Garage door springs are the tools that enable your garage door to open and close. The two basic types of spring are Torsion Springs and Extension Springs. Both springs are dangerous and should be handled and repaired by a licensed professional. Torsion springs are generally a little more difficult to work with than Extension Springs.

Lighter doors such as sectional doors and one-piece tilt up garage doors use extension springs. These extension springs are hung on top of the door, with the other end at the back of the upper track. Although extension springs are safer to work with as compared to torsion springs, they still pose significant danger to homeowners trying to fix them.

Garage door torsion springs are usually used for heavier doors, including sectional doors. Torsion springs are located above the door, two of them on each side. These springs are extremely dangerous, and there have been numerous reported injuries and even deaths related to torsion springs. You absolutely need the help of a professional, if you want to install or to repair this type of a door spring.

Some people produce tutorials on how to install torsion garage door springs, others say that it is as easy as fixing a car. However, you should remember that a regular door weighs 300-400 pounds, and these springs are capable of lifting this heavy door easily. Only try to imagine the power secluded in these springs, and the danger of them hitting you, especially in the head.

When in operation, remember to always keep away from the garage door. In this safety concern, one should especially be more wary of little children who tend to get playful. All buttons used to operate the door should be installed in a place where it is out of the reach of children. This tip can greatly help prevent any possible mishap that might lead to serious loss of life or property, caused by the door or any of the springs installed.

The springs often become worn out or displaced. It is very important that you periodically check your springs. Also, if one spring stops working, the other one is likely to follow very shortly. That’s why it’s advised to replace the second spring at the time of replacing the first one.

Make sure you shop around well first, because installing a new spring or repairing a damaged one will cost you between $75-$350; depending on the variety.

The springs are at work most when the garage door is closed. This way, even if the spring fails, the door will remain closed and won’t hurt anyone. However, unfortunately if the springs fail when the door is open, it is likely to come crashing down on an object or a person.

The durability of the garage door spring is governed by many factors such as the frequency of usage, maintenance, compatibility with the garage door, and of course, the quality of the spring itself.

Garage door springs are very powerful mechanisms. To ensure good safety, garage doors require regular maintenance and periodic inspection. In order to prevent any accidents, door springs must always be checked and replaced promptly.