Learn how to change garage door springs safely and why it’s best left to professionals for your safety.
Garage door springs play a crucial role in your garage door’s safe and efficient operation. These high-tension coils bear the weight of the door, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly with minimal effort. When one of these springs fails, it can cause the door to become stuck, fall unexpectedly, or strain other mechanical components. Understanding how to change garage door springs is essential, as is knowing the risks.
Spring failures are one of the leading causes of garage door-related injuries. A sudden snap can result in severe damage or personal harm, making DIY repairs especially hazardous. That’s why Brentwood Door Company recommends that homeowners never attempt spring replacement independently. Their trained technicians have the tools and expertise to perform safe, reliable repairs. If you suspect a broken spring, trust Brentwood Door Company to provide prompt service and lasting solutions.
What Can Go Wrong With DIY Spring Changes?
Homeowners who attempt to change garage door springs face a range of grave risks:
- Sudden release of tension can lead to deep cuts, broken bones, or worse.
- Incorrect spring handling can cause the door to collapse or jammed tracks.
- Improper installation often leads to uneven movement, shortening the door system’s lifespan.
Brentwood Door Company has seen firsthand the damage caused by DIY attempts and the additional costs required to fix them properly. Without the correct tools and training, changing springs becomes a high-stakes gamble.
Types of Garage Door Springs: Know What You’re Working With
Understanding your spring type is the first step in changing garage door springs. Each garage system is different, and using the wrong replacement part can create serious balance issues.
Brentwood Door Company carefully identifies the correct spring type for every system they service, ensuring a safe and efficient repair process.
Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs
- Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door, and torque is used to lift the door evenly. They require winding bars and are typically found in newer systems.
- Extension springs run along the sides of the door and expand/contract as it opens and closes. These are more common in older setups and require safety cables for added security.
Both types require very different tools and handling techniques. Knowing the difference helps you appreciate the complexity of the process.
Tools and Safety Gear Needed to Change Garage Door Springs
Professionals come equipped with the right tools and gear to get the job done safely:
Winding Bars
Winding bars are essential for controlled, accurate spring adjustments. They are used to safely apply or release tension on torsion springs. Never use substitutes, as improper tools can cause serious injuries.
Clamps and Locking Pliers
These tools hold the garage door firmly in place during spring replacement. Securing the door prevents unexpected movement, which protects you from accidents and ensures a stable working environment.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Gloves and safety goggles protect hands and eyes from sharp edges, debris, and spring recoil. To reduce the risk of injury, always wear PPE when handling torsion springs.
Measuring Tape and Spring Gauges
Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting replacement springs. Before purchasing or installing new parts, use a tape measure and spring gauge to determine spring length, wire diameter, and inside diameter.
Most homeowners don’t own these tools, and using makeshift alternatives can be extremely dangerous. Brentwood Door Company technicians use specialized gear to ensure every spring is handled safely and correctly.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Change Garage Door Springs
It helps to see a high-level breakdown of the steps involved to understand how to change garage door springs. Keep in mind, this is not a DIY guide. It’s meant to show you just how complex and precise the process is.
Basic Spring Replacement Steps
- Disconnect the power to the garage door opener to prevent accidental activation.
- Secure the door using locking pliers or clamps to keep it from moving.
- Identify the spring type and size by measuring the old spring or using reference charts.
- Release the spring tension carefully using winding bars (for torsion springs).
- Remove the old spring and hardware while supporting the system’s weight.
- Install the new spring, ensuring it exactly matches the old one.
- Reapply tension and test the system for balance and smooth movement.
As you can see, even one mistake at any step can lead to injury or equipment damage.
When to Replace vs. When to Repair Your Garage Door Springs
Not all spring issues require a full replacement. Knowing the signs can help you make the right call:
- Replace when the spring is visibly broken, cracked, or stretched beyond recovery.
- Repair when the spring is squeaky, misaligned, or slipping slightly but still intact.
Brentwood Door Company takes a repair-first approach when possible, helping homeowners avoid unnecessary costs while ensuring safety remains the top priority.
