Is It Common for Garage Door Springs to Break?

Published on: November 27, 2022
Written by Eric Devin / Fact-checked by David Rowan

If your garage door isn’t working properly, there’s a good chance that the problem lies with the springs. After all, the springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, so they experience a lot of wear and tear. It’s not surprising, then, that garage door springs break from time to time.

But how common is it for springs to break?

is it common for garage door springs to break

If your garage door springs break, it does not necessarily cause for alarm. While it’s not exactly a common occurrence, it’s not unheard of, either. There are a few reasons why your springs might break, and knowing what they are can help you prevent them from happening again in the future.

One reason why garage door springs break is that they’re old and have reached the end of their lifespan. Springs are designed to last for a certain number of cycles (opening and closing of the door), and after a while, they simply wear out. If your springs are more than 10 years old, they may be ready to be replaced.

Another reason for spring failure is rust. Rust can weaken the metal and cause it to snap under tension. If you live in an area with high humidity or salt air, this may be something to watch out for.

Keeping your springs greased and free of rust will help extend their life span. Improper installation is another possible culprit behind broken garage door springs. If your springs were not installed correctly or if they were damaged during installation, they may be more likely to fail prematurely.

Make sure that whoever installs your new springs does so correctly and takes proper precautions to avoid damaging them. Finally, extreme temperature changes can also cause garage door springs to break. If the temperature gets too cold, the metal can become brittle and snap; conversely, if it gets too hot, the metal can expand and also break.

Again, this is something that is more likely to occur in areas with large swings in temperature (like we see here in Colorado!).

How Common is a Broken Garage Door Spring?

If you have a garage door, chances are you will eventually experience a broken garage door spring. While they are designed to last for many years, springs are under a lot of tension and can eventually wear out. If your door is getting harder to open or close, or if you hear a loud noise when operating the door, it’s likely that the spring has broken.

Broken garage door springs are actually quite common. In fact, they’re one of the most common issues that we see at our shop. We usually recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken.

This ensures that your door will continue to operate smoothly and evenly, and will help prevent future problems.

How Often Do Garage Door Springs Break?

No one wants to hear that their garage door springs have broken. It’s not only an inconvenience, but it can also be dangerous if the door is unable to open or close properly. So, how often do these springs break, and what can be done to prevent it?

On average, garage door springs will break every 3-5 years. However, this number can differ depending on the quality of the spring and how often it’s used. If your garage door is used multiple times a day, then the springs may need to be replaced more frequently.

There are some ways that you can help prevent your garage door springs from breaking prematurely.

  • First, make sure that they’re regularly lubricated with WD-40 or a similar product. This will help them move smoothly and last longer.
  • Secondly, don’t try to force the door open or closed if it’s not moving easily – this puts unnecessary stress on the springs which could cause them to snap.
  • Finally, have a professional check the condition of your springs every few years and replace them if necessary – this will ensure that your garage door continues working properly for years to come!

How Long Does the Average Garage Door Spring Last?

The average garage door spring lasts between 5-10 years. However, there are many factors that can affect the lifespan of your springs, such as frequency of use, type of spring, and environment. For example, if your garage door is used multiple times a day, your springs will wear out faster than if it’s only used occasionally.

Likewise, torsion springs (the kind that wind up and down) typically last longer than extension springs (the kind that stretches out). And if you live in an area with high humidity or extreme temperatures, your springs may not last as long as they would in more moderate conditions.

How Do I Stop My Garage Door Spring from Breaking?

If your garage door spring is breaking, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent any further damage. There are a few things you can do to stop your garage door spring from breaking:

Check the Tension on the Springs

If they’re too loose, tighten them up with a wrench. If they’re too tight, loosen them slightly.

Lubricate the Springs

Lubricate the springs with WD-40 or another lubricant designed for metal parts. This will help reduce friction and wear on the springs, which can cause them to break.

Inspect the Tracks for Any Debris

Inspect the tracks for any debris or obstructions that could be causing the spring to break. Clear away any obstacles and make sure the tracks are clean and smooth before operating the garage door again.

Replace Worn or Damaged Parts as Soon as Possible

If a roller is bent or a track is severely dented, replace those components right away to prevent further stress on the springs.

how do i stop my garage door spring from breaking (1)
Credit: omahadoor.com

Garage Door Spring Deaths Per Year

If you have a garage door, chances are it has springs. And if your springs are anything like most, they’re under a lot of tension. That’s why it might not come as a surprise to learn that there are an estimated 30,000 spring-related injuries each year in the United States.

But did you know that these seemingly innocuous objects can also be deadly? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there have been at least 19 deaths associated with garage door springs since 1982. And while that may not seem like a lot, keep in mind that this only includes incidents that were reported to the CPSC – the actual number is likely much higher.

So what makes these springs so dangerous? Well, for one thing, they’re under an incredible amount of tension (usually around 150 pounds per square inch). And when they break, that tension is suddenly released, often with disastrous results.

In addition, garage door springs tend to be located near the head or neck area of people who are using them. So when they break and send out shards of metal flying through the air, it’s not uncommon for someone to be seriously injured or even killed. If you have a garage door spring that shows signs of wear and tear (such as rusting or fraying), it’s important to replace it right away before it breaks and causes serious injury or death.

