Adjusting garage door springs might not be what you’d call a glamorous activity, but it’s essential for keeping your door moving smoothly. When your garage door starts acting like it’s auditioning for a horror movie—slamming shut, creaking, or refusing to open—you’ve got spring issues. It’s a balancing act, but if you get it right, you’ll extend the life of your garage door and keep things rolling as they should.
Types of Garage Door Springs
You’ve got two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Each operates a little differently, so you’ll need to know which you’re dealing with.
- Torsion Springs: Found above the door, torsion springs wind and unwind to lift and lower the door. These springs are tougher to handle but last longer. They’re all about precision, and if they’re out of whack, your door might rise crookedly or fall like a stone.
- Extension Springs: Located along the sides of the door, extension springs extend to open and retract to close. These guys are simpler but more prone to snapping.
Safety First: A Must Before You Start
Before you even think about touching those springs, take a few precautions:
- Disconnect the power to the garage door opener. You don’t want the door moving on you while you’re working.
- Secure the door in an open position using locking pliers or a C-clamp on the tracks. This will keep the door from unexpectedly closing.
- Wear safety gear. At least put on some gloves and goggles. You’ll be dealing with springs under tension, and if things go south, you don’t want a face full of metal.
Tools You’ll Need
Here’s the basic toolkit for this job:
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- A sturdy ladder
- Vice grips
- Wrenches or sockets (depending on your spring type)
- Safety goggles and gloves
How to Adjust Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are tricky, but with some care, you can adjust them without calling in the cavalry. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Before starting, determine if the issue is tension-related. If the garage door won’t stay open halfway, or it feels heavy when you try lifting it manually, then your torsion springs need adjustment.
Step 2: Release Tension
Insert the winding bar into one of the winding cone holes and slowly turn the spring to release tension. Move it in small quarter-turn increments, then use the other bar to lock it in place.
Step 3: Adjust the Tension
Adjust the tension by winding the spring in the direction necessary to increase or decrease it. Make slight changes and test the door’s movement after each adjustment.
Step 4: Test the Door Balance
Raise the door halfway and let go. If it stays in place, you’re golden. If not, more adjustments are needed.
Adjusting Extension Springs
Adjusting extension springs is a bit simpler but still requires precision.
- Release Tension: Open the garage door fully to release the spring tension.
- Adjust the Clips: Use pliers to move the S-hooks to a different hole on the track hangers to increase or decrease tension.
- Balance the Springs: Make sure both sides have the same tension to keep the door moving evenly.
- Test and Fine-Tune: Raise and lower the door to check the balance. Make minor adjustments if necessary.
Common Signs Your Springs Need Adjustment
Not sure if your springs need a little TLC? Here are the signs:
- The door won’t stay open or falls shut quickly.
- Uneven movement or jerking during operation.
- Squeaking or grinding noises when the door moves.
- Opener struggles or strains to lift the door.
Garage Door Spring Adjustment
Problem | Likely Cause | Type of Spring | Solution |
---|---|---|---|
Door slams shut | Low tension | Torsion/Extension | Increase tension by adjusting winding or S-hooks |
Door won’t stay halfway | High or low tension | Torsion/Extension | Adjust tension; ensure door balances when raised |
Door opens unevenly | One spring tighter than the other | Torsion | Balance both springs to even out the tension |
Squeaking during operation | Worn or dry springs | Torsion/Extension | Lubricate springs; if noise persists, inspect for damage |
Door is too heavy to lift manually | Tension too low or spring is broken | Torsion | Increase tension; if still too heavy, spring may need replacement |
In-Depth Questions
What happens if I over-tighten garage door springs?
Over-tightening garage door springs is a recipe for disaster. If the tension is too high, the door may struggle to close properly, slam shut with too much force, or even warp. It can also cause the springs to wear out faster, leading to a potential breakage. When adjusting tension, go slowly and test the door after each small change to avoid overdoing it.
Should I adjust garage door springs myself or call a professional?
While some DIY-savvy homeowners can handle spring adjustments, it’s risky business. If you’re not sure what you’re doing, a mistake could cause the spring to snap, resulting in injury or damage. If you’re dealing with torsion springs, calling a professional like 305 Garage Doors is advisable due to the potential dangers involved.
How do I know if my garage door springs are about to fail?
Springs usually give you some hints before they fail:
- Rust or corrosion on the springs.
- Visible gaps in the coil.
- Loud noises during operation, such as bangs or squeals. If you notice any of these signs, consider replacing the springs rather than just adjusting them.
How often should I maintain garage door springs?
Garage door springs require maintenance at least once a year. This includes lubricating the springs to reduce friction and inspecting them for signs of wear. Regular maintenance will extend the lifespan of your springs and reduce the risk of sudden failure.
Conclusion
Adjusting garage door springs isn’t something you should take lightly. Whether you’re dealing with torsion or extension springs, understanding how to tweak the tension can make all the difference. Regular maintenance, small adjustments, and knowing when to call a professional can prevent accidents and keep your door running smoothly.
If your garage door is acting up, reach out to 305 Garage Doors for expert help. We’ve seen it all and can get your door back on track. Don’t let a misbehaving garage door ruin your day—get it sorted before it becomes a bigger problem.