A broken garage door spring can be a major inconvenience and even a safety hazard. If your garage door won’t open or is struggling to lift, a damaged spring might be the culprit. In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about how to fix a garage door spring, what it costs, and when to call a professional.
Signs You Need a Garage Door Spring Fix
Garage door springs work hard every time you open or close the door. Over time, they can wear out or break. Here are some signs you may need a garage door spring fix:
- Garage door won’t open or only lifts a few inches before stopping.
- Loud bang or snapping noise from the garage.
- Visible gap in the spring, indicating a break.
- Loose or dangling cables near the door mechanism.
- Garage door feels too heavy to lift manually.
- Door slams shut quickly when lowering.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to address them quickly to avoid further damage or injury.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs:
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door and use torque to lift the door. These springs are more durable and last longer than extension springs but require professional installation due to the high tension they are under.
Extension Springs
Extension springs run along the sides of the garage door and stretch to lift and lower it. These are generally less expensive but tend to wear out faster than torsion springs. If one extension spring breaks, it’s recommended to replace both to maintain balance in the system.
Understanding which type of spring your garage door uses is essential for getting the right repair service.
Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
While some home improvement projects are great for DIY enthusiasts, fixing a garage door spring is not one of them. Here’s why:
- High tension: Garage door springs are under extreme pressure. A sudden release can cause serious injuries.
- Special tools required: Fixing or replacing a garage door spring requires professional-grade tools and experience.
- Risk of incorrect installation: An improperly installed spring can damage your door or opener.
For these reasons, it’s highly recommended to contact a professional to fix your garage door spring safely and correctly.
Cost to Fix a Garage Door Spring
The cost to fix a garage door spring varies based on factors like the type of spring, labor, and your location. Here’s a general price range:
- Torsion spring replacement: $150 – $500
- Extension spring replacement: $100 – $300
- Labor costs: $75 – $200
- Emergency or after-hours repair: Additional fees may apply
While it may seem costly, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and correctly, preventing further damage or additional costs down the road.
Factors Affecting Repair Costs
Several factors can impact the overall cost of repairing your garage door spring:
- Type of spring – Torsion springs tend to be more expensive than extension springs but offer better longevity.
- Spring quality – Higher quality springs last longer and reduce the need for frequent replacements.
- Garage door weight – Heavier doors require stronger springs, which can increase costs.
- Service provider – Prices vary between companies based on experience and service guarantees.
Emergency repairs – If you need immediate repairs, be prepared to pay extra.
What Happens If You Ignore a Broken Garage Door Spring?
Ignoring a broken garage door spring can lead to a number of problems:
- Complete door failure – The door may become stuck in place, making it impossible to use.
- Further damage – Broken springs can place additional strain on other components, leading to costly repairs.
- Safety risks – A broken spring can cause the door to suddenly slam shut, posing a danger to people and pets.
If you suspect your garage door spring is broken, don’t wait to get it fixed.
Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
Fixing a garage door spring yourself is not recommended. Garage door springs are under extreme tension, and attempting to replace one without the right tools and experience can result in serious injury. Additionally, improper installation can damage your garage door and lead to costly repairs. It’s always best to hire a professional to handle the job safely and efficiently.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Spring on a Garage Door?
The cost to replace a garage door spring depends on the type of spring, labor costs, and location. On average, you can expect to pay:
Torsion spring replacement: $150 – $500
Extension spring replacement: $100 – $300
Labor costs: $75 – $200
Emergency or after-hours repair: Additional fees may apply
Although it may seem like an expensive repair, hiring a professional ensures the job is done safely and prevents further damage to your garage door system.
How to Raise a Garage Door with a Broken Spring?
If your garage door spring is broken and you need to open the door, follow these precautions:
Disengage the opener – Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the garage door opener.
Get help – Garage doors are heavy. Have at least one or two people assist you.
Lift evenly – Using both hands, slowly lift the door while keeping it level.
Secure the door – Once open, use locking pliers or a clamp to hold the door in place.
Do not leave it open unattended – Without a functioning spring, the door can suddenly close and cause injury.
Since a broken spring makes it difficult and dangerous to operate your garage door manually, it’s best to call a professional for immediate repair.
Is It Safe to Replace Your Own Garage Door Spring?
No, replacing your own garage door spring is not safe unless you have professional training. The tension in the spring can cause serious injury if it snaps or is installed incorrectly. A professional technician has the right tools and expertise to safely replace the spring without risking harm to yourself or your garage door system.
Why Choose Rainier Garage Door?
- Fast & reliable service – We understand the urgency of garage door issues and offer prompt repairs.
- Experienced technicians – Our team is trained to handle all types of garage door spring repairs.
- Affordable pricing – We provide competitive rates and upfront estimates.
Safety first approach – We prioritize safety to ensure secure and effective repairs.
