How to Recognise and Handle a Broken Garage Door Spring Safely

A broken garage door spring can bring your day to a grinding halt. Whether you’re heading to work or arriving home with groceries, a door that won’t budge is inconvenient and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Knowing how to recognise the signs early and handle the situation safely can help you avoid costly repairs or personal injury.

Let’s break down what to watch for and what steps to take if your garage door spring fails.

What Causes a Garage Door Spring To Break?

Springs are the heavy lifters of your garage door. They bear the load every time the door opens or closes, making them one of the most hardworking components in the system. Over time, it’s natural for them to wear down.

Several factors can contribute to a broken garage door spring:

Normal wear and tear – Most springs are rated for around 10,000 cycles. That’s only a few years of daily use.
Rust or corrosion – Moisture exposure can weaken the steel.
Temperature swings – Extreme cold or heat can put added strain on the metal.
Lack of professional servicing – Springs need periodic inspection and preventative maintenance, especially if your door sees regular use.

Key Signs Your Garage Door Spring Is Broken

It’s not always obvious when a spring breaks, but there are some telltale signs. Recognising these early can help prevent further damage or injury.

1. A Loud Bang From the Garage

Springs store a lot of tension. When one snaps, it often releases with a sharp, echoing sound, something many homeowners describe as similar to a firecracker or gunshot.

2. The Door Feels Extremely Heavy

If the door suddenly feels much heavier than usual or can’t be lifted manually, that’s a clear indicator. Without a functioning spring, the opener has to bear all the weight, which it’s not designed to do.

3. The Opener Starts but the Door Doesn’t Move

If your garage door opener hums or strains but doesn’t lift the door, the spring may be the issue. You might also see the door rise a few centimetres before reversing.

4. Gaps or Distortion in the Spring Itself

Visually inspect the spring. If you see a clean break, a stretched-out section, or the coils appear loose and uneven, that’s a broken garage door spring.

5. The Door Lifts Unevenly or Jerks

When one spring fails (on a double-spring setup), the door may open crookedly or look tilted as it lifts.

What To Do if Your Spring Is Broken

Stop using the opener immediately

Continuing to operate the door could strain other components, such as the motor, cables, or tracks. It also increases the risk of the door slamming shut.

Don’t try to fix it yourself

Handling a broken garage door spring is dangerous without the right tools and training. The tension in the coils can cause serious injury if released improperly.

Instead, book a professional garage door service through your local B&D accredited dealer. Our technicians are trained to handle spring replacements safely and ensure the rest of your system is functioning correctly.

Avoid forcing the door open

Trying to manually lift the door without the spring’s assistance could lead to muscle strain or finger injuries. If your vehicle is trapped inside, consider alternative transport arrangements until help arrives.

How B&D Helps Keep Your Door Safe and Reliable

At B&D, safety is engineered into every product. Our sectional and roller doors are designed with features that reduce strain on your system and minimise the chances of spring failure.

We also recommend regular servicing to prevent problems before they start. Book an regular check-up through your local dealer to have your springs, tracks, and opener inspected and adjusted where needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace a broken garage door spring myself?
No. Garage door spring replacement is not a DIY task. The tension involved makes it dangerous. Always leave it to a qualified technician.
How long do garage door springs typically last?
Most standard springs last around 10,000 cycles. With daily use, that’s about 5–7 years. Regular servicing can extend their lifespan.

If you suspect a broken garage door spring, don’t risk it. B&D’s accredited dealer network is here to help. Book a professional service today and get your door running safely again.