When To Replace Your Garage Door Springs: Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
If you're like most homeowners, you don't give much thought to your garage door springs — until they malfunction, that is. Over time, however, wear and tear can take its toll, leading to potential failure. The last thing you want is to find out your springs are faulty when you're already late for an important meeting or during harsh weather. So, knowing when to replace these essential components is key to maintaining a safe and functional garage environment. Following are five warning signs that you shouldn't ignore:
Unusual Sounds Can Be Alarming
If you start hearing loud, snapping noises, or grinding sounds when your garage door moves, it's a good chance that the springs are in trouble. A healthy garage door operation is relatively quiet; the springs should be doing their job without much fanfare. Sounds can indicate that the springs are struggling to manage the door's weight, and this should not be ignored.
Inconsistent Movement Should Raise Concerns
Your garage door should move up and down smoothly. If it's not, particularly if you notice jerky movements or the door appears to be struggling, take it as a sign that the springs may be wearing out. Inconsistent or halting movement can put added stress on your garage door opener and other mechanical parts, leading to more extensive problems down the line.
Inspect for Visible Wear and Tear
Physical inspection can be quite revealing. With the garage door closed, take a look at the springs. Do they appear stretched out or elongated? Are they rusty or showing signs of wear like fraying or irregular gaps? If so, you're looking at an imminent replacement. Never attempt to touch or adjust the springs yourself, as they are under immense tension and can cause serious injury. Instead, call professionals for a more detailed inspection and replacement.
Struggling With the Weight of the Door
Are you finding it unusually hard to lift the garage door manually? Or perhaps your garage door opener seems to be working overtime to get the job done? These are signs that your springs may be failing. The springs are designed to carry most of the door's weight, making it easier for you or your garage door opener to do the lifting. When they start to fail, you'll feel the weight.
An Imbalanced Door Is a Warning Sign
Lastly, if your garage door looks uneven when you try to open or close it, it could mean that one of the springs has already failed or is about to. An imbalanced door is a safety risk and a clear sign that you need to replace the springs soon.
If you are in need of new garage door springs, contact a garage door professional.
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