Should Homeowners Repair Broken Springs Themselves On Garage Doors

Broken springs on a garage door can happen at almost any time. Sometimes a spring might break during the process of opening or closing, but most of the time, it simply gives into the pressure when nothing else is happening. If anyone is home, they may hear a loud noise, but the break is often unnoticed until the next time an occupant attempts to open a door.Manufacturers install the spring to counterbalance the garage door weight. It must provide sufficient strength to balance doors that can weigh over 300 pounds. If operating correctly, the spring makes it very easy to open the door with little effort. They also assists the automatic garage door openers, which uses a small motors to open and close doors on home garages.The initial problem is often getting the car out of the garage. Even if a spring is not functioning, doors can be opened manually, provided there is enough strength lifting. If an automatic opener is attached, pull the red handle to disengage the opener. It may take the help of an additional person or two to lift the door. If you lose your hand hold do not attempt to catch the falling unit with a foot or other body part.In many older homes, an extension spring is used to provide the counterbalance. Look for these devices at the side of the tracks that hold the rollers. When a door opens, the devices retract. Usually they are installed in sets of two, with one spring on either side of the tracks.Torsion springs are located parallel to the top of the garage opening. These units are tightly wound to provide the force to lift the door. The tension stores energy needed to lift the door weight.Both types of units are effective at balancing the door weight until the spring breaks. The forces provided certainly can make opening of a door much easier. Remember, a the unit will require much more force in order to open the door and gain entry into the garage.While consumers may find replacement parts needed to make the repairs at home improvement or hardware stores, they should think twice before making the decision to make this repair on their own. The forces used to wind the spring to the correct tension are quite large. If accidentally released, the spring can cause physical injuries. Most homeowners should leave the job to the professionals.If homeowners insist on doing the job for themselves, they should be cautious. Take time to research on the internet the process. Read and follow exactly the instructions printed with the replacement spring. Pay particular attention to the cautions and reasons listed for not attempting the job for oneself.Broken springs can make opening garage doors difficult. Although homeowners can purchase the necessary parts for the repairs in several locations, they should know the task is difficult. A garage door repair company can safely make the necessary repairs so a door works correctly.