Garage Door Spring Repair vs. Replacement: Which Do You Need?

Your garage door goes up and down several times a day, but what happens when it suddenly stops working? Often, the culprit is a faulty garage door spring. This component plays a vital role in ensuring your garage door opens and closes smoothly. Garage door spring repair can restore functionality, but how do you know if the spring needs a simple repair or a full replacement? Let’s break it down.

How to Tell If Your Garage Door Spring Is Damaged

Garage door springs don’t last forever. Here’s how to recognize the signs that something is wrong:

1. Your Garage Door Won’t Open or Close Fully

If your garage door barely lifts off the ground or refuses to close completely, it could be due to a worn-out spring. A damaged spring can’t provide the tension needed to counterbalance the door’s weight.

2. You Hear Loud Noises

A loud “bang” or snapping sound often signals that a garage door spring has broken. These noises occur when a spring snaps under tension, which is fairly common after years of use.

3. The Door Feels Heavy

Does your garage door suddenly feel heavier when you manually lift it? This is a common symptom of a faulty spring, as the spring supports the door’s weight.

If you’re experiencing these issues, you’re likely debating whether to repair or replace the spring. Here’s how to decide.

When to Repair Your Spring

Sometimes, a repair is all that’s needed to get your garage door functioning again. Consider these scenarios:

Minor Damage: If the spring shows signs of wear, like surface rust or small cracks, a professional repair could extend its lifespan.
Single Spring Systems: If your garage door uses one spring, a partial repair might be an option.

Keep in mind that repairs are typically faster and more affordable, making this a good solution if the spring isn’t completely broken.

When to Replace Your Garage Door Spring

There are situations when repairing the spring isn’t enough. Here’s when a full replacement is better:

Broken Springs: If the spring has snapped into two or more pieces, repair isn’t an option. Replacement is necessary to restore safe operation.
Excessive Wear: Springs generally last 7-9 years. If your spring is nearing the end of its lifespan, a replacement ensures long-term reliability.
Upgrading Your System: Some homeowners choose to upgrade from a single spring to a two-spring system for better performance and durability.

Although replacing springs costs more than repairs upfront, it’s often the more cost-effective solution in the long run.

A Word on Safety

Garage door springs operate under high tension and can be extremely dangerous if handled improperly. For your safety, it’s essential to hire a professional for both repairs and replacements. A trained technician can quickly diagnose the problem and ensure your garage door is safe to operate.

Take Charge of Your Garage Door Today

Identifying whether your garage door spring needs a repair or replacement can save you time, money, and frustration. Spot the symptoms early and act quickly to keep your garage door working smoothly. If your door is giving you trouble, connect with Westerville Garage Door Repair to have a professional technician assess the situation.