There are many components that assist in your garage door’s operating systems. One very important component is the garage door spring. Over time springs need to be replaced. Of course how would one know that their garage door has bad springs anyway and to know it is time to replace them? AAA Action Garage Doors will first explain the two types of garage door springs commonly used and how to identify when it is time to replace your garage door springs.
Types of Garage Door Springs; Torsion & Extension
It first helps to know what kind of springs your garage door uses. There are two types of springs used on garage doors. One is called the Torsion Spring and the second is called the Extension Springs.
Torsion Springs – For homes with large garage doors, torsion springs are often used especially if the garage door weighs anywhere between 400 to 900 pounds. The torsion spring will be located right above your garage door and will look like a long black tube which is the springs cover.
Extension Springs – For the more common 9×7 foot garage door, extension springs are mostly used. Extension springs are found on the end of the track on the ceiling and look very much like trampoline springs but are quite a bit longer. These springs are found at the end of each side of the tracks.
Signs Garage Door Springs are About to Break
One of the first and most obvious signs that you have some bad springs is, of course, they are broken. At this point you just call a garage door technician to replace them. However it is far wiser to replace them before they break and a serious accident occurs. There are some characteristics or early warning signs that your springs are wearing out and will need replacing.
• Your garage door jerks or even stops while it is activated.
• Your garage door appears to be sagging or is crooked on one side.
• You may notice that the springs themselves have gaps or seem spread a part kind of like a slinky toy–or in other words, the spring is stretched out.
• Recent collisions with the garage door can cause damage to garage door springs as well.
Why Garage Door Springs Need to Be Replaced
It is very important to replace your garage door spring as they start to wear out. The springs help support the weight of the garage door. This is important for a smooth operating system and proper function of your garage door. In addition, it also is most important for safety. There have been reported injuries and accidents that were due to worn springs giving way and the door falls down when opened. Many may be aware that garage door springs are good for about 10,000 uses, which depending on the usage of the garage door, could range from 7 to 12 years before the springs need replacing. It helps to extend the usage of your springs and other components of your garage door with proper maintenance. Applying a silicone lubricant on all of the moving parts once a year will greatly extend your garage door’s operating system, including the springs.
Garage Door Services in Las Vegas, Summerlin, North LV & Henderson Nevada
If you notice your garage door springs are in need of replacement, it is strongly recommended to replace them now before a serious injury or damage occurs. AAA Action Garage Doors is a call away to new springs and proper maintenance of your garage door. Contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
