What Happens When a Garage Door Spring Breaks? Here’s What to Do

A broken garage door spring can leave you stranded, unable to access your garage, and unsure of what to do next. Don’t worry! You’re not the only one this has happened to, and fixing it isn’t as daunting as it seems. This guide will walk you through what happens when a spring breaks, how you can spot the signs, and what to do if you need garage door spring repair services.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. These springs counterbalance the weight of the door, allowing it to open and close with ease. Without them, it would take a lot more effort to lift even a lightweight door!

There are two main types of garage door springs:

Torsion Springs: Located above the door, these springs wind and unwind to provide tension.
Extension Springs: Found on either side of the door, these stretch and contract to manage the door’s movement.

When these springs break, your garage door becomes heavy and difficult to move, making quick repairs essential.

Signs Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken

Not sure if your garage door spring is broken? Here are a few telltale signs to look for:

1. Door Won’t Open or Closes Too Fast

If your garage door feels completely stuck, or if it slams shut unexpectedly, the springs are likely to blame. Without functioning springs, the opener struggles to lift the door’s full weight.

2. Loud Bang from the Garage

A breaking spring often produces a loud “snap” or “bang” sound. This noise happens because the spring, which holds massive tension, suddenly breaks apart.

3. Visible Spring Damage

Check above or along the garage door for visible signs of wear, like gaps in the spring coils or a completely snapped spring. Over time, rust and stress weaken the springs, leading to breakage.

What to Do When a Garage Door Spring Breaks

A broken garage door spring can feel overwhelming, but here’s what you can do to handle the situation safely and efficiently:

1. Stay Calm and Stay Safe

First things first, don’t attempt to force the garage door open or closed. Without the support of functioning springs, the door’s weight poses a significant safety risk.

2. Disconnect the Opener

If your garage door opener is motorized, disconnect it by pulling the emergency release cord. This prevents further strain on the opener system.

3. Call for Professional Garage Door Spring Repair

Fixing a broken garage door spring is not a DIY job. These springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injuries if handled incorrectly. Reach out to a trusted professional who specializes in garage door spring repair. They’ll have the skills, tools, and experience to replace those springs safely.

Why Professional Repair Matters

Garage door spring repair isn’t something to cut corners on. Trying to fix it yourself can lead to accidents or further damage to your garage door hardware. Professionals ensure the job is done right, restoring your door’s functionality and keeping you safe in the process.

Don't Wait for Trouble – Act Now!

When you notice signs of a broken spring or experience a sudden failure, act promptly. Delaying the repair can lead to increased wear on other parts of your garage door system, turning a simple fix into a costly repair.

Need professional help? Find a reliable garage door spring repair technician near you today with Garage Door Supplier Columbus Ohio and get back to smooth, easy access to your garage.