Garage Door Springs 101: Repair or Replace?

 If your garage door isn’t opening smoothly—or at all—there’s a good chance the springs are to blame. These small but powerful components do the heavy lifting every time you use your garage door, and when they fail, your whole system can grind to a halt.

At Garland Garage & Overhead Doors, we’re often called for garage door repair in Garland, TX due to broken or worn-out springs. But the big question many homeowners ask is this: Should you repair the springs or replace them?

Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision for your home.

What Do Garage Door Springs Actually Do?

Garage doors are heavier than they look. Torsion and extension springs are what make it possible for the opener to lift the door without struggling. These springs store mechanical energy and help balance the weight of the door during opening and closing.

When a spring breaks, your garage door might become stuck, uneven, or suddenly slam shut. It’s not just inconvenient—it’s also a serious safety hazard.

Signs Your Garage Door Springs Are Failing

Here’s how to tell if your springs are in trouble:

The Door Feels Heavy

If your door feels unusually heavy or hard to lift manually, the springs are likely worn out or broken.

Loud Bang or Snap

A sudden loud noise from your garage could be a spring snapping. This is common with torsion springs, which are tightly wound under pressure.

The Door Opens Unevenly

If one side of your door rises faster or lags behind, it could indicate a problem with one of the extension springs.

Visible Gaps or Wear

Look at the springs. If you see a visible gap in the coil or signs of rust and wear, replacement is usually necessary.

Repair or Replace: What’s the Right Move?

Not all spring issues require a full replacement—but many do. Here’s how to tell the difference.

When You Can Repair

In rare cases, springs that are misaligned or lightly rusted might be repaired with proper tensioning, lubrication, or minor adjustments. However, this is only a temporary fix and usually only recommended if the spring is still structurally sound and relatively new.

When You Should Replace

If your spring is broken, cracked, stretched, or more than 7-10 years old, replacement is the safest and smartest choice. A failing spring puts extra strain on your opener and other door parts, which can lead to even more costly repairs down the road.

Also, if one spring breaks, it’s a good idea to replace both at the same time. Springs work in pairs, and replacing just one can cause imbalances and premature wear.

Safety First: Leave Spring Work to the Pros

Garage door spring repair is not a DIY-friendly task. These springs are under extreme tension, and trying to fix or replace them without the right tools and training can result in serious injury.

At Garland Garage & Overhead Doors, we handle spring replacements quickly, safely, and with the right parts for your specific door. If you need garage door repair in Garland, TX, we’ve got you covered with expert service and honest advice.

Keep Your Garage Door Running Smoothly

Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are key to keeping your garage door safe and reliable. If you suspect your springs are wearing out—or you’ve heard that telltale snap—don’t wait.

Contact Garland Garage & Overhead Doors today to schedule a service appointment or get a quote. We’ll help you decide whether it’s time to repair or replace, and get your garage door back in working order fast.