Make sure you always replace both springs when they snap, regardless of which side snapped first. A broken spring without a repaired or replaced second spring can be problematic – as the garage door will now be subject to extra pressure on only one side.
Most garage door companies will offer a better price if you choose to replace both springs at the same time, so as far as cost is concerned replacing both springs is often a smart long-term financial move but it is not necessary if you prefer a lower cost up-front.
PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION AND REPAIR IS RECOMMENDED. Garage doors with broken springs should not be opened. Doors in this condition can be difficult to lift because the garage door opener loses the support springs provide in lifting and lowering the door.
A garage door typically has one to four springs, depending on the size and weight. For example, residential single-car garages are often single-spring garage doors and residential two-car garages are often dual-spring garage doors. But a commercial garage door with many panels might need up to four.
Breaking Down the Cost of Spring Replacement
To help you understand the costs more easily, here's a simple guide based on the number of springs your garage door uses: 1 spring: $250 – $350 (usually for single-car garage doors) 2 springs: $350 – $500 (typically for double-car garage doors) 3 springs: $450 – $650.
When properly installed, your springs can last approximately 10,000 cycles. One cycle includes both the opening and closing of the door. Technically speaking, your springs should last between 7 to 10 years. However, this depends on how often you use your garage door.
As professionals in the industry, we advise you do not attempt to open your garage door if the spring is broken.
Replacing a garage door spring yourself isn't impossible, but it does require special knowledge about the springs and how a garage door works.
The time it takes to replace a garage door spring depends on factors such as the type of spring, accessibility, and the skill level of the person performing the replacement. On average, a professional technician can complete the replacement in about one to two hours.
Garage door springs are constantly exposed to environmental factors such as temperature changes, humidity, and moisture. These factors can cause corrosion, which weakens the spring and ultimately leads to its failure.
Wear and Tear Over Time
On average, garage door springs are rated for 10,000 cycles, which translates to about 7-10 years of regular use for most households. For homeowners who use their garage as the primary entrance, the springs may wear out even faster.
Q) Why do I have two different sized springs on my garage door? A) Torsion Springs may be mismatched from the factory or from a previous replacement.
After many millions of cycles, even the best-made springs become 'tired' and eventually the springs will shorten (sag) causing the vehicle ride height to drop. When replacing coil springs is it advisable, for safety and comfort, to always replace in axle pairs. Failure to do so can result in: Uneven ride height.
Make sure you always replace both springs when they snap, regardless of which side snapped first. A broken spring without a repaired or replaced second spring can be problematic – as the garage door will now be subject to extra pressure on only one side.
Expect to spend $120–$350 to replace your garage door spring, including material costs and professional installation. While these heavy-duty springs are built to last, they'll eventually need replacement due to wear and tear. Garage door spring replacement isn't your average DIY project, either.
A 7 ft tall garage door with a standard 12 inch drum, will require 29-30 quarter turns on the spring. An 8 ft garage door with a standard 12 inch drum, will require 33-34 quarter turns on the spring.
Many modern garage doors use a torsion spring, lasting about 10,000 open and closing cycles. So, if you use your garage door three times a day, your springs will last about 10 years.
A Door That Falls Off Its Tracks – Whether your new springs are too strong, too weak or just not the right type, one possible consequence is that they could derail your door, i.e. cause it to fall off its tracks. In such an event, anybody standing in the garage or just outside could be in very serious danger.
The door will become crooked when attempting to raise. The garage door could fall quickly. Most of the time you'll notice a bend at the top of the door. Attempting to open the door with the operator will cause more damage.
Its a bit tricky the torsion springs are wound under considerable tension. If you slip you can have a serious gash from the tool. I always leave it to a professional since this is a once every 10–20 year repair and can be very dangerous if you don't do it just right.
The garage door will fall quickly as it no longer has a counterbalance for the gravity's pull on the panels. The door will be crooked when it moves up and down the track. Although the door opens, it won't be even. The cable will be loose amongst other issues with broken springs.