Replacing a garage door spring at home can help avoid spending money on garage door repair services. Garage door springs are essential because they help lift the heavy door, making it easy to open and close. Over time, these springs can wear out or break from constant use, leaving your garage door stuck or hard to move.

If you don’t fix a broken spring, it could be dangerous. The door might slam shut unexpectedly, hurting someone or damaging your belongings. A damaged spring can also cause other door parts to wear out, leading to even more costly repairs.

Following a simple guide, you can replace the garage door spring and save on garage door repair costs. However, it’s essential to be careful and follow safety steps during the process. With the right tools and patience, you can get your garage door working again without paying for expensive garage door repair services.

How to Identify a Broken Garage Door Spring

Before embarking on the replacement process, it’s crucial to identify the signs that indicate a broken or worn-out garage door spring. Here are some common indicators:

• Trouble opening or closing the garage door
  
  
• The garage door is sagging or appears uneven
  
  
• Visible gaps or separations in the spring coils
  
  
• Unusual noises, such as grinding or squeaking, when operating the door
  
  
• The garage door won’t fully open or close
  

Safety Steps to Take Before Garage Door Repairs

Replacing garage door springs is risky because of the intense tension they hold. It’s essential to take the following safety precautions before starting the replacement process:

Disconnect the Garage Door Opener

Start by unplugging the garage door opener from its power source before working on it. This simple step ensures that the door won’t accidentally move while you’re handling it. It’s a critical safety measure that helps protect you from unexpected movement, reducing the risk of accidents during the replacement process.

Wear Proper Protective Gear

Wear protective gear like safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy shoes while working on your garage door. These items help protect you from injury by shielding your eyes, hands, and feet from potential harm. Proper gear is essential when handling heavy or sharp garage door parts.

Keep the Area Clear and Well-Lit

Before starting the replacement, ensure the area around your garage door is clean, clutter-free, and well-lit. A bright, organized space helps you see what you’re doing and avoid tripping or bumping into objects. Keeping the area safe and clear can prevent accidents and help you work more effectively.

Seek Professional Help if Needed

If you need help replacing the garage door parts or feel uncertain about safety, getting help from a professional technician is a good idea. They have the experience and tools to handle the job properly, ensuring that everything is done correctly and safely for smooth operation.

Tools and Materials for Replacing a Garage Door Spring

Before replacing your garage door components, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials ready. Here’s a quick checklist to help you stay organized before starting the replacement process:

New Garage Door Springs

Depending on your door type, you’ll need new garage door springs, either torsion or extension. These springs are essential for lifting and lowering the door, and replacing worn-out ones will ensure smooth operation and safety.

Winding Bars or Rods

Winding bars or rods are necessary for torsion springs to wind and adjust the tension properly. These tools help tighten the torsion springs safely to the right level, ensuring the door opens and closes smoothly.

Locking Pliers or Vice Grips

Locking pliers or vice grips help hold parts of the garage door in place while you work. These tools help secure the door during spring replacement, preventing it from moving unexpectedly.

Adjustable Wrenches

Adjustable wrenches are needed to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts during spring replacement. They’re versatile tools that allow you to work with different sizes of fasteners on the garage door’s hardware.

Hammer

During garage door spring replacement, a hammer helps tap parts into place or loosen stubborn components. It’s a simple yet essential tool for making minor adjustments, whether positioning hardware or removing stuck parts. A hammer can make the replacement process easier and more efficient.

Screwdrivers

Flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers are necessary for unscrewing and securing various garage door parts. These tools help remove or tighten screws when you’re replacing springs or other components.

Ladder or Step Stool

A ladder or step stool is essential for reaching higher parts of the garage door, like the springs or brackets. This allows you to work comfortably at the right height without straining or risking a fall.

Safety Cables

Safety cables are a must for torsion springs. These cables prevent the springs from snapping loose if they break, adding an extra layer of protection and ensuring safety during operation.

Lubricant

Lubricants, such as silicone spray or lithium grease, are important for maintaining the smooth movement of the garage door’s moving parts. Applying lubricant after installing the new springs helps reduce friction and wear, ensuring longer-lasting performance.

Step 1: Steps to Release Garage Door Tension

Before removing the old spring, it’s crucial to release the tension from the garage door. This step is essential for your safety and preventing the door from slamming unexpectedly.

• Locate the winding cones or drums on the torsion shaft (for torsion springs) or the pulleys (for extension springs).
  
  
• Use winding bars or rods to disengage the springs from the winding cones or drums.
  
  
• Carefully release the tension on the springs, following the manufacturer’s instructions or seeking professional guidance.
  

Step 2: How to Safely Remove a Broken Garage Door Spring

Once the tension has been released, you can remove the broken or worn-out garage door spring.

For torsion springs

• Disconnect the spring from the winding cones or drums.
  
  
• Carefully remove the spring from the torsion shaft.
  

For extension springs

• Detach the springs from the pulleys and brackets.
  
  
• Remove the springs from the door assembly.
  

Step 3: Steps for Installing a New Garage Door Spring

With the old spring removed, it’s time to install the new garage door spring. Follow these steps:

For torsion springs

• Carefully position the new spring on the torsion shaft.
  
  
• Attach the spring to the winding cones or drums, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
  

For extension springs

• Install the new springs onto the door assembly.
  
