A broken garage door spring can be a big hassle, stopping your garage door from opening or closing properly. If you’re dealing with this issue, you’re probably wondering how to fix a garage door spring and how much it will cost. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about garage door spring repair.
How to Tell If Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken
Garage door springs handle a lot of tension, so when they break, it’s usually pretty obvious. Here are some signs that your garage door spring needs fixing:
- The garage door won’t open or only opens a few inches.
- You hear a loud bang in the garage (this is the spring snapping).
- The door closes too fast or slams shut.
- The garage door looks uneven when opening.
- You see a visible gap in the torsion spring.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.
Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
While some DIY repairs are simple, fixing a garage door spring is NOT one of them. These springs are under high tension and can be dangerous if handled improperly. That’s why it’s best to call a professional. Trying to do it yourself could result in injury or damage to your garage door system.
Risks of DIY Garage Door Spring Repairs
Many homeowners consider DIY repairs to save money, but attempting to fix a garage door spring yourself comes with serious risks, including:
- Severe injury – The high tension in the spring can cause serious harm if it snaps unexpectedly.
- Further damage – Incorrect installation could damage the garage door or opener.
- Voided warranties – Many garage door manufacturers void warranties if a professional doesn’t handle the repairs.
Given these risks, hiring a trained technician is always the safer choice.
Cost to Fix Garage Door Spring
The cost to fix a garage door spring depends on several factors, including the type of spring and the labor involved. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Torsion springs: $150–$ 500 (including parts and labor)
Extension springs: $100–$350 (including parts and labor)
Factors That Affect the Cost
Several factors can impact the final price of your repair, such as:
- Type of spring – Torsion springs tend to be more expensive than extension springs.
- Number of springs replaced – If both springs need replacement, the cost will be higher.
- Labor costs – Rates vary depending on location and the expertise of the technician.
- Garage door size and weight – Heavier doors require stronger, more expensive springs.
Prices may vary based on your location and the company you choose. If both springs need replacing, expect the cost to be slightly higher.
How Long Does a Garage Door Spring Fix Take?
A professional can usually fix a garage door spring in 1–2 hours. They will:
- Inspect the door and diagnose the problem.
- Remove the broken spring safely.
- Install the new spring and adjust tension.
- Test the garage door for proper balance and movement.
Preventing Future Garage Door Spring Breaks
To extend the life of your garage door springs, follow these maintenance tips:
- Lubricate the springs regularly to reduce wear.
- Avoid opening and closing the garage door excessively.
- Check spring balance by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door.
Schedule professional maintenance once a year.
When to Replace Garage Door Springs
Even with proper maintenance, garage door springs wear out over time. Most springs last between 7 to 10 years or around 10,000 cycles (each cycle is one open and close of the garage door). If your springs are nearing the end of their lifespan, it’s a good idea to replace them before they break unexpectedly.
Signs of Wear and Tear
- The springs look stretched out or have gaps.
- The garage door moves more slowly or unevenly.
- The door makes creaking or grinding noises.
Choosing the Right Professional for Garage Door Spring Fix
When selecting a garage door repair company, keep these tips in mind:
- Look for experience – Choose a company with a solid track record in garage door repairs.
- Check reviews – Online customer reviews can help you gauge the company’s reliability.
- Ask about warranties – A reputable company should offer warranties on parts and labor.
Get a quote upfront – Avoid hidden fees by requesting a detailed cost estimate before work begins.
Can You Fix a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
While some homeowners attempt DIY garage door spring repairs, it’s not recommended. Garage door springs are under high tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or damage to the door mechanism. Professional technicians have the right tools and experience to safely and efficiently replace the spring.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Spring on a Garage Door?
The cost to replace a garage door spring varies based on the type of spring and labor costs. On average:
Torsion springs cost between $150–$350, including parts and labor.
Extension springs cost between $100–$200, including parts and labor.
Other factors that affect cost include the door’s weight, the number of springs that need replacement, and the complexity of the repair.
How to Raise a Garage Door with a Broken Spring?
If a garage door spring breaks, opening the door can be difficult and unsafe. However, if necessary, you can try the following steps:
Disconnect the opener – Pull the emergency release cord to disengage the automatic opener.
Lift with assistance – Garage doors are heavy; get help from another person to lift the door evenly.
Use vice grips – Once open, clamp vice grips onto the track to hold the door in place.
Do not force the door – If it won’t open easily, stop and call a professional.
Since manually lifting a door with a broken spring can be hazardous, it’s best to call an expert for assistance.
Is It Safe to Replace Your Own Garage Door Spring?
No, replacing a garage door spring is not safe for most homeowners. The high tension in the springs can cause severe injury if they snap or are installed incorrectly. A professional technician has the expertise to handle the replacement safely, ensuring the door is properly balanced and functions correctly.
Need Help? Call the Experts!
If your garage door spring is broken, don’t risk injury trying to fix it yourself. Let the professionals at OHD Puget Sound handle it safely and efficiently. We offer expert garage door spring repair at competitive prices. Call us today at (253) 400-3880 to schedule your repair!
