Maintaining your garage door might not always be top of mind, but you should ensure it operates smoothly and safely. Understanding garage door spring tension and balance can help you prevent unfortunate accidents from befalling your garage, and Steel City Garage Doors is here to help.
The Role of Spring Tension in Garage Door Operation
The springs of your garage door provide the necessary force to lift and lower the door, making it easier to open and close it manually or with an automatic opener. Garage doors need the right amount of tension to open smoothly; otherwise, they could fail to stay open, which creates a massive safety hazard.
Most garage doors have torsion or extension springs, which help to operate the garage door. Torsion springs are generally above the door and twist to create tension, while extension springs are on either side of the door and stretch to provide force. Regularly check the condition of these springs for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or deformation, and consult a professional repair technician if you notice these signs.
How To Check and Maintain Garage Door Balance
A big part of understanding garage door spring tension and balance comes from checking the door’s balance. Improperly balanced doors may strain the opener, cause uneven wear on the springs, cables, and rollers, and lead to costly repairs down the line.
To check the balance of your garage door, start by disconnecting the automatic opener. Manually lift the door halfway, and release it. A well-balanced door will stay in place, while an imbalanced door will either fall to the ground or rise up.
Adjusting Spring Tension Safely
Adjusting the tension of your garage door springs is a task to approach with caution. Incorrectly adjusted springs can lead to a malfunctioning door or injuries due to the high tension.
To adjust the tension, first identify the type of springs your door uses. For torsion springs, you can make adjustments by turning the winding cone with a winding bar. Extension springs require adjustments to the attached cable and pulley system.
If you’re experiencing issues with your garage door or need professional assistance, contact Steel City Garage Doors today. Our expert team is ready to provide top-notch garage spring repair, ensuring your door operates smoothly and safely. Reach out to us for a consultation or to schedule a maintenance check.
