Top Reason Why Garage Door Springs Break
Garage door torsion spring failure is one of the most common problems homeowners face when it comes to overhead door maintenance. Your door's torsion spring is responsible for supporting the entire weight of the door as it opens and closes. That can mean several hundred pounds of pressure on some door models. Keeping your springs well-maintained will help keep them in great shape for years, but neglecting them will create problems that eventually need to spring replacement.
Some of the major reasons why garage door springs break include:
- Wear and Tear—Torsion springs are not designed to last forever. Even the strongest and most flexible steel spring will eventually warp and deform. Typically, a residential garage door spring is rated for about ten thousand individual opening and closing cycles. Industrial and commercial springs can withstand up to four times as many cycles at nearly double the price, providing value to property owners who choose to invest in high-quality springs.
- Bad Maintenance—A properly balanced and well-maintained garage door will last for years beyond your expectations. Improper maintenance, however, may cause more harm than good. Have a qualified garage door company check your door at least once a year, preferably during the winter when springs most often fail. A professional maintenance call should include lubrication of the springs, chain, and motor assembly as well as a check for door balance.
- Rust—Rust can break even the toughest and most flexible garage door springs. It weakens the core of the steel coil while increasing friction, eventually snapping the spring in half. A proper maintenance routine for reducing rust buildup should include spraying the coil with WD-40 at least four times a year. This lubricant will prevent rust from building up and keep the spring working smoothly.
If you're looking for a professional garage door contractor, contact the experts at Town & Country Door today!