Let’s talk about garage door springs.
Not exactly the most exciting topic, right? But if you’re a homeowner, this is one part of your house you really don’t want to ignore.
Your garage door springs do all the heavy lifting—literally. Every time you open or close your garage door, those springs are working hard behind the scenes. And just like anything that works hard, they need regular care to stay safe and reliable.
What Do Garage Door Springs Actually Do?
Picture this: your garage door weighs around 150 to 300 pounds. Now imagine lifting that every day—maybe multiple times a day.
Tiring, huh?
That’s where the springs come in. Torsion springs (the kind most garages use) hold tension and act like a counterbalance. They make the door feel light when you lift it and help it stay in place. Without them, opening your garage door would be like deadlifting a fridge.
So yeah, they’re kind of a big deal.
Why Maintenance Is Non-Negotiable
Here’s the thing: garage door springs don’t last forever. Most have a lifespan of about 10,000 cycles (one cycle = open and close). That may sound like a lot, but if you use your garage door 4 times a day, you’ll hit 10,000 cycles in just 7 years.
And when they go? It’s not pretty.
Broken springs can slam your garage door shut without warning. They can also keep it from opening at all, leaving your car trapped or your home exposed.
Worse, if a spring breaks while you’re nearby, the snap can be loud—and dangerous.
That’s why regular maintenance matters. A simple check-up once or twice a year can save you from costly repairs and safety risks down the road.
Signs Your Springs Need Some TLC
You don’t need to be a garage door expert to spot trouble. Here are a few red flags that your springs might need attention:
- The door feels heavier than usual
That means the springs are starting to lose tension. - The door opens unevenly or jerks
Springs should provide smooth, balanced motion. - Loud creaking or snapping sounds
No, your garage isn’t haunted. That noise could be a warning sign. - The door won’t open at all
If your opener is working but the door isn’t moving, your springs may be shot.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call in the pros. Don’t try to fix springs yourself—they’re under high tension and can be seriously dangerous if mishandled.
The Perks of Regular Spring Maintenance
Keeping your garage door springs in good shape isn’t just about avoiding problems. It’s about getting more life and performance out of your whole system.
Here’s what you gain with regular check-ups:
- Longer lifespan
Well-maintained springs last longer. That means fewer replacements over time. - Better safety
A sudden spring break can hurt someone or damage your stuff. Preventative care keeps things safe. - Smoother operation
No more jerky movement or annoying noises. Just quiet, clean open-and-close action. - Peace of mind
You’ve got enough to worry about. Your garage door shouldn’t be one of them.
Can You Do Maintenance Yourself?
Some basic upkeep? Sure. Here are a few simple things homeowners can do:
- Listen
Strange sounds? Time for a pro to take a look. - Look
Check for rust, gaps in the springs, or fraying cables. - Lubricate
Use a silicone-based spray on the springs a couple of times a year to keep them moving smoothly.
But anything beyond that—especially adjusting or replacing the springs—should be left to trained technicians. This isn’t a DIY job. Trust us.
We’ve Got You Covered
At Delaware Express Garage Doors, we’ve seen what happens when spring maintenance gets ignored. Doors stuck halfway. Springs snapped in two. Even cars stuck inside garages when people are already late for work.
It’s not fun.
That’s why we offer affordable, expert maintenance services to help keep your garage door running like new. We’ll inspect your springs, fine-tune the tension, and let you know if anything needs fixing before it becomes a big issue.
No stress. No surprises.
Just honest, fast service from folks who know garage doors inside and out.
Don’t Wait for a Snap
Your garage door springs won’t ask for attention. They’ll just break when they’re done.
So don’t wait until you’re stuck or scrambling. Schedule a maintenance check with Delaware Express Garage Doors today. It’s a quick visit that could save you from a big, expensive headache tomorrow.
Stay safe. Stay smart.
And keep those springs in check.
Want to book a maintenance check or get a quote?
👉 Visit degaragedoors.com or give us a call.
Your garage door will thank you.
