How Does a Garage Door Spring Work?

Torsion springs were used in catapults during the medieval period. They are now used in different mechanisms, like garage doors. Torsion springs are usually placed horizontally above the door on bars near the garage opening. Let’s discuss how it works:

Garage Door Spring Mechanism

Garage door springs are components that facilitate the smooth operation of garage doors by counterbalancing their weight. There are two primary types of garage door springs, namely torsion and extension springs. Here is how they operate:

• Torsion Springs
  Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door and tightly coiled around a metal shaft. When the door closes, these springs wind up, storing energy. As the door opens, the stored energy is released when the spring unwinds, lifting the door and making it easier to open and close. Torsion springs are known for their durability and smooth operation, lasting up to 20,000 cycles or more, depending on how often they’re used.
• Extension Springs
  Extension springs are placed on either side of the garage door, running parallel to the tracks. They store energy by stretching when the door closes and contracting when the door opens. As the door closes, the springs stretch to their maximum length, storing energy. This energy is released when the springs contract as the door opens, helping to lift the door. It’s important to have the correct tension in these springs; too much tension can make the door open too quickly, while too little can make it hard to open or close.
• Main Principles
  Both torsion and extension springs work based on Hooke’s Law, which states that the force a spring exerts is related to how much it stretches or compresses. Garage door springs store energy when the door is closed and release it when the door opens. This makes lifting the door easier and helps the door move smoothly.

What to Do If Your Garage Door Spring Stops Working?

If your garage door spring stops working, follow these steps:

Safety First

• Disconnect the garage door opener to avoid accidental operation while working on the spring.
• Use locking pliers or a C-clamp to hold the door in place, either open or closed, for safety.

Removing the Broken Spring

• Use a winding bar to loosen the screws on the broken spring, keeping a firm grip to prevent it from unwinding too fast.
• Slowly unwind the spring using a winding bar, making sure the tension is fully released.
• Once there is no tension, carefully remove the broken spring from its brackets.

Inspect and Prepare for Replacement

• Look for any damage on the brackets or other parts that may need fixing during replacement.
• Measure the length and inside diameter of the old spring to ensure you buy the right replacement.

Install the New Spring

• Place the new spring on the torsion tube, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Use a winding bar to wind the new spring to the correct tension, then secure it with screws or other fasteners.
• If necessary, stretch the spring by about 1/4 inch to make sure it aligns properly.
• After installation, lift the door manually to check if it stays in place when partially open, confirming the spring is properly installed.

Ending Note

It’s handy to know the physics behind “How does a garage door spring work?” However, if it starts malfunctioning, it’s better not to try repairing or replacing it at home.

Contact our certified garage door specialists at Garage Door Service Master. Dial any of the following for a consultation.

(832) 391-8827 (W Loop S)
(832) 838-9090 (Briarhills PKWY)
(281) 733-2300 (Jersey Village)