The Process Of Repairing A Residential Overhead Door Spring

Posted on: 7 July 2023

When an overhead residential door spring breaks, it can pose a significant safety risk and prevent the door from functioning correctly. This article will outline the general process of repairing a residential overhead door spring that professional technicians follow. These repairs are best left to them because of the inherent risk of injury involved.

Identifying the Problem

The first step in repairing an overhead door spring is to identify the problem. Signs of a broken spring can include a garage door that is difficult to lift, stops partway up, or doesn't open at all. You might also hear a loud noise when the spring breaks or see a gap in what was once a single, coiled spring.

Gathering Necessary Tools

The process of repairing an overhead door spring requires specific tools, such as winding bars, a sturdy ladder, and various wrenches and sockets. Safety equipment, such as gloves and safety glasses, are also crucial as garage door springs are under tremendous tension and can cause serious injury if not handled correctly.

Releasing Tension and Removing the Old Spring

Before removing the old spring, any tension must first be released. This is typically done by inserting winding bars into the winding cone at the end of the spring and slowly unwinding until all tension is released. Once this is done, the set screws can be loosened, allowing for the safe removal of the spring.

The spring is usually recycled, as its metal can be melted down for other use.

Installing the New Spring

Once the old spring is removed, the new spring can be installed. This involves sliding the spring onto the torsion tube and then securing it in place with the set screws. It's important to ensure that the spring is the correct size and type for the door, as using the wrong spring can lead to further damage or potential injury.

Winding the Spring

The final step in the repair process is to wind the new spring. This is done using the winding bars, turning them slowly and incrementally until the correct tension is achieved. The exact amount of tension required can vary depending on the door and spring type, so it's essential to refer to the manufacturer's specifications.

Testing the Door

After the new spring is installed and wound, the door should be tested to ensure it operates correctly. This involves lifting and lowering the door several times and watching and listening for any signs of improper operation.

Contact a company that offers residential overhead door repair services for more info.

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