How To Wind Garage Door Spring?

Garage door springs play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They counterbalance the weight of the door, making it easy to open and close. However, over time, these springs may wear out and need to be wound or replaced. Winding a garage door spring can be a challenging task, but with the right knowledge and precautions, you can do it safely. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of winding your garage door spring.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before you begin winding your garage door spring, it’s essential to understand the different types of springs and their functions. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs: Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door and are typically secured to a metal shaft. When the door is closed, torsion springs store mechanical energy, which is released when the door is opened, helping to lift the door smoothly.

Extension Springs: Extension springs are mounted on both sides of the garage door and stretch or extend when the door is closed. They provide the necessary force to lift the door by extending and contracting as the door moves up and down.

Safety Precautions

Winding garage door springs can be dangerous, as they are under a significant amount of tension. Before you begin, make sure to take the following safety precautions:

Wear Safety Gear: Always wear protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to protect yourself from potential injury.

Use the Right Tools: Ensure you have the necessary tools for the job, including winding bars and a sturdy ladder.

Release Tension: Before winding the spring, release any tension by disengaging the garage door opener and manually lifting the door until it is fully open.

Step-by-Step Guide to Winding Your Garage Door Spring

Now that you’ve taken the necessary safety precautions, follow these steps to wind your garage door spring safely:

Identify the Winding Cone: Locate the winding cone at the end of the spring shaft. This cone is where you will insert the winding bars to tighten or loosen the spring.

Insert Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into one of the holes on the winding cone. Make sure the winding bar is securely in place before proceeding.

Wind the Spring: Using the winding bar, turn the cone in the direction specified by the manufacturer. Typically, you will need to turn the cone clockwise to tighten the spring.

Count the Turns: As you wind the spring, count the number of turns you make. Most manufacturers provide guidelines for the number of turns required based on the weight of the garage door.

Balance the Spring: Once you’ve reached the recommended number of turns, repeat the process on the other side of the spring to ensure it is evenly wound.

Test the Door: After winding the spring, test the garage door to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. If the door feels heavy or uneven, you may need to adjust the tension of the spring.

Reengage the Opener: Once you are satisfied with the tension of the spring, reengage the garage door opener and test the door again to ensure it operates correctly.

Conclusion

Winding your garage door spring is a task that requires careful attention to safety and detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can safely and effectively wind your garage door spring, ensuring smooth and reliable operation of your garage door for years to come. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a professional garage door technician.

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.