How to Know If You Need Garage Door Spring Repair in Denton
You might need garage door spring repair if your door won’t open smoothly, hangs unevenly, or you hear loud bangs coming from the spring. These are just a few signs your garage door system could be compromised. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to complete door failure, property damage, or even injury. Read on to learn how to identify spring issues, what to do about them, and when to call the pros in Denton.
What Do Garage Door Springs Do?
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your overhead garage door system. While the motor gets much of the credit for opening and closing your door, it’s actually the springs that do most of the heavy lifting—literally.
There are two primary types of springs used in garage doors:
- Torsion springs: Located above the garage door opening, these springs twist to provide the torque needed to lift and lower the door.
- Extension springs: Found on either side of the door, these stretch and contract to support door movement.
Springs counterbalance the weight of the door, making it feel much lighter than it actually is. Without functioning springs, a garage door can weigh several hundred pounds—and trying to lift it manually or operate it with a broken spring can be dangerous.
Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Failing
Recognizing early warning signs can prevent further damage or potential accidents. Here are some of the most common symptoms that indicate failing or broken garage door springs.
Door Opens Unevenly
If your garage door appears to rise more on one side than the other or struggles to stay level, it could be due to a failing spring—especially in systems that use extension springs on each side of the door.
An uneven door can lead to added strain on your opener and may eventually cause the door to get stuck, making it unusable until repaired.
Loud Noise from the Garage
One of the more dramatic signs of a broken garage door spring is a loud, unexpected bang—often described as sounding like a firecracker or a gunshot. This occurs when a spring suddenly snaps under tension.
If you hear a noise like this and later discover your garage door is not working, chances are high that one of the springs has broken.
Door Feels Heavier Than Usual
Have you tried opening your garage door manually and noticed it feels significantly heavier than before? This is a red flag that one or both springs have lost their tension or failed completely.
Springs are designed to carry the door’s weight. If they aren’t functioning, the full weight transfers to you—or the motor—when the door is in motion. This not only risks injury but also can damage the opener motor.
Can I Still Use My Garage Door with a Broken Spring?
Technically, you might be able to force the door open with a broken spring, but you absolutely shouldn’t.
Here’s why:
- It’s dangerous. The door could slam shut unexpectedly or fall off track.
- It could cause more damage. Operating the door without spring support puts excessive stress on the opener and the door’s frame.
- It voids warranties. Many manufacturers specify that operating the door with damaged springs voids any product warranties.
If one spring breaks, it’s recommended to replace both—even if the other one still seems functional. Springs typically wear at the same rate, and replacing them as a pair ensures consistent tension and safe operation.
How Long Garage Door Springs Last in Texas
On average, garage door springs are rated for about 10,000 cycles—one cycle being one complete opening and closing. Depending on your household’s usage, this usually translates to 7–10 years.
However, living in Texas can affect spring lifespan due to:
- Temperature swings: Extreme heat in summer and occasional winter freezes can weaken metal over time.
- Humidity and corrosion: Springs may rust or corrode faster in humid environments, especially if your garage isn’t climate-controlled.
- Usage frequency: Families that use their garage doors multiple times a day may burn through those 10,000 cycles more quickly.
Pro tip: If you’re in Denton and can’t remember the last time your springs were replaced—and your door is 7+ years old—it’s a good idea to have them inspected.
When to Call a Professional in Denton
If you suspect your garage door spring is failing, do not attempt a DIY repair unless you’re highly experienced with garage door mechanics. Springs are under enormous tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled.
Here’s when to call a professional:
- You heard a loud snap or bang, and the door no longer operates.
- The door is crooked, sluggish, or doesn’t stay open.
- Your opener strains or fails to lift the door.
- You see visible gaps in the torsion spring.
- The door feels unusually heavy to lift.
A reputable garage door repair company will:
- Diagnose the problem safely and accurately.
- Replace both springs (if needed) for balanced operation.
- Check alignment, cables, rollers, and opener system.
- Test the door’s balance and safety after installation.
FAQ
How much does garage door spring repair cost in Denton?
In Denton, garage door spring repair typically ranges from $150 to $350, depending on the type of spring, door size, and labor costs. Torsion spring replacements are generally more expensive than extension springs due to their complexity.
Keep in mind that professional repairs often include warranties on both parts and labor, something you don’t get with a DIY approach.
How long does a repair take?
Most garage door spring repairs can be completed in 1 to 2 hours, depending on the door type and the technician’s availability. In emergency cases, same-day service is often available in Denton from local experts like Denton Overhead Door & Garage Door Repair.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
Technically, yes—but it’s not recommended unless you have professional-level expertise and the proper tools. The risks include:
- Severe injury from spring recoil.
- Improper installation leading to misbalanced doors.
- Damage to the opener or door panels.
- Voiding your warranty or insurance claim.
Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous. It’s best to leave this job to trained professionals.
Trust Denton Overhead Door & Garage Door Repair
When it comes to garage door spring repair in Denton, don’t take chances with your safety or your home’s most frequently used entrance.
Denton Overhead Door & Garage Door Repair has been serving Denton County homeowners and businesses for over 35 years. Whether it’s a broken spring, a malfunctioning opener, or a full door installation, our experienced team has seen—and fixed—it all.
Why Choose Us?
- Same-day service available
- Honest, affordable pricing
- Experts in all door types and brands
- Highly rated local professionals
- Free estimates and consultations
Let us restore your garage door to perfect working condition—safely, quickly, and affordably.
Call Denton Overhead Door & Garage Door Repair Today
Don’t wait until a broken spring becomes a bigger problem. If your garage door is showing signs of spring failure or you simply want peace of mind, call us today.
Categorised in: Garage Doors