How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?

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June 19, 2023
5:22 am

Garage doors, an integral part of our homes, are often taken for granted. But there’s an incredible amount of science and technology behind their operation. A crucial element is the garage door spring.

In this comprehensive guide by Garage Doors Repair Dallas, we delve into the inner workings of garage door springs, revealing their complexity and significance.

The Two Main Types of Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs come in two primary types: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs: Mounted above the door, torsion springs operate based on torsion or twisting. As the garage door closes, the springs wind up and accumulate mechanical energy. Upon lifting the door, the springs unwind, utilizing the stored energy to raise the door.

Extension Springs: These springs, situated either above the horizontal tracks or on the garage door sides, operate by expanding and contracting in response to the door’s movement. When the door lowers, the springs contract and store energy. As the door is lifted, they extend, releasing the stored energy to aid in lifting.

Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs – A Comparative Insight

This table provides a clear, concise comparison between torsion and extension springs, aiding homeowners in making informed decisions regarding their garage door’s mechanics.

Criteria	Torsion Springs	Extension Springs
Position	Mounted above the door	Sides of the door or above tracks
Operating Principle	Twisting (torsion)	Expansion and contraction
Energy Storage	Wind up when door closes	Contract when door closes
Energy Release	Unwind to lift the door open	Extend to lift the door open
Durability	High - lasts longer	Lower than torsion springs
Balance	Provides smoother, balanced operation	Risk of unbalanced door operation
Cost	Generally more expensive	Less expensive
Installation Complexity	Usually requires professional installation	Easier to install

The Working of Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs play a vital role in counterbalancing gravity. They bear the hefty weight of the garage door, which can scale up to hundreds of pounds, making it feel feather-light when operated manually or by an automatic opener.

As the door closes, the springs are under tension, storing potential energy. When the door is raised, the stored energy converts into kinetic energy, used to lift the door. This process is facilitated by the winding and unwinding of the springs, be it torsion or extension springs.

The Lifespan of Garage Door Springs

With regular use and proper maintenance, garage door springs can have a lifespan between 7 to 9 years. However, excessive usage or lack of maintenance can significantly reduce this timeframe.

In terms of usage, one cycle is defined as the garage door moving from open to close and back again. Standard springs are usually rated for 10,000 cycles. To put it in perspective, if you use your garage door four times a day, you would reach approximately 10,000 cycles in seven years.

Safety Concerns with Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs hold high tension, making them potentially dangerous if mishandled. A broken spring can cause injuries or property damage. Hence, it’s always advised to let professionals handle their maintenance or replacement.

Signs of wear such as loosening or irregular door movement should not be ignored. An annual safety check can greatly aid in ensuring a safe operation of your garage door.

Choosing the Right Springs for Your Garage Door

Selecting the right springs for your garage door is crucial. Factors such as the door’s weight and height, the track’s radius, and the cable drum’s size should be considered. These elements determine the spring’s wire size, length, and diameter. Here is a guide for you:

Factors	Description
Door's Weight	Heavier doors need stronger springs to counterbalance the weight.
Door's Height	Taller doors often require longer springs for proper operation.
Track's Radius	The curvature of the track can affect the type and size of spring needed.
Cable Drum's Size	Larger drums generally require larger and stronger springs.
Spring's Wire Size	The weight and height of the door often dictate the wire size of the spring.
Spring's Length and Diameter	These dimensions must be matched correctly to the door's specifications for efficient operation.

Trust Garage Doors Repair Dallas to Take Care Of Your Springs

As a homeowner, understanding your garage door’s operation can empower you. It enables you to make well-informed decisions about the health and maintenance of your garage door system.

At Garage Doors Repair Dallas, we champion this empowerment through knowledge. We believe that an informed customer is a confident customer.

Whether it’s a concern, a repair need, routine maintenance, or you simply seek professional advice, Garage Doors Repair Dallas is ready to serve. We are renowned in Dallas, TX, for our exceptional service and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction. Our skilled team provides quick, reliable service and is just a call away whenever you need us.

With Garage Doors Repair Dallas, you can have peace of mind knowing that your garage door is in competent, caring hands. Trust us to keep your garage door performing safely and efficiently for years to come.