What Happens When Garage Door Spring Breaks

Garage door springs are essential components that allow you to open and close your garage door smoothly and effortlessly. However, like any mechanical device, springs can wear out over time or break due to various factors. When a garage door spring breaks, it can have significant consequences for the operation of your garage door and potentially pose safety hazards.

Inability to Open or Close the Door

The primary impact of a broken garage door spring is the inability to open or close the door. Springs provide the tension needed to lift the heavy garage door and counterbalance its weight. When a spring breaks, this tension is lost, making it difficult or impossible to manually lift the door. As a result, you may be unable to access your garage or secure your vehicle inside.

Safety Hazards

Broken garage door springs can pose safety hazards. When a spring breaks, it can release stored energy, causing the door to fall suddenly and unexpectedly. This can result in injury to anyone standing near the door or damage to the door itself and surrounding property. Additionally, a broken spring can cause the door to become unstable, increasing the risk of it falling or becoming jammed.

Damage to the Garage Door Opener

If the broken spring is connected to the garage door opener, it can damage the opener's motor or other components. The opener relies on the springs to provide the necessary force to lift the door, and when a spring breaks, the opener may overheat or malfunction. This can lead to costly repairs or the need to replace the entire opener.

Misalignment of the Door Tracks

Broken garage door springs can also cause the door to become misaligned with its tracks. When the springs are not providing proper tension, the door may sag or shift, making it difficult to close or open smoothly. Misaligned tracks can lead to further damage to the door, opener, and surrounding components.

Recognizing Signs of a Broken Spring

To prevent potential safety hazards and damage, it is important to recognize the signs of a broken garage door spring. Some common indicators include:

Difficulty opening or closing the door manually
Noisy or grinding sounds when operating the door
Visible gaps or misalignment between the door panels
Sagging or tilting of the door
Unusual vibrations or shaking during operation

Seeking Professional Assistance

If you suspect that your garage door spring may be broken, it is highly recommended to seek professional assistance immediately. Attempting to repair a broken spring on your own can be extremely dangerous due to the high tension involved. Qualified technicians have the necessary tools and expertise to safely replace or repair broken springs and ensure the proper functioning of your garage door.