The tension spring is an essential component of any garage door. Unfortunately, the wear and tear of using your door repeatedly can necessitate torsion spring replacement to continue using your garage door. This blog will explain the function of garage door tension springs, the problems caused by a failing spring, and the steps for safe torsion spring replacement by a professional.

What is a Garage Door Torsion Spring?

The torsion spring is the main component that provides all the lifting power when opening or closing the door. The spring is responsible for lifting the weight of the door and keeping it balanced so that it can move smoothly along the tracks. Your garage door opener winds the torsion spring, and tension in the spring lifts the garage door.

Most torsion springs are made of tempered steel, a material that is particularly suited to the strain of opening and closing a heavy garage door.

What are the Dangers of a Failing Torsion Spring?

The torsion spring is under constant strain while your garage door is open, acting as a counterbalance to resist the force of gravity against the door. Because of this stress, torsion springs begin to weaken over time and lose their ability to provide enough torque to lift the door. In the worst case, torsion springs can break entirely or come loose from their anchor points, which will prevent them from lifting the door at all.

The longer you use your garage door with a damaged torsion spring, the more likely it is that damage will occur. A failing spring can cause your door to rest unevenly in its tracks, which may warp the tracks or scrape the door as it opens and closes.

Why Should You Leave Torsion Spring Replacement to a Professional?

The force that your garage door torsion spring is under is enough to cause harm if the spring snaps while you attempt to repair it. For your safety, you should always leave torsion spring replacement to a professional garage door contractor.

Contractors have the experience and specialized tools to replace torsion springs without the risk of injury or damage to your garage door system. Garage door professionals can offer several torsion spring size and gauge options for most doors so that you can fit the repair into your budget without sacrificing quality.

Good torsion springs are a fundamental component for the functionality and safety of your garage door. Torsion springs don't last forever, so remember to have your garage door inspected regularly for torsion spring issues by an experienced garage door contractor!

For more information on garage door repair, contact a company near you.