What Type Of Springs Are Right For Your Garage Door?
Most homeowners don't give a lot of thought to their garage door or garage door opener until it's not working properly. Then, they are either stranded outside in the rain, sleet or snow or trapped inside with no way to open the door and get their car, van or truck off onto the driveway. One of the most common issues with garage doors is faulty springs. These are the parts that keep a constant level of pressure on the door, allowing it to open and close smoothly. However, not all garage door springs are created alike. There are two main options when it comes to buying garage door springs. The option you choose for your door will depend on your budget, the size garage you have and how you use your door.
What type of garage door springs do I need?
1. Extension springs. Extension springs are the most common type of springs used in residential garage doors and also the least expensive. They fit above the upper tracks on either side of the door. These springs extend when the door opens and provide the counter balance needed to keep the door from crashing down. However, this type of spring is also the most dangerous type and should always be paired with safety cables to keep the springs from escaping the track when under pressure and flying into the garage. To make sure that these are installed safely, it's best to have a professional garage door technician make the repair.
2. Torsion springs. Torsion springs use torque to open and close the garage door, rather than spring tension. These springs slowly twist around a shaft when the door motor is turned on. While this type of spring is generally more expensive, it is also more versatile and safer. Torsion springs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, with something to fit most any size of garage door. Since torsion springs aren't under as much pressure, they don't present the extreme safety hazard that is inherent with extension springs. What's more, torsion springs generally have a longer lifespan than extension springs.
Replacing your garage door springs--either with torsion or extension springs--is not a good DIY project. Even torsion springs are under a reasonable amount of pressure and can be hazardous if not handled properly and carefully. Professional garage door repair technicians (such as those from Door Doctor Inc) have the equipment and training necessary to do this type of repair and can get your door working again quickly and safely.
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