How to Replace Garage Door Springs Safely

how to replace garage door springs safely

Garage doors cause an estimated 30,000 injuries annually, many of which involve spring failures.

Garage door springs handle significant tension, making them one of the most dangerous components to replace without proper precautions. 

Many homeowners attempt a DIY approach to save money, but working with high-tension springs without the right safety measures can result in accidents.

Knowing the correct tools, techniques, and safety steps is critical before attempting this repair. 

Whether you have torsion or extension springs, understanding the risks and following a structured replacement process will help prevent injuries and ensure your garage door functions properly.

This guide will walk you through the safest way to replace garage door springs, the tools you’ll need, and common mistakes to avoid.

How Do Garage Door Springs Work?

The garage door springs counterbalance the door’s weight, making it easier to open and close. There are two main types:

Torsion Springs

  • Mounted above the garage door on a metal shaft.
  • Use torque to lift and lower the door.
  • More durable and commonly found in modern garage doors.

Extension Springs

  • Located on either side of the door, running parallel to the tracks.
  • Stretches and contracts to assist movement.
  • Often used in older garage doors but is considered less safe.

Over time, these springs wear out due to constant tension and temperature fluctuations. Most garage door springs last between 7-12 years or 10,000-15,000 cycles (one cycle = one open and close).

Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Replacement

Ignoring worn-out springs can lead to sudden failures, causing the door to slam shut or become difficult to open. Watch for these signs:

  • Loud Bang – A broken torsion spring often snaps with a loud noise.
  • Uneven Door Movement – One side of the door moves faster than the other.
  • Heavy Door – The door feels heavier than usual when lifted manually.
  • Gaps in Springs – A visible gap in a torsion spring indicates a break.
  • Slamming Shut – The door closes too fast or doesn’t stay open.

If your garage door displays any of these symptoms, it’s time to replace the springs.

Safety Precautions Before Replacing Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs hold extreme tension. Mishandling them can lead to serious injuries. Follow these safety precautions:

  • Wear Safety Gear- Use gloves, safety glasses, and closed-toe shoes.
  • Disconnect Power- Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental activation.
  • Use the Right Tools- Winding bars, vice grips, socket wrench, and a ladder.
  • Secure the Door- Clamp the door to the track to prevent movement.
  • Have a Second Person Nearby- Extra hands can be useful in emergencies.

According to a study from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), over 2,100 people per year are treated for garage door-related injuries. 

Many cases involve DIY repairs, making safety measures essential.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Garage Door Springs

Step 1: Identify Your Spring Type

Check if you have torsion or extension springs. The replacement method differs for each type.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Tools

You’ll need:

  • Winding bars (for torsion springs)
  • Vice grips
  • Socket wrench
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Tape measure
  • Ladder

Step 3: Secure the Garage Door

  • Close the garage door fully.
  • Clamp the door to the track to prevent movement.
  • Unplug the garage door opener to ensure safety.

Step 4: Remove the Old Springs

For Torsion Springs:

  1. Insert a winding bar into the winding cone.
  2. Loosen the set screws using a wrench.
  3. Slowly unwind the spring, using both winding bars alternately.
  4. Remove the broken spring from the shaft.

For Extension Springs:

  1. Disconnect the safety cables.
  2. Remove the spring from the pulley system.
  3. Carefully release tension before detaching the spring.

Step 5: Install the New Springs

 For Torsion Springs:

  1. Slide the new spring onto the shaft.
  2. Wind the spring using winding bars (usually 30-40 quarter turns).
  3. Tighten the set screws securely.

For Extension Springs:

    1. Attach the new spring to the track and pulley system.
    2. Reinstall the safety cables.
    3. Test the door balance manually.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using the Wrong Tools: Winding torsion springs without proper bars can be dangerous.
  • Over-tightening the Springs: This can damage the door’s balance.
  • Skipping Safety Gear: Gloves and goggles help prevent injuries from snapping springs.
  • Ignoring Door Alignment: Uneven spring tension can cause tracking issues.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY repairs can save money, professional help is sometimes the safer option. Call an expert if:

  • Your garage door has two or more broken springs.
  • You don’t have the proper tools or experience.
  • The door weighs more than 200 lbs, making it difficult to handle.
  • You notice frayed cables or bent tracks.

A professional technician can ensure proper installation and balance, preventing long-term damage to your garage door system.

Cost of Replacing Garage Door Springs

The cost varies depending on the type of springs and labor.

Type

DIY Cost

Professional Cost

Torsion Springs

$50 – $200

$150 – $350

Extension Springs

$30 – $150

$100 – $250


Professional installation includes labor, spring balancing, and a safety check, reducing the risk of improper installation.

The Safe Choice

Replacing garage door springs safely requires patience, proper tools, and attention to detail. Since these springs operate under extreme tension, one wrong move can cause injuries or damage. 

While DIY replacement is possible, hiring a professional may be the best option for those unfamiliar with garage door mechanics.

If you’re unsure or need assistance, Peter and Sons Constructions offer expert garage door spring replacement services. 

Our team ensures safe and efficient installations, minimizing risks and extending the lifespan of your garage door.

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