Common Warning Signs
- A loud snap or bang from the garage
- The door opens unevenly or struggles to move
- Gaps appear in the spring coil
- The door doesn’t stay in place when lifted manually
- Loose or disconnected cables
Cost Factors in Garage Door Spring Replacement
Cost is often at the top of mind when researching how to change garage door springs. Several factors affect the final price:
Type of Spring
Torsion springs are more durable and safer, but usually cost more than extension springs. The higher price reflects their strength, longevity, and ability to balance heavy garage doors efficiently.
Labor Fees
Hiring a professional adds labor costs but ensures correct installation and safety and often includes a warranty. DIY methods can be dangerous, void warranties, or require additional repair.
Size and Weight of the Door
Heavier new garage doors require larger or multiple torsion springs, increasing total cost. Professionals assess your door’s size and material to choose the correct spring setup for safe, reliable performance.
Brentwood Door Company offers transparent, upfront pricing with no hidden fees. Their technicians explain all costs before starting work so homeowners feel confident in every decision.
Why Professional Spring Replacement Saves Time, Money, and Risk
The complexity of spring replacement makes professional help a wise investment:
Expertise
Trained technicians know how to size torsion springs correctly, adjust tension safely, and inspect structural components to avoid damage. Their experience ensures long-term function and compliance with safety standards.
Speed
What might take a homeowner hours, or even days, to complete, professionals can finish in under an hour. Their tools, training, and process efficiency save time and reduce garage downtime.
Safety
Garage door torsion springs are high-tension components. Professionals understand how to handle them without injury, securing all moving parts properly to prevent accidents, property damage, or future malfunctions.
Brentwood Door Company backs every job with a workmanship guarantee and ongoing support. They ensure each system functions like new, with zero guesswork and no post-installation issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Change a Garage Door Spring Myself?
While it’s technically possible to change a garage door spring yourself, it’s not recommended due to the high tension. Torsion springs can cause serious injury if mishandled. It’s best to hire a trained technician for garage door spring replacement for safety and long-term reliability.
How Do I Know If My Garage Door Springs Need Replacing?
Common signs that your garage door springs need replacing include loud snapping sounds, uneven door movement, or the door not opening at all. The springs may be worn out or broken if the door feels heavy or slams shut. Regular inspections can help identify these issues early.
How Do You Know How Much Tension to Put on a Garage Door Spring?
The correct tension depends on your garage door’s weight and size. Too much stress can make the door hard to close, while too little may prevent it from opening. Torsion spring tension is usually adjusted by winding a specific number of turns based on door height and spring type.
Which Direction to Wind Garage Door Spring?
Torsion springs must be wound in the correct direction to store energy properly. Typically, left-wound springs go on the right side of the center bracket and are wound clockwise, while right-wound springs go on the left side and are wound counterclockwise. Winding direction is crucial for safe door function.
Do Both Garage Door Springs Wind the Same Way?
No, both garage door springs do not wind the same way. One spring is right-handed, and the other is left-handed. This opposing winding ensures balanced tension and proper door movement. Installing both springs with the same winding direction can lead to mechanical failure or dangerous malfunctions.
Final Thoughts: Get Expert Help From Brentwood Door Company
Understanding how to change garage door springs highlights how risky and technical this process can be. From managing high-tension components to using precise tools, the job demands expert skill and attention to safety. Rather than risking injury or further damage, homeowners should always seek professional help when dealing with broken or worn garage door springs.
Brentwood Door Company offers trusted, professional spring replacement service, ensuring your garage door operates safely and smoothly. Their team is trained to handle complex garage door repairs with care, transparency, and efficiency. If you’ve noticed signs of spring failure, don’t wait. Call Brentwood Door Company today for a thorough inspection and dependable repair solutions tailored to your home.
End Note
Brentwood Door Company is the name homeowners and businesses trust for dependable garage door services, including new door installations, opener upgrades, and commercial solutions. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we ensure each job is completed with precision and care to keep your property safe and secure.
View our service area to confirm availability, then reach out to speak with our team. Learn more about our values and mission on the about us page, browse the latest tips on our blog, and follow us on Facebook for helpful updates. Brentwood Door Company is always here to keep your doors moving smoothly.
Brentwood Door Co
1607 Lakeland Ave, Long Island, NY 11716, United States
+16312188888
