Garage door springs are an essential part of the garage door mechanism, but what happens when they break or need to be replaced?
Most people think that their garage door will cease to function if they lose their springs. So, what is the case?
Basically, a garage door cannot work without springs because the springs play a crucial role in providing adequate force that can counterbalance the door’s weight.
For this reason, they’re essential in providing you with safety while making sure that the mechanism doesn’t go off track.
In this article, we will discuss why can’t a garage door work without springs and the consequences of trying to operate a door without them, and many more. So, let’s get started.
Summary
Why Can’t a Garage Door Work Without Springs?
As we’ve briefly mentioned, garage door springs are responsible for providing the counterbalancing force that can support the door’s weight. Without them, the door will be too heavy to be lifted manually and it will also be difficult to open and close.
Additionally, the springs also help to keep the door in its tracks. So, without them, the door will likely come off its hinges and cause serious damage to your property.
Springs are also required for the smooth and appropriate movement of a heavy structure weighing up to 400 pounds (181.43 kg). They function against gravity to move your garage door in a safe and secure manner for you and your family.
Types of Garage Door Springs
1. Torsion Springs
These springs are located above the garage door opening and they wind and unwind to open and close the door.
They’re generally used in heavier doors. they don’t extend or contract when opening or closing the door.
2. Extension Springs
They’re located on each side of the horizontal tracks and they stretch out when the door is opened and contract when the door is closed. They’re generally used in lighter doors.
Do All Garage Doors Use Springs?
No, not all garage doors use springs. There are some types of garage doors that don’t use springs, such as roller doors and sectional doors. However, these doors are not as common as spring-loaded garage doors.
How often should you replace your garage door springs?
It is recommended that you replace your garage door springs every 7-10 years. This may vary depending on the type of spring and the frequency of use. For example, torsion springs may need to be replaced more frequently than extension springs.
Should you Fix the Garage Door Yourself?
If the garage door spring is broken, you should not attempt to repair it yourself. At the first opportunity, contact a specialist.
They are the only ones with the necessary expertise and understanding to repair or replace a broken garage door spring. Without the proper abilities, repairing the door yourself can be deadly.
Not like other components, the springs are under a lot of pressure, meaning that if they break, they can unwind quickly and cause severe injury or even death.
What are the consequences of trying to operate a door without springs?
Operating a garage door without springs is dangerous and can cause serious injuries. There are the following results of doing so, let’s take a look.
1. The door may slam shut
Without springs, the garage door will be too heavy to open. So, if you’re not careful, it may slam shut, causing serious injury or damage to your property.
2. The door may come off its hinges
As we’ve mentioned, springs are required to keep the door in its tracks. So, without them, the door may come off its hinges and cause serious damage to your property.
3. You may be injured
Operating a garage door without springs is dangerous and can cause serious injuries. So, we advise you to never try to operate a door without springs.
Conclusion!
Garage door springs are essential for the smooth and safe operation of your garage door. Without them, the door will be too heavy to lift and it may also come off its hinges and cause serious damage to your property.
If you think your garage door springs may be broken, don’t try to repair them yourself. Contact a specialist at the first opportunity. They have the necessary expertise to repair or replace your springs safely.
In the guide, we have mentioned the types of garage door springs, their functions, how often they should be replaced, and the consequences of trying to operate a door without springs.
I am Jeff Bortnick, the founder of SMART WISE HOME. I am also a husband, father of two, and a long-time technology lover. I have been obsessed with home automation since I was at University doing my MSc in Automation and Control Engineering