Garage door springs are crucial components that bear the weight of your garage door, making it easy to open and close. However, they don’t last forever and can break unexpectedly, leaving you with a malfunctioning door. Understanding why garage door springs break can help you prevent sudden failures and extend their lifespan.
In this blog content, we’ll explore the key causes of broken garage door springs and provide practical solutions to keep your garage door functioning smoothly.
How Garage Door Springs Work
Garage doors generally rely on one of two types of springs:
- Torsion Springs – Mounted above the door, these springs twist to generate lifting force.
- Extension Springs – Located on the sides of the door, these stretch to assist in lifting.
Both types endure significant tension and wear over time, making them prone to failure.
Top Reasons Why Garage Door Springs Break
Normal Wear and Tear
Springs undergo constant stress with every door cycle. Most torsion springs last 10,000 to 20,000 cycles (about 7–12 years), while extension springs may wear out sooner.
🔹 Solution: Replace springs every 7–10 years, even if they appear intact.
Poor Maintenance
Lack of lubrication and inspections accelerates wear. Rust, dirt, and friction weaken springs over time.
🔹 Solution:
- Lubricate springs every 6 months with a silicone-based spray.
- Schedule annual professional inspections.
Extreme Temperature Changes
Cold weather makes metal brittle, while heat can cause expansion and added stress.
🔹 Solution:
- Install high-quality, weather-resistant springs.
- Consider insulated garage doors to reduce temperature fluctuations.
Improper Installation
Incorrect spring sizing, poor alignment, or DIY mistakes can lead to premature failure.
🔹 Solution:
- Always hire a professional for spring installation.
- Ensure the correct spring weight rating for your door.
Rust and Corrosion
Moisture exposure (from humidity, rain, or snow) causes rust, weakening the metal.
🔹 Solution:
- Apply a rust-resistant coating.
- Keep the garage well-ventilated to reduce moisture.
Excessive Door Weight
Heavier doors (e.g., wooden or insulated doors) strain springs more than lightweight aluminum doors.
🔹 Solution:
- Upgrade to stronger, high-cycle springs if you have a heavy door.
- Consider a professional assessment for proper spring sizing.
Frequent Use
Homes with high garage door usage (multiple times daily) experience faster spring wear.
🔹 Solution:
- Install commercial-grade springs for heavy-duty use.
- Reduce unnecessary door cycles when possible.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Failing
- Watch for these warning signs:
Loud snapping or popping noises - Uneven door movement
- Door slams shut quickly
- Visible gaps or rust on springs
- Difficulty opening the door manually
If you notice these signs, replace the springs immediately to avoid safety hazards.
Can You Replace Garage Door Springs Yourself?
⚠ Warning: Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause severe injury if mishandled.
For safety reasons, always hire a professional technician for spring replacement. They have the right tools and expertise to install them correctly.
Extend the Life of Your Garage Door Springs: Essential
- Lubricate regularly – Use silicone-based lubricant (avoid WD-40).
- Schedule annual maintenance – Professionals can spot early wear.
- Balance your door – An unbalanced door strains spring.
- Use high-quality springs – Invest in durable, long-lasting springs.
Final Thoughts
Garage door springs break due to wear, poor maintenance, rust, and improper installation. By understanding these causes and following preventive measures, you can prolong their lifespan and avoid sudden breakdowns.
If your springs are broken or showing signs of wear, contact a professional garage door repair service for safe and reliable replacement.
Need Garage Door Spring Repair?
Our expert technicians provide fast, safe spring replacements. Call us (970) 367-8600 today for a free estimate!