Garage door extension springs balance the weight of your door, allowing it to open or close properly. But unlike the more common torsion spring, extension springs are prone to failure over time for a variety of causes.
In this post, we’ll discuss how extension springs work, what causes them to fail, how to fix them, and some answers to common questions. We also shared why calling for professional garage door repair in Los Angeles is always the safest solution.
What are garage door extension springs?
Garage door extension springs, also known as stretch springs, are mounted vertically on both sides of your garage door. These are long, coiled springs that stretch and extend when your door is in use.
Unlike torsion springs installed overhead your door entrance, extension springs run parallel to the horizontal tracks. The tension on the springs counterbalances the weight of your door, allowing for easy opening and closing.
However, since extension springs are not contained around a shaft, they can become projectiles during breakage. Nevertheless, it can last for about 10,000 to 15,000 cycles or roughly 7 to 10 years.
Common causes of extension spring failure and how to fix them
Did your extension spring snap, break, or stop working altogether? If yes, then the following could be the possible culprits, together with tips on how to fix them:
1. Normal wear and tear
As you’re the extension springs contract and stretch thousands of times, they will start to lose tension. This ‘metal fatigue’ will weaken the spring, eventually leading to breakage.
Normal wear and tear is the most common cause of extension spring failure. It will cause stretching, cracking, and thinning of the coils, which calls for a replacement.
How to fix it:
Due to wear and tear, your extension springs will eventually reach the end of their service life. In this case, the best way to fix it is to replace the springs immediately.
Make sure you replace both extension springs, regardless of whether only one is damaged or malfunctioning. This is to maintain the balance and consistency of your garage door’s operation.
2. Rust and corrosion
Extension springs are often made of steel coil wire. Prolonged exposure to moisture can cause rusting on the extension spring material, making it brittle and prone to breakage. Also, rusty springs will sustain premature wear and tear due to the added friction.
How to fix it:
If the springs are already rusty, clean the coils with a wire brush to remove any loose debris. Do so gently to avoid breaking or snapping the extension springs while you’re standing right next to it.
Next, apply a rust-resistant lubricant like WD-40. Although extension springs don’t rub on each other, the lubricant will create a protective coating against moisture, preventing further corrosion from forming.
3. Improper installation
Incorrect extension spring installation not only causes early damage to the component but also puts you at risk of physical injuries. For example, installing the springs with the wrong length, tension, or orientation could contribute to early damage.
Also, failure to install safety cables along the extension springs puts you at risk of injuries or property damage. While the safety cables don’t prevent the springs from breaking, they will contain them in case of breakage.
How to fix it:
Hire a certified garage door technician to install your extension springs. While you’ll pay for an installation fee, you’re also going to save money in the long run by avoiding early and repetitive repairs.
Aside from that, always install safety cables and ensure that they are also in good shape. This way, the extension springs will not become projectiles in case they break.
4. Incompatible weight capacity
Extension springs are rated based on specific garage door sizes and weight. Using weaker springs on a heavy door will lead to early failure and potential damage to your property. Meanwhile, using a stronger spring for lighter doors will cause the door to slam shut or open too fast due to the excessive tension.
How to fix it:
Ensuring that you have a compatible extension spring will resolve this problem. You can refer to your preferred brand’s garage door extension spring color chart to see which one suits your door.
The garage door extension springs’ color codes represent the weight each spring can hold. For example, white extension springs typically have the lightest weight rating of up to 210 lbs. Meanwhile, tan colored springs have the highest rating of as much as 300 lbs.
When in doubt, it’s best to consult a garage door technician in Los Angeles before buying a replacement.
5. Low-quality extension springs
Speaking of extension spring replacements, buying the cheapest one may not be a cost-effective decision after all. Cheap extension springs are often made of inferior metal alloys that can break easily. Also, these low-quality springs have a shorter lifespan, which means you’re going to buy another replacement in just a matter of time.
How to fix it:
Always invest in high-quality extension springs, even if it costs more than cheaper options on the market. Aside from its longer lifespan, quality springs are typically covered with a good warranty to protect your purchase.
When choosing extension springs, look for one with meets industry standards, such as a minimum of 10,000 cycles. You can also hire a certified garage door technician who will choose and supply the best garage door extension springs for your home.
When to call a garage door professional
DIY extension spring replacements can help save money. And to be fair, these springs are not as complicated to install as torsion springs.
However, extension springs are still loaded with high levels of tension. If it accidentally snaps or breaks, you’re at risk of sustaining bodily harm. At the same time, a professional extension spring service ensures that your door will get compatible and long-lasting replacements.
Also, if you don’t have the right tools, experience, and knowledge about garage door repair, it’s best to leave the job to the pros.
How to prevent extension spring failure
Proper maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your garage door springs. Still, your extension springs will eventually reach the end of their lifespan, which will ultimately require replacements.
To make the most out of your extension springs, keep them lubricated to avoid rust and wipe away moisture and dirt before they accumulate.
Also, test your door’s balance regularly to see if any of the springs are already worn out. This way, you can spot damaged springs before they completely fail.
Lastly, consider scheduling annual inspections and tune-ups for your garage door. This way, problems like damaged extension springs can be detected and fixed before they get worse.
FAQs about extension springs
How long do garage door extension springs last?
Most garage door extension springs last for 10,000 to 15,000 cycles or about 7 to 10 years of use. Still, this depends on the spring’s quality, level of maintenance, and external elements that could degrade the material faster.
When is a garage door extension spring replacement necessary?
If one or both of your extension springs are broken, overstretched, heavily rusted, or cracked, you should consider getting a replacement. Replacements are also ideal if your extension springs are older than 10 years.
How to measure garage door extension springs?
You can refer to the manufacturer’s garage door extension spring size chart, which indicates what spring length, wire diameter, and weight rating suit your door.
How to install garage door extension springs?
To install extension springs on your garage door, you need to hook one end of the new spring to the fixed anchor point. It’s typically found near the back of the door’s horizontal tracks. Once you’ve hooked one end to the anchor point, stretch the spring, and hook the other end to the pulley or track hanger attached to your door panel.
How to replace garage door extension springs?
To replace your garage door extension springs, you first have to remove the safety cables keeping the springs in place. Next, unhook the old springs from the anchor points and pulley system or track hanger. After that, place the new springs by hooking each end to where you removed the old ones.
Most importantly, make sure you’re wearing protective gear to reduce the risk of injuries in case the springs snap.
Get 24/7 repairs for your garage door springs!
If you want fast, reliable, and safe repairs for your extension springs, you can call Rock Garage Door Repair. We have certified, insured garage door technicians available for emergency repairs in Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Our team can repair any garage door component, make, or model!
We will inspect your door, remove the damaged springs, and supply the replacements – all you have to do is call. You can also request scheduled repairs anytime, whether on the same day or at your preferred time and date.
Still weighing your options? Contact us to get a free and no-obligation estimate for your spring repairs!
