What Happens if a Garage Door Spring Breaks?
A garage door spring may not be visible during everyday use, but it plays a critical role in how your garage door functions. When a garage door spring breaks, the entire system is immediately affected. What may start as a loud noise or a door that will not open quickly becomes a safety concern, a security issue, and a mechanical failure that should never be ignored.
Understanding what happens when a garage door spring breaks helps homeowners react safely, avoid costly damage, and know when professional service is necessary. Garage door springs operate under extreme tension, and when they fail, the consequences can be sudden and severe.
What a Garage Door Spring Does
Garage door springs are designed to counterbalance the weight of the door. Most residential garage doors weigh between 150 and 400 pounds. The spring system carries that weight, so the door opens smoothly with minimal effort.
When the door closes, the springs store energy. When the door opens, that stored energy is released to lift the door. Without springs, the opener and manual lifting would have to move the full weight of the door, which is unsafe and impractical.
Because springs do the majority of the work, they are under constant stress every time the door opens or closes.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are two main types of garage door springs used in residential systems.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are mounted horizontally above the garage door opening. They twist as the door closes and unwind as it opens. These springs provide smooth, controlled lifting and are common in modern garage door systems.
Extension Springs
Extension springs are mounted along the sides of the garage door tracks. They stretch when the door closes and contract when it opens. These springs are typically found in older systems or lighter doors.
Both types perform the same function, but both operate under significant tension and can be dangerous if handled improperly.
How Garage Door Springs Break
Garage door springs rarely break without warning. Over time, repeated use causes metal fatigue. Each time the door opens and closes counts as one cycle. Most standard springs are rated for a limited number of cycles before failure.
Factors that accelerate spring failure include:
• Frequent daily use
• Lack of lubrication
• Rust or corrosion
• Temperature fluctuations
• Heavy garage doors
• Improper spring sizing
Eventually, the metal weakens and snaps, releasing the stored tension all at once.
Immediate Signs a Garage Door Spring Has Broken
When a spring breaks, the symptoms are usually obvious.
Loud Bang or Snap
Many homeowners hear a sudden loud bang that sounds like a firecracker or something falling in the garage. This is the sound of the spring releasing stored tension.
Garage Door Will Not Open
After spring break, the garage door often will not open at all. The opener may try to lift the door but fail because it cannot handle the full weight.
Door Feels Extremely Heavy
If you try to lift the door manually and it feels unusually heavy, a broken spring is a likely cause.
Door Opens Unevenly or Crooked
If your system uses two springs and one breaks, the door may open unevenly, tilt to one side, or get stuck halfway.
Visible Damage to the Spring
On torsion springs, a broken spring often shows a clear gap in the coil. On extension springs, one side may hang loosely or appear longer than the other.
Why the Garage Door Becomes Dangerous After a Spring Breaks
A garage door with a broken spring is unsafe to operate. Without the spring counterbalancing the door, the door's full weight is uncontrolled.
Sudden Door Drops
Without spring support, the door can slam shut unexpectedly. A falling garage door can cause serious injury to people, pets, or vehicles underneath.
Increased Risk of Injury
Trying to lift or force the door open can lead to back injuries, crushed fingers, or loss of control if the door slips.
Strain on Other Components
A broken spring places excessive stress on cables, rollers, tracks, and the opener. Continuing to use the door can cause additional failures.
Opener Damage
Garage door openers are not designed to lift the full weight of the door on their own. Using the opener after spring breaks can burn out the motor or damage internal gears.
Why You Should Stop Using the Door Immediately
If you suspect or confirm that a garage door spring has broken, the safest action is to stop using the door entirely.
Continuing to operate the door can result in:
• Opener failure
• Bent or damaged tracks
• Snapped cables
• Panel damage
• Serious injury
A garage door with a broken spring should be treated as out of service until repaired.
What Not to Do When a Garage Door Spring Breaks
When dealing with a broken spring, there are several things homeowners should never attempt.
• Do not try to replace or adjust the spring yourself
• Do not force the door open manually
• Do not continue using the opener
• Do not attempt temporary fixes
Garage door springs are under extreme tension and require specialized tools and training. DIY spring repair is one of the most dangerous garage door tasks.
What to Do When a Garage Door Spring Breaks
Knowing the right steps to take can prevent further damage and keep everyone safe.
Stop Using the Door
Do not attempt to open or close the door once a spring has broken.
Keep the Area Clear
Keep children, pets, and vehicles away from the door until repairs are complete.
Contact a Professional Technician
A trained garage door technician has the tools and experience needed to safely replace springs, balance the door, and inspect related components.
Inspect for Secondary Damage
Spring failure often affects cables, rollers, and brackets. A professional inspection ensures all damaged parts are addressed at once.
Why Professional Spring Replacement Is Essential
Garage door spring replacement is not a simple repair. Professionals must:
• Identify the correct spring size and strength
• Safely release remaining tension
• Install new springs correctly
• Balance the door precisely
• Test full door operation
Incorrect spring sizing or installation can lead to premature failure, unsafe operation, or repeated breakdowns.
Should Both Springs Be Replaced?
In systems with two springs, replacing both springs at the same time is often recommended. Springs wear at a similar rate, and replacing only one can result in another failure shortly afterward. Matching springs ensure proper balance and smoother operation.
How Long Garage Door Springs Typically Last
Spring lifespan depends on usage and quality. Standard springs are often rated for about 10,000 cycles. With average use, this translates to several years of operation.
Heavy use, extreme temperatures, or poor maintenance can shorten this lifespan. Regular inspections and lubrication help extend spring life and detect wear before failure.
Preventing Future Spring Breaks
While springs will eventually wear out, proper care can reduce premature failure.
• Lubricate springs regularly
• Keep the door balanced
• Avoid slamming the door
• Schedule periodic professional maintenance
• Address unusual noises early
Preventive maintenance protects springs and the entire garage door system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broken Garage Door Springs
What does it sound like when a garage door spring breaks?
A broken garage door spring typically makes a loud banging or snapping sound that comes from inside the garage. Many homeowners mistake it for something falling or a firecracker going off.
Can I open my garage door if the spring is broken?
The garage door will be extremely heavy and unsafe to lift if a spring is broken. Attempting to open it manually can cause injury or further damage and is not recommended.
Is it dangerous to use the garage door opener after a spring breaks?
Yes, continuing to use the opener can damage the motor and cause the door to move unpredictably. Operating the door in this condition creates serious safety risks.
Can I replace a garage door spring myself?
No, garage door spring replacement is very dangerous. Springs are under extreme tension and should only be replaced by trained professionals with proper tools and experience.
Why does the door look crooked after a spring breaks?
When one spring fails, the garage door becomes unbalanced. This causes uneven lifting, which makes the door appear crooked or stuck on one side.
Phoenician Garage Door & Repair specializes in efficiently accomplishing all garage door jobs, from garage door drum replacement and garage door spring replacement to garage door cable repair and replacement. We offer easy online scheduling. Call (602) 610-0112.
