When your garage door spring breaks, the whole system becomes compromised. Most homeowners don’t realize how much work the spring actually does until it stops working. It’s not just a matter of inconvenience. It’s a real safety concern. Attempting to open a garage door with a broken spring can lead to serious injuries or further damage to the door itself. And if your car is stuck inside or you’re in a rush, it’s tempting to force it open. But doing so can turn a minor repair into a major, expensive issue. Whether you’re in the suburbs or need help with your garage door near Warrenton, VA, it’s important to understand what you’re dealing with and how to respond safely.
Garage doors can weigh anywhere from 150 to 400 pounds. The springs, whether torsion or extension, are responsible for counterbalancing that weight, making it easy to lift either manually or with an opener. When one of those springs snaps, the weight is no longer supported, and the consequences can be serious.
What Does a Garage Door Spring Do?
Garage door springs are essential components in the lifting mechanism. Their job is to offset the weight of the door, making it easier for you or your opener to raise and lower it. Torsion springs are mounted above the door and wind tightly as the door closes, storing energy to help lift it again. Extension springs run along the tracks and stretch to support movement. Without a functioning spring, the door relies solely on brute force to move, putting unnecessary strain on other parts and posing safety risks.
Signs of a Broken Spring
One clear sign is a loud bang from your garage similar to a firecracker. Other signs include the garage door not opening at all, struggling to lift even a few inches, or rising unevenly. You might also notice a visible gap in the spring or the cables hanging loosely. If you notice any of these issues, stop using the door immediately and call a professional. Continuing to use the opener or trying to force the door open can make things worse.
Can You Open the Door with a Broken Spring?
Technically, yes but it’s not advised. Without the spring’s counterbalance, lifting the door is extremely difficult and potentially dangerous. Attempting to open it manually can cause serious strain on your back or injuries if the door suddenly drops. If you use the opener, you risk burning out the motor or damaging the entire system. The springs are designed to make lifting safe and manageable. When they fail, that safety is gone.
Potential Damage to the Garage Door System
Trying to operate a door with a broken spring can affect multiple components. The opener, cables, and rollers all face extra strain. The door panels may even bend under the pressure, especially if the opener forces the door up unevenly. These repairs go beyond simply replacing a spring. They can involve full panel replacements or major system overhauls, driving up costs quickly.
The Safety Hazards You Shouldn’t Ignore
Garage doors are heavy and unpredictable when their balance is off. If a spring is broken and the door falls on someone underneath, the results can be catastrophic. Fingers can get caught in tracks, and the door can slam shut with full force. Children and pets are especially at risk. That’s why most professional technicians strongly advise against DIY fixes or forced openings when a spring is broken.
Why You Need Professional Help
Repairing or replacing garage door springs is not a DIY project. The tension stored in these springs can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. Certified technicians have the right tools and training to remove broken springs, install new ones, and adjust the balance correctly. They’ll also inspect the rest of the system to make sure no secondary damage occurred. In the long run, hiring a professional can save you money and time and prevent injury.
Preventive Measures to Avoid Spring Failure
Regular maintenance is key. Have your garage door inspected annually, and keep an eye out for signs of wear, like rust, stretching, or noisy operation. Lubricating the springs and hardware can also help extend their life. If your garage door is more than 10 years old, consider having the springs evaluated even if they seem to be working fine. Catching potential problems early can prevent the door from becoming a hazard.
If your garage door isn’t working as it should and you suspect a spring has failed, stop using it immediately. For homeowners dealing with a garage door near Warrenton, VA, the safest step forward is calling an experienced technician. Crews Garage Door Company offers reliable spring repair services with a focus on safety and long-term performance. Don’t risk injury or further damage. Get expert help when it matters most.
