Garage Door Springs: Why Maintenance is Key for Safety and Longevity
Garage doors are an essential part of our homes, providing security and convenience. But many homeowners overlook the importance of maintaining and repairing their garage door springs, which play a critical role in the door’s operation.
The Importance of Maintenance
Springs are the components responsible for lifting and lowering the door. Torsion springs and extension springs are the two types of springs used in garage doors. Both types of springs are under a significant amount of tension, and over time, they can wear out and break.
If the spring breaks, the door will be difficult or impossible to open or close. In some cases, a broken spring can cause damage to the door or even result in personal injury. So, it’s important to hire a garage door spring repair company like Fix Garage Doors CA when the situation calls for it. That’s why regular maintenance is crucial.
Safety
Garage door springs are under a significant amount of tension, which means that they can be dangerous to handle if they break or become damaged. A broken spring can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly, potentially injuring anyone in its path. Additionally, a door that is not operating properly can pose a safety hazard to anyone who uses it.
Longevity
Springs are designed to last for a certain number of cycles, which is the number of times the door can be opened and closed before the spring wears out. The average lifespan is around 10,000 cycles, but this can vary depending on the quality of the spring and how often it is used. Regular maintenance and repair can help extend the lifespan, saving you money in the long run.
Additionally, maintenance can help ensure that your door is operating efficiently, which can save you money on energy bills. When the springs are worn or damaged, they can cause the door to become misaligned or not seal properly, which can lead to drafts and energy loss.
Convenience
Your garage door is the gateway to your daily routine. To keep things running smoothly, you need to maintain and repair the springs. It’ll make life more convenient and ensure that you always have an effortless passage into (and out of) your sweet home.
Simple Things You Can Do
So, what can you do to keep the door to your garage in top shape? Here are some ideas:
Do regular inspections
Inspect the springs on a regular basis for signs of wear and tear. Check for things like rust, cracks, or deformation. If any of these problems occur, it is time to replace the springs.
Apply a lubricant
Garage door springs need to be lubricated regularly to keep them functioning smoothly. Use a silicone-based lubricant to lubricate the springs, but be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dirt and debris.
Keep the tracks clean
In addition to lubricating the springs, it’s important to keep the tracks clean and free of debris. Dirt, dust, and other particles can accumulate in the tracks and cause the door to operate less smoothly. Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the tracks periodically.
Hire a professional for repair or replacement
If you notice any issues, it’s essential to hire a professional garage door repair service to handle the repair or replacement. Garage door springs are under a significant amount of tension and can be dangerous to handle if you’re not experienced. A professional can diagnose the issue and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s repairing or replacing the springs.
Check the balance of the door
Unbalanced garage doors can put additional strain on the springs, causing premature wear and tear. Disconnect the opener and manually open the door halfway to check the balance. It is balanced if it remains in place. If it begins to fall or rise, it is out of balance and may need to be adjusted.
Replace both springs at the same time
If one of the springs breaks, it’s usually a good idea to replace both springs at the same time, even if the other spring seems to be functioning properly. This is because the springs tend to wear out at a similar rate, so replacing both at once can help ensure the longevity and safety of your garage door system.
Bottom Line
Garage door springs are the powerhouses of your garage system, guaranteeing safe and efficient operations. So make sure to give them some love! Inspect regularly for wear-and-tear, keep them lubricated, and when it’s time for a tune up or overhaul, hire an experienced professional. Going the extra mile will guarantee years of reliable performance from your hardworking garage defender.
