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A functional garage door is essential for any homeowner. But what happens when the unexpected occurs, such as a broken spring? Don’t panic! We’ll guide you through the process of manually opening your garage door in such situations. However, dealing with garage door springs can be dangerous and often requires professional assistance. Let’s dive into this comprehensive guide.
The Types and Lifespan of Garage Door Springs
Understanding the types and lifespan of garage door springs is the first step towards dealing with a broken one. Garage door springs primarily fall into two categories: torsion springs and extension springs.
| Spring Type | Average Lifespan | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Torsion Springs | 15,000 – 20,000 cycles | Mounted above the garage door, torsion springs slowly twist and coil on the shaft whenever force is applied (the door is opened/closed). |
| Extension Springs | 10,000 – 15,000 cycles | Extension springs run parallel to the door track and expand and contract as the door operates. |
When these springs break, the balance of your door gets disrupted, making manual operation a challenge. You can learn more about the typical lifespan and types of garage door springs here.
How to Manually Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring
Step 1: Ensure Safety First
Your safety should be your utmost priority. Always use sturdy gloves and safety goggles. Avoid standing directly under the door while attempting this process.
Step 2: Disengage the Garage Door Opener
To manually operate your door, you first need to disconnect it from the opener. You can do this by pulling down on the red emergency cord hanging from the opener rail.
Step 3: Open the Door
With one hand on each side of the door, lift the door. It may be heavy due to the broken spring, so if you’re struggling, stop and call for professional help.
Step 4: Secure the Door Open
Once the door is fully open, use vice grips or C-clamps in the tracks just beneath the bottom rollers to keep it open.
Although this guide helps you understand the process, manual operation is only a temporary solution. Check out this comprehensive guide on how to manually open a garage door for more details.
Why Choose Us?
Boston’s Garage Door services stand out for their professionalism, quality, and customer satisfaction. Our expert team is knowledgeable about how to fix a noisy garage door, garage door opener issues, and the complicated task of dealing with broken springs.
Our Service Areas
We extend our top-notch services across many areas, including:
- Garage Door Repair Lexington
- Garage Door Repair Woburn
- Garage Door Services in South Boston
- Garage Door Services in East Boston
And many more areas, committed to offering prompt, reliable service at your doorstep!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a broken garage door spring myself?
Replacing a garage door spring involves risk due to the high tension in the springs. While it is possible to do this yourself, we highly recommend hiring professional garage door repair services for this task.
How will I know if my garage door spring is broken?
Some signs of a broken garage door spring include a sudden loud noise, the door only opening a few inches, and the garage door seeming unusually heavy.
How long does a garage door spring last?
Typically, a garage door spring can last between 7-9 years with regular use, but this depends on the type of spring, its quality, and how often the garage door is used.
Can a garage door work with a broken spring?
A garage door should not be operated with a broken spring due to safety risks. The door could come crashing down unexpectedly, causing potential harm or damage.
In conclusion, while a broken spring may seem like a nightmare, understanding the issue and knowing how to manually open your garage door can bring relief. However, remember this is only a temporary solution and you should seek professional help immediately to replace the broken spring. At Boston’s Garage Door, our experts are ready to assist you with any garage door problem, ensuring your door functions safely and efficiently. Contact us today for a hassle-free repair experience.