How to Make Garage Door Springs Last Longer?

If you have a garage, chances are you have a door with springs. These springs help to balance the heavy door and make it easier to open and close. However, over time they can wear out and need to be replaced.

Here are some tips on how to make your garage door springs last longer:

1. Keep them cleanDust and dirt can build up on the springs, making them less effective over time. Be sure to wipe them down regularly with a damp cloth or rag.
2. Lubricate themA little bit of lubricant can go a long way in prolonging the life of your springs. Every few months, apply a light coat of oil or WD-40 to keep them moving smoothly.
3. Check for rustRust can cause the springs to break down prematurely, so check for any signs of corrosion regularly and sand away any rough spots immediately.
4. Inspect for wearTake a close look at your springs from time to time, looking for any fraying or damage that might indicate they need to be replaced soon.

Garage Door Spring Breaking Video

If your garage door springs break, don’t panic! This video will show you how to replace them quickly and easily. First, open your garage door and disconnect the opener.

Then, remove the two screws that hold the spring in place. Next, insert the new spring into place and screw it in. Finally, reconnect the opener and test the door to make sure it’s working properly.

What Happens When a Garage Door Spring Breaks?

If you’ve ever had a garage door spring break, you know it’s not a pleasant experience. The loud noise, the sudden jolt, and the realization that your garage door is now inoperable can be quite unsettling. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

When a garage door spring breaks, it’s usually because it’s become worn out or damaged over time. The springs are under a lot of tension, so even a small amount of wear can cause them to snap. In most cases, the broken spring will need to be replaced before your garage door can be used again.

Replacing a broken garage door spring can be dangerous, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Our team at Garage Door Repair Los Angeles has years of experience dealing with all types of garage doors and springs, so we know exactly what to do in this situation. We’ll have your door back up and running in no time!

Where to Buy Garage Door Springs?

If your garage door isn’t working properly, it may be due to a problem with the springs. Garage door springs are responsible for lifting and lowering the door, so if they’re damaged or broken, the door won’t be able to move. You can purchase replacement springs from a variety of places, including hardware stores, home improvement stores, and online retailers.

Be sure to measure the length and width of your current springs before ordering new ones, as springs come in different sizes.

Garage Door Spring Replacement

If your garage door isn’t working properly, one of the first things you should check is the springs. Over time, they can become worn out or even break completely. If this happens, you’ll need to replace them.

Garage door springs are under a lot of tension, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when replacing them. You should also call a professional if you have any questions or concerns. Once you have the new springs installed, be sure to test your garage door to make sure everything is working properly.

How Long Do Garage Door Springs Last?

If you have a garage door, chances are you have springs. Garage door springs are an important part of the door’s operation, and they can last a long time if they are properly maintained. However, like all mechanical parts, they will eventually wear out and need to be replaced.

So how long do garage door springs last? The answer depends on several factors, including the quality of the spring, the frequency of use, and the environment in which it is used. A high-quality spring made from tempered steel can last up to 20 years or more.

But if your garage door is used multiple times every day in a corrosive environment (such as near salt water), it may only last 5 years or less. You can extend the life of your garage door springs by regularly lubricating them with WD-40 or another suitable lubricant. This will help prevent rust and corrosion, which can shorten their lifespan significantly.

You should also have your springs checked annually by a professional to make sure they are still in good condition and tensioned correctly. Replacing worn-out springs before they break is much cheaper than waiting for them to fail completely!

Is Replacing a Garage Door Spring Dangerous?

If you’ve ever had to replace a garage door spring, you know it’s not a fun job. It’s also not a particularly dangerous one, as long as you take some basic precautions. First of all, make sure you disconnect the power to your garage door opener before you begin.

This will prevent the door from closing on you while you’re working. Next, be sure to support the door with a sturdy piece of wood or a ladder before beginning work on the springs. This will help prevent the door from falling on you if one of the springs should break while you’re working.

Finally, always use Gloves and safety glasses when working with garage door springs, as they can be very sharp and can cause serious injury if they snap back at you.

Bottom Line

Are your garage door springs broken? You’re not alone. It’s actually quite common for garage door springs to break, especially if they haven’t been maintained properly.

There are two types of garage door springs – torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the door opening, while extension springs are located on either side of the door. If one of your torsion springs breaks, it’s important to replace both of them at the same time so they wear evenly.

Otherwise, you’ll be stuck replacing one spring every few months! Extension spring breakage is less common than torsion spring breakage, but it can still happen. If an extension spring snaps, it’s important to call a professional to replace it as soon as possible so your garage door can function properly again.

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About This Writer

author eric devin

Hi, I am Eric Devin and I am a professional interior architect. Since childhood, I've always enjoyed DIY projects! And, I have loved to solve simple household problems using essential tools and equipment. I have also acquired a lot of information about basic household tools settings by working with contractors.

Hi, I am Eric Devin and I am a professional interior architect. Since childhood, I've always enjoyed DIY projects! And, I have loved to solve simple household problems using essential tools and equipment. I have also acquired a lot of information about basic household tools settings by working with contractors.

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