Learn how to change garage door springs safely with our step-by-step guide for every homeowner.
A malfunctioning garage door spring can quickly disrupt your entire day, especially when your door refuses to open or closes unevenly. Many homeowners begin searching online for guidance on how to change garage door springs, hoping for a quick fix. The symptoms, loud noises, jerky movements, or complete failure to operate, often point to a worn or broken spring. It’s a common issue that affects thousands each year and raises the same question: Should you attempt to fix it yourself?
While spring replacement may appear manageable, it’s one of the most dangerous garage door repairs to attempt without proper training. Springs are tightly wound and under immense tension, making DIY efforts risky. That’s why it’s best to rely on professionals like MF Solutions Inc.. With extensive experience in garage door spring replacement, they deliver safe, efficient service you can count on. Don’t take chances with your safety; let the experts handle the work and restore your garage door’s reliability.
What Do Garage Door Springs Do?
Garage door springs are the unsung heroes of your door system. There are two main types: torsion springs and extension springs. Both play a crucial role in balancing your garage door’s heavy weight, making it easy to lift by hand or motor.
Without functional springs, your garage door opener strains under the load, leading to premature failure or complete system breakdown. That’s why understanding how to change garage door springs is essential for long-term home maintenance.
Common Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Worn Out
- Your garage door won’t open or feels unusually heavy
- You see visible gaps or separations in the torsion springs
- Loud snapping or popping sounds when operating the door
- The door opens or closes with jerky or uneven motion
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to inspect your springs or call MF Solutions Inc. for a professional evaluation.
Is It Safe to Change Garage Door Springs Yourself?
Spring replacement might sound simple, but it’s one of the most dangerous garage door repairs. Springs are wound under intense pressure, and releasing them without the proper tools or training can cause severe injury or property damage.
Why Professional Help Is Often the Smartest Move
- High-tension components pose a significant risk to DIYers
- Torsion systems require precise calibration to function safely
- Specialized tools like winding bars are needed for safe removal and installation
- MF Solutions Inc. technicians are trained to follow strict safety protocols, ensuring both your home and family remain protected
Step-by-Step Overview: How to Change Garage Door Springs
Disclaimer: This overview is for informational purposes only. Always contact a trained technician before attempting any garage door repair.
- Disconnect the power and lock the door in place using locking pliers.
- Release spring tension slowly and safely using winding bars.
- Unbolt and remove the damaged or worn spring from the shaft.
- Install the new spring, winding it to the correct tension and direction.
- Test the door for smooth operation and balance.
Even a small mistake in this process can lead to malfunction or injury. Most homeowners trust MF Solutions Inc. for spring replacement and system calibration.
Tools Required for Spring Replacement
Winding Bars (Never Use Screwdrivers)
Always use winding bars made explicitly for garage door torsion springs. Screwdrivers can slip or snap, putting you at serious risk of injury. Proper tools ensure safer and more accurate adjustments.
Locking Pliers or C-Clamps
Before making adjustments, use locking pliers or C-clamps to secure the garage door in place. This prevents the door from moving unexpectedly and adds an essential layer of safety.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench helps loosen and tighten bolts on the spring system. Ensure it fits securely to avoid stripping bolts or causing sudden releases during tension adjustments.
Safety Glasses and Gloves
Always wear safety glasses and heavy-duty gloves. Garage door springs are under high tension, and protective gear can shield you from accidental snaps or debris during the repair.
Ladder
Use a sturdy, non-slip ladder tall enough to reach the torsion spring comfortably. Avoid overreaching or standing on unstable surfaces, increasing your risk of falls.
Socket Set
A socket set helps remove or tighten fasteners during spring balancing or replacement. It allows for better grip and torque, ensuring each component is adequately secured.
These tools are essential for any accurate and safe spring replacement, but without experience, even the right tools can’t guarantee a good outcome.
When to Replace vs. Repair Garage Door Springs
Torsion springs generally last about 10,000 cycles, translating to 7–10 years of use for most households. Replacement is necessary if your spring has reached this limit or shows visible damage. Minor issues like loose screws or slight imbalances can sometimes be adjusted, but only if caught early.
