Short answer: A broken spring is the single most common reason a garage door stops working. Springs counterbalance the door's weight, so when one fails the door becomes heavy, unbalanced, and unsafe to operate. Here's how to spot the warning signs.
A broken spring is the single most common reason a garage door stops working. Springs counterbalance the door's weight, so when one fails the door becomes heavy, unbalanced, and unsafe to operate. Here's how to spot the warning signs.
The Door Won't Open or Feels Extremely Heavy
With a broken spring, the opener can't lift the door's full weight, so it may open only a few inches, stop, or refuse to move. Lifting it by hand feels far heavier than normal.
You Heard a Loud Bang from the Garage
A torsion spring often fails with a sharp bang, like a firecracker, as the stored tension releases. If you find a gap in the coiled spring above the door, that's a clear sign it snapped.
Why Spring Replacement Isn't a DIY Job
Garage door springs store enormous tension and can cause serious injury if they release unexpectedly. Replacing them requires the right tools and technique, which is why it's best left to a trained technician.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Door Won't Open or Feels Extremely Heavy?
With a broken spring, the opener can't lift the door's full weight, so it may open only a few inches, stop, or refuse to move. Lifting it by hand feels far heavier than normal.
You Heard a Loud Bang from the Garage?
A torsion spring often fails with a sharp bang, like a firecracker, as the stored tension releases. If you find a gap in the coiled spring above the door, that's a clear sign it snapped.
Why Spring Replacement Isn't a DIY Job?
Garage door springs store enormous tension and can cause serious injury if they release unexpectedly. Replacing them requires the right tools and technique, which is why it's best left to a trained technician.
How do I get help with this?
Call (650) 402-2110 and describe the situation, your exact location, and what you need. Timing is confirmed on that call rather than promised in advance.
Call for help: (650) 402-2110 — a straight answer and an honest estimate before any work begins.