Garage Door Springs

Broken Garage Door Spring: Complete Homeowner Guide

A broken garage door spring can turn a normally operating garage door into a door that is extremely heavy or impossible to open.

Garage door springs are part of the counterbalance system. Their job is to offset much of the door's weight so the door can move safely through its normal travel.

When a spring breaks, the opener may no longer be capable of lifting the door correctly.

Common signs of a broken garage door spring

Possible signs include:

• A loud bang from the garage
• A visible gap in a torsion spring
• A garage door that suddenly feels extremely heavy
• A door that opens only several inches
• An opener that runs but struggles to lift the door
• A crooked or uneven door
• Loose cables after a spring failure
• A door that will not open

A loud noise does not automatically prove that a spring has failed, so the system should be inspected before parts are replaced.

Why garage door springs break

Springs perform work every time the garage door opens and closes.

Over time, normal cycling can create metal fatigue.

Other factors may include corrosion, environmental exposure, incorrect spring sizing, damage, and problems elsewhere in the door system.

Torsion springs

Torsion springs are commonly mounted above the garage door opening and work with a shaft, drums, and cables.

The spring stores mechanical energy as the door operates.

Because this system operates under substantial tension, spring replacement should not be treated as a simple household repair.

For a comparison of the two common counterbalance systems, see our guide to torsion vs. extension garage door springs.

Can you open a garage door with a broken spring?

A door with a broken spring may be extremely heavy.

Attempting to force it open can create additional hazards or damage.

Repeatedly operating the automatic opener may also place unnecessary strain on the opener.

If you suspect a broken spring, stop repeatedly operating the system and have it inspected.

Should both springs be replaced?

Some garage doors use two springs.

Whether one or more springs should be replaced depends on the specific system, spring condition, specifications, age, and technician's inspection.

There is no responsible universal answer without evaluating the door.

Why correct spring selection matters

Garage door springs are selected according to the requirements of the particular door.

Door weight, height, spring dimensions, configuration, and other factors can matter.

Installing an incorrect spring can affect balance and operation.

Spring type and configuration also affect the repair price. Our guide to garage door repair cost in Miami explains what a cost estimate should account for.

Broken spring safety

Free garage door spring estimate in Miami

FIX SOLUTION GARAGE DOOR provides garage door spring repair throughout the Miami service area, and the wider complete guide to garage door repair in Miami explains how the spring system fits into the rest of the door.