Replacing a broken garage door spring can be a dangerous job, best left to professionals. However, knowing what spring you need beforehand can save you time and money. This guide will walk you through identifying the correct spring for your garage door. Incorrect spring selection can lead to further damage or injury, so proceed with caution. Always consider professional installation.
Understanding Garage Door Spring Types
Before diving into measurements, it's crucial to understand the two main types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: These are the most common type, located above the garage door, horizontally. They're wound tightly around a rod and provide the majority of the lifting power.
- Extension Springs: These are less common and located on either side of the garage door, running vertically along the tracks. They work in pairs and offer a more basic lifting mechanism.
Identifying which type you have is the first step. Take a picture of your springs from several angles to help with the identification process.
Measuring Your Garage Door Springs: Key Measurements
Once you've identified the spring type, it's time to take some measurements. Accuracy is paramount here. Use a tape measure and a notepad to record your findings. For both torsion and extension springs, you'll need:
1. Door Height and Width
Measure the height and width of your garage door itself. This is less critical for the spring selection if you can identify the spring's wire diameter and number of coils, but it is good information to have on hand for the professional you hire.
2. Wire Diameter
This is the thickness of the spring wire. Use a wire gauge or caliper for a precise measurement. Record this in inches or millimeters. This is one of the most crucial measurements.
3. Number of Coils
Count the number of coils in your spring. Be careful not to touch the spring while it's under tension. If you have extension springs, count the coils on one spring only.
4. Inside Diameter (Torsion Springs Only)
For torsion springs, measure the inside diameter of the spring coil. This is the diameter of the hole in the center of the spring.
5. Spring Length (Extension Springs Only)
For extension springs, measure the length of the spring when it's relaxed (unstretched).
6. Length of the Garage Door (Extension Springs Only)
Measure the total length of your garage door. This helps determine the proper extension spring length needed.
Using Your Measurements
With all your measurements recorded, you can start searching for a replacement spring. Many online retailers and hardware stores allow you to filter by these specifications. However, it's highly recommended you contact a garage door professional to verify your measurements and ensure you purchase the correct spring. They can also properly install the new spring, ensuring safety and preventing further damage.
Safety First!
Remember, garage door springs are under extreme tension. Never attempt to replace them yourself unless you have extensive experience and proper safety equipment. A mistake can lead to serious injury. Professional installation is always the safest and most reliable option.
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