Broken Garage Door Spring Replacement: What Every U.S. Homeowner Needs to Know

Garage doors are one of the most frequently used entrances in American homes. With daily use, wear and tear is inevitable—especially when it comes to garage door springs. If your door suddenly becomes heavy or stops working altogether, you might be dealing with a broken garage door spring. Replacing it isn’t just a matter of convenience; it’s a safety issue that requires prompt and professional attention.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything U.S. homeowners should know about broken garage door spring replacement, including causes, warning signs, types of springs, the dangers of DIY repairs, and why it’s essential to hire a professional.

1. What Causes Garage Door Springs to Break?

Garage door springs are engineered to last a certain number of cycles—a cycle being one full open and close. Most standard torsion springs are rated for around 10,000 cycles. If you open and close your garage door 3–4 times a day, that lifespan translates to roughly 7–10 years.

Here are some of the most common reasons garage door springs break:

• Normal wear and tear: The most common cause.
• Lack of maintenance: Springs need occasional lubrication.
• Rust: Rust increases friction, weakening the metal.
• Incorrect spring type: Using the wrong spring can lead to premature failure.
• Extreme temperatures: In colder climates or places with temperature fluctuations, springs can become brittle or overstretched.

Understanding the cause can help prevent future issues and prolong the life of your replacement springs.

2. Signs You Have a Broken Garage Door Spring

Many homeowners don’t realize their garage door spring has broken until the door refuses to open or close. Here are some signs that your garage door spring might need replacement:

• Loud bang from the garage: When a spring breaks, it can sound like a gunshot.
• Garage door doesn’t open fully or at all: A broken spring can’t lift the door’s weight.
• Door opens crookedly: Indicates uneven spring tension or one spring has failed.
• Gaps in the torsion spring: You may see a visible separation in the spring coil.
• Loose or hanging cables: Often a result of spring failure.
• Increased effort to lift door manually: The spring is no longer counterbalancing the weight.

Recognizing these early symptoms can save you from further damage and costly repairs.

3. Understanding the Types of Garage Door Springs

There are two main types of springs used in U.S. residential garage doors:

Torsion Springs

These are mounted above the door and use torque to lift the garage door. They are more durable and offer smoother operation. Torsion springs are the most common and are considered safer and more efficient.

Extension Springs

These are located on the sides of the door and stretch as the door closes. They are more affordable but are also more prone to wear and tear and can be dangerous if they snap without proper containment.

When replacing a broken spring, it’s essential to know which type your door uses. A professional technician will also ensure that the new spring matches the weight and size of your garage door.

4. Why DIY Garage Door Spring Replacement is Dangerous

We get it—DIY culture is thriving in the U.S. But when it comes to broken garage door spring replacement, this is one job best left to the professionals.

Garage door springs are under an immense amount of tension. Mishandling them can result in serious injury or property damage. Here’s why DIY isn’t a good idea:

• High tension: Springs can snap back and cause severe injuries.
• Specialized tools required: Most homeowners don’t have the tools to do the job safely.
• Risk of improper installation: This can lead to further damage to the door or opener.
• Warranty issues: DIY repairs may void the warranty on your garage door system.

Hiring a trained technician ensures the job is done correctly, safely, and in compliance with local regulations.

5. The Professional Solution: Fast, Reliable Spring Replacement

If you suspect a broken spring, the best course of action is to stop using the door and call a garage door specialist. A licensed professional will:

• Inspect the door system thoroughly.
• Identify the correct replacement spring.
• Perform the repair with safety and precision.
• Check for other wear and tear issues.
• Ensure the door is balanced and operational.

In most cases, replacing both springs at once is recommended to maintain balanced operation and prolong system life.

Trust Cheyenne Garage Door Repair for Your Spring Replacement Needs

If you’re in the United States and facing issues with a broken garage door spring, you don’t have to handle it alone. At Cheyenne Garage Door Repair, we specialize in quick, reliable, and affordable garage door spring replacement services. Our certified technicians have years of experience and are equipped with the tools and training needed to get your garage door back in perfect working order.

We understand how crucial a working garage door is to your daily routine. That’s why we offer same-day service, competitive pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Whether it’s a torsion spring or extension spring, you can count on Cheyenne Garage Door Repair to deliver safe and professional service every time.