MF Solutions Inc. technicians are trained to evaluate your system and recommend whether repair or full replacement is the right option. We never promote unnecessary services, only solutions that work.
Cost Considerations and Timeframe
Replacing garage door springs involves a few cost factors:
- Torsion spring replacement typically ranges between $150 and $300
- Extension spring replacement often costs slightly less
- Job duration: Most replacements take 1 to 2 hours
Factors affecting cost include the size of your door, the type of spring, and any necessary hardware upgrades. Investing in quality parts installed by MF Solutions Inc. ensures your system lasts longer and performs better.
How MF Solutions Inc. Handles Garage Door Spring Replacement
At MF Solutions Inc., our spring replacement process includes:
Comprehensive Diagnostics
We begin with a full diagnostic to identify the root cause of your garage door issue. This helps us assess system health and avoid future failures.
Use of Premium-Grade Springs
Our team only installs premium-grade springs designed for longevity and strength. These outperform standard parts in both safety and durability.
Clear Communication
Before starting any repairs, we explain the costs, procedures, and timeline so you know exactly what to expect, with no surprises.
Fast and Reliable Service
Our certified local technicians arrive on time and complete work efficiently, ensuring your garage door is back to working safely and smoothly.
We don’t just fix the problem, we improve your garage door system for better performance, safety, and peace of mind.
FAQ: How to Change Garage Door Springs
Can I Change a Garage Door Spring Myself?
While changing a garage door spring yourself is possible, it’s highly dangerous without proper tools and expertise. Torsion springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury if mishandled. It’s best to hire a trained professional to ensure correct installation and balanced door function for safety and precision.
How Do I Know If My Garage Door Springs Need Replacing?
Signs your garage door springs need replacing include loud snapping sounds, uneven door opening, difficulty lifting the door manually, or visible gaps in the springs. If the door feels unusually heavy or won’t stay open, your springs may be worn or broken and should be inspected promptly.
How Do You Know How Much Tension to Put on a Garage Door Spring?
Consider the door’s weight, size, and spring type to set the correct tension on a garage door spring. Incorrect tension can lead to poor door function or safety hazards. Precision is key, so it’s strongly recommended to consult a garage door technician or use the manufacturer’s specifications.
Which Direction to Wind Garage Door Spring?
Garage door torsion springs should be wound in the direction that tightens them. For a standard setup, right-wound springs (usually on the left side) wind clockwise, and left-wound springs (on the right) wind counterclockwise. Winding the wrong way can damage the system or pose a safety risk.
Do Both Garage Door Springs Wind the Same Way?
No, both garage door springs do not wind the same way. One spring is right-handed, and the other is left-handed. This opposing setup ensures balanced lifting and smooth operation. Mixing the winding direction can cause the door to malfunction or become dangerous during operation.
Conclusion
Knowing how to change garage door springs is important, but safety should always come first. Spring replacement involves high-tension parts that can cause serious injury if mishandled. While it’s helpful to understand the steps involved, attempting this repair without the proper tools or training is risky. The best move? Trust a professional team to get the job done right the first time.
At MF Solutions Inc., we specialize in safely replacing broken springs with expert precision. Whether you’re dealing with worn torsion springs or faulty extension systems, we’re here to help. If you’re uncertain about how to change garage door springs or suspect your door isn’t functioning correctly, let our trained technicians take over. We ensure a smooth, safe repair backed by years of experience and customer-focused service.
End Note
MF Solutions Inc. is committed to delivering top-tier garage door solutions tailored to your residential or commercial needs. Learn more about our services by visiting our official website or exploring our story and team values. Need commercial spring repairs? Check out our commercial garage door spring services. For design inspiration, browse our gallery and view popular residential garage door models. We’re proud to serve a wide range of communities. Check our service locations to see if we operate in your area. Ready to get started? Reach out via our contact page or read what others say on our customer reviews page. We also offer flexible financing options to make repairs more accessible. For tips, updates, and advice, don’t forget to follow our blog and connect with us on Facebook.
MF Solutions, Inc.
Niles, Illinois
+12244341780
