Unexpectedly, your garage door crashes down while you’re attempting to open it. What could have possibly gone wrong? The springs that counterbalance the door’s weight are likely the culprits. You discover dangerous gaps between the coils, indicating that the springs have become loose and are incapable of supporting the door’s weight. Fear not! This article will guide you through the process of tightening those springs and restoring your garage door to its former glory.
First and foremost, safety is paramount. Engage the door’s manual release mechanism to disconnect it from the opener. This will prevent the door from moving unexpectedly while you work. To access the springs, locate the adjustment bolts situated at the ends of the torsion springs or the tension bolts on extension springs. These bolts allow you to adjust the tension of the springs, thereby controlling the force they exert on the door. Using a wrench or socket set, carefully turn the bolts clockwise to tighten the springs, incrementally increasing the tension.
After each adjustment, manually raise and lower the door a few inches to assess the progress. The goal is to achieve a balance where the door effortlessly raises and lowers without excessive force. If the door remains heavy to lift or closes too quickly, the springs may require further tightening. Conversely, if the door opens or closes too easily, the springs may need to be loosened. Exercise caution and make gradual adjustments until the desired balance is obtained. Remember, tightening the springs can be physically demanding, so don’t hesitate to seek assistance if needed. Safety should always be your top priority when handling garage door components.
How To Tighten Spring If Garage Falls When Raised
If your garage door falls when raised, it is likely that the springs have become weak or broken. You can tighten the springs yourself, but it is important to take safety precautions and follow the instructions carefully.
To tighten the springs, you will need a ladder, a pair of pliers, and a winding bar. First, place the ladder against the door and climb to the top. Locate the springs, which are typically located on either side of the door. The springs are attached to the door with a series of bolts. Using the pliers, loosen the bolts on one side of the spring. Then, use the winding bar to turn the spring clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten the spring, as this can damage it.
Once you have tightened the spring on one side, repeat the process on the other side. When the springs are tight, tighten the bolts on both sides. Finally, lower the door and test it to make sure it is working properly.
If you are not comfortable tightening the springs yourself, you can call a professional garage door repairman to do the job for you.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my garage door springs are broken?
There are a few signs that your garage door springs may be broken, including:
- The door is difficult to open or close.
- The door falls when raised.
- The springs are rusty or corroded.
- You hear a loud bang when the door is opened or closed.
How much does it cost to replace garage door springs?
The cost to replace garage door springs varies depending on the type of springs and the size of the door. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for the parts and labor.
Can I tighten garage door springs myself?
Yes, you can tighten garage door springs yourself, but it is important to take safety precautions and follow the instructions carefully.
