Want to replace garage door springs yourself? Our step-by-step tutorial will help homeowners complete the job safely and correctly.
Replacing garage door springs might seem challenging at first, but with the right tools, clear instructions, and a calm, steady approach, it’s a task most homeowners can manage. These springs are tightly wound and carry a lot of tension, so working safely is necessary. This guide will show how to change garage door springs properly.
This guide will walk you through each step clearly and easily. First, gather tools like winding bars, clamps, safety glasses, and a socket set. Then, follow key safety tips, including unplugging the opener and securing the door. If you’re unsure, contact a garage door repair expert.
What Are Garage Door Springs and How Do They Work
Before learning how to change garage door springs, knowing which type you’re dealing with is essential. There are two main types:
1. Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are above the garage door, and a twisting force is used to help lift it. They wind up when the door closes and unwind as it opens. They are common in newer garage doors because they work smoothly and are safer than older spring types.
2. Extension Springs
Extension springs are found on both sides of the garage door. They stretch when the door shuts and pull back to help lift it open. These springs are often used in older garage doors, and safety cables are needed to prevent damage if a spring breaks.
Tools Needed for Garage Door Spring Replacement
Replacing garage door springs safely needs the right tools. These tools help you do the job properly and avoid injury or damage. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Winding bars: For safely adjusting torsion springs
- Adjustable wrench: Loosens or tightens bolts and nuts
- Vise grips or locking pliers: Hold the shaft or track in place
- Socket set: Removes and installs spring hardware easily
- Steel measuring tape: Measures spring size accurately
- Ladder: Let’s you safely reach overhead springs
- Safety glasses & gloves: Use gloves and glasses to protect your hands and eyes.
- C-clamps: Secure the door to keep it from moving
Steps on How to Change Garage Door Springs
Replacing garage door springs can be risky if you’re not careful. These springs are under high tension and require the proper steps and tools. Here’s a safe, simple guide to follow:
Step 1: Secure the Garage Door
First, unplug the garage door opener so it won’t accidentally turn on. Then, use C-clamps or locking pliers to hold the door in place on the tracks. This keeps the door from moving while you’re working, helping you stay safe during the repair.
Step 2: Release Tension from Old Springs
Torsion springs are very pressured. Use winding bars to slowly loosen the spring until all the tension is gone. If you have extension springs, gently remove them from the pulley. Take your time and be careful; this part is important for safety.
Step 3: Remove the Old Springs
Once the spring has no tension, it’s safe to remove. Unscrew the torsion spring from the middle bracket or the extension spring from the side track. Keep all the screws and parts together so you can use them again when putting in the new spring.
Step 4: Install the New Springs
Ensure your new springs are the same type and size as the old ones. Put the torsion spring on the center bracket and wind it with the bars. If you’re using extension springs, hook them back onto the pulley system like before.
Step 5: Test the Door Balance
Take off the clamps and slowly lift the garage door by hand, stopping halfway. If the door stays still, the springs are balanced. If it goes up or down, the springs need adjusting. A well-balanced door moves smoothly and doesn’t feel too heavy.
Step 6: Reconnect the Opener
Once the springs are in place and the door is balanced, plug the opener back in. Test it using the wall button or remote. Make sure it works smoothly. If not, check your setup or call a pro.
Safety Tips for Replacing Garage Door Springs
Garage door spring replacement can be risky if you’re not careful. These springs are under high tension and can cause injuries if mishandled. Follow these safety tips to stay protected during the repair.
1. Never Work Alone
Always have someone nearby when working on garage door springs. If something goes wrong, they can call for help or assist you. Garage door springs are under a lot of tension and can be dangerous, so having a second person around is safer.
2. Wear Protective Gear
Protect yourself by wearing safety glasses and work gloves. Springs can snap, or parts can fly loose while you’re working. Eye and hand protection helps prevent cuts, bruises, or worse. Don’t skip this step because it’s one of the easiest ways to stay safe.
3. Use Proper Tools
Always use the right tools, especially winding bars for torsion springs. Don’t use screwdrivers or other tools that aren’t made for this job. They can slip and cause serious injury. The proper tools give you better control and help you work more safely.
4. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines
Each garage door spring may come with specific instructions. Read the maker’s directions first and follow them carefully. This helps you avoid mistakes and keeps you safe. Taking a few minutes to read the guide can save you from damage or injury.
5. Know When to Call a Pro
If you don’t feel confident changing garage door springs, it’s best to call a professional. Springs hold a lot of pressure and can be dangerous. A trained garage door repair expert can fix the problem safely and quickly without risking damage to the door or injury to you.
Signs You Need a Garage Door Expert
Knowing when to call a garage door spring replacement professional is important for your safety. Some jobs are too risky or complicated without expert tools and experience.
1. Rusted or Broken Springs
Rust weakens springs and makes them more likely to snap. A broken spring can be dangerous and hard to remove. It’s best to call a pro who has the right tools and knows how to replace old or damaged garage door springs safely.
2. The Door Feels Too Heavy
The springs are likely worn out or broken if your garage door feels heavy. Lifting it yourself can be risky and may cause injury. A professional can fix the spring and restore the proper balance to keep the door working safely and smoothly.
3. Not Confident or Lacking Tools
Garage door springs hold a lot of pressure. If you’re unsure how to handle them or don’t have the right tools, it’s safer to call a trained expert. They know how to fix or replace springs without causing damage or injury.
4. Door Is Uneven or Off-Track
If your garage door is tilted or off-track after a spring fails, it may have more problems than just the spring. A pro can check the whole system, fix any issues, and ensure everything works the way it should.
5. First Time Doing Repairs
If this is your first time fixing a garage door, missing a step or getting hurt is easy. Garage springs are tricky and under pressure. Hiring a garage door repair pro helps you avoid mistakes and gets the job done faster and more safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you add tension to a spring?
You can add tension to a spring by turning it correctly while it’s in place. For garage doors, this means winding them tighter using special bars. Be very careful. Springs are strong and can snap. It’s best to wear safety gear.
Can I change a garage door spring myself?
Yes, but it’s risky. A garage door spring is under high tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. If you don’t have the tools or experience, contact a garage door expert from Meadows Garage Doors for safe and reliable spring replacement.
How to increase tension on a string?
To tighten a string, pull both ends or turn a knob if there is one. This works on guitars, fitness gear, or clotheslines. Always check that the string is firm and tight enough to not slip or break.
How do you increase thread tension?
You can increase thread tension on a sewing machine by turning the dial to a higher number. This makes the thread pull tighter as you sew. Try it on scrap fabric first to ensure it works well and doesn’t mess up your stitches.
How do you add tension to a rope?
To tighten a rope, pull it firmly and lock it in place with a knot, ratchet, or pulley. This helps when setting up tents, lifting, or tying items down. Always check that the rope holds tight and doesn’t come loose.
Conclusion
Replacing garage door springs takes focus, patience, and the right tools. It may look tricky, but with a step-by-step guide, it becomes easier to handle safely. If you’re wondering how to change garage door springs, always follow safety steps and never rush through the process.
A safe repair job starts with good preparation. Before starting, make sure your tools are ready, your garage door is secure, and you understand each step. If you’re unsure, it’s best to stop and get help from trusted garage door repair services.
Meadows Garage Doors cares about your safety and your home. If the job feels too risky or you’d rather leave it to a pro, contact us at 817-909-3560. We’re here to help with safe and dependable garage door repairs, done the right way every time.
End Note
If you need trusted garage door service, Meadows Garage Doors is ready to help. We offer safe, reliable spring replacements, fast repairs, and complete installations to keep your garage door running smoothly. Visit our service areas page to see where we proudly serve homes across Texas.
We handle garage door spring replacement in Trophy Club and offer professional repairs in Keller and Northlake. Our skilled team works with high-quality parts and trusted brands. Visit our gallery to view our past work and explore our partners page to see the brands we use and trust.
To learn more about who we are and what we do, visit our About page. Stay updated and connected with us through Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Read customer feedback on our Yelp page and see why many people choose our services.
Meadows Garage Doors
1741 N US Hwy 377 Suite 125, Roanoke, TX 76262, United States
+18174151175
