One wrong move with a garage door spring can lead to serious injury; therefore, never attempt it yourself. 

Did You Know? According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are more than 20,000 known injuries caused by garage doors in a year, most of which stem from failed DIY repairs. 

In most conditions, homeowners attempt garage door spring replacement to save a buck or two. What they do not realize is that spring repair could be dangerous, costing you money, and potentially life-threatening. If not treated with know-how, the tension in these springs can launch tools in accidents. 

Let’s explain why garage door spring replacement is a never-do-it-yourself job and what you should do instead.

Why You Should Avoid DIY Garage Door Spring Work in Beaufort, SC

A garage door spring is a tight coil of metal designed to lift and lower your heavy garage door. When it breaks or malfunctions, the entire door system becomes unsafe.

 List of reasons why: 

• Very high tension makes it hazardous.
• Improper installation would cause damage to your door.
• Special tools and experience are required.
• Doing it yourself could void your warranty.
• In some states, these jobs are illegal to do yourself.

Are you still thinking about doing it yourself? Read on to learn about the risks and why you should consult an expert garage door spring repair Beaufort, sc.

The Hidden Dangers of Replacing Garage Door Springs in Baufort, SC

Spring Tension Can Be Deadly

Garage door springs are extremely high tension, carrying the total weight of the door, usually between 150 – 300 lbs. Sudden breakage or release of these springs causes them to strike back at an incredible force.

No matter how experienced a do-it-yourselfer may be, the blowing force can hardly be matched. One slip, and the spring can:

• Hit your face or head
• Break fingers or limbs
• Cause deep cuts or bruises
• Knock down the ladders
• Damage vehicles or property

It is simply not worth taking that risk for a quick fix.

Lack of Tools Means Big Mistakes

The professional garage door technician in Beaufort has extra tools, including special winding bars, to provide safety while repairing garage door springs. Such tools are not standard in any house, and using screwdrivers or pliers to attempt maintenance work is not recommended.

The right tools are essential for:

• Balancing the tension of the springs
• Aligning the tracks of the door
• Securing the torsion tube
• Avoiding unequal lifting

Without these tools, you’re not just guessing; you’re gambling with your safety.

Signs of a Broken Garage Door Spring

At times, they are apparent, at others, subtle. These are warning signs to be attentive to: 

• The door will not fully open or shut.
• There was a loud crash in the garage.
• The door appears bent or sagging.
• The cable seems to be loose or broken.
• The gap is visible on the torsion spring.
• The door closes too quickly.

If any of these signs are present, assume it is a broken garage door spring, so call the experts.

Table: Torsion vs Extension Springs

Feature	Torsion Springs	Extension Springs
Location	Above the garage door	Alongside door tracks
Lifespan	15,000–20,000 cycles	5,000–10,000 cycles
Safety	More controlled, safer	Prone to sudden breaks
Replacement Difficulty	Requires high skill and tools	Slightly easier but still risky
Cost	Higher due to quality	Cheaper but less durable

Both types are dangerous to replace without training.

When to Call a Professional for Garage Door Spring Repair in Beaufort, SC

If you are living in Beaufort, South Carolina, you should not wait until the condition worsens. A local technician can assess the damage quickly and safely.

Here is what a professional can offer:

• Same-Day Service
• Certified By The State 
• Good Replacement Parts 
• Workmanship Warranties 
• Emergency Services

Through trusted companies for garage door spring repair Beaufort, SC, they maintain a high level of knowledge concerning the local weather and garage door models; hence, they go prepared.

Garage Door Safety Should Always Come First

The garage door is the largest moving object in most houses, and homeowners tend to forget about it the most. It requires regular attention.

Here are some garage door safety tips:

• Don’t ever try to force a jammed door open.
• Keep children and pets out of the area with malfunctioning doors
• Once every six months, schedule maintenance.
• If one has to be changed, then change both springs.
• Do not try DIY repairs unless it is basic lubrication or inspection.

Even through routine tasks, caution should be exercised.

Quick Tips for Safe Garage Door Use

• Inspect your spring every 6 months.
• Lubricate all hinges and moving parts at regular intervals.
• To check the balance, lift the door halfway by hand.
• Never force a door open if it gets stuck.
• Call in a professional for anything beyond simple checks.

These small habits can save you from injury or damage.

The Cost of Mistakes Is Too High

Let’s assume you wanted to replace a garage door spring in Beaufort by yourself. As the spring suddenly releases tension and coils, it tears through your hand. This requires emergency treatment and stitches and counts as lost work days.

Now, you are considering:

• Medical expenses of $1,500+
• Costs incurred in fixing one more broken door
• Increased insurance premiums
• Lost time and peace of mind.

Compare this to an average repair job done by a pro, which typically costs $150-$350 for a standard spring replacement.

So, Is DIY Worth the Risk?

Replacement of a garage door spring by a naive individual in the absence of instruments should be completely avoided.

The procedure involves:

• Disconnecting the door system
• Handling high-tension springs
• Aligning all components correctly
• Testing and calibrating the setup

Doing that even once could end up damaging the entire system or harming you.

Choose Safety, Not Shortcuts!

DIY may seem appropriate when you’re trying to save money. But when it comes to garage door spring replacement, things are rather different. This is one tough job that needs a touch of professional expertise.

If you’re from Beaufort, South Carolina, get in touch with experts for garage door spring repair at Garage Door Wizard. Our professionals come with experience, safety apparatus, and a relaxed mind. For more details, you can visit us or contact us.

FAQs

1. Is it possible to replace just one of the springs in a garage door?

It is advisable to replace both springs to keep the tension even and provide the door with a longer lifetime.

2. What are the signs that your garage door spring is breaking?

Spaces in the spring, sudden loud bangs when the garage door moves, or different movements of the door are signs to be on the lookout for.

3. On average, how long does a garage door spring last?

The average lifespan of torsion springs is 15,000 to 20,000 cycles, while extension springs generally last about 5,000 to 10,000 cycles. 

4. Is it unsafe to operate a garage door whose spring is broken?

It would pose a risk because the doors can suddenly fall, leading to destruction or injury. Do not use it until it is repaired.

5. Should I oil my garage door springs by myself?

Sure, but light lubricating the springs can help improve their performance. Never try to do more than that.