Why Garage Door Springs Break: Common Causes and Prevention Tips
Explore common causes of garage door spring failures and discover prevention tips to maintain functionality and extend lifespan. Stay ahead with regular maintenance.
Garage door springs play a critical role in your garage door system, bearing the weight of the door and enabling smooth opening and closing. Understanding why springs break can help you prevent inconvenient disruptions, such as the recent incident where a homeowner experienced an unexpected spring failure, requiring prompt professional assistance.
Recent Example—
We received a call from a homeowner whose garage door spring had broken suddenly after nearly 20 years of service. The homeowner had previously serviced their garage door spring, demonstrating the longevity possible with proper care and installation.
Common Causes of Broken Garage Door Springs:
1. Wear and Tear
Garage door springs are under constant tension and subject to regular use. Over time, this consistent stress naturally leads to weakening and eventually breaking.
2. Rust and Corrosion
Exposure to moisture, humidity, or harsh weather conditions can lead to rust and corrosion. Corrosion weakens the springs, significantly reducing their lifespan.
3. Poor Maintenance
Lack of regular maintenance, including lubrication and inspections, increases friction and strain, accelerating wear and tear on the springs.
4. Incorrect Springs Installed
Using the wrong type or size of spring can cause uneven wear or premature failure, often resulting in sudden breakage.
Prevention Tips:
Routine Maintenance Checks: Schedule regular inspections with a professional technician to identify early signs of wear and address minor issues before they escalate.
Lubrication: Regularly lubricate your springs and moving components with a high-quality garage door lubricant to reduce friction and corrosion.
Weatherproofing: Minimize spring exposure to moisture and humidity by applying protective sprays or installing weather seals.
Professional Installation: Ensure qualified professionals install the correct springs for your specific garage door model and weight, ensuring optimal performance and lifespan.
Being proactive in garage door spring maintenance can save you time, money, and inconvenience. If you notice signs of wear or have concerns about your garage door springs, don't hesitate to contact our team. We're here to ensure your garage door operates safely and efficiently.