Garage doors are an essential component of many homes, acting as a barrier against the elements, unwanted intruders, and providing a convenient entry point for your vehicle. However, over time, the springs that enable your garage door to function smoothly can wear out or break, leading to potential safety hazards and inconvenience. Fortunately, with some guidance, you can repair or replace a broken garage door spring yourself, or know what to anticipate when hiring a professional. Impactful Construction Group, a CA licensed contractor based in Woodland Hills and serving the entire Los Angeles area, is here to guide you through the process.
Whether you’re in Northridge, Reseda, or Encino, a broken garage door spring is a problem that needs immediate attention. Not only can it prevent your garage door from operating correctly, but it can also pose a safety risk. Without the tension provided by the springs, the weight of the door can cause it to fall suddenly, potentially causing damage or injury.
The repair or replacement process can seem daunting, especially if you’re not naturally handy. But don’t worry—the team at Impactful Construction Group is here to help. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to repair or replace a broken garage door spring, provide practical tips, and answer some common questions. Whether you plan to do it yourself or hire a professional in the San Fernando Valley area, we’ve got you covered.
Understanding Your Garage Door Springs
Before diving into the repair or replacement process, it’s important to understand the two types of garage door springs: extension springs and torsion springs. Extension springs are long, thin springs that run parallel to the overhead track (horizontal track) of the garage door. They expand and contract as the door operates. On the other hand, torsion springs are mounted above the door and use torque to lift the garage door.
Recognizing the type of spring you have is the first step in the repair or replacement process. This will help you purchase the correct replacement part and understand the repair process. Our experienced team at Impactful Construction Group can help you identify the type of spring your garage door uses if you’re unsure.
It’s also important to note that garage door springs are under high tension and can cause serious injury if they snap or if the garage door drops. Always exercise caution when attempting to repair or replace these springs, and consider calling a professional if you’re not comfortable with the risk.
Tools and Materials Needed
Whether you’re in Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, or Woodland Hills, you’ll need the right tools and materials to successfully repair or replace your garage door spring. These include:
- A new garage door spring
- Two 10-inch vise grips
- Adjustable wrench
- Ratchet and sockets
- File
- Locking pliers
- Ladder
Contact (323) 591-3717 to inquire about the necessary tools and materials, or if you need professional assistance from our team at Impactful Construction Group.
How to Replace an Extension Spring
Replacing an extension spring involves a step-by-step process that requires care and precision. Here’s how to do it:
- Disconnect the garage door opener.
- Open the garage door fully.
- Secure the door in the open position with locking pliers.
- Remove the broken spring.
- Install the new spring.
- Reconnect the garage door opener.
It’s important to remember that this is a simplified guide. Each step involves specific actions that require caution. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, don’t hesitate to call a professional.
How to Replace a Torsion Spring
Replacing a torsion spring is a bit more complicated and risky than replacing an extension spring. That’s why it’s often recommended to hire a professional like our experienced team at Impactful Construction Group. If you decide to do it yourself, here’s the basic process:
- Unwind the unbroken spring.
- Loosen the set screws on the broken spring.
- Remove the spring from the central rod bracket.
- Replace the spring.
- Tighten the set screws.
- Rewind the spring.
Remember, the torsion spring is under a lot of tension, which can lead to serious injuries if not handled properly. If you’re unsure, it’s best to hire a professional.
FAQs about Garage Door Spring Repair
Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
Yes, you can replace a garage door spring yourself. However, it can be dangerous if you’re not careful, as the springs are under high tension. If you’re not comfortable with the risk, it’s recommended to hire a professional.
How long does a garage door spring last?
The lifespan of a garage door spring depends on its quality and how often the garage door is used. On average, a standard torsion spring may last between 7-9 years, while an extension spring may last around 6-8 years.
What causes a garage door spring to break?
Garage door springs can break due to various reasons, including wear and tear from regular use, poor maintenance, extreme weather conditions, and age. Proper maintenance can prolong the life of your garage door springs.
How much does it cost to replace a garage door spring?
The cost to replace a garage door spring can vary depending on the type of spring, the complexity of the job, and whether you do it yourself or hire a professional. On average, a DIY job may cost between $40-$100 for the parts, while hiring a professional can cost between $200-$300, including labor.
In conclusion, repairing or replacing a broken garage door spring may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, materials, and guidance, it can be done. Whether you’re based in Northridge, Reseda, Encino, Van Nuys, or Sherman Oaks, our team at Impactful Construction Group is here to help. We hope this guide has provided valuable insights and clarified the process for you.
Ready to transform your space? Trust the experts at Impactful Construction Group. As CA licensed contractors based in Woodland Hills, we serve the entire Los Angeles area with premium construction and remodeling services. Call or text (323) 591-3717 for a free consultation and let’s bring your vision to life.
