Garage doors, like all moving parts, will fail to work over time.
Even with proper maintenance, the springs of garage roller doors are expected to last as long as seven years.
Yet without adequate care, a breakdown will occur sooner rather than later. You will hear it snap when you least expect it to happen.
If your first instinct is to fix the problem yourself, you must be a confident do-it-yourselfer.
But be warned – this is no ordinary DIY job.
Before you attempt to repair or replace the troublesome springs of your garage door, here are a few things you need to know.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Any well-experienced handyman will tell you to check your garage door spring once in a while.
Whether you have an automatic or a mechanical garage door, there are two common types of springs you will encounter: torsion or extension.
Though both are durable, over time, they will surrender to fatigue – brought by frequent use.
Attention: If your garage door has torsion springs, you are better off calling a professional for help.
Due to high amount of tension, improper handling of torsion spring can cause injuries.
Learn from many cautionary tales shared online by both DIY-ers and pros. Some of them might have survived the dangerous DIY attempt, yet truth be told, not everyone is cut out for this work (e.g. torsion spring repair or replacement).
However, if you have extension springs, some specialists believe you can safely and successfully fix the issue on your own, provided that you possess adequate:
- Tools and Materials
When was the last time you used your supplies to fix things around your house?
Have you had a trip to the hardware store lately?
It is time to review what your repair toolbox contains.
Prepare your vise grips, wrenches, winding bars, steel rod, strong ladder, ruler, tape measure, shims, rag, and file.
You likely need more depending on the complexity of the repair or replacement work that needs to be done.
Most homeowners commit to learn how to fix common repair jobs around and outside their house.
Have you considered gathering these tools for times like this?
- Mechanical Skills
How handy are you?
Some homeowners are interested in fixing things around their house.
Call them an inborn handyman or a talented mechanic, they understand manufacturer’s instructions and follow them thoroughly.
Some may have a background or training in general carpentry.
Successful do-it-yourselfers are also known for their accurate measurement and sensible estimates.
If you have trouble doing basic repair works at home, then you are probably not ready to tackle this challenging DIY job.
As stated earlier, if your garage door has extension springs, the danger of getting their proper tension is lesser than in torsion springs. But this is not an absolute guide.
You have to know how your garage door works to be able to precisely detect its problem.
Whenever in doubt, you can always call a pro – best if you still have the contact details of the installer or supplier of your garage door.
If not, seek the help of a reputable garage door specialist who can do the job in a thorough, safe, and speedy manner.
Find Out If DESIGN BUILD PLANNERS Is Right For You click here →