If your garage door suddenly won’t open or close the right way, a broken spring might be to blame. This is something many Puyallup homeowners run into. Without a working spring, the door can become too heavy to lift or may shut suddenly on its own. If you notice anything like this, stop using the door and consider getting help from a trusted garage door repair Puyallup WA service. Acting quickly when you see a warning sign can help protect your garage door.
Why Garage Door Springs Are Important
Your garage door relies on springs to stay balanced while it moves. If the springs are missing or broken, the door might get stuck or fall suddenly.
There are two types:
- Torsion springs sit on a bar above the door and turn tightly to help lift and lower it.
- Extension springs are found on the sides of the door and stretch as the door opens and closes.
If a spring breaks, the door becomes hard or unsafe to use.
Signs Your Garage Door Spring Just Snapped
Not sure if your spring is broken? Here are some of the most common signs:
1. You Heard a Loud Bang
One of the clearest signs of a broken spring is a loud noise, like something snapped or popped. The sound often comes from the garage, even if no one is in there. Springs are under a lot of tension, and when they break, it can be loud enough to startle you.
2. The Door Won’t Open
If the garage door suddenly won’t open, or only lifts a few inches before stopping, a broken spring could be the cause. The opener might try to work, but without spring support, it can’t lift the full weight of the door.
3. The Door Closes Too Fast
Garage doors are built to lower gently and safely. But if the spring is broken, the door may slam shut quickly. This can be dangerous and can damage the door or anything underneath it.
4. The Door Looks Crooked
Sometimes, if only one spring breaks, the door may look tilted or uneven. It might try to move but get stuck or wobble as it goes. This is especially true for doors that use extension springs.
5. The Spring Has a Noticeable Gap
If you can safely look at the spring above your door, check for a gap. Torsion springs are tightly wound, so a visible space or separation in the coil is a clear sign that it’s broken.
Is It Safe to Open the Door Anyway?
No, it’s not safe. When a spring breaks, the door can be extremely heavy and unpredictable. Forcing the door open yourself could lead to injury or make the problem worse. Even if it opens partway, the door can crash down if the remaining parts give out.
If you suspect a broken spring, avoid touching the door and call a technician who is trained to handle garage door repair in Puyallup WA. Springs are under a lot of pressure and require special tools and knowledge to replace safely.
What Does a Garage Door Spring Break?
Garage door springs break for a few reasons, including:
- Wear and Tear: Garage door springs are built to last a set number of open-and-close cycles. Once they reach that limit, they can weaken and eventually break.
- Rust: Damp or humid air can cause rust to form on the springs. Rust eats away at the metal, making it more likely to snap before its normal lifespan ends.
- Lack of maintenance: Springs last longer when they’re cleaned and lubricated regularly.
- Cold weather: In colder places like Puyallup, extreme temperature changes can stress the metal and lead to breaks.
Can It Be Repaired or Does It Need Replacing?
Garage door springs cannot be patched or repaired once broken—they must be replaced. It’s also a good idea to replace both springs, even if only one is broken. This helps keep the door balanced and prevents the second spring from snapping soon after.
Should You Replace a Garage Door Spring Yourself?
It might be tempting to try, but spring replacement is not a safe DIY project. Springs are tightly wound and can snap if handled the wrong way. Trained technicians have the right skills and equipment to fix the problem safely. Trying to fix it yourself could lead to serious injury.
When to Call a Professional
If your garage door is showing any of the signs listed above, or if you heard a loud snap and now the door won’t open or close right, don’t wait. Getting help quickly from a trained expert in garage door repair in Puyallup WA can prevent further damage and keep your family safe.
Let a Trusted Team Fix Your Garage Door
A broken spring can cause real problems, but help is just a phone call away. All Service Garage Doors provides honest, reliable garage door repair and spring replacement. We have experience with all major garage door types and handle repairs without pushy sales. We fix what’s needed and get your door working right.
Get in touch today for professional garage door repair in Puyallup WA. We offer free estimates, same-day service, and safe, professional spring replacement.
