Can I Replace Garage Door Springs Myself?

Garage door springs carry a lot of tension that helps lift up a heavy garage door against gravity easily. Since the springs are loaded up with energy frequently, they will eventually break and will require replacement.

Usually, there are two springs and if one of them breaks, or if your opener makes a weird sound during opening or closing, you’ll know that it’s time to get the springs replaced. You can easily get your hands on these springs at your nearest hardware store, Walmart, or at online retailers. The question still stands, however, whether you need to replace the springs yourself or should you leave it to the professionals. We’ll be breaking down a few facts that’ll help you make a decision for yourself.

Types of Garage Door Springs

There are primarily two types of garage door springs. The type of spring you choose will play a major role in either easing up the process or making it more difficult. The difference can be identified by how the springs store their tension. Confused? Let us explain.

Extortion springs

Extension springs are long springs that run parallel to the tracks on either side of the door. They’re up in the air, thin, and stretch to be loaded. Their energy is stored outward and they get back to their mean tension by getting pulled back to the center. The springs lose most of their tension when you open the door, making it easier to replace them.

Torsion springs

Torsion springs are usually thicker and sit on the metal rod next to the door opening. These springs, as opposed to the extortion ones, store energy by being twisted and release the tension by untwisting in the opposite direction. When replacing these ones, the door has to be closed.

Can I Replace Garage Door Springs Myself?

The simple answer is, yes you can replace/install garage door springs by yourself, but is it really the question you should be asking? The right question instead would be: should I replace garage door springs by myself? The answer varies based on your prior experience, whether you have DIY skills, and the manpower at your disposal.

If you’re competent with DIY, have taken on similar projects by yourself before, and feel confident enough to get it done, go for it. Keep in mind, though, that there’s a possibility that the job may not be done right, making the door unusable before it’s fixed.

Plus, if you haven’t installed the springs properly, your door may become a safety hazard. While the DIY way can save you a few hundred bucks down the road, it’s really not worth a half-done job or any safety risks it may pose.

So, our verdict is that it’s best to go with a professional if you aren’t confident. You can see how the professionals do it and become more informed until you are confident to go about the DIY way yourself.

How Much Does It Usually Cost to Get Garage Door Springs Replaced?

You should expect to pay around $30 – $100 for the springs and hardware required. For professional installation, be ready to pay between $200 and $300. The price for installation may vary depending upon your geographical location, the professionals involved, and the size of your door.

How Often Should I Replace My Garage Door Springs?

Depending on how often you use your garage door, it may take you 3-7 years to get a replacement for your springs. If the doors start to feel heavy, the springs may be close to breaking and indicate a need for replacement. Keep in mind that if your door feels light right after installation, your garage door springs probably are of the wrong size.