All automatic garage doors rely on springs that help to raise and lower the door on command. However, these springs generally only last between 7 to 9 years, and wear and tear can cause them to wear out sooner if you use your garage door frequently. It is then important that you are aware of the condition of your garage door’s springs, and whether or not they may need to be replaced, as failed garage door springs can not only prevent your garage door from operating, but they can also cause injury if your springs let go when your garage door is opening or closing. To prevent this from occurring, here are a few signs that you can be on the lookout for indicating that your garage door springs may need to be replaced.
Visual Signs of Damage
Due to the important role that your garage door’s springs provide in helping to ensure the door operates smoothly and safely, it is important that you periodically inspect the springs for visible signs of damage as this will be one of the most obvious ways to tell that your springs need to be replaced. When inspecting the springs, you will want to look for clear signs of damage such as rust, corrosion, or gaps between the spring’s coils, as all these signs indicate that your springs are nearing failure.
Unusual Noises
You will also want to pay attention to the noises that your garage door makes when it is opening and closing. While garage doors tend to be noisy during operation, you will want to pay attention to any new or unusual sounds such as screeching, creaking, or popping noises. Such sounds are not normal and likely indicate that spring failure is on the horizon.
You Are Unable to Manually Lift the Door
Your garage door’s springs are designed to support the weight of the door, which makes it possible for you to lift an otherwise heavy door with ease. If you disengage your garage door from the automatic opener and find that you can no longer lift it manually on your own, then it is likely that your springs are wearing out, or that they have already failed.
Contact us to learn more about how you will know when your garage door springs need to be replaced.