How Long Should a Spring on a Garage Door Last?
A. Introduction
Garage doors are one of the most important features of your home. Not only do they provide access to the garage, but they also keep your home secure and protect it from the elements. The most important part of a garage door is the spring. It’s responsible for lifting and lowering the door and is under a great deal of tension. But how long should a garage door spring last?
B. Understanding the Different Types of Springs
When it comes to garage door springs, there are two main types: extension springs and torsion springs. Extension springs are usually installed on single- or double-wide doors and are attached to both sides of the door. They are typically made of galvanized steel and are designed to stretch and then recoil when the door is opened and closed. Torsion springs, on the other hand, are typically installed on wider doors and are mounted to the header above the door. They are wound up when the door is closed and unwind when the door is opened.
C. Factors That Affect the Life of a Garage Door Spring
A garage door spring can last anywhere between 5 to 20 years, depending on how it is used. The amount of use, the type of spring, and the environment in which the spring is used all play a role in the life of the spring. For example, if the spring is used multiple times a day, it will need to be replaced more often than a spring that is only used once or twice a week. Additionally, torsion springs are more durable than extension springs and require less maintenance, meaning they can last longer than extension springs. Finally, if the spring is exposed to harsh weather conditions like strong winds, cold temperatures, and rain, it can wear out more quickly.
D. Tips for Maintaining Your Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs require regular maintenance to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for keeping your springs in good shape:
- Regularly inspect the springs for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any fraying or broken wires, it’s time to replace the springs.
- Lubricate the springs to reduce friction and extend their life.
- Keep the springs free of dirt and debris.
- Make sure the springs are adjusted correctly. If the springs are too tight or too loose, they can wear out quickly.
- If you notice any issues with your garage door springs, have them inspected by a professional.
E. When to Replace Your Garage Door Springs
If your garage door springs are more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to replace them. Additionally, if you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to replace the springs:
- The springs are making strange noises.
- The door is not opening or closing correctly.
- The door is opening and closing more slowly than usual.
- There are visible signs of wear and tear on the springs.
F. DIY vs Professional Installation
Garage door springs can be installed by a professional or by a homeowner, depending on their comfort level. If you have the right tools and knowledge, you can install the springs yourself. However, DIY installation can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Professional installation is more expensive than DIY installation, but it ensures the job is done correctly and safely.
G. The Cost of Replacing a Garage Door Spring
The cost to replace a garage door spring can vary depending on the type of spring, the size of the door, and the labor costs in your area. For a single-car garage door, the cost of replacing the spring can range from $150 to $250. For a two-car garage door, the cost can range from $200 to $350.
H. How to Buy the Right Spring for Your Garage Door
When buying a new garage door spring, it’s important to get the right size and type for your door. To determine the correct size, measure the length, diameter, and wire size of the old spring. If you’re not sure what type to buy, consult a professional. They can help you find the right spring for your door.
I. Conclusion
Garage door springs are an important part of a garage door system. They provide the power to open and close the door and keep it secure. However, like any other part of the door, springs don’t last forever. It’s important to regularly inspect and maintain your springs to ensure they last as long as possible. If you need to replace your springs, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
J. FAQs
- Q. How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?
A. The cost to replace a garage door spring can vary depending on the type of spring, the size of the door, and the labor costs in your area. For a single-car garage door, the cost of replacing the spring can range from $150 to $250. For a two-car garage door, the cost can range from $200 to $350. - Q. How long does a garage door spring last?
A. A garage door spring can last anywhere between 5 to 20 years, depending on how it is used. The amount of use, the type of spring, and the environment in which the spring is used all play a role in the life of the spring. - Q. Is it safe to install a garage door spring myself?
A. Garage door springs can be installed by a professional or by a homeowner, depending on their comfort level. If you have the right tools and knowledge, you can install the springs yourself. However, DIY installation can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. - Q. What type of spring should I buy for my garage door?
A. When buying a new garage door spring, it’s important to get the right size and type for your door. To determine the correct size, measure the length, diameter, and wire size of the old spring. If you’re not sure what type to buy, consult a professional. They can help you find the right spring for your door. - Q. What should I do to make sure my garage door spring lasts as long as possible?
A. Garage door springs require regular maintenance to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for keeping your springs in good shape: regularly inspect the springs for signs of wear and tear, lubricate the springs to reduce friction, keep the springs free of dirt and debris, make sure the springs are adjusted correctly, and if you notice any issues with your garage door springs, have them inspected by a professional. - Q. How often should I replace my garage door spring?
A. If your garage door springs are more than 10 years old, it’s probably time to replace them. Additionally, if you notice any strange noises, the door is not opening or closing correctly, the door is opening and closing more slowly than usual, or there are visible signs of wear and tear on the springs, it’s time to replace the springs. - Q. What are the differences between extension springs and torsion springs?
A. Extension springs are usually installed on single- or double-wide doors and are attached to both sides of the door. They are typically made of galvanized steel and are designed to stretch and then recoil when the door is opened and closed. Torsion springs, on the other hand, are typically installed on wider doors and are mounted to the header above the door. They are wound up when the door is closed and unwind when the door is opened. - Q. What environmental factors can affect the life of a garage door spring?
A. If the spring is exposed to harsh weather conditions like strong winds, cold temperatures, and rain, it can wear out more quickly.
