Garage door springs work behind the scenes to safely and smoothly open and close your garage door. Over time, springs lose tension and must be repaired or replaced for proper door function. But it’s important to understand garage door spring mechanics and the associated safety concerns when working with these under-tension components. With the right know-how and care, you can keep your springs functioning well for years to come.
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How Garage Door Springs Operate
All garage doors use either extension or torsion springs to counterbalance the door’s weight as it opens and closes. Extension springs loop horizontally along each side of the door above the tracks. When activated, the springs stretch to lift or lower the door panels.
Torsion springs work by twisting a thick metal cable that winds around a rotating shaft above the door opening. As the door rises or falls, the torsion spring unwinds or tightens accordingly. These springs are located where the door attaches to the opener and require proper tension for smooth operation.
Both spring types work under significant potential energy stored in their coiled shape. It’s important to release or relieve spring tension carefully to avoid injury from a broken or slipping spring. Garage Door Spring Repair in Portsmouth technicians are trained and certified to safely handle springs.
Signs Your Springs Need Service
Some common warning signs that it’s time to address your springs include:
Door hesitates or won’t open/close fully without extra push/pull assistance
Sounds of metal scraping as the door runs its tracks
Extensive spring or cable corrosion noticeable
Extension springs stretched out of shape or with broken coils
Cables detached from torsion spring assembly
Springs should last several thousand cycles before replacement. But once they start to fatigue, deteriorate fast if not addressed. It’s safer and more cost effective in the long run to repair springs before signs worsen.
Spring Safety During Adjustment or Replacement
Partially relaxed springs under high tension pose serious risks if mishandled. Always use caution and certified professionals for any spring work. Here are some safety best practices:
Wear proper eye protection during any work where springs could slip or break.
Prop the door securely open before loosening springs or cables. Use locking pliers just above the door on the track to hold it up.
Never remove pins or bolts holding torsion springs in place until cable tension is relieved.
Use long-handled tools to adjust nuts/bolts and keep hands/fingers clear of springs.
Shield springs with a bucket or safety cage if replacement is underway.
Certified technicians use special tools and techniques for safe and efficient repair.
Garage Door Spring Repair in Portsmouth employs all necessary safety precautions during service calls involving springs.
Professional Spring Adjustments and Replacements
Over time, springs lose precise balance settings as they cycle open and closed millions of times. Small discrepancies in tension put undue stress on door components, springs or cables themselves. Periodic professional adjustments help remedy this.
Signs that a spring replacement may be needed include: broken coils or wires, slipping cables connections, or inability to achieve proper counterbalance despite multiple adjustment efforts. Reputable companies like Garage Door Spring Repair in Portsmouth stock a full inventory of high-quality replacement springs and track all service warranties.
Book spring service ahead of time rather than waiting until failure symptoms worsen. Professionals have the experience, tools and OSHA compliance standards necessary to safely manage tensioned springs. DIY work risks personal injury from mishaps. Protect your investment and physical safety by entrusting garage door components to experts.
With regular professional inspections, minor adjustments keep springs functioning optimally for maximum lifespan before replacement is ultimately required. Proper spring maintenance according to original manufacturer specifications preserves smooth, reliable door operation for years of long-term use. Safety always comes first, so leave this specialized work to the garage door industry professionals.
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