Replacing garage door springs at the appropriate time ensures optimal safety and performance while minimizing the risk of costly repairs. Several signs indicate that the springs need replacement:

1. Visible Damage

Cracks, bends, corrosion or rust buildup on the spring indicate structural weakness. Even minor damage can compromise the integrity of the spring and increase the risk of failure.

2. Excessive Wear

Wear and tear over time can weaken the spring. Look for signs of wear such as deformation of the spring’s coil. This can occur due to frequent use, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, or salty air from the beach.

3. Age of the Spring

The age of the garage door and its springs is a significant factor in determining whether replacement is necessary. Garage doors that are 5-10 years old may be more susceptible to fatigue and degradation, even if they appear to be in good condition.

4. Jerking and Vibration

Excessive vibration, jerky movement, and shaking when the garage door opens and closes can indicate that the springs are worn out.

5. Irregular Operation

A garage door that is not properly balanced, opens too slowly, is too heavy to lift manually, or closes too quickly.

6. Excessive Noise

Worn-out springs may produce increased noise when the garage door opens. This noise can be due to the binding of the spring’s coil. While not always a definitive indicator, it’s worth considering when assessing the springs condition.

7. Frequent Repairs

Recurring problems such as off track, misplaced door cables, and balance issues may indicate that the springs are worn out.

8. Irregular Cable Slack

Irregular slack in the garage door cables, where they fail to wrap properly around the drums, may be an indication of weak springs.

9. Error Codes

Error codes such as excessive force 41 or 15, and if the garage door won’t close or is acting up for no apparent reason.

How Long Do Springs Usually Last?

With regular use (2-3 times a day), garage door springs can last 7 to 10 years. With more frequent use (5 times or more a day), springs usually last 3 to 6 years. The lifespan of the springs can be affected by maintenance practices and environmental conditions such as corrosion.

Why Should You Replace Worn Springs?

Replacing worn springs can prevent damage to the garage door’s mechanisms, including gears, sprockets, rollers, and hinges. It also reduces the likelihood of accidents, the need for emergency repairs, and instances where vehicles are stuck inside the garage or the garage is inaccessible.

Inspect the springs every 12 months to identify these signs early and ensuring safe and reliable performance of your garage doors. If the garage door won’t open or opens only a few inches, it may indicate that the spring is already broken. In such cases, replace the springs as soon as possible or consult a licensed garage door repair company.