Step By Step Repair A Broken Garage Door Spring
A garage door spring plays a vital role in the operation of a garage door. The spring provides the necessary tension to lift and lower the heavy garage door. Over time, however, these springs can wear out or break, leaving you with a door that won’t open or close. If this happens, don’t panic! You can repair a broken garage door spring yourself with a few tools and some know-how.
Garage Door Spring
Here’s how to repair a broken garage door spring:
Step 1: Safety First
Before you begin any work on your garage door, it’s important to make sure that you’re safe. Start by disconnecting the garage door opener from the door so that it can’t accidentally be activated while you’re working on the spring. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any flying debris or sharp edges.
Step 2: Identify the Type of Spring
There are two types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door and are wound tightly to create tension. Extension springs are located on either side of the door and stretch to provide tension. Make sure you know which type of spring you have before you start working on it.
Step 3: Measure the Spring
Measure the length of the spring to ensure that you purchase the correct replacement spring. Measure the entire length of the spring from one end to the other, including the coils.
Step 4: Remove the Broken Spring
Using a socket wrench, loosen the set screws on the torsion spring or the extension spring pulley. Slide the broken spring off the torsion tube or pulley and remove it from the door. Be careful when handling the spring as it may still have tension.
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Step 5: Install the New Spring
Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube or extension spring pulley. Wind the spring in the same direction as the old spring. Make sure the spring is wound tightly and that it is properly seated on the tube or pulley.
Step 6: Tighten the Set Screws
Using a socket wrench, tighten the set screws on the torsion spring or the extension spring pulley. Make sure the screws are tight enough to hold the spring in place but not so tight that they strip the threads.
Step 7: Test the Door
Reconnect the garage door opener to the door and test the door to ensure that it opens and closes smoothly. If the door is still having trouble opening or closing, you may need to adjust the tension on the spring.
Step 8: Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your garage door springs. Lubricate the springs and other moving parts of the door every six months to keep them operating smoothly. Also, visually inspect the springs and other components of the door regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and not showing signs of wear or damage.
In conclusion, repairing a broken garage door spring is something that can be done by most homeowners. By following these simple steps, you can get your garage door back up and running in no time. Just remember to always put safety first, properly identify the type of spring you have, and measure the length of the spring before purchasing a replacement. With a little bit of elbow grease and some know-how, you can save yourself time and money by doing the repair yourself.