5 Pro Tips When Replacing Garage Door Extension Springs - And Why You Should Consider Calling a Professional!
Pro Tip #1: Prioritize Safety Above All
Extension springs store tremendous energy and can cause serious injury if they snap or release unexpectedly. Always use safety cables threaded through the springs to contain them if they break. Wear proper protective equipment including heavy gloves, safety glasses, and a hard hat. Never position your body in the "line of fire" where a spring could hit you if it releases suddenly.
Pro Tip #2: Secure the Door Before Beginning
Before attempting to replace extension springs, the garage door must be completely secured in the closed position. Use locking pliers or C-clamps on the tracks just above the bottom rollers to prevent any door movement. Disconnect the opener by pulling the emergency release cord. This immobilization is crucial as unexpected door movement during spring replacement can be extremely dangerous.
Pro Tip #3: Replace Springs in Pairs
Even if only one spring is broken, always replace both extension springs simultaneously. Springs wear at similar rates, and a new spring paired with an old one will create imbalance, causing uneven lifting and premature failure of the newer spring.
Pro Tip #4: Measure and Purchase the Correct Springs
Extension springs must be precisely matched to your door's weight and dimensions. Measure the old springs carefully, noting:
- Spring length when relaxed (not stretched)
- Wire diameter
- Inside diameter
- Weight rating (usually color-coded)
Pro Tip #5: Test Balance and Tension Carefully
After installation, the door should stay in place when manually raised halfway and released. If it rises or falls, the spring tension needs adjustment. Check that the door moves smoothly throughout its entire travel path without binding or excessive effort.
Why You Should Call a Professional
Despite these (great!) tips, garage door spring replacement is one of the most dangerous DIY projects a homeowner can attempt. Consider these compelling reasons to hire a professional:
- Safety Risk: Serious injuries and even fatalities occur during DIY spring replacements. Professionals have specialized tools and training to handle springs safely.
- Technical Expertise: Proper spring selection and installation requires technical knowledge that most homeowners don’t possess.
- Warranty Protection: Professional installation typically includes warranties on both parts and labor.
- Comprehensive Service: Professionals will inspect the entire door system, potentially identifying other issues before they become major problems.
- Time and Stress: What might take a professional 30-60 minutes could take an inexperienced homeowner several frustrating and potentially dangerous hours.
The relatively modest cost of professional installation is well worth the significant reduction in risk and the assurance of proper function.
- Safety Risk
- Technical Expertise
- Warranty Protection
- Comprehensive Service
- Time and Stress