Ever wondered why your garage door spring suddenly snapped? Knowing the reasons can save you from future hassles. This article will guide you through the common causes of garage door spring failure, including issues with garage door springs, and how you can prevent it.
You’ll learn about the impact of wear and tear, environmental factors, and more, ensuring your springs remain robust for years. So, let’s get to it!
Causes of Garage Door Spring Breakage
Garage door springs are under constant tension, and over time, they can fail. Let’s explore the primary reasons why this happens.
Excessive Tension
When garage door spring breaks, it often results from excessive tension. This tension balances the door’s weight, allowing it to open and close smoothly. However, if the springs are overly tight, they face immense pressure.
Such over-tightening can lead to premature failure. Ensuring proper adjustment of the springs is crucial for their longevity, as it prevents them from stretching or contracting excessively, thereby reducing the risk of a sudden break.
Worn-out Springs
Springs have a lifecycle and can handle a set number of cycles before they wear out. Each time you open and close your garage door, it counts as a cycle.
High-quality springs last longer, but they all eventually lose their strength and break. Regular inspections can spot wear and tear early, allowing for timely replacements.
Corrosion
Corrosion weakens springs by eating away at the metal. This degradation can result from exposure to moisture and chemicals.
In areas with high humidity or where road salts are prevalent, springs may corrode faster. Applying a protective lubricant regularly can slow down the corrosion process.
Sudden Impact or Force
A sudden force, such as an object striking the garage door, can cause immediate spring breakage.
This impact can occur from vehicles hitting the door or even from severe weather conditions like strong winds or hail. Ensuring the door’s path is clear and securing it during bad weather can prevent such incidents.
Improper Installation
Incorrect installation can lead to premature spring failure. If the springs are not fitted correctly, they may bear uneven loads, leading to stress and eventual breakage.
It’s crucial to have a professional install your garage door springs to ensure they are set up correctly.
Temperature Changes
Extreme temperature fluctuations can affect the durability of garage door springs. Cold weather, in particular, can make the metal brittle and more susceptible to breaking.
Insulating your garage and installing temperature-resistant springs can mitigate these effects.
Improper Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance can lead to spring failure. Components like springs, cables, and pulleys need periodic checks and lubrication to function correctly.
A lack of maintenance can cause these parts to wear out faster and break.
Safety Precautions
To prevent accidents and ensure the longevity of your garage door springs, adhere to safety precautions. Regularly inspect your garage door system, replace old springs proactively, and consult with professionals for maintenance and repairs.
Safety cables can also be installed to contain a spring if it breaks, preventing it from causing damage or injury.
Conclusion
Understanding what causes a garage door spring to break is crucial for preventing future failures and ensuring the safety of your home. Regular maintenance, proper installation, and being mindful of environmental factors can extend the life of your garage door springs.
By taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your garage door against unexpected breakdowns and ensure its smooth operation for years to come.
