A broken garage door spring is one of the more urgent issues a homeowner can face. Garage door springs are under tremendous tension, and when they fail, the door can become extremely heavy and unstable. Understanding why springs break and what to do immediately is critical for protecting your home, family, and property.
This guide explains why springs break and the steps you should take if your garage door spring breaks unexpectedly.
First: Why Garage Door Springs Break
Garage door springs are built to withstand repeated lifting cycles, but, over time, they can wear out. Most residential doors use either torsion springs or extension springs, each of which relies on tension to counterbalance the weight of the door. Even under normal use, metal fatigue occurs, and extreme weather or lack of maintenance can accelerate deterioration.
In California, fluctuating temperatures, humidity, and coastal moisture can weaken springs faster than in other regions. Rust and corrosion also compromise structural integrity. Over time, these factors can cause a spring to snap suddenly.
Even if a spring looks fine from the outside, internal stress may have already weakened it. That’s why relying on guesswork or attempting a DIY fix is extremely risky. The energy stored in a torsion spring is powerful enough to cause severe injury or damage if released improperly.
Steps to Take If Your Garage Door Spring Breaks
If you discover a broken spring, it’s essential to act carefully. The following steps outline what to do immediately after a garage spring breaks so you can protect yourself and your home.
Step 1: Stay Clear and Keep Others Away
The first priority is safety. A broken garage door spring can make the door unpredictable and extremely heavy. Do not attempt to lift or force the door open. Keep children, pets, and anyone unfamiliar with garage door mechanics out of the area. Avoid pushing or leaning on the door, as sudden movement can cause serious injury.
Step 2: Assess the Situation From a Safe Distance
From a safe distance, take a careful look at the door. A lopsided or uneven door is a strong sign that a spring has broken. You might also remember hearing a loud bang when it snapped.
If possible, take note of whether a torsion or extension spring broke, and check for any other visible damage to cables, brackets, or rollers. This information will help the professional technician prepare the proper tools and replacement parts.
Step 3: Understand the Dangers of Replacing Your Garage Door Spring Yourself
It can be tempting to try a quick fix, especially if your garage door is stuck. However, attempting to replace a spring yourself is extremely dangerous. Torsion springs in particular store immense energy, and improper handling can result in catastrophic injury. Even if you have experience with basic repairs, garage door springs aren’t forgiving, and mistakes can be physically and financially costly.
Step 4: Secure the Garage and Prevent Access
If possible, block the garage entrance to prevent anyone from opening the door accidentally. Don’t attempt to disconnect the opener while the door is unstable, as the tension in the spring may still cause sudden movement. Keeping the door immobilized and the area clear reduces the risk of injury until professional help arrives.
Step 5: Call a Professional for Garage Spring Replacement
This is the most important step. Only a licensed technician should handle garage door spring replacement. Professionals have the tools, knowledge, and experience to safely release tension, remove broken springs, and install replacements correctly. They also inspect other components, such as cables, rollers, and tracks, for secondary damage that may have occurred when the spring failed.
At Right Way Garage Doors, our team ensures each spring is properly sized, tensioned, and installed according to manufacturer specifications. We test the door after installation to confirm smooth, balanced operation. Attempting to save a few dollars with a DIY repair is never worth the risk; professional service guarantees safety, reliability, and long-term performance.
Maintaining Your Garage Door Springs to Prevent Future Damage
After a spring is replaced, maintenance is key to extending its lifespan. Regular inspections can catch early signs of wear, rust, or imbalance. Lubricating springs and other moving parts reduces friction and prevents stress that can lead to early failure. Keeping your door balanced and aligned also ensures the new springs operate efficiently and safely for years to come.
Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Reliable
A broken garage door spring is a serious emergency. Even a single misstep in handling can result in severe injury or property damage. Do not attempt to lift the door or replace the spring yourself. Instead, call Right Way Garage Doors. Our trained technicians can restore your door safely and efficiently, and help you prevent future spring failures through regular maintenance, inspections, and professional repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broken Garage Door Springs
How long do garage door springs last?
Most springs last 7-12 years, depending on use, climate, and maintenance.
What are the signs a spring is about to break?
Keep an eye out for excessive noise, uneven door movement, visible rust, or a door that feels heavier than usual.
Can I replace a broken spring myself?
No. DIY replacement is extremely dangerous due to the high tension in torsion springs. Always call a licensed professional.
