We use our garage doors every day, but most of us don’t think about what makes them work. The springs are key; they help lift and lower the door smoothly. With proper care, garage door springs can last 7 to 12 years, depending on the type. For most of our clients, it worked for 25 years. If your springs snap or lose tension, it can leave your garage door unbalanced, hard to operate, and even unsafe. So, can garage door springs be repaired, or do they need replacement? Let’s take the insight from the experts of Garage Door Woodland Tx. 

What to Understand Before Moving Forward

There are two main types of garage door springs. The first is extension springs, which run along the sides of the door and help lift it from the bottom. The second is torsion springs, which sit on a bar above the door and work to balance the weight. You really need to look at them and assess whether the damage is minor or excessive. 

How long your springs last really depends on how often you use your garage door, but there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Typically, springs are designed to last about 10,000 cycles—that’s around 10,000 times you open and close the door. In general, you can expect them to last between 7 and 10 years.

Some companies offer “lifetime” springs that are supposed to last up to 25,000 cycles or more, and many actually sell springs rated for 29,000 cycles.

If you start noticing issues like your garage door not balancing properly or hearing squeaking sounds, that could be a sign the springs are wearing out. It’s a good idea to inspect them once a year for any visible damage, or sooner if you notice anything unusual.

When To Repair The Garage Door Spring? 

Some people prefer replacing their garage door springs even if there’s just a small crack or signs of wear because they feel the risk is too high if the spring breaks completely. For example, if you have torsion springs above the door, the risk of a serious issue is generally lower. In such cases, you might just need a repair, so it’s a good idea to call a garage door spring repair service near you.

Remember that the risks may be higher with other types of springs, like extension springs along the sides of the door, which can make it impossible to open the door if they fail.

It’s also common for people to replace the springs on both sides of the door at the same time, especially if they’re dealing with issues like corrosion or damage to the torsion spring. In some cases, if the spring is misaligned but not fully broken, a repair might be enough rather than a full replacement.

Cost can also play a role in the decision to repair rather than replace, but keep in mind that while repairing may seem cheaper upfront, replacing the spring may be a more reliable option in the long run.

When To Replace The Garage Door Spring? 

As we told you before, most of our clients prefer to replace the garage door than repair it. So if you want to replace your garage door spring, focus on the three factors:

Is One of Your Garage Door Springs More Worn Out?

If you see one spring on your garage door seems more damaged than the other, it’s a sign you might need to replace both. Garage door springs work together to balance the door’s weight, and when one weakens or breaks, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing just one spring can throw off the balance, leading to uneven wear and potential safety hazards. It’s always best to replace both springs at the same time to ensure smooth operation and avoid unexpected issues down the road.

How Long Has It Been Since You Replaced Your Garage Door Springs?

Like any other part of your garage door system, springs don’t last forever. If your springs are approaching 10 years old, they’re probably close to the end of their lifespan. At this point, replacing them is the smart move because waiting to repair them just delays the inevitable.

However, remember that it happens generally, but some people even take their garage door springs to 25 years with proper care and maintenance. 

Are You Experiencing Severe Balancing Issues?

Your garage door should open and close smoothly and evenly. If one side of the door feels like it’s sagging or not moving as easily as the other, that could be a sign that something’s wrong with the springs. It’s time to call a garage door spring repair and replacement service to assess whether you need a repair or a full replacement.

Don’t Take The DIY Risk 

It’s really important not to attempt repairing or replacing garage door springs on your own. These springs are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous if mishandled. Trying to do it yourself could lead to serious injuries or worse. Always call in a professional of the Woodlands Garage Door Service​ to handle the job safely.

Even though problems can pop up unexpectedly, paying attention to how your garage door is working can help prevent bigger issues. If you start hearing unusual sounds from the springs or notice the door acting weird, don’t wait for a breakdown—get it checked out. Fixing it sooner rather than later can save you money and hassle.

If you’re unsure whether your springs need repairs or replacements, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help!