  
• Attach the springs to the pulleys and brackets.
  

Step 4: Reattach the garage door cables and secure the spring

After installing the new spring, it’s essential to reattach the garage door cables and secure the spring properly.

For torsion springs

• Reattach the cables to the drums or cones.
  
  
• Install safety cables to prevent potential injuries in case of spring failure.
  

For extension springs

• Reconnect the cables to the pulleys or drums.
  
  
• Ensure the springs are correctly secured to the brackets or mounting points.
  

Step 5: How to Test Your Garage Door After Installation

Once you have completed the replacement process, it’s time to test the garage door operation.

• Plug the garage door opener back into the power source to restore functionality. Make sure everything is securely connected and powered on before testing the opener.
  
  
• Slowly open and close the garage door, monitoring its movement and ensuring it operates smoothly.
  
  
• If needed, adjust the spring tension by following the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps ensure your garage door works smoothly.
  

Garage Door Spring Replacement Mistakes

While replacing a garage door spring, it’s essential to be cautious and avoid common mistakes that could lead to potential injuries or damage. Here are a few common mistakes you should avoid:

Failing to Release the Tension from the Springs

Not releasing the tension from the springs before trying to remove them can be extremely dangerous. Springs are under a lot of tension, and if you don’t release it correctly, they could snap and cause serious injury. Always make sure the tension is fully released before starting any work.

Refrain from Using Proper Personal Protective Equipment

Skipping the use of personal protective equipment like safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy shoes can put you at risk of injury. Springs and other new garage door parts can be sharp or under high tension, so wearing the right gear to protect yourself while working on the new garage door is essential.

Attempting to Replace the Springs Without the Necessary Tools

Replacing the springs without the right tools or equipment can lead to mistakes and accidents. Specialized tools, like winding bars for torsion springs, are needed for a safe and successful replacement. Using the proper tools ensures the job is done correctly and reduces the risk of injury.

Failing to Install or Secure the New Springs

It’s essential to ensure the new springs are installed and secured properly. If the springs are not wound correctly or securely attached, they can malfunction, causing the door to operate poorly or even leading to dangerous situations. Double-check that the springs are installed correctly for safe use.

Refrain from Testing the Garage Door Operation

After replacing the springs, it’s essential to test the garage door to ensure everything is working correctly. Failing to test the door could mean missing potential issues, such as improper tension or installation problems. Always test the door a few times to ensure it opens and closes smoothly.

FAQs On How To Replace Garage Door Spring

Can I replace the garage door spring myself?

Yes, you can replace a garage door spring yourself, but it’s essential to know that it can be dangerous. Garage door springs are under a lot of tension and if not handled correctly, can cause serious injury. If you’re not experienced with this kind of repair, it’s best to call a professional for safety and proper installation.

What’s the Cost to Replace Garage Door Coil Springs?

The cost to replace garage door coil springs typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the spring type and local labor rates. If both springs need replacing, the cost may be higher. It’s a good idea to get quotes from a garage door repair service to know exactly what you’ll pay.

Is it safe to replace garage door springs?

Because garage door springs have high tension, replacing them can be risky. If they are not handled properly, they could snap and cause injury. For most people, it’s safer to hire a professional garage door repair technician with the right tools and experience to do the job safely.

How much time does it take to replace a garage door spring?

Replacing a garage door spring usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of door and the experience of the person doing the work. A garage door technician can complete the job quickly and ensure everything works smoothly.

Can you DIY a garage door spring?

Yes, you can DIY a garage door spring replacement, but it’s not recommended unless you have experience with this type of repair. Garage door springs are tense, and one mistake could lead to injury. Hiring a garage door repair professional is the safest and most efficient option.

Conclusion

Replacing a garage door spring can be a smart way to save money on garage door repair, and G & G Garage Doors is here to guide you through it. The spring is an important part of your garage door, as it helps lift the door smoothly. Over time, the spring wears out from regular use, and if it breaks, it can lead to more significant issues or even cause accidents.

Learning how to replace a garage door spring on your own can prevent costly damage and keep your door working well. However, being careful is essential since working with springs can be dangerous. There’s no need to worry if you’re unsure or feel the task is too complicated. That’s where G & G Garage Doors comes in. We’re experienced garage door contractors who can safely and quickly handle any repair, including spring replacement.

Whether you want to try it or leave it to the experts, we’re just a call away. Our team is ready to help with any garage door repair needs, ensuring your garage door operates smoothly and safely. Let G & G Garage Doors take care of the hard work so you can relax knowing your door is in great hands!

End Note

At GG Garage Door Co., we specialize in providing top-tier commercial garage door services that meet your needs. Whether you need garage door repairs, installation, or maintenance for your business, we have the skills and experience to keep your operations running smoothly. Our team is committed to delivering excellent service and ensuring your garage doors are always in the best shape.

To learn more, visit our website to explore our full services, or check out our commercial garage door solutions. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube to stay updated with tips, tutorials, and expert advice. You can also dive into more insights and practical advice on our blog.

If you need assistance with your garage door project, please contact us through our contact page. At GG Garage Door Co., we ensure your commercial garage doors are always reliable and ready to perform. Let’s work together to keep your business secure and efficient!