Can You Open a Garage Door with a Broken Spring?
Written by: Uplift Garage
We use our garage doors day in and day out without giving them a second thought. But have you ever considered what goes into a well-functioning garage door? From the garage door hinges to the chain and rollers, several different components allow these garage doors to work effectively.
Aside from these parts, garage door springs are some other vital components. Not only do they help your garage door work like it should, but garage door springs also provide a great deal of safety. That said, when they break, you’ll want to get them fixed as soon as possible. Failing to do so poses a big safety risk.
If your garage door has a broken spring, you may be wondering if you can still open the door. In this post, we’ll answer this question and discuss more about the topic.
What Are Garage Door Springs and Why Do They Break?
Garage door springs do much of the work when it comes to opening and closing your garage door. When your garage door is lowered, tension increases on the garage door springs. When raised, the tension is released, and the springs help lift the door. Springs have the highest tension when the garage door is down.
It’s important to note that there are two different types of garage door springs. The first type is an extension spring, which is located next to the garage door tracks. They expand and contract when the door is moving, and they’re assisted by cables and pulleys.
The second type is a torsion spring system, which involves one or two tightly wound springs. These are found on the front wall above the garage door when it’s closed. Torsion springs are attached to a steel shaft with cable drums on both ends.
When garage door springs break, this usually happens when the door is in the closed position. Wear and tear is a common reason why garage door springs get damaged. Given how these parts are used every single day, wear and tear is inevitable. Rust and improper maintenance are a few other common reasons for a garage door spring to break.
If you’re experiencing this problem, it’s important to work with a qualified garage door repair business. Look no further than Uplift Garage! We’re happy to offer reliable garage door service and installation, including garage door spring repair. Call us today to learn more about our services!
How to Know if Your Garage Door Spring Broke
You may be wondering how to tell if your garage door spring is broken. First things first, visually inspect the springs and look for any breaks. This is the most obvious way to tell if the spring is broken.
Another common sign is when you hear a loud popping sound coming from the garage. This is actually the sound of a spring breaking. If you are experiencing this, visually inspect the springs and look for damage. It’s important to note that springs usually break while in operation.
Lastly, your springs may be broken if your garage door won’t open at all. The door may move slightly and the motor may run, but it’s possible the door won’t open. This is a good indication of a broken spring.
Steps for Opening a Garage Door with a Broken Spring
Here at Uplift Garage, we don’t recommend opening your garage door with a broken spring. Given the high amount of tension, this process can be dangerous. However, it's still possible.
Here’s how to complete this process:
Disconnect the Garage Door Opener
First things first, you need to disconnect the garage door opener from the door itself. Look for an emergency release handle, which is usually a red cord or handle hanging from the center rail. Pull down on the handle to disconnect the door from the opener.
Secure the Door
You want to ensure the garage door won’t fall suddenly. To prevent this, place a wooden block or another sturdy object under the door.
Manually Lift the Door
Make sure you have a partner to assist with this project. Stand on one side of the garage door while your buddy stands on the other. Reach down, bend your knees, and grab the bottom of the garage door. After you find a firm grip, use your legs to generate power as you and your partner lift the door.
Lift in Sections
It may be challenging to lift the entire door in one go. That said, consider lifting in sections. After you lift the door a few feet, have your buddy place something under the door to hold it in place, such as a ladder. Repeat this step until the door is completely open.
Secure the Open Door
Once opened all the way, you’ll need to secure it by using C-clamps or locking pliers. Place these just above the rollers to prevent the door from falling.
Don't Forget to Follow These Safety Tips
Opening your garage door with broken springs is a dangerous process. That said, follow these safety tips:
Have Help
While it’s possible to open a garage door on your own, having a partner will boost safety and speed up the process. It can also make the project less demanding and exhausting.
Be Careful
Safety is the number one thing to remember when opening your garage door manually. Go slowly and make sure you know what you’re doing.
Call the Professionals
Given the dangers, we recommend calling a professional to help with your garage door troubles. Fixing these issues yourself can put you in a life-threatening situation, so it’s best to call the experts.
We Can Replace Your Broken Garage Door Springs!
Uplift Garage is here to help fix your broken garage door springs. We have the skills and expertise to do this job safely and correctly.
Whether you’re looking for a spring replacement, garage door repair, or garage door opener service, we’re here for your needs. Our team can make your garage door function like new! Contact us today to learn more about our exceptional services.
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