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Adjusting Garage Door Springs - Simple Guide for Beginners

The task of adjusting garage door springs might sound daunting at first, but it’s a process that can be tackled with the right tools, a bit of know-how, and a healthy dose of caution.

In this blog, we’re diving into the world of garage door maintenance, specifically focusing on how to adjust garage door springs. This guide aims to demystify the process, making it accessible and straightforward for anyone looking to give their garage door a little TLC.

First off, it’s important to understand that garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They balance the door’s weight, making it easy to open and close, either manually or with the assistance of a garage door opener.

Over time, however, springs can wear out or lose tension, leading to a door that’s difficult to operate or, in some cases, completely stuck. That’s where adjusting comes into play.

Safety First

Before we get into the nuts and bolts of how to adjust garage door springs, let’s talk safety.

Adjusting garage door springs can be dangerous due to the high tension they’re under. If not handled properly, they can cause serious injury.

Always wear protective gear, like gloves and safety glasses, and if at any point you feel out of your depth, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Types of Garage Door Springs

There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are located above the garage door, while extension springs run along the sides of the door.

The adjustment process varies slightly between the two, so it’s crucial to identify which type you’re working with.

Adjusting Torsion Springs

To adjust torsion springs, follow these steps:

Secure the Door: Close the garage door and clamp locking pliers onto the track on both sides to prevent the door from popping open during adjustment.

Find the Winding Cone: Look for the winding cone at the end of the spring. This is where you’ll make the adjustments.

Adjusting Garage Door Springs - Simple Guide for Beginners (1)

Loosen the Set Screws: Using a winding bar, carefully loosen the set screws on the winding cone. Always insert the bar fully and hold it firmly, as the spring will exert force once the screws are loosened.

Adjust the Tension: Insert a second winding bar into the next hole down as you remove the first bar, then add or remove tension. If your door is closing too quickly, you’ll want to decrease the tension. If it was opening too quickly or difficult to lift, increase the tension.

Tighten the Set Screws: Once the desired tension is achieved, tighten the set screws back into place while holding the winding bar in the cone.

Adjusting Torsion Springs

If you have extension springs, here’s how to adjust them:

Open the Door: Fully open the garage door and secure it by placing clamps on the tracks. This takes the tension off the springs.

Secure the Springs: Disconnect the spring from the track bracket and the safety cable.

Adjust the Spring Hook: Move the spring hook to a different hole on the door track to either increase or decrease tension.

Reconnect and Test: Once adjusted, reconnect the spring and safety cable, remove the clamps, and test the door’s movement.

Adjusting Garage Door Springs - Simple Guide for Beginners (1)

Final Checks

After adjusting your garage door springs, it’s crucial to perform some final checks. Open and close the door a few times to ensure it moves smoothly and stays in place when left halfway open.

This indicates that the springs are properly balanced. If the door continues to have issues, you may need to fine-tune your adjustments or consult a professional for further assistance.

Why Your Garage Door Springs May Require Adjustment

As highlighted by Today’s Homeowner, a trusted home improvement resource, one of the factors that can cause a door to become unbalanced is when the spring system provides either too much or not enough lifting force.

Adjusting your garage door springs is crucial for maintaining a well-balanced and smoothly functioning door.

There are several reasons why you might need to adjust your garage door springs:

Spring System Force – one of the factors that can cause a door to become unbalanced is when the spring system provides either too much or not enough lifting force.
In a perfect installation, the spring system will provide precisely the same upward force as gravity provides downward, allowing the door to stay put regardless of where the door is stopped.

Age and Wear – the first probable cause of unbalanced doors is age and wear to one or more of the components. The parts involved in a spring system have a limited lifespan and will eventually begin to fail. This is primarily due to the stretching of the spring and cable(s) during use.

Improper Installation – the second cause, although less likely, is improper installation. Most new homes will have professionally installed garage doors, so chances are very good the doors will be balanced.

Changes in Door Weight – spring adjustment may be needed when your garage door changes its weight. Your door may change its weight when you insulate it, add decorations, or insert windows. All these actions may require you to readjust garage door springs.

Properly adjusting your garage door springs helps ensure that the spring system provides the right amount of lifting force to counteract gravity, keeping your door balanced and in place at any position.

Choosing the Right Professional for Your Garage Door Needs

Learning how to adjust garage door springs can save you time and money, not to mention the satisfaction that comes with DIY home maintenance.

However, always prioritize safety and recognize when a task exceeds your comfort level or expertise. Adjusting garage door springs involves significant risk due to the high tension they operate under, and mistakes can lead to injury or further damage to your garage door system.

If at any point during your adjustment process, you feel unsure or encounter complications, it’s crucial to step back and seek professional help.

For reliable and expert service, consider reaching out to professionals like Peter and Sons Construction. With years of experience and a commitment to safety and quality, they can ensure that your garage door is adjusted properly, functions smoothly, and remains safe to use.

Contact us today for your free quote and rest easy knowing your garage door is in expert hands.

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