How Do You Wind A Garage Door Spring?

Garage door springs play a crucial role in balancing the weight of your garage door, making it easier to open and close manually or with an automatic opener. Winding a garage door spring is a task that requires precision, caution, and the right tools. If done incorrectly, it can result in serious injury or damage to your property. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps to safely and effectively wind a garage door spring.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before diving into the winding process, it’s essential to understand the types of garage door springs and their functions. The two most common types of garage door springs are torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs: Located above the garage door, torsion springs twist and store energy when the door is closed. When you open the door, the springs unwind, releasing stored energy to help lift the door.

Extension Springs: These springs are mounted on either side of the door and stretch or extend when the door is closed. When you open the door, the springs contract to help lift the door.

Safety First

Before attempting to wind a garage door spring, safety should be your top priority. Here are some essential safety precautions to follow:

Wear Protective Gear: Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and appropriate footwear to protect yourself from injury.

Disconnect the Power: If you have an automatic garage door opener, disconnect it from the power source to prevent accidental activation.

Secure the Door: Ensure the garage door is fully closed and securely clamped to prevent it from moving during the winding process.

Use the Right Tools: Use winding bars specifically designed for winding garage door springs. Avoid using makeshift tools or inappropriate substitutes.

Steps to Wind a Torsion Spring

Winding a torsion spring is a complex task that should be approached with caution. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you wind a torsion spring safely:

Identify the Wind Direction: Determine whether your torsion spring winds up or down. This information is crucial for winding the spring correctly.

Insert Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into the winding cone and secure it in place. Repeat this step for the second winding bar.

Wind the Spring: Turn the winding bars in the direction indicated by the manufacturer. Use steady, controlled movements to wind the spring. Keep track of the number of turns to ensure even winding.

Check the Tension: After winding the spring, check the tension by lifting the door manually. The door should lift smoothly and stay in place when lifted halfway. If the door feels too heavy or too light, you may need to adjust the tension by adding or removing turns.

Secure the Set Screws: Once the spring is wound to the appropriate tension, tighten the set screws on the winding cone to secure the bars in place.

Repeat for Second Spring: If your garage door has two torsion springs, repeat the winding process for the second spring.

Steps to Wind an Extension Spring

Winding an extension spring is relatively simpler than a torsion spring but still requires caution. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winding an extension spring:

Open the Door: Fully open the garage door to relieve tension on the extension springs.

Secure the Door: Clamp the garage door to prevent it from moving during the winding process.

Locate the Safety Cables: Extension springs are typically equipped with safety cables to prevent them from flying off if they break. Ensure these cables are properly installed and in good condition.

Adjust the Tension: If your extension spring has an adjustment mechanism, use it to adjust the tension. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper adjustment.

Check the Door Balance: After winding the extension spring, check the balance of the garage door by manually lifting it. The door should lift smoothly and stay in place when lifted halfway.

Test the Operation: Operate the garage door manually and with the opener to ensure smooth and balanced operation.

When to Call a Professional?

While winding a garage door spring can be done DIY, it’s not recommended for everyone. If you’re uncomfortable with the process or unsure about any steps, it’s best to call a professional garage door technician. Additionally, if you encounter any issues such as a broken spring, damaged cables, or door misalignment, it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately to avoid further damage or injury.

Conclusion

Winding a garage door spring is a task that requires caution, precision, and the right tools. Whether you’re dealing with a torsion spring or an extension spring, following the proper steps and safety precautions is essential for a successful and safe winding process. While DIY winding is possible, it’s always best to prioritize safety and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any aspect of the process. By understanding the functions of different garage door springs and following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure smooth and reliable operation of your garage door for years to come.

A1 Garage Doors is providing maintenance and installation services related to garage doors and their parts. If you’re looking for a trustworthy service by skilled technicians you can count on, give us a call at 343-309-9964 for a free quote.