Garage doors are an essential component of our homes, providing safety and convenience. However, like any mechanical system, they can develop issues over time. One of the most common problems homeowners encounter is related to the garage door springs. These springs play a critical role in the operation of the door as they counterbalance the weight of the door to make it easy to open and close.

One primary issue that occurs with garage door springs is wear and tear. Springs have a limited lifespan which typically ranges between seven to nine years depending on usage frequency. Over time, metal fatigue sets in causing them to weaken and eventually break. A clear sign that your spring has broken is when your garage door opens only a few inches or not at all. In such cases, dive into it‘s crucial not to attempt opening or closing your garage manually as it could lead to further damage or injury.

Another common problem with garage door springs is rust development. Rust increases coil friction while moving up and down and can also corrode vital spring components over time leading to premature breaking. Regular maintenance including spraying down the springs with a silicone-based lubricant every three months can help prevent rust buildup.

Misalignment is another frequent issue found in extension springs which are located along either side of the garage door track (instead of coiled above). If one side appears lower than another while operating, this indicates misaligned or loose springs which require immediate attention.

Fixing these common issues should be left for professionals due to their dangerous nature if mishandled by untrained individuals. Garage doors are heavy and coupled with faulty springs can cause severe injuries or even fatalities during repair attempts.

When dealing with worn-out or broken springs, replacement is usually recommended rather than repairs because once fatigue sets into metal there’s no safe way to fix that condition effectively for long-term use.

For rust-related issues, professional service includes removing old rusty parts before installing new ones alongside regular preventive maintenance advice for homeowners against future rust problems. Similarly, for misalignment issues, professionals can adjust or replace the springs and ensure that they are correctly balanced.

In conclusion, while garage door spring issues are common, they should not be ignored. Regular maintenance and prompt professional repairs when needed will ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely for years to come. It saves you from potential injuries and costly emergency repair services in the long run.