GARAGE DOOR SPRING BROKEN? READ THIS FIRST
Garage door springs are under extreme tension. Before you try to fix it yourself, understand what you’re dealing with, this is one repair that can go wrong fast. A broken garage door spring is one of the most common and most dangerous issues homeowners face. Springs carry the full weight of your garage door, and when they fail, the system becomes unsafe to operate. While some small checks can be done yourself, most garage door spring repair should be handled by a professional. Knowing the difference can protect your home, your door, and your safety.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS – GARAGE DOOR SPRINGS
Why did my garage door spring break?
Can I open my garage door with a broken spring?
How do I know if my spring is broken?
Are garage door springs dangerous?
How long do garage door springs last?
Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
Why is my garage door suddenly so heavy?
Should I replace one spring or both?
WHY DID MY GARAGE DOOR SPRING BREAK?
Garage door springs wear out over time from repeated use. Most are rated for a set number of cycles. Cold weather, rust, and lack of maintenance can cause them to fail sooner.
CAN I OPEN MY GARAGE DOOR WITH A BROKEN SPRING?
You can, but it’s not recommended. The door becomes extremely heavy and can slam shut or damage your opener. This can create a bigger repair.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY SPRING IS BROKEN?
Look for a visible gap in the spring, a loud bang from the garage, or a door that won’t lift. These are the most common signs of a broken spring.
ARE GARAGE DOOR SPRINGS DANGEROUS?
Yes. Springs are tightly wound under high tension. If released improperly, they can cause serious injury. This is why most homeowners avoid DIY spring repairs. According to industry safety guidelines, garage door springs should only be adjusted using proper tools and training.
HOW LONG DO GARAGE DOOR SPRINGS LAST?
Most springs last between 7–10 years depending on usage. High-use homes may wear them out faster.
WHEN SHOULD I CALL A PROFESSIONAL?
Call a pro immediately if the spring is broken, the door is uneven, or you hear loud snapping sounds. Spring repairs require proper tools and experience to handle safely.
Watch this video to see why garage door spring repairs are one of the most dangerous DIY jobs.
DIY if:
- you are only inspecting the spring visually
- the issue might be lubrication or minor noise
- you are NOT touching or adjusting spring tension
- you are comfortable identifying damage safely
Call a pro if:
- the spring is broken or has a visible gap
- the door is heavy or won’t lift
- you hear a loud bang from the garage
- cables are loose or off the drum
- the door is uneven or slamming shut
- you don’t have proper spring tools (most people don’t)
SAFE DIY CHECKS – GARAGE DOOR SPRINGS
VISUALLY INSPECT THE SPRING
Look for a gap in the spring or signs of wear. Do not touch or attempt to unwind it.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ADJUST TENSION
Spring tension requires specialized tools. Attempting this without experience can cause serious injury.
CHECK DOOR BALANCE (CAREFULLY)
If the door feels extremely heavy or won’t stay halfway open, the spring is likely failed.
LISTEN FOR LOUD NOISES
A loud bang in the garage often means the spring has snapped.
STOP USING THE OPENER
Running the opener with a broken spring can burn out the motor or cause further damage.
Service Area
Direct Doors helps homeowners across Vaughan, Brampton, Mississauga, Richmond Hill, Markham and surrounding GTA communities diagnose and repair garage door spring issues safely and professionally.
Take a look at our full service area here
Garage door springs are NOT a DIY repair. It’s always safer to have it inspected professionally.