If your garage door refuses to lift, it’s not just frustrating but also a safety issue. Your garage door springs are an essential part of the system, ensuring safe operation and safeguarding your belongings by assisting in door movement. Broken garage door springs can lead to severe injury or even death, underscoring the urgency of prompt replacement.

You might be tempted to tackle the replacement of your broken garage door springs yourself. After all, replacement parts are readily available in hardware stores. This might give the impression that it’s a task accessible to anyone. Additionally, it appears to be a more cost-effective option. So, why bother hiring a professional to handle the spring replacement?

While you technically can replace your own garage door springs, it’s strongly advised against. There are numerous compelling reasons why DIY garage door spring replacement is not only challenging but also perilous, potentially resulting in fatal consequences.

Why Shouldn’t You Replace Your Own Garage Door Springs?

There are several reasons why this is not a DIY job, but one that requires a professional.

Risk Of Injury And Death

Garage doors are exceedingly heavy. Consequently, garage door springs are under immense tension. This underscores the importance of prompt replacement upon detecting signs of wear. Attempting to rectify this on your own poses a significant risk. If a spring were to break or be improperly replaced, the entire weight of the door could come crashing down. This could lead to severe injuries or even a fatality.

You Have To Understand How Garages Work

Replacing a garage door spring necessitates more than just obtaining a replacement spring. It’s imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire garage door system and possess experience in handling it. This encompasses familiarity with all the components involved in lifting the door, including brackets, lifting cables, drums, and of course, the springs. Failing to address this properly might exacerbate the issue, ultimately requiring the intervention of a professional.

Furthermore, a subpar repair job may lead to further risks of injury or even death. An incorrectly replaced spring is more prone to breaking, potentially resulting in a sudden and forceful descent—a grave consequence that should never be taken lightly.

You Need the Right Equipment

Garage door spring repairs demand specialized, professional-grade equipment. These tools are not typically found in your everyday toolbox. Investing in such equipment can be costly, potentially surpassing the expense of hiring a professional who already possesses and is adept at using them. Attempting a DIY fix without the proper tools may leave you stranded. It’s a painstaking and arduous endeavor to undertake a task on your own that a professional could accomplish swiftly and efficiently.

Voids Your Warranty

In addition to the inherent hazards and difficulties of attempting a DIY spring replacement, doing so independently nullifies any existing warranty on the springs. This is because warranties covering damages, repairs, or replacements on garage doors typically exclude modifications made to the system. Opting for a DIY approach puts your warranty at risk, potentially leaving you in a precarious position if you require subsequent repairs beyond your DIY capabilities.

What Should You Do If Your Garage Door Springs Break?

Call a professional! A garage door expert possesses the requisite knowledge of your garage’s workings, is equipped with the appropriate tools, and can execute the task swiftly and safely. Engaging a professional ensures you retain your warranty. Additionally, a professionally executed job will significantly prolong the lifespan of your garage door. This is achieved through the use of high-quality springs and the application of specialized knowledge and experience.

It’s advisable to schedule a replacement of your garage door springs every 5-7 years or after approximately 10,000 lifts. Keep this in mind when gauging whether replacement is due or if it’s time to enlist the services of a professional for an assessment.

Do You Need Garage Door Springs Repaired Or Replaced?