Introduction
The garage door is one of the most important parts of any home. It provides security, protection from the elements, and adds to the overall aesthetic of the home. Unfortunately, garage door springs can be prone to breaking, and when they do, it can cause a great deal of frustration, as well as potentially costly repairs. In this article, we’ll discuss why garage door springs break, the different types of springs, and what you can do to prevent your springs from breaking.
What Causes Garage Door Springs to Break?
Garage door springs are designed to last for many years and are usually very reliable. However, they can break due to a number of factors. Some of the most common causes include: age, improper installation, improper maintenance, and excessive weight on the door. Age is the biggest factor, as springs naturally weaken over time and can eventually snap or break. Improper installation can cause springs to be too tight or too loose, which can cause them to break. Improper maintenance can also cause springs to weaken over time, as dirt and debris can build up in the springs and cause them to break. Lastly, excessive weight on the door, such as from multiple people pushing on the door, can cause the springs to break.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are designed to open and close the garage door, while extension springs are designed to provide additional support to the door. Torsion springs are usually located above the opening of the door and are the most common type of spring used. Extension springs are usually located on the sides of the door and are used to provide additional support to the door.
Preventing Garage Door Spring Breakage
The best way to prevent a garage door spring from breaking is to properly maintain it. Make sure to inspect the springs regularly for any signs of wear or damage. If the springs are old, consider replacing them with new ones. Additionally, make sure to lubricate the springs regularly to help keep them in good condition. Finally, make sure to not open or close the door too quickly, as this can cause the springs to break.
Pros and Cons of Replacing Garage Door Springs
There are both pros and cons to replacing garage door springs. On the pro side, replacing the springs can help to prevent further damage to the door and the springs and can help to extend the life of the door. Additionally, replacing the springs can help to improve the overall performance of the door. On the con side, replacing garage door springs can be expensive and time consuming. Additionally, if the springs are not replaced correctly, they can cause further damage to the door.
Conclusion
Garage door springs can break due to a number of factors, including age, improper installation, improper maintenance, and excessive weight on the door. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. The best way to prevent a garage door spring from breaking is to properly maintain it. Additionally, replacing the springs can help to extend the life of the door and improve the overall performance of the door. However, replacing garage door springs can be expensive and time consuming, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether to replace the springs.
