If your garage door spring snaps, you might feel stuck. A broken spring can make it difficult and risky to open your garage door. However, with careful steps, you can tackle this challenge effectively. Keep safety in mind as you use our tips, and don’t be afraid to call a professional if you just can’t open a garage door with a broken spring.
Garage Door Springs and Their Role
Garage door springs bear the weight of the door and make it easier to open and close. When they break, the door becomes heavier and harder to maneuver. Springs come in two types: torsion and extension.
Torsion springs twist to create tension, while extension springs stretch. Both work to keep the door balanced. A broken spring compromises this balance and increases the risk of accidents.
Why Springs Break
The constant tension and release of garage door springs make them wear and tear over time. Factors such as rust, inadequate maintenance, and excessive use can speed up degradation.
Examine your door for signs of a broken spring. Listen for unusual noises or observe any crooked movement. These indicators suggest underlying issues that need addressing before you proceed.
When a spring breaks, it often happens suddenly and loudly. Recognizing the signs of a degrading spring before it snaps can prevent further damage or injury.
Risk of Operating a Broken Spring
The sudden change in weight distribution can lead to the door crashing down, potentially causing harm. Always prioritize your safety by taking necessary precautions or seeking professional help if unsure.
Assess the Situation Before Acting
Check if the door is too heavy to lift manually. If it is, do not attempt to lift it alone. Seek assistance to share the load and reduce potential injury risks.
Determine Your Capability
Consider your physical capability and available resources. If you’re confident about handling the task, proceed with caution. Otherwise, contact a professional service like Steel City Garage Doors for expert assistance.
Gather Essential Tools and Help
Once you’ve assessed the situation and decided to proceed, gather the necessary tools. You’ll need a reliable pair of gloves, a set of vice grips or locking pliers, and a partner to assist you. Having help not only eases the task but also adds an element of safety if something goes wrong.
Plan With Your Partner
Discuss your plan with your partner. Check that they understand the task, their role in it, and what you will need from them.
Disconnect the Opener Safely
Before lifting the door manually, you need to disconnect it from the automatic opener. Pull the emergency release cord to disengage the door from the motor. This allows you to lift the door without interference from the opener. The cord is usually red and hangs from the trolley on the garage door track.
Importance of Disconnection
Disconnecting ensures the opener does not engage while you’re handling the door. This step adds an extra layer of safety, allowing you to focus solely on the task without distractions from a malfunctioning system.
Proceed With Caution
Handle the release cord with care to avoid injury. Stand clear of the door’s path and keep yourself safe while disconnecting. Try to remain calm and aware of your surroundings throughout this process.
Finding Where To Stand
Stand to the side, not directly underneath it. This will keep you safe if you lose your grip and the door falls unexpectedly. As you will find out, garage doors are heavy, and you do not want one collapsing on top of you.
Always maintain a clear path, and avoid placing any body part in the door’s path until you securely prop it open.
Finding the Ideal Position
Choose a spot that offers stability and support while you open a garage door with a broken spring. Firmly plant your feet and balance your body. A stable stance improves control while lifting.
Communicate With Your Partner
Maintaining visual contact and verbal communication aids in synchronizing your efforts. The better you communicate, the faster you can let go of the heavy door.
Lift the Door Manually
With your partner’s help, lift the door slowly and evenly from the bottom. Use your legs, not your back, to lift. This method reduces strain on your body and minimizes the risk of injury.
The door may be heavier than expected due to the broken spring, so proceed with caution. Communicate clearly with your partner to ensure a coordinated lift.
Employ Proper Lifting Techniques
Adopt a squatting position with your knees bent. Lift with your legs, keeping your back straight. This approach distributes weight evenly and keeps you from injuring your back.
Be Mindful of Your Surroundings
Stay aware of your environment. Watch for potential obstacles and ensure the path is clear. Alert your partner to any changes, especially if you feel your grip slipping.
Secure the Door With Vice Grips
Once the door is fully open, use vice grips or locking pliers to clamp onto the track just below the bottom roller. These tools prevent the door from sliding back down.
It’s important to secure the door properly so that you can avoid accidents while you inspect it. Tightly fasten the grips and check their stability before letting go of the door.
Effective Use of Vice Grips
Position the grips tightly to ensure a firm hold. Test the door’s stability by gently releasing your grip on the handle. The door should remain in place without any signs of slipping.
Secure the Door
If the door needs additional support, use a sturdy object like a ladder or a piece of wood to prop the door open. Choose a prop that can bear the weight of the door without slipping. This adds an extra layer of safety while you work or wait for professional help.
Double-Check Security
Ensure you secure both sides of the door evenly. A balanced setup prevents uneven distribution of weight, reducing the risk of accidents.
Inspect for Additional Damage
With the door open, take the opportunity to inspect it for any further damage or issues. Look for worn cables, misaligned tracks, or other signs of wear. Identifying problems early can prevent future complications.
Record Observations
Document any findings for future reference. This information can be valuable when consulting a professional for repairs or maintenance.
Call a Professional for Repairs
We highly recommend contacting a garage door repair professional to handle the garage door spring replacement. Professionals have the expertise to safely replace springs and inspect the entire system for safety. Steel City Garage Doors offers expert repairs and can ensure that your door functions smoothly and safely.
Avoid Using the Door Until Repaired
Until the broken spring receives a professional replacement, avoid using the door to prevent further damage or injury. Using a compromised door can lead to accidents or exacerbate existing issues, which leads to more extensive damage.
By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can handle the situation effectively. When in doubt, seek professional help to guarantee the best results. For expert guidance and repairs, contact us today.
