Signs Something is Wrong with Your Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are vital components that balance the weight of your door, making it easy to open and close. When these springs start to fail, they can cause significant inconvenience and potential safety hazards. As a homeowner, recognizing the early signs of spring problems can save you time, money, and potential injury. An Illinois garage renovation professional can reveal indicators that suggest your garage door springs might need attention.

Visual and Auditory Clues

• Unusual noises: When operating your garage door, pay attention to any loud bangs, snaps, or popping sounds. These noises often indicate that a spring has broken or is about to break.

• Visible gaps or separation: Examine the springs for any visible gaps in the coils or signs of separation. Healthy springs should have tightly wound coils without any spaces between them.

• Rust or corrosion: Look for signs of rust or corrosion on the springs. While some surface rust is normal, excessive corrosion can weaken the springs and lead to premature failure.

Operational Issues

Your garage door’s behavior can provide valuable insights into the health of its springs:

• Door fails to open or close fully: If your door stops halfway or does not open or close completely, it might indicate weakened springs that can no longer provide sufficient tension.

• The door falls too quickly: A properly balanced door should stay in place when manually opened halfway. If it falls rapidly, the springs may have lost their tension.

• Uneven movement: Watch for any jerky or uneven movement as the door opens or closes. This could suggest that one spring is working harder than the other due to damage or wear.

• Increased effort to operate: If you notice that opening or closing your garage door manually requires more force than usual, it could be a sign of failing springs.

Long-Term Indicators

Some signs of spring issues develop over time. Most garage door springs last between six to 10 years with normal use. If your springs are approaching or exceeding this age range, they may be due for replacement.

Regular inspection can reveal gradual wear on the springs, such as stretching or loss of tension over time. Frequency of use is bound to lead to problems, just like anything else. Homes with frequently used garage doors may experience spring wear more quickly. Consider how often you use your garage door when assessing spring health.

The Importance of Professional Inspection With a Chicago, IL Garage Renovation Professional

While these signs can help you identify potential issues, you should have your garage door springs inspected and serviced by a professional. Attempting to repair or replace springs without proper knowledge and tools can be extremely dangerous.

Do not wait for a minor issue to become a major problem. If you notice any of these signs or simply want peace of mind, call Blue Sky Builders, Inc. today for a free on-site estimate at 630-852-8485. A Downers Grove, IL garage door renovation professional will assess your garage door springs and provide honest recommendations to keep your door operating smoothly and safely for years to come.