Depending on usage, a standard garage door spring is designed to last between 10,000 and 15,000 cycles (one cycle is opening and closing the door once). For the average family, this equates to about 7 to 9 years of use. However, without proper care, this timeframe can shrink drastically due to rust and friction.
At Easy Garage Door Spring, we want you to get the most out of your investment. Here is our quick maintenance guide:
1. Lubricate Regularly (The Best Kept Secret)
Rust is a spring’s number one enemy. It increases friction between the coils, which wears the metal down much faster.
- What to do: Apply a lithium- or silicone-based spray lubricant (never use standard WD-40, as it attracts dirt) along the entire spring at least twice a year.
- The benefit: You’ll keep the coils moving smoothly and prevent those annoying squeaks.
2. Perform the “Balance Test”
A poorly balanced door forces both the springs and the motor to work overtime.
- What to do: Disconnect the automatic opener by pulling the red release cord. Lift the door manually halfway up and let go.
- The ideal result: The door should stay in place, held by the tension of the springs. If it slams to the floor quickly or flies upward, your springs need professional adjustment.
3. Regular Visual Inspection
Take two minutes a month to look over your system. Check if the cables look frayed, if there is excessive rust on the springs, or if the hinge screws are loose. Catching a minor issue early prevents a major failure later.
No time for maintenance? Preventative care makes all the difference. Schedule an annual maintenance tune-up with the technicians at Easy Garage Door Spring. We will adjust the tension, lubricate the entire system, and make sure everything runs like day one.
