How to Identify a Broken Garage Door Spring

Experiencing a garage door that won't open can be frustrating, especially during busy times. Whether you're rushing to work, heading to soccer practice, or needing to make a quick grocery run, a malfunctioning garage door is the last thing you want. Often, the problem lies with a broken garage door spring. Understanding how to identify this issue is crucial, and while it's a straightforward fix for specialists like Super Springy, it's important to recognize the signs for your safety and convenience.

An interior view of a garage door mechanism, showing torsion springs and tracks with a focus on the spring system's intricate details and mechanical parts.

Identifying Different Types of Garage Door Springs

Before diving into troubleshooting, knowing which type of spring your garage door uses is essential. There are two main types: Torsion Springs and Extension Springs.

  • Torsion Springs: Located directly above the garage door when closed, these springs are easier to inspect when the door is shut.

  • Extension Springs: These run parallel to the garage door's upper track.

A close-up of a garage door torsion spring showing signs of wear and a distinct break, with a red-brown protective tube on the left and metal components on the right.

Signs of a Broken Torsion Spring

  1. Visible Break or Gap: An intact torsion spring appears as a continuous, tightly wound coil. A break often results in a visible gap and a slight spring diameter increase.

  2. Partial Door Opening: A broken spring makes the door heavier, causing automatic garage door openers to stop prematurely.

  3. Difficulty in Manual Operation: A door with a broken spring becomes extremely hard to lift manually if detached from the opener.

  4. Loud Noise: A snapping or popping sound from the garage often indicates a spring breakage.

A residential garage door is partially open, revealing darkness inside, with the surrounding exterior showcasing a brick wall and a small black lantern to the side.

Identifying a Broken Extension Spring

  1. Uneven Opening: If one side of the garage door opens higher, it may indicate a failure in one of the springs.

  2. Heaviness in Manual Lifting: Similar to torsion springs, a broken extension spring makes the door very heavy and hard to lift manually.

  3. Audible Snap or Pop: A loud noise from the garage can also signify a broken extension spring.


Leave Repairs to the Experts! 🛠️

Garage door springs, packed with high tension, pose serious risks if mishandled. DIY repair attempts can lead to significant injuries or damage to your property.

For residents in the Kansas City area, the safest and most reliable option is to contact Super Springy. Our local experts are well-equipped to handle your garage door spring issues swiftly and safely, ensuring peace of mind and top-notch service.

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Expert Guide to Garage Door Spring Longevity: Maintenance, Sizing, and Weather Impact