This client from Papillion, NE, contacted us for emergency garage door repair. They had two garage door springs snap mid-cycle, leaving them with a door that would not open. We acted the same day and sent over a technician to fix the issue. Our technician gave them an estimate for the garage door spring replacement, which worked with the client. We also adjusted the rollers, reset the safety devices, and checked the door to ensure it was functioning correctly. The fix took less than an hour, which left the client happy and enjoying their fully-functional garage door.
Garage doors are a valuable piece of your home. They protect your vehicles and belongings and enhance your property’s look. But, of course, with that level of value comes a level of maintenance. Without regular maintenance, a door will not function as it should, and you could be left with several expensive problems. Garage door spring replacement is one of the key items of maintenance you will need to take care of.
Types of Garage Door Springs
Two main types of springs are used in garage door openers: extension springs and torsion springs. Each type of spring has its advantages and disadvantages. The best choice is a matter of personal preference.
Extension Springs
These long and skinny springs run parallel to the door’s horizontal tracks. Extension springs are used in garage doors to help counter the weight of the door and provide a smooth opening and closing motion. These springs are attached to cables that pull the door open and retract as the door is opened. They then extend again when the door closes, using the stored energy to release the door back to its original position gently.
Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are stiff metal coils often used to raise and lower doors. The most common material used to make torsion springs is carbon steel. However, other materials, including beryllium copper, titanium, and stainless steel, are sometimes used. These materials are chosen because they have a high capacity to store energy. The number of springs used depends on the door’s size, weight, and strength. They are wound around a metal shaft with aluminum drums on either end.
Torsion Springs vs. Extension Springs: Which Is Better?
Safety
Extension springs are more prone to wear and tear due to constant stretching and compressing. In addition, they are under a lot of tension and can snap off suddenly, posing a danger to anyone nearby. Torsion springs are safer because they are hidden in a tube and do not have the same amount of tension.
Operation
Using a torsion spring is the best way to operate your garage door. This recent product uses a twisting motion instead of an extending energy build-up which can present safety risks. In addition, torsion spring operation is smoother, steadier, and requires less maintenance.
Maintenance
When it comes to springs, torsion springs are more durable and have a longer lifespan. Meanwhile, extension springs have several parts and components, which leaves them open to more potential issues. In addition, with two springs on either side of the garage door, extension springs have more room for things to go wrong. As a result, you may find yourself calling for extension spring repairs more often than you would for torsion spring repairs.
Deciding whether to replace your garage door spring yourself or call a professional? You cannot just trust this job on the cheapest garage door service in town. Titan Garage Doors Lincoln NE provides quality garage door repair, installation, and replacement for home and business owners in Lincoln, NE, and the surrounding areas, including Beatrice and Papillion, NE. Our technicians can solve any issue with your residential garage door and opener. When you need to fix your garage door spring, we are ready to help you. So do not hesitate to call us and ask for assistance.
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