How Long Does It Take To Replace A Garage Door Spring?

Garage door springs are the most crucial component of any garage door. However, they are also the most overlooked by the homeowners. This is because most people pay attention to the areas that are primarily visible and can impact the appearance of the house. While garage door springs may not look aesthetically appealing, keeping them in good shape is essential to ensure proper garage door functioning and your safety. 

So, if you were delaying the replacement project, thinking it would take days to complete, you are in for a surprise. Unlike other home improvement projects, garage door spring replacement only takes about a couple of hours if done by a pro. In the post below, we will explore some of the most common signs that indicate your garage door springs need your attention. We will also discuss how much and how long it can take to replace the broken springs. So, let’s get into the details. 

5 Common Signs of Failing Garage Door Springs

Over time, garage door springs tend to lose their durability, functionality, and smoothness, causing them to break or fail. Whether the door is partially opening or runs very fast on the way down, it can be a serious safety problem that must be addressed before any injury or vehicle damage. 

This is when the springs must be replaced with the new ones. However, many homeowners need help to distinguish between adequately functioning and damaged garage door springs. If you are finding it difficult as well, here are some common signs you must look out for. So, replace your garage door springs if:

Garage Door Only Opening Partially

If your garage door stops abruptly halfway, the problem might lie within the springs. Partially opened garage doors can be a clear indication of broken or worn-out garage door springs. The springs are responsible for providing the tension needed to lift the door and manage its weight effectively. Over time, they may lose their elasticity, resulting in operational issues. Due to this, the door not only struggles to open and close, but it may also pose a safety danger that should be addressed immediately. 

Visible Gap in the Springs

The purpose of the springs is to expand and contract with the closing and opening of the door. Over the years, the constant tension in the springs can cause them to elongate, leading to visible gaps in the spring coil. The break in tension and visible gaps in the springs means they are failing and need to be replaced before any severe damage to the vehicle or injury. 

Garage Door Feels Heavy

When you open or close the door, it feels cumbersome, which means the garage door springs are no longer supporting the weight as they should. If the springs fail to manage the door weight, the entire weight rests on the person lifting or closing the door. If you also feel that the door is heavy, be sure to check the condition of the sprigs and replace them immediately. 

Loud Banging Sound

Whenever you try to close the garage door, and it sprints on the way down, this indicates the springs have broken. When this happens, it usually causes a loud banging sound because springs release the energy all at once. If you hear a banging sound or noise, your garage door needs a few repairs before you try to use it again. 

Crooked Door

Garage doors usually have two springs working independently to share the weight of the door. This makes sure that the door opens and closes smoothly without any problem. However, when one of the springs starts to fail, the door is supported unevenly, causing it to appear crooked or unbalanced. To fix the issue, you must replace both garage door springs to ensure you are not facing any mechanical problems in the future. 

These are some of the most common signs of a failing garage door springs. Suppose you notice any of these signs or other unusual signs. In that case, you must consult with professionals such as Custodia, who specializes in these home improvement projects, to replace a garage door spring on time. 

Cost & Time Estimates to Replace a Garage Door Springs for Ontario

In Ontario, the cost of replacing a garage door spring includes both labor and material costs. Depending on the spring you want to replace, the cost and time of the installation may vary. 

For torsion springs, the parts and materials can cost you anywhere between CAD 120 and CAD 350 for Ontario. At the same time, the installation cost could be around CAD 100 to CAD 250 per hour. The overall project cost can range from CAD 550 to CAD 1,100 and can take around 2-4 hours, depending on the type and size of the door.

For extension spring replacement, the prices are much lower for both the material and replacement cost. The total project could cost you CAD 270 to CAD 620, depending on where you live and the complexity of the replacement. When it comes to service time, it only takes approximately 1-2 hours to complete the job. 

Tips for Maintaining Garage Door Springs

While replacing the worn-out garage door springs is the only solution to ensure you keep using the garage without any safety hazards, maintaining the springs regularly can also extend their lifespan. This is important as most homeowners tend to delay the replacement and maintenance of the springs, thinking they still have time. 

However, the break usually happens all of a sudden, giving you very little time to look for a solution. In fact, many times, it can cause vehicle damage or a severe safety issue. So, to stay out of this situation, here are a few safety measures and maintenance tips to follow:

1. Visual Inspection

Regular visual inspection of your garage door and its components, such as hinges and springs, to ensure it stays in good shape for years. No, you do not have to check the components every other week. Checking the springs every few months will help you identify early signs of cracking, rust, and gaps. 

You also want to pay attention to any unusual noises your door may make when you open and close it daily. If you find any banging sounds, you must replace the springs and ensure smooth operations.

2. Regular Lubrication

Many people tend to overlook this little tip, yet it can make a huge difference in how your garage door springs hold up. Lubricating the springs twice or thrice a year can extend their life and ensure smooth operations for years. Lithium grease is one of the top choices for lubrication, as it can effectively resist wear and tear on the spring. You can also apply this lubricant on door hinges and roller so that every component of the door works in harmony. 

Other spring lubrication options include silicone sprays and PTFE-based lubricants that work well for reducing friction and ensuring smooth door operations. Do not use regular oils, as they can allow dirt and debris to accumulate around the springs, resisting their movements. 

3. Track Cleaning

Did you know that tracks can get dirty and resist the roller movement? This is one of the most lesser-known maintenance tips that can make a huge difference. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can collect on the tracks, which can increase friction during roller movement. So, to clean the tracks, all you need to do is get a wet cloth and remove dirt and debris from the tracks. 

After cleaning it with a wet cloth, remember to wipe it again with a dry towel to prevent rusting in the future. Most importantly, never lubricate the dirty tracks and the spring, as they can attract more dust, which will harden over time. Hence, clean the tracks every few months and lubricate them for a smooth opening and closing of a garage door.

When to Call a Professional

In addition to these regular checks, you must call a professional for maintenance now and then to repair and wear and tear and replace the springs if needed. While it is possible to replace the garage door spring at home, it is always a good idea to call a professional garage door repair company like Custodia in Ontario to complete the job like a pro. Until or unless you are a pro yourself, professionals have years of experience in handling complex garage projects. 

So, consulting with us will ensure your garage door is getting the attention it needs to operate smoothly. While installation and material costs could be a factor to consider, the proper installation will ensure the springs offer durability and performance for years to come.

Conclusion

If your garage door springs are broken or damaged, you must replace them with a new one. For this, you should call professionals like Custodia, who have experience in handling projects in Ontario. The project usually takes between 1-2 hours to complete, and the springs will be as good as new.