to lift it. Once the door has been lifted a few inches, place a sturdy object, such as a wooden block, under the
door to hold it in place. Move the lever or pry bar to a different section of the door and repeat the process until the door is fully open. This method allows you to incrementally lift the door without relying solely on physical strength.
4. Use a Come-Along Tool
A come-along tool, or hand winch, can be highly effective in lifting a heavy garage door with a broken spring. This tool provides mechanical advantage and makes it easier to lift heavy objects. To use a come-along tool, attach one end of the cable to a secure anchor point, such as a sturdy part of the garage structure. Hook the other end to the bottom edge of the garage door. Slowly
operate the winch to lift the door. This method allows for controlled lifting and reduces the physical strain involved. Make sure the anchor point is secure to avoid accidents.
5. Employ a Jack
Using a car jack can provide a stable and controlled way to lift a garage door with a broken spring. Place the jack under the center of the door and slowly raise it. As the door lifts, insert sturdy supports, such as blocks or stands, under the door to hold it in place. Continue raising the door and adding supports until it is fully open. This method is particularly useful for those who
have access to a hydraulic jack, as it allows for smooth and steady lifting. Ensure that the supports used are stable and capable of holding the door’s weight to prevent accidents.
6. Secure the Door with Clamps
After lifting the garage door, it’s crucial to secure it in place to prevent it from falling. One effective method is to use clamps to hold the door open. Once the door is raised to the desired height, place C-clamps or locking pliers on the tracks just below the bottom rollers. This action prevents the door from sliding down the tracks. Ensure that the clamps are tightly secured and check them
periodically to ensure they hold the door in place. This method provides a reliable way to keep the door open while you perform necessary tasks or repairs.
7. Utilize a Torsion Bar
For those with experience in garage door maintenance, using a torsion bar can be an effective method to open a door with a broken spring. This method involves winding the torsion springs manually to lift the door. Insert the torsion bar into the winding cone and carefully turn it to add tension to the spring. This process requires precision and knowledge of garage door mechanics, as
improper handling can cause injury. If you are not confident in your ability to perform this task safely, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. However, for those with the necessary skills, this method can restore the door’s balance and make it easier to open manually.
8. Balance the Door with Additional Springs
In some cases, adding temporary springs can help balance the garage door and make it easier to lift. This method involves attaching additional springs to the door’s lifting mechanism to compensate for the broken spring. It is essential to use springs of the appropriate size and tension to match the weight of the door. Attach the springs securely to the door’s lifting points and
test the balance by slowly lifting the door. This method can provide a temporary solution until the broken spring is replaced. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure that the added springs are properly secured to prevent accidents.
9. Hire Professional Assistance
When dealing with a broken garage door spring, hiring professional assistance is often the safest and most effective option. Garage door technicians have the expertise, tools, and experience to handle the repair efficiently and safely. Professionals can quickly diagnose the issue, provide the necessary repairs, and ensure that the door operates smoothly. Attempting to repair or open a
garage door with a broken spring without proper knowledge can lead to injury or further damage. By hiring a professional, you can avoid these risks and ensure that the repair is done correctly.
10. Replace the Spring
Ultimately, the best long-term solution for a broken garage door spring is to replace it. While the methods above can provide temporary solutions for opening the door, replacing the spring restores the door’s functionality and safety. Replacing a garage door spring involves specific tools and knowledge of the door’s mechanics. If you are experienced in garage door repairs, you can
purchase a replacement spring from a hardware store or garage door supplier. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to install the new spring. For most homeowners, hiring a professional to replace the spring is the safest and most efficient option. A professional technician can ensure the new spring is installed correctly and that the door operates safely.
Conclusion
Opening a garage door with a broken spring requires caution, appropriate tools, and sometimes assistance. Whether you choose to enlist the help of a partner, use tools like levers, jacks, and come-along devices, or seek professional assistance, safety should always be the top priority. Temporary methods can help you open the door for immediate access, but replacing the broken spring
is the ultimate solution to restore the door’s functionality. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to open garage when spring is broken!
