Your Garage Door Springs Do the Heavy Lifting
Garage door springs counterbalance the weight of your door, allowing it to open and close smoothly without putting excessive stress on the opener. Over time, springs can weaken or break, making your garage door difficult or unsafe to operate. Because springs operate under extreme tension, a broken garage door spring should always be replaced by a trained professional rather than handled as a DIY repair.
Dave’s Garage Doors has served homeowners throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington since 1981. We can identify spring problems and provide the repair or replacement needed to restore safe, reliable operation. For urgent spring problems, ask about same-day availability or our emergency garage door repair services.
Signs of a Broken or Failing Garage Door Spring
A broken garage door spring isn’t always obvious at first. Here are some common warning signs that your springs may need professional attention.
A Loud Bang from the Garage
A spring can make a sudden, loud snapping sound when it breaks, even when the garage door isn’t moving. You may hear the noise without seeing what caused it.
A Visible Gap in the Spring
If you notice a separation in the tightly wound spring above your garage door, it’s a strong indication that the torsion spring has broken.
Your Garage Door Won’t Open
If your opener runs but the garage door won’t lift, or it only opens a few inches, a broken spring could be the cause. Other mechanical problems can produce similar symptoms.
The Door Feels Heavy or Moves Unevenly
Worn or broken springs can make your garage door feel unusually heavy or cause it to move unevenly. Damaged cables or other hardware can also cause these issues.
Garage door springs operate under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly. If you suspect a broken spring, stop operating the door and don’t attempt to adjust, replace, or manually force it open. Contact a trained garage door technician for help.
How We Repair or Replace Garage Door Springs
Spring problems can affect more than one part of your garage door system. Here’s what to expect when you schedule repair service with Dave’s.
- Identify the Source of the Problem
We inspect the springs, lift cables, and related components to determine what’s causing the problem. We’ll check for broken or worn springs, improper balance, and other hardware issues that may need attention. - Repair or Replace the Springs
Broken springs need to be replaced, while some spring performance issues can be corrected through professional adjustments. We’ll recommend the appropriate solution and perform the work needed to restore proper spring function - Balance and Test the Door
Once the repair is complete, we check the door’s balance and operation, making necessary adjustments to help it open and close smoothly without putting unnecessary stress on the garage door opener.
Types of Garage Door Springs We Service
Most residential garage doors use one of two spring systems. Dave’s technicians are experienced in servicing both torsion and extension springs.
Torsion Springs
Mounted above the garage door opening, torsion springs wind and unwind to counterbalance the door’s weight. They’re commonly found on modern garage doors and identified by tightly wound coils.
Extension Springs
Typically installed alongside the horizontal garage door tracks, extension springs stretch and contract as the door opens and closes. These springs work with cables and pulleys to help lift and lower the door.
Why Homeowners Choose Dave’s for Garage Door Repair
When your garage door won’t open, you want an experienced company that can identify the problem, recommend the right repair, and stand behind its work.
Locally Owned, Serving Homeowners Since 1981
Dave’s has deep roots in the communities we serve. For more than 40 years, we’ve helped homeowners throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington with their garage door repair and service needs.
Experienced, In-House Technicians
Our technicians are employees, not subcontractors, helping us maintain consistent standards for service and workmanship. They have the experience to diagnose and repair problems involving garage doors, openers, and related components.
Fair Pricing & Straightforward Recommendations
We explain what needs to be repaired and provide a free estimate before work begins, so you understand your options and the associated costs.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Garage Door Spring Repair
Can I open my garage door with a broken spring?
You should not attempt to operate a garage door with a broken spring. Without the spring helping support the door’s weight, using the opener can damage the motor or other components, and attempting to lift the door manually can be dangerous. Stop using the door and contact a professional garage door technician for repair.
How do I know if my garage door spring is broken?
Common signs of a broken garage door spring include a loud snapping noise, a visible gap in a torsion spring, a door that won’t open, or uneven movement. These symptoms can also indicate other mechanical problems, so a professional inspection is the safest way to identify the cause.
Can a broken garage door spring be repaired, or does it need replacement?
A broken garage door spring generally cannot be repaired and must be replaced. However, some problems involving spring tension or door balance can be corrected through professional adjustments if the springs are still intact. Dave’s technicians can inspect your spring system and recommend the appropriate solution.
How long do garage door springs typically last?
Many standard garage door springs are rated for approximately 10,000 cycles, with one cycle consisting of a complete opening and closing. Depending on how frequently you use your garage door, that often translates to about 7 to 10 years. Spring quality, maintenance, and environmental conditions can also affect their lifespan.
Should both garage door springs be replaced at the same time?
If your garage door uses two springs that were installed together, replacing both when one breaks is generally recommended. Both springs have experienced similar wear, meaning the second may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Replacing them together can help maintain proper door balance and reduce the likelihood of another spring failure.
What causes garage door springs to break?
Normal wear and metal fatigue are the most common causes of garage door spring failure. Every time the door opens and closes, the springs experience stress that gradually weakens the metal. Rust, corrosion, and improperly adjusted or incorrectly sized springs can also contribute to premature failure.
How much does garage door spring replacement cost?
The cost of garage door spring replacement depends on the type of spring system, the size and weight of your door, how many springs need replacing, and whether related hardware requires attention. Dave’s can inspect your spring system, explain the recommended repairs, and provide an estimate before work begins.
Schedule Garage Door Spring Repair
Have a broken or worn garage door spring? Complete the form below to request service. We serve homeowners throughout Portland, Vancouver, Salem, Bend, and surrounding communities, with service representatives available by phone 24/7.