When your garage door isn’t working smoothly, it could be your springs are out of whack. Most people don’t think about their garage door springs until they’re left with a door that’s not budging. But the truth is, these springs are the muscle behind your garage door. They do all the heavy lifting, and when the tension isn’t right, your door can give you all sorts of trouble.
At Overhead Door Pros, we’ve seen it all—from doors slamming shut to ones that just won’t stay open. Let’s break down how to check and adjust that spring tension to avoid more headaches down the road.
What Kind of Springs Are We Talking About?
Before you dive into tension adjustments, you need to know what type of spring you’re dealing with. There are two types:
- Torsion Springs: These are mounted above your garage door, typically in the center. They twist to open and close the door.
- Extension Springs: These run along the sides of the door. They stretch and contract when the door moves.
Torsion springs are more common and tend to last longer. Extension springs are cheaper but can wear out faster. Know which one you’re dealing with because each type has a different tensioning method.
Step-by-Step Guide to Checking Garage Door Spring Tension
1. Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
First off, you don’t want any surprises. The last thing you need is the motor pulling the door up while you’re messing with the springs. Unhook the opener by pulling the release cord. Now your garage door is in manual mode.
2. Test the Door’s Balance
Lift the door halfway. Let go. If it stays in place, you’re golden. If it moves up or down, your spring tension is off. If it shoots up, there’s too much tension. If it falls, you’ve got too little tension.
3. Adjust Torsion Spring Tension
If you’ve got torsion springs, use a winding bar to adjust the tension. Insert the bar into the winding cone and twist. A quarter turn at a time should do the trick. Go clockwise to increase tension, counterclockwise to reduce it. After every adjustment, check the door balance again.
4. Adjust Extension Spring Tension
With extension springs, it’s all about adjusting the safety cable and pulley system. Make sure everything is even on both sides. An uneven spring can cause the door to go lopsided when it opens. If things look unbalanced, adjust one side until it’s even.
5. Reconnect the Opener
Once the tension feels right and the door stays balanced, reconnect the opener. Test the door to make sure it opens and closes smoothly. If it’s still not working as it should, you may need to fine-tune the tension again.
Common Problems with Garage Door Spring Tension
Let’s face it, if the tension isn’t just right, you’re going to have issues. Here are some common problems you might run into:
- Door Closes Too Fast: This means the springs are too tight. Loosen the tension.
- Door Won’t Stay Open: If your door drops down after you lift it, the springs are too loose.
- Uneven Door Movement: One spring might have more tension than the other. Adjust them until they’re equal.
- Noisy Door: If you’re hearing creaking or banging, the springs might be worn out or misaligned.
Here’s a quick table to help you troubleshoot:
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Door closes too quickly | Too much spring tension | Loosen torsion or extension spring |
| Door won’t stay open | Not enough tension | Tighten springs |
| Uneven door movement | Unequal spring tension | Adjust springs evenly |
| Noisy door | Worn or misaligned springs | Inspect and replace if necessary |
Tips to Maintain Your Garage Door Springs
- Regular Inspection: Take a look at the springs every few months. Look for signs of wear or rust.
- Lubricate the Springs: Keep things running smoothly by applying a silicone-based lubricant.
- Check Balance Frequently: Make it a habit to check the door balance once or twice a year.
In-Depth Questions
How do I know if my garage door springs need adjustment?
If your garage door feels heavy, won’t stay open, or opens unevenly, chances are the spring tension is off. Another sign is noise—squeaks and bangs mean something isn’t right. You can also manually test the balance by lifting the door halfway. If it doesn’t stay in place, it’s time to check those springs.
How often should I check my garage door spring tension?
You should check the tension at least once a year, especially if you use the door a lot. Garage door springs wear out over time, and catching a problem early can save you from bigger headaches down the road. Hearing odd noises? Don’t ignore them—it’s usually a sign the tension needs adjusting.
Can I adjust garage door spring tension myself, or should I call a pro?
Look, unless you know what you’re doing, adjusting garage door springs can be dangerous. These springs are under high tension, and a misstep could lead to injury. If you’re not 100% confident, it’s always a good idea to call in the pros, like us at Overhead Door Pros. We’ve got the tools and know-how to get the job done safely.
What happens if I don’t adjust my garage door spring tension?
Ignoring spring tension issues can lead to bigger problems. An unbalanced door puts extra strain on the opener, tracks, and other parts. Over time, this wear and tear will lead to expensive repairs. Worse yet, a spring could snap, sending the door crashing down. Trust me, you don’t want that.
Conclusion
When it comes to garage door springs, tension is everything. Too much, and the door slams shut. Too little, and it won’t stay open. Either way, you’re dealing with a frustrating (and possibly dangerous) situation. At Overhead Door Pros, we’ve got your back. Whether your door is giving you trouble or you just want to keep things running smoothly, our team can handle it. For more tips, check out our resources on how to open your garage door manually and how to prevent water from entering your garage.
Don’t wait for a disaster—contact Overhead Door Pros today and let’s get your garage door working like a charm.
