How To Close A Garage Door With A Broken Spring?

Understanding the Issue: Broken Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs play a critical role in the functioning of your garage door. They bear the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. When a spring breaks, the door can become difficult or impossible to operate. The primary types of garage door springs are torsion springs, located above the closed door, and extension springs, found on either side of the door. Recognizing a broken spring is crucial; common signs include a loud bang when the spring breaks, the door appearing crooked, or difficulty lifting the door manually.

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any repair or closure, safety should be your primary concern. A broken garage door spring can be dangerous due to the tension it holds. Always wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. Ensure that no pets or children are nearby, and inform household members about the situation to prevent accidental use of the door.

Manual Operation of the Garage Door

To close a garage door with a broken spring, you’ll need to switch it to manual mode. This process involves disconnecting the door from the automatic opener, allowing you to operate it manually.

Locate the Emergency Release Cord: The emergency release cord is typically a red handle hanging from the door opener’s trolley. This cord disengages the door from the opener.

Pull the Cord: Firmly pull the emergency release cord down to disconnect the door from the opener. This action allows you to move the door manually.

Prepare for Manual Operation: Before attempting to close the door, ensure that you have a firm grip and stand on a stable surface. It may be helpful to have another person assist you, especially if the door is particularly heavy.

Closing the Door

Once the door is in manual mode, you can begin the process of closing it. This task can be challenging and may require some strength and caution.

Lift the Door Slightly: If the door is open, lift it slightly to relieve any tension and ensure it moves smoothly. This step helps in managing the weight distribution of the door.

Lower the Door Carefully: Gradually lower the door, maintaining a firm grip to control its descent. Be cautious of the door’s weight, as it can drop quickly due to the broken spring.

Secure the Door: Once the door is fully closed, ensure it is securely in place. You may need to engage the lock or use a clamp to prevent it from moving.

Temporary Repairs

While closing the door manually is a temporary solution, you should not use the garage door in this state for an extended period. Operating a garage door with a broken spring can cause further damage and poses significant safety risks. Consider the following temporary measures until you can get professional help:

Reinforce the Door: Use a piece of wood or a metal bar to brace the door in the closed position. This reinforcement helps prevent accidental openings.

Disconnect the Opener: Ensure the automatic opener remains disconnected to avoid any attempt to use it while the spring is broken.

Secure the Area: Make sure the garage is secure and that no one attempts to open the door. Inform family members and place a warning sign if necessary.

Seeking Professional Help

Repairing or replacing a broken garage door spring is not a DIY task for most homeowners. The springs are under high tension and can cause severe injury if handled improperly. It is essential to contact a professional garage door technician for repairs.

Find a Qualified Technician: Look for a licensed and insured professional with experience in garage door repairs. Reviews and recommendations can help in selecting a reputable technician.

Describe the Problem: When contacting the technician, provide a detailed description of the issue, including the type of spring and any visible damage.

Schedule a Repair: Arrange for the technician to visit your home as soon as possible. Avoid using the garage door until it has been professionally repaired.

Preventative Measures

After the repair, consider implementing preventative measures to avoid future issues with your garage door springs.

Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance checks with a professional to ensure the springs and other components are in good condition.

Lubrication: Keep the springs and other moving parts well-lubricated to reduce wear and tear. Use a suitable garage door lubricant and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Balance Check: Periodically check the balance of your garage door. Disconnect the opener and manually lift the door halfway. It should stay in place if balanced correctly. If it moves, it may indicate spring issues.

Replace Springs in Pairs: If one spring breaks, it’s advisable to replace both springs, even if the other appears intact. Springs are typically installed in pairs and have a similar lifespan. Replacing both ensures even tension and prevents future problems.

Conclusion

Dealing with a garage door with a broken spring requires careful handling and an understanding of the associated risks. While you can temporarily close the door manually, professional repair is necessary to ensure safety and functionality. Regular maintenance and preventative measures can help prolong the life of your garage door springs and prevent unexpected breakdowns. Always prioritize safety and seek professional assistance when dealing with garage door repairs.

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.